Menus and prices in 17 markets, 1,498 items tracked.
The Big Mac has been used to compare currencies since The Economist started doing it in 1986. Divide one country's price by another's and you get the exchange rate those two prices imply; the distance from the real rate is the finding.
See the Big Mac Index →McDonald's is the most useful brand on this site for understanding menu localisation, because it trades in every one of the eleven legacy markets we price and its board is different in all of them. We hold 1,075 McDonald's items, more than any other brand.
The 15 products in our price index are the thin invariant thread running through those menus. The Filet-O-Fish appears in ten markets at between about $1.78 and $5.71 - A roughly three-fold band that is tight by the standards of this dataset, and a sign of how hard McDonald's competes on price everywhere it operates.
Everything around that thread changes. Breakfast is the clearest case: an egg-and-muffin format in North America, rolls and wraps in Britain and Ireland, rice sets in Manila, noodle sets in Hong Kong. Compare the USA board with the Philippines and the overlap is smaller than almost anyone expects.
Each market has its own board. Prices are shown in local currency and are not comparable across rows - Use the index below for that.
Prices are in each market’s own currency and are not comparable across rows; for that, use the price index.
Products sold under one name in four or more of our markets, converted to US dollars at weekly mid-market rates.
Every item across every McDonald's menu, mapped onto our dish taxonomy.
McDonald's is one of the world's most recognized fast-food chains, celebrated for its golden arches and comforting menu options. Born in mid-20th century America, it has grown into a global brand that adapts to local tastes while staying true to its classic roots.
Originally a small drive-in, McDonald's underwent a transformation under the leadership of Ray Kroc. His vision of franchising and delivering consistent service reshaped the fast-food landscape, turning a local favorite into a household name. The journey of McDonald's reflects a blend of ambition, innovation, and a commitment to quality that resonates with millions.
Beloved items like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, and the iconic World Famous Fries have become symbols of reliable taste and comfort. These staples have won over generations with their familiar and satisfying flavors.
While McDonald's is known for its classic offerings, it also embraces local culinary traditions. Depending on where you are in the world, you might find unique regional specialties alongside the well-known menu. This thoughtful mix of global consistency and local adaptation helps the brand remain fresh and relevant.
More than just a logo, the golden arches represent a promise of a warm welcome and an easy meal. Whether in a bustling city or a quiet town, they evoke a sense of familiarity and reliability that many find inviting.
McDonald's is not just about serving food - It’s about building relationships. The brand plays an active role in community events, educational initiatives, and charitable programs, fostering a personal connection that goes beyond the dining experience.
With its blend of timeless classics and local touches, McDonald's remains a cherished part of everyday life for millions around the globe.
Almost every restaurant you think of as a chain is owned by someone else entirely. What the franchisee actually buys, and why it explains the price on the board.
Localisation is not adding a novelty item. It is a staged process with a predictable sequence, and the menu data shows exactly how far each market has travelled.
Menu boards are designed documents, not lists. Where the money items sit, what the ordering of panels is doing, and how to find the price you actually want.
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Discussion
Prices move and menus differ by branch - What people have seen on the ground is part of the record. Be useful, be civil.
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