How Much Is a Cookout Tray After Tax? (2025 Update)
If you’re craving a cheap, filling meal, you’ve probably heard about the Cook Out tray. But many people still ask: How much is a CookOut tray after tax?
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you pull up to the Cook Out drive-thru.
What Comes in a Cook Out Tray?
- 1 Main Item (like a Cook Out-style burger, chicken sandwich, BBQ, or chicken strips)
- 2 Side Items (choose from fries, hushpuppies, onion rings, corn dog, quesadilla, and more)
- 1 Drink (like sweet tea, Coke, or upgrade to a fancy Cook Out milkshake)
You get all this for one low price, which is why the tray is a favorite among college students, road trippers, and anyone who loves fast food on a budget.
Base Price of a Cook Out Tray in 2025
As of early 2025, the base price of a regular Cook Out tray is around:
- $5.99 to $6.79, depending on your location and which entrée you choose.
Some premium items like the double burger, cheddar style, or spicy chicken sandwich may cost extra, usually around $1.00 more.
How Much Is a Cookout Tray After Tax?
Here’s a general estimate:
| Tray Type | Base Price | Tax (avg. 7%) | Final Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Tray + Drink | $6.29 | $0.44 | $6.73 |
| Tray + Milkshake | $8.28 | $0.58 | $8.86 |
| Premium Tray + Shake | $9.28 | $0.65 | $9.93 |
Note: These prices vary by state. For example, a Cookout North Carolina might charge less tax than a CookOut Georgia. Always check your local store or receipt for exact numbers.
Why Do Prices Vary by Location?
CookOut has over 300 locations across the Southeastern U.S., including North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and Alabama. Each state has different sales tax rates, and sometimes the city adds its own tax too.
Here are a few examples of average sales tax in popular CookOut states:
- North Carolina: 6.75%
- Georgia: 7%
- Tennessee: 9.25%
- South Carolina: 8%
- Virginia: 6%
Cook Out Tray Add-Ons That Affect Price
Here are some optional upgrades that change the final cost of your tray:
- Milkshake Upgrade: +$1.99 to $2.49
- Double Up Entrée: +$1.00 to $1.50
- Extra Side Item: +$1.00
- Cheddar Style or Bacon Style: +$0.99
- Fancy Styles (Cajun, BBQ, Ranch): +$0.89 to $1.29
Adding even one of these will bump up the final cost after tax. So if you want to keep your total low, stick with the basic tray and soft drink.
How to Save Money at Cook Out
Even with rising prices, the CookOut tray remains one of the best deals in fast food. Here are some tips to save even more:
- Stick with the standard drink (sweet tea or fountain soda)
- Avoid premium entrees or add-ons if you’re on a budget
- Use the CookOut combo menu for easy pricing
- Split a tray with a friend the portions are big enough to share
How Much Is a Cookout Tray After Tax?
In most places, expect to pay between $6.50 and $9.99 for a full Cookout tray after tax, depending on your choices and upgrades.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Basic Tray + Drink: Around $6.75
- Tray + Milkshake: Around $8.85
- Premium Tray w/ Add-ons: Around $9.50 to $10
Cookout one of the most affordable and flexible fast food options perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack.
Conclusion
Now that you know how much a Cook Out tray is after tax, you can order with confidence. Whether you’re hitting the drive-thru, eating in the car, or taking it to-go, a tray gives you a full meal without breaking the bank.
