A medium fry from Sonic typically costs between $1.99 and $2.49 depending on the location. Sonic is a popular fast food drive-in chain that is known for its extensive menu of burgers, hot dogs, and signature drink options. However, one of Sonic’s most popular side items is its medium-sized french fries. Customers love the crispy, golden fries at Sonic and a medium-sized order provides the perfect amount to share or to keep all to yourself! But with prices varying across locations, you may be wondering – how much does a medium fry cost at Sonic? Keep reading to find out the typical price range for this menu item.
The Cost of a Sonic Medium Fry
According to Sonic’s website, a medium fry costs $1.99 nationally. However, prices can vary a bit across different franchises and locations. After researching prices at a sample of Sonic drive-ins across the country, here is the typical price range for a medium fry:
| Sonic Location | Medium Fry Price |
|---|---|
| Houston, TX | $1.99 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $2.49 |
| Chicago, IL | $2.19 |
| Orlando, FL | $2.39 |
| Seattle, WA | $2.29 |
As you can see from this sample, medium fry prices at Sonic tend to range from $1.99 on the low end to $2.49 on the high end. The majority of locations charge either $1.99 or $2.29 for a medium-sized order of fries.
What Impacts the Price of a Medium Fry at Sonic?
There are a few key factors that cause the price of a medium fry at Sonic to vary across locations:
Franchise vs. Company Owned Locations
Franchise locations are independently owned and operated under a franchise license agreement. Franchisees set their own pricing, which allows for some variation in menu prices across different franchises. Company owned Sonic locations follow set national pricing.
Geographic Location
Menu prices can also fluctuate based on geographic location and the local costs of doing business. Real estate costs, labor costs, food costs, and other operational expenses impact pricing. Locations in higher cost urban areas may have slightly elevated prices.
Special Promotions
Sonic runs frequent promotions with discounted or bundled menu items. When fries are included in a special deal it can temporarily impact the price you pay for a medium order. Promotions vary by location and timing.
Mobile Ordering Discounts
When ordering through the Sonic mobile app, customers can take advantage of app-exclusive deals and discounts. Mobile ordering prices may be slightly lower than drive-thru prices.
Time of Day
Sonic uses time-based pricing, with discounted Happy Hour prices available during certain afternoon and evening hours. A medium fry may cost a bit less if you order during a Happy Hour timeframe.
Price Comparison with Other Fast Food Chains
How does Sonic’s medium fry pricing compare to other fast food chains? Here is a look at medium fry prices at 5 popular national chains:
| Chain | Medium Fry Price |
|---|---|
| McDonald’s | $1.79 |
| Wendy’s | $1.89 |
| Burger King | $2.29 |
| Sonic | $1.99-$2.49 |
| Jack in the Box | $2.29 |
Sonic’s medium fry pricing is very comparable to competitors. The average medium fry at Sonic will cost between $1.99 and $2.29, right in line with prices at McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and Burger King. Only Jack in the Box is noticeably higher at $2.29 across all locations. So Sonic provides a competitively priced order of fries!
How Sonic’s Fry Portion Sizes Compare
Beyond just looking at price, it’s also helpful to see how the portion sizes at Sonic measure up. Here is a breakdown of approximate fry portion weights across the major fast food chains:
| Chain | Medium Fry Weight |
|---|---|
| Sonic | 4.4 oz |
| McDonald’s | 2.6 oz |
| Wendy’s | 4.5 oz |
| Burger King | 3.3 oz |
| Jack in the Box | 5.1 oz |
A Sonic medium fry provides 4.4 oz of fries, which is one of the larger medium portion sizes among major chains. Only Jack in the Box offers more with their medium at 5.1 oz. In terms of value, Sonic provides an above average portion for the price compared to other leading fast food fry options.
Quality of Sonic’s Fries
In addition to looking at price and portion size, the quality and taste of the fries should also be considered. Sonic uses Russet potatoes and cuts their fries a bit thicker than many chains. The fries are cooked to order and served hot and crispy right to your car. Sonic’s signature seasoning blend adds an extra dash of flavor. Customers rave about the taste and consistency of Sonic’s fries versus competitors. So not only do you get great value, you also get delicious premium fries with a medium order.
Tips for Getting the Best Value
Here are some tips to get the most for your money when ordering a medium fry from Sonic:
- Check the Sonic app for daily deals and coupons
- Order during Happy Hour to get the lowest price
- Take advantage of bundled meal combos that include fries
- Split a large fry with a friend since sizes are really generous
- Only order fries when you can eat them hot and fresh
- Substitute fries for another side item like tots or onion rings if cheaper
Following these tips will help you maximize the value you get from a Sonic medium fry purchase.
Nutrition Information
When looking at the price of any food item, it’s also important to consider the nutrition information:
| Sonic Medium Fry Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 19g |
| Carbs | 43g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 270mg |
Like most fast food fries, a Sonic medium fry is high in calories, fat, and sodium. But the carbs and protein provide energy. Just be mindful of portion size. Sharing a medium fry or getting a small may help control your overall calorie intake.
Conclusion
A medium fry from Sonic delivers great value for the price. Costing between $1.99 and $2.49, the price is in line with competitor’s fry offerings. And you get a generous 4.4 oz portion of Sonic’s signature thick cut, crispy fries. The price is reasonable, especially when Sonic fries are some of the best tasting in the business. Just balance out the indulgence by sharing with friends or pairing it with healthier menu items. So next time you’re craving a quintessential fast food side, you can feel good about the price and value of a medium fry from Sonic.
