In the early days of the original San Bernardino walk-up, a McDonald’s hamburger cost just 15 cents. This wasn’t just a low price; it was a revolution in the American dining experience. By stripping away table service and silverware, the McDonald brothers passed the savings directly to the customer.
Even when adjusted for inflation, 15 cents in 1948 is roughly equivalent to $2.00 today—a price that would still be considered a massive bargain for a fresh, made-to-order burger. This affordability turned eating out from a rare luxury into an everyday convenience for the American family, forever changing the landscape of the food industry.
