The McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish has been a staple of the fast-food world for over sixty years. Originally created to satisfy customers who abstained from meat on Fridays, it has evolved into a year-round favorite for seafood lovers. If you are heading to the Golden Arches today, you might be wondering about the current cost of this iconic square-shaped sandwich. In 2026, pricing at McDonald’s is more dynamic than ever, influenced by regional economic factors, inflation, and the specific location of the restaurant.
Understanding the cost of a fish sandwich at McDonald’s requires looking at more than just a single number on a menu board. From individual sandwiches to large combo meals and seasonal promotions, there are several ways to price out your next seafood craving. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a Filet-O-Fish in the current market.
Current Individual Sandwich Pricing
For many diners, the simplest way to enjoy a fish sandwich is to order it a la carte. As of early 2026, the price for a single Filet-O-Fish sandwich typically ranges between $5.50 and $6.25 in most United States locations. It is important to remember that McDonald’s operates on a franchise model, meaning that a restaurant in a high-rent urban center like New York City or San Francisco will likely charge significantly more than a location in a rural area or a smaller town.
The Filet-O-Fish itself is a unique offering in the fast-food landscape. It consists of a wild-caught Alaskan Pollock patty, a half-slice of processed American cheese, and creamy tartar sauce, all served on a soft, steamed bun. Because of the specific sourcing of the fish, which is often MSC-certified for sustainability, the price of the sandwich can sometimes be slightly higher than the standard cheeseburger or McChicken.
For those with a larger appetite, the Double Filet-O-Fish has become a popular permanent fixture on the menu. This version features two fish patties and a whole slice of cheese. In 2026, the Double Filet-O-Fish usually costs between $7.80 and $8.50 when ordered on its own. While it is a more expensive option, it provides a more substantial meal for those who find the single patty version a bit too light.
Breaking Down the Cost of Filet-O-Fish Meals
If you are looking for a full dining experience, the Filet-O-Fish Meal is the standard choice. A medium combo meal generally includes the sandwich, a medium order of World Famous Fries, and a medium soft drink. In 2026, the price for a medium Filet-O-Fish meal typically sits between $10.00 and $11.50.
Upgrading to a large meal—which increases the size of both the fries and the drink—usually adds about $0.80 to $1.20 to the total cost. Conversely, some locations offer a small meal option for those looking to save a bit of money and reduce their calorie intake.
One factor that many customers overlook is the “Value Meal” inflation that has occurred over the last few years. While a ten-dollar lunch was once considered expensive for fast food, it has become the baseline for many national chains. When compared to the Big Mac or Quarter Pounder with Cheese meals, the Filet-O-Fish meal is usually priced similarly, often within fifty cents of the flagship beef burgers.
Seasonal Deals and the Impact of Lent
The time of year you visit McDonald’s can drastically change how much you pay for a fish sandwich. Because the Filet-O-Fish was originally created for the Lenten season, McDonald’s continues to run significant promotions during this time, which typically falls between February and April.
During the Lent season in 2026, many participating locations offer the famous “Friday Fish Deal.” Historically, this has allowed customers to purchase a Filet-O-Fish for a discounted price, such as $2.99 or $3.50, specifically on Fridays. Some regions also offer a “Buy One, Get One for $1” deal or a similar “2 for $6” or “2 for $7” mix-and-match promotion that includes the fish sandwich alongside other popular items like the Big Mac or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets.
If you are planning to buy fish sandwiches in bulk or for a family, waiting for these seasonal windows is the most cost-effective strategy. Even outside of the religious context, these deals are often available to all customers through the McDonald’s mobile app.
Using the McDonald’s App to Lower Prices
In 2026, the best way to ensure you are getting the lowest possible price on a fish sandwich is to use the McDonald’s mobile app. The company has shifted much of its value strategy away from the physical menu board and into digital rewards.
App users frequently find “daily deals” that can include:
- $2.00 or $3.00 Filet-O-Fish sandwiches on specific days of the week.
- Buy one Filet-O-Fish, get one free (BOGO).
- Free medium fries with any purchase of $2.00 or more, which effectively lowers the cost of a “self-made” meal.
- Points-based rewards where you can redeem 6,000 points for a free Filet-O-Fish.
By using the app, the “real” price of a fish sandwich for a savvy consumer might be 30% to 50% lower than the price listed on the overhead menu. If you are a frequent visitor, the rewards program essentially acts as a rebate on every sandwich you buy.
International Pricing Variability
If you are traveling outside of the United States, the price of a fish sandwich can fluctuate wildly based on local currency and seafood availability. In Canada, for example, a Filet-O-Fish might be priced around CAN 7.50 to CAN 8.00. In European markets, where seafood is often a more integrated part of the daily diet, the sandwich might be part of a “EuroSaver” style menu or priced as a premium item depending on the country’s specific McDonald’s strategy.
In some Asian markets, such as Hong Kong or Japan, the Filet-O-Fish is often one of the most affordable items on the menu, sometimes priced lower than the equivalent beef burgers. McDonald’s adjusts its pricing globally to match the local purchasing power and the popularity of fish versus beef in those specific regions.
Nutritional Value vs. Cost
When considering the price, many consumers also look at the nutritional “bang for their buck.” A standard Filet-O-Fish contains approximately 380 calories. It provides about 16 grams of protein. While it is not the highest-protein item on the menu—the Quarter Pounder with Cheese holds that title—it is often viewed as a “lighter” feeling alternative to the heavier beef options.
From a value perspective, the Filet-O-Fish has a relatively high price-per-calorie compared to the McDouble or the McChicken. However, for those who prefer the taste of steamed buns and wild-caught fish, the premium price is often considered worth it. The quality of the fish is a point of pride for the company, as they utilize flash-freezing techniques to maintain freshness from the boat to the restaurant.
Summary of Pricing Factors
To wrap up, the price you pay for a McDonald’s fish sandwich is determined by four main factors:
- Geography: Higher prices in coastal and urban areas.
- Ordering Method: Full meals cost more than a la carte, but offer better value per item.
- Technology: App users almost always pay less than walk-in customers.
- Timing: Lenten season (Spring) offers the best deals of the year.
Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a Friday tradition, the Filet-O-Fish remains a unique, albeit increasingly expensive, part of the McDonald’s legacy. By utilizing the app and keeping an eye on seasonal promotions, you can still enjoy this classic seafood sandwich without overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Filet-O-Fish cost on Fridays during Lent?
During the Lenten season, many McDonald’s locations offer a “Friday Fish” special. In 2026, these deals often bring the price of a single sandwich down to around $2.99 or $3.50. Some locations may also offer a “2 for $6” deal that includes the Filet-O-Fish. However, these promotions are at the discretion of the franchise owner, so it is best to check the McDonald’s app for your specific local offer.
Is the Filet-O-Fish included in the $5 Meal Deal?
McDonald’s occasionally runs a $5 Meal Deal or a “McValue” promotion. While this usually features the McDouble or the McChicken, the Filet-O-Fish is rarely included in the $5 price point because the cost of wild-caught fish is higher than chicken or beef. You are more likely to find the fish sandwich in a “2 for $6” or “2 for $7” mix-and-match promotion.
Why is the fish sandwich more expensive than a cheeseburger?
The higher cost is primarily due to the ingredients. The Filet-O-Fish uses wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, which must be sustainably sourced and processed. Additionally, the sandwich uses a specific steamed bun and a tartar sauce that is unique to this menu item. These supply chain requirements make the fish sandwich more expensive to produce than a standard beef cheeseburger.
Can I get a Double Filet-O-Fish, and how much is it?
Yes, the Double Filet-O-Fish is available at most locations. It features two fish patties instead of one. In 2026, the price for a Double Filet-O-Fish sandwich is typically between $7.80 and $8.50. If you order it as a meal with fries and a drink, the price usually ranges from $12.00 to $13.50 depending on the size and location.
Does McDonald’s offer any senior or military discounts on fish sandwiches?
McDonald’s does not have a corporate-wide senior or military discount policy. Because most stores are independently owned franchises, some individual owners may offer a small discount (often 10%) or a free coffee to seniors or veterans. It is best to ask the cashier at your local restaurant or check the “Deals” section of the app, as that is where most modern discounts are located.