7 Burger chains where you can still score big burgers for under $10

It’s hard to ignore—burgers these days are starting to feel like luxury dining. What used to be a go-to affordable meal now often comes with a $15 or even $20 price tag before you’ve added fries or a drink. But not every burger joint has jumped on that pricey trend.

These burger chains have managed to keep prices fair without skimping on quality, proving that a great meal doesn’t have to empty your wallet. If you’re craving something big, juicy, and satisfying, you’ll want to keep this list handy for your next burger run.

The Midwest’s ButterBurger Gem. Image source: Culver's

1. Culver’s​

If you’ve ever traveled through the Midwest, you’ve probably seen the blue-and-white sign for Culver’s. Their signature Double ButterBurger is a thing of beauty: two juicy beef patties, cooked to order, nestled in a lightly buttered, toasted bun. The best part? It’ll set you back less than $7 (though cheese and extra toppings may cost a bit more).

Culver’s is beloved for its high-quality ingredients, consistent service, and sparkling-clean restaurants. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t sleep on their fish sandwiches or famous frozen custard. As one fan put it, “The double deluxe is delish.”

Classic Steakburgers at Old-School Prices. Image source: Steak 'n Shake

2. Steak ‘n Shake​

Steak ‘n Shake has been slinging burgers since 1934, and they’re still one of the best bargains in the burger world. Their Single Steakburger with Cheese starts at around $4.50, and even a hearty Triple Steakburger clocks in at about $8.

What sets Steak ‘n Shake apart? Their burgers are made with a blend of steak cuts, giving them a rich, beefy flavor. And if you’re a garlic lover, don’t miss the Garlic Butter Burger—fans rave about the extra garlic sauce. Pair your burger with their famous shoestring fries and a hand-dipped milkshake for the full retro experience.

Smash-Style Perfection. Image source: Freddy's

3. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers​

Freddy’s is a rising star in the burger world, especially if you love that crispy, caramelized edge you get from a smash-style burger. Their single steakburgers start at $6.39, and even their most decadent options—like the BBQ Brisket Steakburger—come in just under $10.

Freddy’s is also famous for its cheese curds (some say they’re even better than Culver’s!) and creamy frozen custard. As one fan put it, “Freddy’s is god level.”

Also read: Eat well, spend less: The best restaurants with all-you-can-eat or refill deals

Texas-Sized Flavor, Wallet-Friendly Prices. Image source: Whataburger

4. Whataburger​

This regional favorite is known for its fresh, never-frozen beef and made-to-order burgers. A classic Whataburger starts at $5.79, and even a triple-patty monster is just $8.29 in most locations.

Whataburger’s commitment to freshness is legendary—they don’t even start cooking your burger until you order it. And with fresh veggies chopped in-house daily, you can taste the difference. If you’re traveling through the South or Southwest, make sure to stop in for a taste of Texas tradition.

West Coast Icon, Unbeatable Value. Image Source: In-N-Out

5. In-N-Out​

No list of affordable burger chains would be complete without In-N-Out. This California-born chain has a cult following for good reason: their burgers are made with fresh, high-quality beef, never frozen, and cooked to order.

A single burger starts at just $2.50, and even their famous 3x3 (three patties, three slices of cheese) is only $8.50. The menu is simple, but the secret “not-so-secret” menu lets you customize to your heart’s content.

Gourmet Taste, Everyday Prices. Image Source: Smashburger

6. Smashburger​

Smashburger takes its name seriously—each patty is smashed on the grill for maximum caramelization and flavor. Classic single-patty burgers start at $4.99, and doubles are just $6.99. Even their specialty burgers, like the Colorado Smash with pepper jack cheese and green chiles, come in under $9.

Smashburger prides itself on using Certified Angus Beef from family-owned farms, and you can taste the quality in every bite. With a variety of toppings and buns to choose from, you can build your perfect burger without blowing your budget.

Also read: The 7 Best Zero-Sugar Drinks everyone’s rushing to try right now

The Original Big Burger. Image Source: Fatburger

7. Fatburger​

Fatburger has been serving up hefty, made-to-order burgers since 1952. Their Original Fatburger (a full 1/3 pound of beef) is just $7.70 in many locations. You can load it up with “The Works”—lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, mustard, pickles, and relish—or customize it with your favorite toppings.

Fatburger’s patties are fresh-ground and grilled to perfection, served on a toasted sponge-dough bun. If you’re feeling extra hungry, you can always size up, but the classic is more than enough for most appetites.

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Key Takeaways

• Seven popular burger chains in the US are still serving big, juicy burgers for under $10, despite rising food prices elsewhere.
• Chains like In-N-Out, Culver’s, Smashburger, and Whataburger are highlighted for their quality ingredients, freshness, and value for money.
• Many of these burgers are made to order using fresh beef and custom toppings, with some single burgers starting for as low as $2.50.
• Fans and reviewers praise the taste, generous portions, and cleanliness of these chains, with several offering extra options like cheese curds and deluxe toppings without breaking the bank.

Do you have a favorite burger chain that didn’t make our list? Have you found a hidden gem serving up amazing burgers for less? Or maybe you have a secret menu hack to share? We want to hear your burger stories, tips, and recommendations!