Guide
How much does a dirty soda cost? 2026 drive-thru vs home prices
Sourced 2026 prices for crafted and dirty sodas at McDonald's and Arby's, compared with the cost of making one at home (about $1.40).
The short answer
Reported medium McDonald's crafted sodas cost $2.99 to $3.89 in 2026. Premium or larger drinks, like Arby's large Shirley 'n Cream, typically run about $4.59. Prices are set by each restaurant, so your total may differ.
What one costs at home
A 12-pack of 12 oz Dr Pepper cans was $8.66 at Walmart (about $0.72 a can). A 750 ml bottle of Torani coconut syrup is $10.59 from Torani (about 25 one-ounce servings, so about $0.42 each). Great Value half & half is $1.78 a pint at Walmart (about $0.11 an ounce) and a fresh lime is $0.25 (half a lime, about $0.13). Total: about $1.38, call it $1.40 a drink.
| Where | Drink and size | Reported price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDonald's | Crafted soda (e.g. Dirty Dr Pepper), medium | $2.99 to $3.89 | indystar.com |
| McDonald's (Los Angeles) | Crafted soda, medium | $3.79 | brandeating.com |
| Arby's | Shirley 'n Cream, large | $3.89 to $6.99, typically $4.59 | drivethruindex.com |
| At home | 12 oz can + 1 oz syrup + 1 oz half & half + ½ lime | about $1.40 | walmart.com |
Where the savings add up
Against a $2.99 to $3.89 medium, each homemade drink saves roughly $1.60 to $2.50. Make a few a week and that's real money, and you get to pick every flavor.
Recipes to try
FAQ
How much is a McDonald's crafted soda?
Reported medium prices range from $2.99 to $3.89 depending on location, with $3.79 reported in Los Angeles.
Is it cheaper to make dirty soda at home?
Yes. About $1.40 a drink using a 12 oz can, 1 oz of syrup, 1 oz of half & half and half a lime, versus $2.99 to $4.59 in the reported chain prices above.
Why do prices vary?
Most chain restaurants are independently owned and set their own prices, so the app price near you is the one that counts.
Sources
More guides
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