Looking for the ultimate resource on the McDonald’s drinks menu? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about McDonald’s beverages in 2025, from classic sodas to premium McCafé offerings and seasonal specialties. Whether you’re watching your calories, looking for the best value, or curious about new drink innovations, we’ve gathered all the essential information in one convenient place.
Last updated: May 2025
As independent McDonald’s menu experts, we’ve compiled the most current information on prices, sizes, nutrition facts, and new offerings. Keep in mind that while we strive for accuracy, McDonald’s menu items and prices may vary slightly by location, and limited-time offers come and go throughout the year. This guide covers standard fountain drinks, teas, coffees, shakes, and the exciting new CosMc’s beverages now appearing at select McDonald’s locations across the country.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about McDonald’s extensive drink selection for 2025!
Complete Drinks Menu at a Glance: Quick Reference Table (2025 Prices)
Before we explore each beverage category in detail, here’s a comprehensive overview of McDonald’s entire drinks menu with current pricing information. This table provides a quick reference to help you compare options across different beverage categories.
Beverage Category | Size Options | Price Range (2025) | Calorie Range |
---|---|---|---|
Fountain Sodas | Small (16 oz), Medium (21 oz), Large (30 oz) | $1.69–$1.99 | 0–290 calories |
Sweet Teas & Lemonades | Small (16 oz), Medium (21 oz), Large (30 oz) | $1.49–$2.49 | 0–190 calories |
Hot Coffee & Tea | Small (12 oz), Medium (16 oz), Large (20 oz) | $1.99–$2.29 | 0–160 calories |
Iced Coffee | Small (16 oz), Medium (21 oz), Large (30 oz) | $2.59–$3.29 | 140–320 calories |
McCafé Specialty Drinks | Small (12 oz), Medium (16 oz), Large (20 oz) | $3.29–$4.49 | 160–520 calories |
Shakes | Small (12 oz), Medium (16 oz), Large (22 oz) | $3.29–$4.29 | 510–830 calories |
Frozen Drinks | Small (16 oz), Medium (21 oz), Large (30 oz) | $2.19–$2.99 | 130–240 calories |
Bottled Beverages | Standard retail sizes | $2.19–$3.99 | 0–240 calories |
CosMc’s Specialty Beverages* | Regular (16 oz), Large (24 oz) | $3.99–$5.49 | 170–480 calories |
*Available at select locations only
Note that prices may vary by region, and some locations may charge slightly more or less. Many McDonald’s restaurants also offer dollar drink promotions at certain times of the year, significantly reducing these prices.
Fountain Sodas & Soft Drinks: The Classic McDonald’s Beverages
The foundation of McDonald’s drinks menu has always been their fountain sodas, which many fans insist taste better at McDonald’s than anywhere else. This is partially due to McDonald’s meticulous standards for syrup-to-water ratios and their carefully maintained filtering systems. All fountain drinks are served with McDonald’s signature crushed ice.
McDonald’s fountain sodas come in three standard sizes:
- Small: 16 oz ($1.69)
- Medium: 21 oz ($1.89)
- Large: 30 oz ($1.99)
The complete selection of McDonald’s fountain drinks includes:
- Coca-Cola Classic: The standard bearer of soft drinks delivers that familiar refreshing taste. (150 calories, 39g sugar in medium size)
- Diet Coke: Zero calories, zero sugar, but all the refreshing taste of the classic Coca-Cola formula.
- Coca-Cola Zero Sugar: A newer alternative with zero calories that aims to taste more like regular Coke than Diet Coke does.
- Sprite: A crisp, clean lemon-lime flavored soft drink that provides a refreshing counterpoint to savory menu items. (150 calories, 38g sugar in medium size)
- Dr. Pepper: A unique blend of 23 flavors creates this distinctive soda favorite. (140 calories, 37g sugar in medium size)
- Fanta Orange: A bright, orange-flavored soft drink with a fruity profile. (170 calories, 44g sugar in medium size)
- Root Beer: Available at select locations, this classic American soda offers rich, creamy flavor. (160 calories, 43g sugar in medium size)
- Hi-C Orange Lavaburst: A non-carbonated fruit-flavored beverage with a bold orange taste. (160 calories, 42g sugar in medium size)
- Powerade Mountain Berry Blast: An electrolyte-enhanced sports drink option. (120 calories, 32g sugar in medium size)
Most McDonald’s locations offer free refills on fountain drinks when dining in, making them an excellent value option. The chain typically uses Coca-Cola branded products exclusively, giving their drinks the distinctive taste that many McDonald’s regulars prefer.
Customized Soda Favorites & “Secret Menu” Combinations
While not officially on the menu, McDonald’s drink stations allow for creative mixing of standard fountain beverages to create custom combinations. These unofficial “secret menu” drinks have gained popularity through social media and word of mouth.
Here are some of the most popular customer-created soda combinations you can make at McDonald’s:
- McRocket Pop: Equal parts Powerade Mountain Berry Blast and Sprite, creating a sweet, blue-red concoction reminiscent of a rocket popsicle.
- Orange Creamsicle: 75% Fanta Orange topped with 25% Sprite for a creamy, fizzy orange treat.
- Cherry Limeade: Sprite with 2-3 pumps of cherry flavor from the McCafé bar (if available, or ask for cherry from vanilla shake syrup).
- Neapolitan Soda: 60% Coca-Cola, 30% Sprite, and 10% Hi-C Orange for a multi-flavor experience.
- Berry Sprite: Regular Sprite with a splash of Powerade Mountain Berry Blast for a subtle purple-blue berry flavor with the crisp lemon-lime base.
To order these combinations, you can either mix them yourself at the self-serve fountain or politely ask a crew member if they can create the mix for you. Keep in mind that during busy periods, complex custom orders may not be possible.
Iced Teas & Lemonades: Refreshing Non-Carbonated Options
For those seeking refreshing alternatives to carbonated beverages, McDonald’s offers several tea and lemonade options. These drinks provide a lighter, sometimes less sweet option while still delivering bold flavors.
McDonald’s iced tea and lemonade options include:
- Sweet Tea: Brewed tea sweetened during the brewing process for a genuine Southern sweet tea experience. Available in small ($1.49), medium ($1.69), and large ($1.99). (90 calories per medium)
- Unsweetened Iced Tea: Freshly brewed tea without added sugar, perfect for those monitoring sugar intake. Available in small ($1.49), medium ($1.69), and large ($1.99). (0 calories)
- Minute Maid Lemonade: A tangy-sweet classic lemonade made with Minute Maid concentrate. Available in small ($2.19), medium ($2.39), and large ($2.59). (140 calories per medium)
- Strawberry Lemonade: Regular lemonade with added strawberry flavoring for a berry twist. Available in small ($2.69), medium ($2.89), and large ($3.19). (190 calories per medium)
- Half & Half (Arnold Palmer): Half sweet tea and half lemonade, creating a refreshing balance of flavors. Available in small ($1.99), medium ($2.19), and large ($2.39). (110 calories per medium)
The calorie difference between sweetened and unsweetened tea is substantial—a medium Sweet Tea contains approximately 90 calories and 21g of sugar, while Unsweetened Tea contains 0 calories and 0g sugar. This makes unsweetened tea an excellent choice for those watching their caloric intake while still enjoying a flavorful beverage.
In southern states, Sweet Tea is particularly popular and may be brewed stronger with more sugar than in other regions. Some locations also offer seasonal tea flavors like peach or raspberry during summer months, though availability varies significantly by region.
McCafé Coffee Drinks: From Classics to Specialty Coffees
McDonald’s has invested heavily in their McCafé coffee program over the past decade, transforming from basic coffee offerings to a comprehensive menu that rivals dedicated coffee shops. All McCafé coffees use 100% Arabica beans, and the quality has improved significantly since the program’s inception.
McCafé beverages generally fall into three categories: hot coffee drinks, cold/iced coffee options, and seasonal specialties. The pricing structure reflects the complexity of the beverage, with basic drip coffee starting around $1.99 and premium espresso-based drinks reaching $4.49 for large sizes.
The McCafé program stands as a cornerstone of McDonald’s drinks menu, offering customers premium coffee options at fast-food prices. Many locations have dedicated McCafé equipment and specially trained staff to ensure consistent quality across all coffee beverages.
For a detailed look at all coffee-based beverages, customizations, and how McDonald’s coffee compares to other major chains, visit our complete guide to coffee in McDo.
Hot Coffee & Espresso-Based Drinks
McDonald’s hot coffee lineup provides everything from basic drip coffee to espresso-based specialty drinks:
- Premium Roast Coffee: McDonald’s signature blend, available in small ($1.99), medium ($2.09), and large ($2.19). A smooth, balanced coffee with medium acidity and body. (0 calories black)
- Decaf Coffee: The same premium roast without caffeine. Pricing matches regular coffee. (0 calories black)
- Americano: Espresso shots blended with hot water for a rich, bold taste. Available in small ($2.49), medium ($2.99), and large ($3.49). (5-15 calories)
- Cappuccino: Espresso topped with steamed milk and a thick layer of foam. Available in small ($3.29), medium ($3.79), and large ($4.29). Flavor options include vanilla, caramel, or mocha. (120-230 calories depending on size and flavor)
- Latte: Espresso with steamed milk and a light layer of foam. Available in small ($3.29), medium ($3.79), and large ($4.29). Flavor options include vanilla, caramel, mocha, or sugar-free vanilla. (150-330 calories depending on size and flavor)
- Mocha: Espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup topped with whipped cream. Available in small ($3.49), medium ($3.99), and large ($4.49). (340-430 calories)
- Macchiato: Layered espresso drink with milk and flavored syrup. Available in small ($3.49), medium ($3.99), and large ($4.49). Caramel is the most popular flavor. (260-340 calories)
- Hot Chocolate: Steamed milk with chocolate syrup topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle. Available in small ($2.59), medium ($2.99), and large ($3.29). (360-440 calories)
Customization options include choosing whole milk, nonfat milk, or in most locations, almond milk (for an additional charge of approximately $0.50). Extra espresso shots can be added for $0.89 each, and flavor syrups cost approximately $0.50 per pump.
Iced Coffee & Cold Brew Options
McDonald’s cold coffee lineup has expanded significantly in recent years, particularly with the addition of cold brew options:
- Iced Coffee: McDonald’s Premium Roast coffee served over ice with optional flavor additions. Available in small ($2.59), medium ($2.89), and large ($3.29). Flavor options include caramel, vanilla, sugar-free vanilla, and occasionally seasonal options. (140-260 calories with standard liquid sugar and cream)
- Iced Latte: Espresso and cold milk over ice. Available in small ($3.29), medium ($3.79), and large ($4.29). Flavor options match the hot latte varieties. (120-270 calories depending on size and flavor)
- Iced Mocha: Espresso, chocolate syrup, and milk over ice topped with whipped cream. Available in small ($3.49), medium ($3.99), and large ($4.49). (290-390 calories)
- Iced Caramel Macchiato: Layered drink with milk, caramel syrup, and espresso shots poured on top. Available in small ($3.49), medium ($3.99), and large ($4.49). (240-340 calories)
- Cold Brew Coffee: Smooth, less acidic coffee that’s steeped in cool water for 12 hours. Available in small ($2.99), medium ($3.49), and large ($3.99). (5 calories black)
- Iced Caramel Coffee: Regular iced coffee with caramel flavoring—one of the most popular McCafé options. Available in small ($2.79), medium ($3.29), and large ($3.79). (180-270 calories with standard liquid sugar and cream)
The cold brew coffee contains approximately 155mg of caffeine in a medium size, which is slightly more than the 145mg in a medium regular iced coffee. Both contain significantly more caffeine than a medium hot coffee (145mg vs. 109mg), making them excellent choices for a stronger energy boost.
Seasonal McCafé Specialties (2025)
McDonald’s regularly rotates seasonal specialty drinks to keep their beverage menu fresh and exciting. Here are the current and upcoming seasonal McCafé offerings for 2025:
- Pumpkin Spice Latte (Coming Fall 2025): The autumn favorite returns with espresso, milk, pumpkin spice syrup, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin spice topping. Available hot or iced. ($3.99-$4.99, 380-420 calories)
- Churro Cold Brew Frappe (Current – Spring/Summer 2025): A new offering crossing over from the CosMc’s menu, featuring cold brew coffee blended with ice and churro-flavored syrup, topped with whipped cream and cinnamon sugar. ($4.29-$4.99, 410-470 calories)
- Birthday Cake Latte (Current – Anniversary Special): Celebrating McDonald’s 2025 anniversary, this limited-time offering features espresso, steamed milk, and cake-flavored syrup topped with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles. Available hot or iced. ($3.99-$4.99, 360-420 calories)
- Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappe (Coming Summer 2025): Returning fan favorite blending coffee, mocha, and cookie pieces topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle. ($4.29-$4.99, 460-530 calories)
These seasonal offerings typically remain available for 2-3 months before rotating to the next seasonal flavor. The Pumpkin Spice Latte has been McDonald’s most successful seasonal coffee drink historically, returning each fall with consistent popularity.
Shakes, Smoothies & Frozen Drinks: McDonald’s Cold Treats
For those looking for more indulgent beverages, McDonald’s offers a variety of dessert-style drinks that bridge the gap between beverage and dessert. These colder, sweeter options include the classic McDonald’s shakes that have been menu staples for decades, along with newer frozen and blended beverages.
McDonald’s shake machines produce a softer, more pourable consistency compared to traditional thick milkshakes, allowing them to be enjoyed through a straw. This distinctive texture has become part of McDonald’s signature style and sets their shakes apart from competitors.
For a deep dive into all available sweet treats—including shakes, desserts, and McFlurries—see our McDonald’s dessert menu.
Classic and Specialty Milkshakes
McDonald’s shakes come in three standard sizes:
- Small: 12 oz ($3.29)
- Medium: 16 oz ($3.79)
- Large: 22 oz ($4.29)
The permanent shake menu includes three classic flavors:
- Vanilla Shake: The simplest option features McDonald’s vanilla reduced-fat ice cream blended to a smooth consistency. (510 calories for a small)
- Chocolate Shake: Vanilla ice cream blended with chocolate syrup for a rich chocolate flavor. (520 calories for a small)
- Strawberry Shake: Vanilla ice cream blended with strawberry syrup for a fruity profile. (530 calories for a small)
Throughout the year, McDonald’s also releases limited-time specialty shakes. Recent examples include:
- Shamrock Shake: The iconic mint-flavored shake that returns annually for St. Patrick’s Day. (560 calories for a small)
- Grimace Birthday Shake: The viral purple berry-flavored shake created for Grimace’s birthday promotion. (550 calories for a small)
- Holiday Eggnog Shake: A seasonal offering available during December featuring eggnog flavoring. (570 calories for a small)
All McDonald’s shakes are topped with whipped cream and a cherry, though you can request these be omitted. Unlike some competitors, McDonald’s uses a specially formulated reduced-fat vanilla ice cream base for their shakes, resulting in a distinctive taste profile many customers specifically seek out.
Frozen Drinks & McFlurry-Inspired Beverages
Beyond shakes, McDonald’s offers several other frozen beverage options:
- Frozen Coca-Cola: Classic Coke blended with ice for a slushy consistency. Available in small ($2.19), medium ($2.59), and large ($2.99). (140-240 calories)
- Frozen Fanta Wild Cherry: Cherry-flavored Fanta blended with ice. Available in the same sizes and prices as Frozen Coke. (150-250 calories)
- Minute Maid Frozen Strawberry Lemonade: A tangy-sweet frozen treat perfect for hot weather. Available in small ($2.39), medium ($2.79), and large ($3.19). (160-260 calories)
- McCafé Frappés: Coffee-based frozen beverages available in Mocha or Caramel. Available in small ($3.49), medium ($3.99), and large ($4.49). (420-550 calories)
Some creative customers have developed unofficial “menu hacks” combining these frozen options with other menu items. One popular creation is adding a shot of soft serve ice cream to a Frozen Coke to create a Coke float-style beverage. While not officially on the menu, many locations will accommodate these requests for a small additional charge.
In international markets, especially in Asia, McDonald’s offers a wider variety of frozen drink options under the McFizz brand umbrella, including innovative flavors like Blue Hawaiian and Grape Sprite. Some of these international offerings occasionally make their way to select U.S. locations as limited-time specials.
New & Limited-Time Drinks: McDonald’s 2025 Beverage Innovations
McDonald’s continues to innovate with their beverage menu in 2025, with several exciting new offerings and expansions planned throughout the year. The most significant development is the integration of select beverages from McDonald’s new CosMc’s concept into the main McDonald’s menu.
McDonald’s is currently testing a rotating selection of limited-time beverages to keep the menu fresh and exciting. New drink innovations are typically launched first in select markets (often California, Florida, and Illinois) before potentially expanding nationwide.
New drink launches planned for 2025 include:
- Expanded Cold Brew Platform: Building on the popularity of their cold brew coffee, McDonald’s is adding vanilla cream and chocolate cream versions. (Launching nationwide in Summer 2025)
- Specialty Lemonades: New premium lemonades with real fruit pieces including blueberry-lavender and mango-dragonfruit varieties. (Currently testing in select markets)
- Fruit Tea Fusion: Tea-based beverages with fruit purées and optional boba pearls. (Rolling out to West Coast locations starting June 2025)
- Expanded Energy Drink Options: Following successful tests, more markets will see energy drink options added to the McDonald’s menu. (Regional expansion throughout 2025)
For the most current information on new beverage offerings in your area, check the McDonald’s app which typically showcases new and limited-time offerings with special promotional pricing.
CosMc’s Beverages Now at McDonald’s
The biggest news in McDonald’s beverage innovation is the integration of select drinks from their new CosMc’s concept. CosMc’s is McDonald’s space-themed spinoff focusing on innovative beverages and snacks, and now some of these popular drinks are appearing on the main McDonald’s menu.
Key CosMc’s beverages now available at select McDonald’s locations include:
- Sour Cherry Energy Burst: A tart cherry-flavored energy drink topped with a fruit-flavored boba. ($4.99, 320 calories, 160mg caffeine)
- Blueberry Ginger Boost: Blueberry and ginger-infused green tea with vitamin enhancements. ($4.49, 170 calories)
- Churro Frappe: Cold brew coffee blended with churro flavors and topped with cinnamon and caramel drizzle. ($5.49, 470 calories)
- Blackberry Mint Sparkler: A refreshing carbonated beverage with blackberry and mint flavors, topped with a layer of fizzy foam. ($4.29, 210 calories)
- Fruity Popping Boba Add-on: Bursting boba pearls can be added to any beverage for an additional $0.99. Available in strawberry, mango, and passion fruit flavors.
Currently, these CosMc’s beverages are available at approximately 300 McDonald’s locations, primarily in California, Texas, and Florida. The company has announced plans to expand availability to up to 1,000 locations by the end of 2025, focusing on urban markets and areas with higher foot traffic.
These crossover drinks are prepared using specialized equipment also found at CosMc’s locations and require specific training for McDonald’s staff. They are typically priced between $3.99 and $5.49, positioning them as premium offerings within the McDonald’s drinks menu lineup.
Bottled & Packaged Drinks: Grab-and-Go Options
For customers seeking convenience or specific brands, McDonald’s also offers a selection of bottled and packaged beverages. These options are particularly popular for drive-thru and mobile order customers who want portability without worrying about ice melting or drinks spilling.
McDonald’s bottled and packaged beverage selection typically includes:
- Dasani Bottled Water: Purified water in 16.9 oz bottles. ($2.19, 0 calories)
- Smartwater: Vapor-distilled water with added electrolytes in 20 oz bottles. ($2.99, 0 calories)
- Minute Maid Apple Juice Box: 100% apple juice in 6 oz boxes, popular with Happy Meals. ($1.65, 80 calories)
- Honest Kids Organic Apple Juice Drink: Lower sugar option for kids in 6 oz pouches. ($1.65, 35 calories)
- Milk: Available in regular and chocolate varieties in 8 oz cartons. ($1.99, 100-150 calories)
- Fairlife 2% Milk: Ultra-filtered milk with higher protein and less sugar in 8 oz bottles. ($2.49, 120 calories)
- Minute Maid Orange Juice: 100% orange juice in 12 oz bottles. ($2.99, 150 calories)
- Simply Orange Juice: Premium not-from-concentrate orange juice in 10 oz bottles at select locations. ($3.49, 120 calories)
- Bottled Soda: Select locations offer bottled versions of popular sodas. ($2.59, varies by selection)
These packaged beverages typically cost more than their fountain counterparts but offer the advantage of standardized portions and the ability to easily take them to-go. Many McDonald’s locations also offer bottled beverage bundles with meal purchases at a discounted price.
For customers with specific dietary needs, the bottled options often provide clearer nutritional information and ingredient lists right on the packaging, making them a good choice for those with food sensitivities or allergies.
Nutrition Information: Calorie Count & Dietary Considerations
Understanding the nutritional content of McDonald’s beverages can help you make informed choices. Here’s a comparative look at the calorie and sugar content of popular McDonald’s drinks in medium sizes:
Beverage | Calories | Sugar (g) | Caffeine (mg) |
---|---|---|---|
Diet Coke | 0 | 0 | 45 |
Unsweetened Iced Tea | 0 | 0 | 69 |
Black Coffee | 0 | 0 | 109 |
Cold Brew (black) | 5 | 0 | 155 |
Sweet Tea | 90 | 21 | 69 |
Coca-Cola Classic | 150 | 39 | 34 |
Sprite | 150 | 38 | 0 |
Minute Maid Lemonade | 140 | 36 | 0 |
Iced Coffee (with cream/sugar) | 180 | 24 | 145 |
Vanilla Shake | 610 | 77 | 0 |
McCafé Mocha Frappé | 480 | 57 | 90 |
Chocolate Shake | 620 | 81 | 0 |
Strawberry Lemonade | 190 | 43 | 0 |
For those monitoring calorie intake, the lowest-calorie options include:
- Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Diet Dr. Pepper (0 calories)
- Unsweetened Iced Tea (0 calories)
- Black Coffee (0 calories)
- Dasani Water (0 calories)
For those watching sugar consumption, be aware that McDonald’s regular fountain drinks contain between 38-44g of sugar in a medium size, which exceeds the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit for added sugar (36g for men, 25g for women).
Allergen considerations: McDonald’s milkshakes and coffee drinks with dairy contain milk allergens. The ice cream used in McDonald’s shakes contains milk and may contain traces of soy. For those with dairy allergies or who follow vegan diets, the fountain sodas, juices, black coffee, and unsweetened tea are typically safe options. Almond milk is available as a dairy alternative in many locations for an additional charge.
McDonald’s provides complete nutrition information on their website and mobile app, and printed nutrition guides are available upon request at most locations.
How to Customize Your McDonald’s Drinks: Flavors & Add-Ins
McDonald’s offers numerous ways to customize your beverages to suit your personal preferences. Understanding your options can help you create the perfect drink.
For coffee drinks, customization options include:
- Milk options: Whole milk (standard), nonfat milk, cream, or almond milk (additional $0.50)
- Sweetener options: Liquid sugar (standard in iced coffee), sugar packets, Splenda, Equal, or Sweet’N Low
- Flavor syrups: Vanilla, Sugar-Free Vanilla, Caramel, and Hazelnut are standard options (additional $0.50 per pump)
- Extra espresso shots: Add caffeine and intensity to any espresso drink (additional $0.89 per shot)
- Whipped cream: Can be added to any drink or removed from drinks that include it by default
For fountain drinks, customization happens primarily at the self-serve fountain where you can:
- Control the ice-to-beverage ratio
- Mix different soda varieties
- Add flavor shots from the McCafé bar (when available)
To order customized drinks through the McDonald’s app:
- Select your base beverage
- Tap “Customize”
- Choose from available milk, sweetener, and flavor options
- Submit your order
For the new CosMc’s beverages, additional customization options include:
- Popping boba pearls in various flavors (additional $0.99)
- Flavor syrups unique to the CosMc’s menu
- Energy boosters or vitamin additives (additional $0.79)
Popular customization combinations include:
- Iced coffee with vanilla syrup and almond milk
- Half sweet tea, half unsweetened tea (for lower sugar content)
- Coca-Cola with a splash of cherry syrup from the McCafé bar
- Hot chocolate with a shot of espresso (creating a mocha)
Remember that extensive customizations may take longer to prepare, especially during busy periods, and may incur additional charges beyond the base menu price.
Frequently Asked Questions About McDonald’s Drinks
Are McDonald’s Drinks the Same Price at All Locations?
No, McDonald’s beverage prices vary based on several factors. While the company suggests standard pricing, individual restaurant owners (franchisees) ultimately set their own prices based on local market conditions, operational costs, and regional competition.
Factors affecting price variations include:
- Geographic location (urban centers typically charge more than rural areas)
- State and local taxes
- Whether the location is franchised or corporate-owned
- Special promotions (like $1 any size drinks during summer)
You can check current local prices through the McDonald’s app, which displays pricing specific to your selected restaurant. On average, you might see price differences of $0.10-$0.50 for basic drinks and up to $1.00 for specialty beverages across different regions of the country.
During promotional periods, many McDonald’s locations offer any size soft drinks for just $1.00, significantly reducing the regular prices listed earlier in this article. These promotions typically run during summer months and are often extended in competitive markets.
What’s New on the McDonald’s Drink Menu for 2025?
McDonald’s has introduced several new beverages to their menu for 2025, with more planned throughout the year:
- CosMc’s Integration: The biggest news is the gradual rollout of CosMc’s beverages to main McDonald’s locations. This began in January 2025 with 200 locations and is expanding monthly.
- Expanded Cold Brew Platform: Building on cold brew’s popularity, McDonald’s added vanilla cream and chocolate cream versions in February 2025.
- Specialty Lemonades: New premium lemonades with real fruit pieces launched in April 2025, currently available in approximately 2,000 locations.
- Churro Frappe: This CosMc’s crossover became available nationally in March 2025.
- Birthday Cake Latte: Released in April 2025 as part of McDonald’s anniversary celebration, available for a limited time.
Upcoming releases planned for later in 2025 include:
- Fruit Tea Fusion line (June 2025)
- Expanded Energy Drink options (Q3 2025)
- Return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte (September 2025)
- Holiday beverage lineup (November 2025)
McDonald’s is also testing several regional specialty beverages that may receive national rollouts if successful, including tropical fruit tea varieties in Florida and iced matcha drinks in California and New York.
How McDonald’s Drinks Compare to Other Fast Food Chains
When comparing McDonald’s beverage offerings to other major fast food chains, several key differences become apparent:
Beverage Type | McDonald’s | Burger King | Wendy’s | Starbucks |
---|---|---|---|---|
Medium Fountain Soda | $1.89 | $2.19 | $2.09 | N/A |
Medium Iced Coffee | $2.89 | $2.79 | $2.99 | $4.25 |
Vanilla Shake | $3.79 | $3.99 | $3.59 | N/A |
Medium Latte | $3.79 | N/A | N/A | $5.25 |
McDonald’s generally maintains competitive pricing against direct competitors like Burger King and Wendy’s, while offering significant savings compared to coffee shop chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’.
Unique McDonald’s Advantages:
- More extensive coffee menu than most fast food competitors
- Larger standard cup sizes (a McDonald’s medium is 21 oz while many competitors use 20 oz)
- The CosMc’s specialty beverages aren’t available at other major chains
- More frequent beverage promotions ($1 any size drinks)
- Superior filtering system for fountain soda (many customers prefer McDonald’s Coca-Cola)
Areas Where Competitors Excel:
- Starbucks offers more extensive customization options for coffee
- Burger King features frozen Icee products not available at McDonald’s
- Wendy’s Frosty occupies a unique space between shake and soft serve
- Some chains offer free refills on all beverages, not just fountain drinks
- Certain chains have exclusive beverages through partnerships (like Taco Bell’s Mountain Dew Baja Blast)
For specialty coffee drinks, McDonald’s provides a good middle ground between basic fast food coffee and premium coffee shop offerings, with higher quality than most fast food competitors but lower prices than dedicated coffee chains.
Tips for Getting the Best Value on McDonald’s Drinks
Savvy customers can maximize their beverage budget at McDonald’s by taking advantage of various promotions and strategies:
- Download the McDonald’s App: The app regularly features exclusive beverage deals, such as $1 premium coffees or free drinks with purchase. New app users often receive welcome offers including free beverages.
- Join McCafé Rewards: Through the McDonald’s app, you can participate in the McCafé Rewards program where you earn points toward free beverages. Currently, you get a free McCafé drink after purchasing five.
- Look for Dollar Drink Days: Many McDonald’s locations offer $1 any size fountain drinks during summer months. Some markets extend this promotion year-round.
- Order Meal Combinations: Adding a drink to a meal combo typically costs less than purchasing beverages separately. The savings usually range from $0.50-$1.00 per order. For more about combos and maximizing your order, refer to our complete McDonald’s menu guide.
- Happy Hour Specials: Some locations offer half-price McCafé beverages during afternoon hours (typically 2-5 PM). Check your local restaurant for availability.
- Request Light Ice: You’ll get more beverage by asking for light ice in your cup. This is especially valuable for higher-priced specialty drinks.
- Take Advantage of Free Refills: When dining in, remember that fountain drinks come with free refills at most locations.
- Check Weekly Deals: McDonald’s frequently updates special offers on a weekly basis. Current deals can be found on the McDonald’s app under the “Deals” section.
- Consider Upsizing: The price difference between a small and large drink is often just $0.30-$0.50, providing significant additional volume for a small cost increase.
- Buy Coffee in the Morning: Many locations offer special morning pricing on coffee beverages, with reduced prices until 10:30 AM.
The McDonald’s app is undoubtedly the best tool for finding current beverage deals, as promotions vary by location and change frequently throughout the year. You can also check out broader McDonald’s value menu strategies for more savings tips on beverages and more.
Conclusion: Staying Updated on McDonald’s Beverage Offerings
The McDonald’s drinks menu continues to evolve and expand in 2025, offering more variety and customization options than ever before. From classic fountain sodas and refreshing teas to premium coffee offerings and innovative CosMc’s beverages, there’s something for every taste preference and occasion.
As we’ve explored throughout this comprehensive guide to the McDonald’s drinks menu, the company balances tradition with innovation—maintaining beloved classics like their iconic shakes while introducing exciting new options like the Churro Frappe and specialty lemonades. The integration of CosMc’s beverages represents McDonald’s biggest beverage innovation in years, bringing unique flavor combinations and customization options to mainstream locations.
For an even broader view of current items and updated pricing—including family meals, combos, breakfast options, and exclusive deals—visit our complete McDonald’s menu guide.
Remember that while we strive to provide the most accurate information about mcdonald’s beverages price and mcdonalds prices drinks, local variations exist, and limited-time offerings come and go throughout the year. The best way to stay current on McDonald’s drink offerings and promotions is through their official app, which provides location-specific menu information, current pricing, and exclusive deals.
Whether you’re a fan of McDonald’s classic mcd beverages or excited to try their newest innovations, we hope this guide helps you navigate the complete McDonald’s drinks menu with confidence. See more menu inspiration and updates on Mcdonalds Menu.
References & Sources
This guide was compiled using information from several reliable sources including:
- McDonald’s official website (menu and nutrition sections)
- On-site visits to multiple McDonald’s locations in different regions
- McDonald’s mobile app (for pricing and promotional information)
- Official McDonald’s nutrition information documentation
- McDonald’s press releases regarding new product launches
Information was verified current as of May 2025.
Please note that while we strive to keep all information accurate and up-to-date, mcd drink prices may vary by location and are subject to change without notice. Our website is not affiliated with McDonald’s Corporation. For the most current and location-specific information, please check the McDonald’s app or contact your local McDonald’s restaurant directly.