![What Is The Cheapest Food Delivery App? [2025 Price Comparison]](http://savingsgrove.com/cdn/shop/articles/cheapest-food-delivery-app_4e440404-b0bc-464d-96a8-9802f1bd61f9.jpg?v=1734719597&width=1100)
Looking to save money on food delivery? This comprehensive guide compares all major food delivery apps in the US to help you find the most affordable option.
What Is The Cheapest Food Delivery App? [2025 Price Comparison]
We'll break down delivery fees, service charges, and membership benefits to determine which app offers the best value for your money in 2025.
1. DoorDash
DoorDash offers competitive delivery fees starting at $1.99-$5.99 depending on the restaurant's distance and demand. Their DashPass subscription ($9.99/month) provides free delivery and reduced service fees on eligible orders over $12, potentially saving frequent users $4-8 per order. You can also find ways to get free food on DoorDash through various promotions and special offers.
2. Uber Eats
Uber Eats typically charges delivery fees between $2.49-$6.99, with service fees around 15% of your order subtotal. Their Uber One membership ($9.99/month) includes free delivery and 5% off eligible orders over $15. Peak pricing during busy times can increase fees significantly. The app often offers first-time user promotions worth up to $20 off your first order.
3. Grubhub
Grubhub's delivery fees range from $1.99-$7.99, with additional service fees of 10-15%. Their Grubhub+ membership ($9.99/month) offers free delivery on orders over $12. Check out our guide to GrubHub promo codes to save even more money. The platform frequently partners with restaurants for exclusive deals and discounts.
4. Postmates
Now part of Uber Eats, Postmates maintains slightly different pricing with delivery fees between $0.99-$9.99. The Postmates Unlimited membership ($9.99/month) provides free delivery on orders over $15 and reduced service fees. They're known for delivering from a wider variety of merchants beyond just restaurants.
5. Seamless
Owned by Grubhub but operating as a separate platform, Seamless charges delivery fees from $1.99-$6.99 and service fees of 10-15%. They offer Seamless+ ($9.99/month) with similar benefits to Grubhub+, including free delivery on orders over $12. The service is particularly popular in major metropolitan areas.
6. Gopuff
Focusing on convenience items and quick delivery, Gopuff charges a flat $2.95 delivery fee. Their Fam membership ($7.99/month) eliminates delivery fees on all orders over $12. They tend to have lower service fees (around 8-10%) compared to traditional restaurant delivery apps, making them one of the most affordable options for everyday items.
7. Delivery.com
Delivery.com's fees start at $2.99 and vary by restaurant and location. They don't charge separate service fees but restaurants may include their own delivery charges. No subscription option is available, but they offer a points reward system for regular users that can be redeemed for future orders.
8. Caviar
Owned by DoorDash, Caviar focuses on higher-end restaurants with delivery fees ranging from $2.99-$8.99. DashPass members get benefits on Caviar too, including free delivery on eligible orders over $12. While not the cheapest option, they often feature exclusive restaurants not found on other platforms.
Best Ways to Save on Food Delivery
- Sign up for multiple apps to compare prices and take advantage of new user promotions
- Order during off-peak hours to avoid surge pricing and longer wait times
- Consider monthly memberships if you order delivery at least 2-3 times per month
- Look for pickup options to avoid delivery fees entirely
- Order from restaurants closer to your location to minimize distance-based fees
- Combine orders with friends or family to meet minimum order requirements
- Check restaurant websites directly as they may offer better prices than third-party apps
Cost Comparison
| App | Base Delivery Fee | Service Fee | Membership Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| DoorDash | $1.99-$5.99 | 10-15% | $9.99/month |
| Uber Eats | $2.49-$6.99 | 15% | $9.99/month |
| Grubhub | $1.99-$7.99 | 10-15% | $9.99/month |
| Postmates | $0.99-$9.99 | 15-20% | $9.99/month |
| Seamless | $1.99-$6.99 | 10-15% | $9.99/month |
| Gopuff | $2.95 flat | 8-10% | $7.99/month |
| Delivery.com | $2.99+ | Varies | N/A |
| Caviar | $2.99-$8.99 | 15-18% | $9.99/month (DashPass) |
Final Words
For the most cost-effective food delivery experience, Gopuff offers the lowest combined fees for convenience items, while DoorDash generally provides the best value for restaurant delivery. However, the cheapest option will often depend on your location, order size, and whether you plan to use delivery services frequently enough to justify a membership. Compare prices across multiple apps and take advantage of promotional offers to maximize your savings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Food Delivery Apps
Which food delivery app has the lowest fees?
Gopuff offers the lowest consistent delivery fee at $2.95 flat rate, while DoorDash typically has the lowest restaurant delivery fees starting at $1.99. Service fees vary by location and restaurant, but Gopuff generally maintains lower service fees around 8-10% compared to other apps' 15-20%.
Is it worth getting a delivery app membership?
If you order delivery at least 2-3 times per month, a membership can save you money through free delivery and reduced service fees. Gopuff offers the most affordable membership at $7.99/month, while most other services charge $9.99/month. Most memberships pay for themselves after 2-3 orders.
How can I get free delivery on food delivery apps?
You can get free delivery by using new customer promotions, signing up for app memberships, ordering during special promotions, or choosing restaurants that offer free delivery. Many apps also offer regular promo codes for free or reduced delivery fees.
Do food delivery apps charge more during peak hours?
Yes, most food delivery apps implement surge pricing during peak hours or high-demand periods. Uber Eats and DoorDash are known to increase their delivery fees during lunch hours (11 AM - 2 PM) and dinner time (5 PM - 8 PM). Ordering during off-peak hours can help you avoid these additional charges.
