McDonald's Big Arch shows wide price differences across U.S. states

Prices for McDonald's limited‑time Big Arch burger vary by nearly 74% nationwide, with NeoMam data reported by Time Out and The Independent showing a range from $7.46 in Columbia, South Carolina, to $12.99 in Lewiston, Maine.

McDonald's has rolled out the limited‑time Big Arch burger nationwide this month. The sandwich features two quarter‑pound beef patties, white cheddar, crispy and slivered onions, lettuce, pickles, and a signature sauce on a sesame and poppy seed bun, according to McDonald's. Reporting by Time Out and The Independent highlights large price differences for the same item across locations. NeoMam Studios compiled prices from more than 450 McDonald's restaurants to compare costs across cities and states. Key details: - NeoMam's data, reported by Time Out and The Independent, found the Big Arch priced as low as $7.46 in Columbia, South Carolina, and as high as $12.99 in Lewiston, Maine, a gap of over $5 for the same menu item. - At the state level, the analysis reported Oklahoma with one of the lowest average prices for the Big Arch (about $8.05) and Alaska as the most expensive state (about $10.32). - Other higher‑priced states named in reporting include Washington, Maine, and Hawaii, where the burger often approaches or exceeds $10. - The rollout and a viral video of McDonald's CEO attempting to eat the oversized burger have increased attention around the item, and rival executives posted lighthearted responses online. - McDonald's lists the Big Arch as its largest U.S. burger, containing more than 1,000 calories by itself; reporting noted a full meal with fries and a soft drink could exceed 1,600 calories. Summary: The reported price variability has drawn public attention and discussion about menu costs and perceived value. Undetermined at this time.