Arby’s Classic Roast Beef Sandwich: From $1.25 in 1964 to Today’s Price

From Humble Beginnings to National Icon

When Arby’s first opened its doors in 1964, the signature roast‑beef sandwich cost just $1.25. The chain’s founder, Forrest „Pappy” Schopp, offered a simple, hearty meal that quickly became a regional favorite.

The original sandwich featured thinly sliced roast beef, a slice of American cheese, and a drizzle of sauce on a soft roll. At the time, $1.25 was a modest amount for a filling lunch. Over the decades, the price has risen steadily, mirroring inflation and changes in supply chain costs. Today, the same sandwich typically sells for around $5.99, a jump of nearly 400 percent.

Pappy Schopp opened the first Arby’s in Boardman, Ohio, after a career in the airline industry. He envisioned a fast‑food concept that focused on quality meats rather than burgers. The roast‑beef sandwich became the flagship item, and word spread quickly. By the late 1970s, Arby’s had expanded to over 200 locations across the United States.

How Inflation Has Impacted Fast‑Food Prices

The price increase over time reflects more than just inflation. In the 1980s, Arby’s introduced new menu items and larger portion sizes, which added to production costs. The 1990s brought a shift toward premium ingredients, and the 2000s saw the chain adopt more sophisticated supply chains to meet growing demand. Each of these changes required higher prices to maintain profitability.

Inflation has been a constant factor in the food industry. In 1964, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for food was 31.5, whereas in 2026 it stands at roughly 280. This 8.9‑fold increase in the CPI translates to a similar rise in menu prices. If the roast‑beef sandwich had kept pace strictly with CPI, its price would now be about $11.25. However, Arby’s has managed to keep the price lower, suggesting efficient cost controls and economies of scale.

Customers who grew up with the $1.25 sandwich often feel nostalgic about the simplicity and affordability of early fast‑food. Yet newer generations face higher prices and a broader menu. The current price of $5.99 reflects not only inflation but also the brand’s evolution into a modern fast‑food chain with diverse offerings.

The future of Arby’s pricing depends on several factors: commodity price volatility, labor costs, and competition from other specialty burger chains. If inflation continues at a moderate pace, the price of the classic sandwich may rise modestly in the next few years. Meanwhile, the brand may introduce value‑menu items to attract price‑sensitive customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original price of Arby’s roast‑beef sandwich? The sandwich was sold for $1.25 when Arby’s opened in 1964.

How has the price changed over time? From $1.25 in 1964 to about $5.99 today, reflecting inflation, ingredient costs, and menu expansion.

Will the price continue to rise? Future price changes will depend on inflation, supply costs, and competitive pressure, but the brand may keep it moderate to stay attractive to customers.