For decades, the golden arches have served as a beacon for hungry travelers and families looking for a quick, consistent meal. While the Big Mac and Quarter Pounder often steal the spotlight, there is a dedicated following for the seafood star of the menu: the Filet-O-Fish. Whether you are observing Lent, looking for a lighter alternative to beef, or simply craving that specific combination of steamed bun and tartar sauce, knowing the current costs is essential for budgeting your next meal. In 2026, McDonald’s has implemented several pricing shifts under their “McValue” initiative, making it more important than ever to understand how much you can expect to pay at the register.
Current Prices for the Filet-O-Fish in 2026
As of early 2026, the price of a standalone Filet-O-Fish sandwich generally ranges between $4.99 and $5.59 in the United States. However, it is crucial to recognize that McDonald’s operates on a franchise model, which means prices are not universal. A restaurant in the heart of Manhattan or San Francisco will almost certainly charge more than a location in rural Ohio or Texas.
The Filet-O-Fish remains a mid-tier pricing item. It is typically more expensive than the “entry-level” items like the McDouble or the standard McChicken but usually sits just below the premium signature burgers. In many regions, you might find the sandwich priced specifically at $4.99 as part of a national value focus, though local adjustments can push that closer to the $6.00 mark in high-cost-of-living areas.
The Cost of Filet-O-Fish Extra Value Meals
Most customers opt for the “Extra Value Meal” to complete their dining experience. In 2026, a Filet-O-Fish Extra Value Meal, which includes the sandwich, a medium order of World Famous Fries, and a medium soft drink, typically costs between $9.29 and $10.49.
If you decide to “super-size” or upgrade your meal to a large size, you can expect to add roughly $0.50 to $1.00 to the total. Conversely, some locations offer a “Small Value Meal” version for a slightly lower price point, usually shaving about $1.50 off the medium meal price. These meal prices have seen a slight upward trend over the last two years due to rising supply chain costs for Alaskan Pollock and the specialized steaming equipment used for the buns.
Double Filet-O-Fish Pricing and Availability
For those with a larger appetite, the Double Filet-O-Fish is a popular menu hack that has become a permanent fixture in many markets. This version features two fish patties instead of one, providing double the protein. In 2026, the Double Filet-O-Fish sandwich alone is typically priced at $6.99 to $8.19.
When ordered as a meal, the Double Filet-O-Fish combo can climb to between $11.50 and $13.00. While it is a significant jump in price from the single patty version, many fans find the ratio of fish to bun more satisfying in the double format. Interestingly, the amount of tartar sauce and the half-slice of cheese usually remain the same as the original, though you can always request extra via the kiosk or app.
Seasonal Deals and the Lenten Impact
If you are looking for the absolute lowest price on a McDonald’s fish sandwich, timing is everything. Historically, and continuing into 2026, the season of Lent (the 40 days preceding Easter) is the “Golden Era” for fish sandwich deals. Because a large portion of the customer base abstains from meat on Fridays during this period, McDonald’s frequently runs aggressive promotions.
Common Lenten deals include:
- 2 for $6 mix-and-match deals.
- $2.00 Filet-O-Fish Fridays (exclusive to the McDonald’s App).
- Buy One Get One (BOGO) for $1.00 offers.
During these promotional windows, the effective price per sandwich can drop to as low as $3.00, making it one of the most cost-effective items on the menu. If you are a fan of the sandwich, it is often worth checking the “Deals” section of the mobile app every Friday between February and April.
Why Do Prices Vary by Location?
One of the most frequent questions customers ask is why their local McDonald’s charges $5.50 while a location twenty miles away charges $4.99. In 2026, McDonald’s corporate has provided more standardized pricing guidelines to franchisees, but individual owners still maintain the right to set prices based on their specific overhead.
Several factors influence these regional price differences:
- Labor Costs: In states with higher minimum wages, menu prices are adjusted to cover the increased payroll.
- Real Estate and Utilities: Operating a 24-hour restaurant in a high-rent district requires higher margins.
- Logistics: Locations that are further from distribution centers may face higher shipping costs for the frozen fish fillets.
- Local Competition: If nearby competitors like Wendy’s or Burger King have lower fish sandwich prices, a local McDonald’s might lower theirs to remain competitive.
Value Menu Strategy and the McValue Plan
In January 2026, McDonald’s launched a revamped “McValue” menu aimed at reclaiming its reputation for affordability. While the Filet-O-Fish isn’t always on the “Dollar” tier of this menu, it is frequently featured in the “Buy One, Add One for $1” promotion. Under this deal, if you buy one Filet-O-Fish at full price, you can often add a second sandwich or a 6-piece nugget for just $1.00.
This strategy is designed to drive “basket size,” encouraging customers to spend a little more to get a lot more food. For a pair of diners, utilizing these “McValue” deals can bring the average cost of a fish sandwich down significantly compared to buying two individual meals.
Nutrition and Ingredients: What are You Paying For?
When you pay for a Filet-O-Fish, you are paying for a very specific set of ingredients that hasn’t changed much since its inception in 1962. The sandwich consists of a 100% wild-caught Alaskan Pollock fillet, which is sustainably sourced. This commitment to sustainability is part of why the price has remained somewhat insulated from the more volatile fluctuations seen in beef prices.
The sandwich is 380 calories and features a unique “steamed bun” rather than a toasted one, which gives it that signature soft texture. It is topped with a half-slice of processed American cheese and creamy tartar sauce. Interestingly, the use of a half-slice of cheese is a culinary choice rather than a cost-saving measure; the original creator felt a full slice overwhelmed the delicate flavor of the fish.
Saving Money with the McDonalds Mobile App
In 2026, the “sticker price” on the menu board is rarely what the savvy customer actually pays. The McDonald’s mobile app has become the primary tool for price conscious diners. By using the app, you can often find “Daily Deals” that significantly reduce the cost of a fish sandwich.
Common app-exclusive discounts include:
- 30% off any purchase of $5 or more.
- Free medium fries with the purchase of a Filet-O-Fish.
- Rewards points: For every dollar spent, you earn points that can eventually be redeemed for a free Filet-O-Fish (usually requires 4000 to 6000 points).
If you are looking for the best “price-to-calorie” ratio, combining a mobile deal with a standard sandwich is almost always the best path forward.
International Price Comparisons
It is fascinating to see how the “Fish Mac” (as it is known in some regions) or Filet-O-Fish scales globally. In 2026, the “Big Mac Index” often includes the Filet-O-Fish as a secondary metric for purchasing power.
- In the United Kingdom, the sandwich is often part of the “Saver Menu” promotions, costing around £3.99.
- In Japan, the Filet-O-Fish is a staple that frequently sees seasonal variations (like spicy yuzu tartar sauce) and is priced competitively at approximately 400 to 450 Yen.
- In Hong Kong, the price has remained remarkably stable, often hovering around HK$14 during promotional periods.
These international prices reflect not just the cost of ingredients, but also the local cultural demand for seafood versus beef.
How to Get the Freshest Sandwich for Your Money
Since the Filet-O-Fish is sometimes ordered less frequently than the Big Mac, some customers worry about the freshness of the patty. To ensure you are getting the best value for your money, you can request your sandwich “cooked to order.” While this may add 3 to 5 minutes to your wait time, it ensures the fish fillet is at its peak crispiness and the bun is freshly steamed.
Another tip is to check the temperature of your meal if you are using delivery services. Because the steamed bun holds moisture, it can become soggy if it sits in a delivery bag for too long. In 2026, many McDonald’s locations use specialized “vented” packaging for the Filet-O-Fish to help maintain its texture during transport.
FAQs
How much does a Filet-O-Fish cost on its own in 2026?
The price for a single Filet-O-Fish sandwich typically ranges from $4.99 to $5.59, depending on the restaurant’s location and local franchise pricing.
Is the Filet-O-Fish part of the 2 for $6 deal?
While the specific items in the 2 for $6 or 2 for $5 deals change frequently, the Filet-O-Fish is a common inclusion, especially during the spring and Lenten seasons.
Why does the Filet-O-Fish only have a half slice of cheese?
This is a deliberate recipe choice made by the sandwich’s creator, Lou Groen. It was determined that a full slice of American cheese would overpower the flavor of the Alaskan Pollock.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan fish options at McDonald’s?
Currently, in 2026, McDonald’s does not offer a vegan fish alternative in the United States. The Filet-O-Fish contains real fish (Alaskan Pollock) and the bun and tartar sauce contain dairy and egg products.
How can I get a free Filet-O-Fish?
The most reliable way is through the McDonald’s Rewards program on the mobile app. You earn 100 points for every $1 spent, and once you reach the required threshold (typically 4500 points), you can redeem them for a free sandwich.