This fast food chain won the best burger. But eating there will cost you
Americans Have Spoken: The Best Fast-Food Burger Chains, Ranked
A newly released YouGov study has revealed what Americans really think about their favorite fast-food burgers—and the winner is clear: **Five Guys** takes the crown.
The Top 5 Fast-Food Burger Chains
According to the survey, here's how Americans ranked their go-to spots for a quick, satisfying burger:
1. **Five Guys** 🥇
2. **Burger King**
3. **In-N-Out**
4. **Wendy's**
5. **McDonald's**
Why Five Guys Wins—Despite the Price Tag
Five Guys specializes in made-to-order hamburgers, hot dogs, and hand-cut fries. It's also one of the pricier options on the fast-food scene. In fact, Allrecipes ranked Five Guys as the **most expensive fast-food chain in the U.S. in 2025**, with Jack in the Box, Shake Shack, Cava, and Chipotle rounding out the top five for cost.
Yet price hasn't deterred loyalty. When Five Guys recently swapped its iconic plastic fry cups for grease-resistant, BPA- and PFAS-free kraft paper bags, customers voiced strong opinions on social media—proof that fans are deeply invested in the brand experience. (The chain maintains the new bags hold the same portion size; perception, however, is still catching up.)
What You'll Pay for a Burger in Philadelphia
A 2025 LendingTree study found the median fast-food meal in U.S. metro areas costs about $12, with Philadelphia landing right in the middle at $12.05. Here's how the top five burger chains compare for a basic, single hamburger in the City of Brotherly Love:
| Chain | Item | Price | Source |
|-------|------|-------|--------|
| **Five Guys** | Little Hamburger | $8.25 | Five Guys website |
| **Burger King** | Hamburger | $2.59 | Burger King website |
| **In-N-Out** | Hamburger | $2.50 | In-N-Out menu |
| **Wendy's** | Jr. Hamburger | $1.99 | Wendy's website |
| **McDonald's** | Hamburger | $2.59 | DoorDash |
*Note: In-N-Out does not offer pickup or delivery, so pricing is based on in-store menu listings.*
The Bottom Line
Americans aren't just voting with their opinions—they're voting with their wallets. Five Guys proves that quality and customization can command a premium, even in a value-driven market. Meanwhile, legacy giants like McDonald's and Burger King remain staples for affordability and accessibility. Whether you're splurging on a Little Hamburger or grabbing a classic value-menu staple, the great American burger debate is far from over—and that's exactly how we like it. 🍔