What You Can Get at Popular Chains for Under $3

Fast food prices are creeping up everywhere, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still score solid meals on a tight budget. Whether you’re a student with $10 to last the day or just trying to cut back on spending, there are still great items under $3 at big-name chains—if you know where to look.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s worth ordering for less than three bucks, plus how to stretch your savings even further with a few easy digital tools.

1. Jack in the Box Two Tacos – ~$0.99
   A classic for late-night cravings or mid-day munchies, the Jack in the Box taco duo is greasy, crunchy, and costs less than a bottle of water. It’s not gourmet, but it’s filling—and incredibly wallet-friendly.
2. McDonald’s Sausage Biscuit – ~$1.79
   The breakfast menu is full of underrated deals. The Sausage Biscuit is warm, buttery, and loaded with savory flavor. Pair it with a free water cup and you’re good to go for under $2.
3. Del Taco Value Taco – ~$1.49
   Known for its rotating deals and value menu, Del Taco offers several $1–$2 tacos, burritos, and snack items. You can even get 20 items for under $3 if you hit them on “Taco Nights.”
4. Wendy’s Junior Cheeseburger – ~$2.29
   Smaller size, big flavor. Add a side of value fries (about $1.19) and you’re still well under $3 for a legit mini-meal. It’s part of Wendy’s “Biggie Deals” lineup that changes based on location.
5. Taco Bell Cheesy Roll-Up – ~$1.00
   The Cheesy Roll-Up is a warm flour tortilla loaded with gooey cheese—simple but addictive. Add a spicy potato soft taco (~$1.39) and you’ve got a mix-and-match combo that fills you up for cheap.
6. Burger King Chicken Jr. – ~$1.59
   This small chicken sandwich is crispy, saucy, and often on promo through the app. Combine it with a value drink or fries if you’ve got a little wiggle room under your $3 ceiling.
7. Sonic Corn Dog – ~$1.29 (or less on 50¢ promo days)
   Sonic regularly runs discount deals, and the classic corn dog is often front and center. Great for a snack or quick lunch break with change to spare.
8. Starbucks Buttered Croissant – ~$2.90
   Even at Starbucks, there are under-$3 options. The buttered croissant is flaky, filling, and pairs well with a water cup or your own coffee-from-home if you’re trying to keep costs down.

Stacking Tip: Use Cashback Apps to Drop the Price Further

Even if you’re already getting a cheap item, it doesn’t hurt to knock it down even more. You can:

• Buy a Jack in the Box gift card or Del Taco gift card through Fluz and get instant cashback

• Use loyalty apps to earn points for future rewards

• Upload receipts to Ibotta when applicable for a little extra cash back

With just a few taps, your $3 snack could earn you money back for the next one.

Final Thought

You don’t need to spend big to eat well. From tacos to croissants, these under-$3 picks prove that budget dining is still very possible in 2025—especially when you stack the right savings tools on top.