The McDonald’s fish sandwich, famously known as the Filet-O-Fish, has been a cornerstone of the Golden Arches’ menu for decades. Originally created to cater to customers who abstained from meat during Lent, it has evolved into a year-round favorite for seafood lovers. However, if you are heading to the drive-thru in 2026, you might notice that the price on the digital menu board looks a little different than it did a few years ago. Inflation, rising supply chain costs for wild-caught seafood, and regional economic shifts have all played a role in how much you will pay for that crispy patty and tartar sauce combination.
When asking how much are fish sandwiches at McDonald’s, the answer is rarely a single number. Prices are influenced by everything from the city you are in to the specific deals currently running on the McDonald’s mobile app. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the current pricing structures, meal deal options, and the nutritional value of this iconic sandwich to help you plan your next meal.
The Cost of a Filet-O-Fish in 2026
As of early 2026, the individual price for a Filet-O-Fish sandwich typically ranges between $4.99 and $5.59 at most United States locations. While this represents a significant increase from the prices of the early 2010s, it remains a competitive option within the fast-food seafood market. In high-cost urban areas like New York City, San Francisco, or Seattle, it is not uncommon to see the price of a single sandwich lean toward the $6.00 mark.
For those with a bigger appetite, the Double Filet-O-Fish is also a permanent fixture on many menus. This version features two fish patties instead of one, providing a heartier protein hit. The price for the double version generally sits between $7.89 and $8.19. Because the fish is wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, the cost to McDonald’s is often higher than their beef or chicken supplies, which is reflected in the slightly higher price point compared to a standard cheeseburger.
Breaking Down the Value Meals
Most customers do not just buy the sandwich; they opt for the “Extra Value Meal.” This combination includes the Filet-O-Fish sandwich, a medium order of World Famous Fries, and a medium soft drink. In 2026, the Filet-O-Fish Meal is priced approximately between $10.49 and $12.59.
The value of the meal depends heavily on local franchise decisions. Some owners may offer “bundle” pricing that makes the meal significantly cheaper than buying items a la carte, while others keep the margins tighter. It is always worth checking the “McValue” section of the menu, as sometimes seasonal promotions can bring the cost of a meal down to a more manageable $9.00 range, especially during the spring months.
Regional Pricing Differences
One of the most important things to remember about McDonald’s is that it does not have a “national” price list for most items. Instead, the company uses a tiered pricing strategy based on the local economy. A Filet-O-Fish in a small town in the Midwest may be priced at $4.99, while the exact same sandwich at an airport or a rest stop in the Northeast could be $6.50 or more.
International prices vary even more wildly. For example, recent reports show that in Hong Kong, McDonald’s has made a public commitment to freezing the price of the Filet-O-Fish at HK$14 for several years to help residents manage the cost of living. Conversely, in European markets, you might find the sandwich priced around 5.00 Euros, depending on the country’s VAT and local labor costs.
Saving Money with the McDonald’s App
If you want to avoid paying full price, the McDonald’s mobile app is your best friend. In 2026, the company has shifted almost all of its aggressive discounting to its digital platform. This allows them to offer personalized deals based on your purchasing history.
Common deals found on the app include:
- Buy one, get one for $1: This is a frequent offer for the Filet-O-Fish, allowing you to get a second sandwich for a fraction of the cost.
- Free fries with any purchase: Since a medium order of fries can cost over $4.00 in some locations, this effectively cuts the cost of your total meal by nearly 40%.
- Rewards points: Every dollar spent earns you points that can be redeemed for free sandwiches. Usually, 6,000 points will net you a free Filet-O-Fish.
The Seasonal Factor: Lent and Friday Specials
Historically, the Filet-O-Fish sees its highest demand during the Lenten season, the 40-day period leading up to Easter. During this time, McDonald’s often runs “Friday Fish” specials to attract those who are abstaining from meat. In 2026, many locations are continuing the tradition of offering a Filet-O-Fish for a discounted price—often around $3.50 or $4.00—specifically on Fridays during February and March.
Additionally, you may see the “2 for $6” or “2 for $7” mix-and-match deals return during this time. This allows you to pair a fish sandwich with a Big Mac or a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets for a set price, offering the best value for families or those looking for a large meal.
What Are You Paying For? Ingredients and Quality
The price of the sandwich is also a reflection of the ingredients used. McDonald’s uses 100% wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, which is sourced from sustainable fisheries certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). This commitment to sustainability adds to the overhead but ensures a consistent quality and texture.
The sandwich consists of:
- A crispy fish filet patty fried in a blend of vegetable oils.
- A half-slice of pasteurized American cheese (carefully measured to ensure the cheese doesn’t overwhelm the delicate flavor of the fish).
- Creamy tartar sauce with a hint of dill and onion.
- A soft, steamed bun that gives the sandwich its signature “pillowy” texture.
Unlike the burgers, which are grilled, the fish patties are deep-fried to achieve a specific crunch. This requires dedicated fryers and specialized cooking times, which are factors in the operational cost of the item.
Nutritional Information at a Glance
For many diners, the cost is not just about the dollars but also the caloric intake. The standard Filet-O-Fish contains approximately 380 to 390 calories. It provides 17 grams of protein and about 19 grams of fat. If you are looking to reduce the calorie count, you can ask for the sandwich without tartar sauce, which removes a significant portion of the fat and about 90 calories.
The sodium content is one area to watch, as a single sandwich contains around 580 milligrams of sodium, which is about 25% of the daily recommended limit for an adult. When paired with a medium order of fries, the total sodium for the meal can quickly exceed 1,000 milligrams.
How It Compares to Other Fast Food Fish
When deciding how much you want to spend, it helps to look at the competition. In 2026, a Wendy’s crispy panko fish sandwich or an Arby’s King’s Hawaiian Fish Deluxe usually retails for slightly more—often between $5.99 and $6.99 for the sandwich alone. While these competitors often offer a larger filet, the McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish remains the choice for those who prefer the classic, steamed-bun experience at a slightly lower entry price.
Burger King’s Big Fish sandwich is perhaps the closest competitor in terms of price, often hovering around the $5.49 mark. However, McDonald’s remains the market leader in fish sandwich volume, largely due to its long-standing brand loyalty and the unique taste profile of its tartar sauce.
Customizing Your Fish Sandwich
One way to get more value for your money is through customization. Did you know you can add extra tartar sauce or extra lettuce for a small fee? Some fans of the sandwich even “hack” the menu by ordering a Filet-O-Fish and adding a McChicken patty to create a “Land and Sea” sandwich.
While customizations can add $0.50 to $1.50 to the total price, they allow you to tailor the meal to your exact preferences. In 2026, McDonald’s has streamlined this process through their self-service kiosks, making it easier than ever to see the price impact of every addition in real-time.
The Future of Fish Pricing at McDonald’s
Looking ahead, the price of fish sandwiches at McDonald’s is expected to remain tied to global seafood market fluctuations. If Alaskan Pollock supplies remain steady, price increases should be gradual and in line with general inflation. However, as McDonald’s continues to invest in technology and “Better Burger” initiatives, the focus on quality may lead to more “premium” fish offerings in the future, which could carry a higher price tag.
For now, the Filet-O-Fish remains an affordable, reliable, and delicious alternative to the standard beef burger. Whether you are buying it for religious reasons during Lent or simply because you love that steamed bun and tangy sauce, it continues to be a staple of the American fast-food landscape.
FAQs
How much does a Filet-O-Fish cost on its own in 2026?
On average, a single Filet-O-Fish costs between $4.99 and $5.59. Prices may be higher in major metropolitan areas or at specialized locations like airports.
Does McDonald’s still offer a 2 for $6 deal for fish sandwiches?
The 2 for $6 deal is no longer a permanent national offer but is frequently available as a seasonal promotion, particularly during Lent. You can also find similar buy-one-get-one deals regularly on the McDonald’s mobile app.
Why is there only a half-slice of cheese on the Filet-O-Fish?
McDonald’s uses a half-slice of American cheese to prevent the cheese flavor from overpowering the delicate taste of the wild-caught Alaskan Pollock. This has been the standard recipe since the sandwich was first introduced.
Is the McDonald’s fish sandwich healthy?
With 380 to 390 calories and 17 grams of protein, it is a lighter option than many of the larger burgers. However, it is high in sodium and contains fried components, so it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Can I get a Filet-O-Fish for breakfast?
Most McDonald’s locations do not serve the Filet-O-Fish during breakfast hours. You generally have to wait until the lunch menu begins, which is typically at 10:30 AM on weekdays and 11:00 AM on weekends.