Shake Shack Fries Crowned 'Best Value' in America

NYC-born burger chain beats out national competitors for most fries per dollar

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:56pm

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A new study by personal loans lender NetCredit has named Shake Shack as offering the best-value fries in America. Researchers calculated the cost and portion size of fries from the 14 largest U.S. fast-food burger chains, and found that Shake Shack's regular fry portion of 6.17 ounces, at an average national price of $5, equates to just 40 cents per ounce - making them the most affordable per serving.

Why it matters

In an era of rising inflation and tightening budgets, the study highlights how Shake Shack is providing customers with a high-quality, filling fry option without breaking the bank. As traditional 'value menu' deals become harder to find, Shake Shack's fries stand out as an affordable indulgence for cost-conscious consumers.

The details

To determine the 'best value' fries, researchers weighed regular fry portions from 14 major burger chains and calculated the average national price per ounce. While chains like Sonic had smaller 2.54-ounce servings at $1.27 per ounce, Shake Shack's generous 6.17-ounce portion at $5 on average came out to just 40 cents per ounce - making them the most affordable per serving. Other chains like McDonald's ($0.89/oz) and Burger King ($0.77/oz) also ranked highly for value.

  • The study was published on March 13, 2026.

The players

Shake Shack

A New York City-based burger chain that has become known for its high-quality, affordable menu items.

NetCredit

A personal loans lender that conducted the study to determine the best-value fries at major U.S. fast-food chains.

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The takeaway

Shake Shack's generous fry portions and affordable pricing make them a standout option for cost-conscious consumers seeking a tasty fast-food treat without blowing their budget. In an era of rising inflation, this study highlights how the NYC-born chain is providing great value to its customers.