Best Restaurant Franchises: Top Fast-Food Restaurants of 2024

Investing in a fast-food franchise can be a highly attractive option for entrepreneurs; many fast-food concepts come with a proven business model and excellent brand recognition. Moreover, the market for fast food is booming. Americans love to prioritize efficiency, which is exactly what they get from a fast-food restaurant; in fact 83% of families in the U.S. eat fast food at least once a week.

In addition to the benefits of high demand, franchisees with established fast-food franchises benefit from a strong market presence and a loyal customer base, which significantly reduces the risk associated with starting a new restaurant business from scratch. Fast-food franchises often offer scalability and flexibility, allowing entrepreneurs to expand their operations over time.

With strong brand equity, established customer loyalty and robust support systems, investing in a fast-food franchise presents a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on a successful and well-supported business model.

If you’re looking for your next investment in the fast-food restaurant industry, check out these 15 brands. 

McDonald’s

Initial Investment: $464,500 - $2,306,500

Unit Count: 41,800+

McDonald’s is one of the best-known franchises in the world. Franchisees gain from the company’s nearly 70 years of franchise experience. McDonald’s transformed franchise operations with its “three-legged stool” model, highlighting a collaborative partnership between franchisees, suppliers and the company.

Subway

Initial Investment: $102,000 - $263,000

Unit Count: 37,000+

Subway is known for its straightforward operational model, its low startup costs and, from a consumer’s standpoint, its customizable sandwiches. As a globally recognized brand, Subway offers franchisees extensive training, support and marketing initiatives, all built on a proven business model focused on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

Burger King

Initial Investment: $220,000 - $3,398,600 

Unit Count: 7,000

Founded in 1954, Burger King was acquired by the Pillsbury Company in 1967. After a series of revitalizations and acquisitions, it emerged as a global fast-food leader. Known for its iconic king mascot and memorable marketing campaigns, Burger King has built a longstanding reputation for serving delicious flame-broiled burgers, including the famous Whopper. The brand now operates in over 100 countries. A key feature of Burger King’s franchise model is its focus on flexibility, allowing franchisees to tailor their menus and store designs to better suit local markets.

Dairy Queen

Initial Investment: $1,516,200 - $2,542,250

Unit Count: 7,500+

Dairy Queen has been in business for over 80 years, and its franchisees benefit from its incredible consumer brand recognition. Furthermore, Dairy Queen’s dedication to community service, particularly through partnerships with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, provides franchisees with a significant opportunity to make a positive local impact.

Wendy’s

Initial Investment: $321,000 - $4,600,000

Unit Count: 7,100+

Wendy’s is well-known for its distinctive square-shaped hamburgers, which highlight the brand’s dedication to using fresh, never frozen beef. Franchisees gain from direct communication with company leaders at all levels, personalized coaching and access to a supply chain cooperative that provides reduced prices on equipment and supplies. Additionally, the Wendy’s franchise model includes a strong focus on community involvement and local marketing support to help franchisees connect with their neighborhoods.

Taco Bell

Initial Investment: Not publicly available. The franchisor requires $2 million in liquidity and a minimum net worth of $5 million.

Unit Count: 8,200+

Taco Bell is known for its quick and convenient food, available almost around the clock —  some locations stay open as late as 2 a.m. This extended hours model helps franchisees capture a broad market segment. They also benefit from being part of the Yum! Brands network, which provides robust support and resources.

KFC

Initial Investment: Not publicly available. KFC requires a minimum net worth of $1.5 million and $750,000 in liquidity.

Unit Count: 24,000+

With eight years of consecutive same-store sales growth, KFC demonstrates a strong ability to scale. For franchisees, the opportunity is particularly attractive, as the vast majority of the system consists of franchised locations, with relatively few corporately owned restaurants. This indicates that the corporate team is very dedicated to a business model that prioritizes franchisee success.

Domino’s Pizza

Initial Investment: $145,000 - $500,000

Unit Count: 20,000+

Domino’s business model centers on franchising and internal development, cultivating employees from entry-level roles into franchisees to maintain high operational standards and values. Franchisees typically need at least one year of experience as a general manager or supervisor within Domino’s to ensure they are well-prepared. The company supports its franchisees with comprehensive training, operational guidance, marketing resources and global expansion opportunities through its “Around the World” program.

Pizza Hut

Initial Investment: $40,600 - $2,063,500

Unit Count: 6,500+

For entrepreneurs interested in the pizza industry, investing in Pizza Hut can be an excellent choice. Pizza Hut stands as a high-performance brand within the expanding Yum! Brands portfolio and is one of the more affordable of the best known fast-food restaurant options. Starting at around $40,000 for non-traditional models, Pizza Hut provides a cost-effective entry point for entrepreneurs looking to align with a major brand.

Chick-fil-A

Initial Investment: $10,000 franchise fee

Unit Count: 3,000+

Chick-fil-A is well-known for its dedication to quality and customer service. Consumers love the brand’s chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. Chick-fil-A is very selective in awarding franchises to uphold its high reputation. Franchisees are expected to be actively involved, focusing on growing their business and engaging with the community. With an initial franchise fee of just $10,000, Chick-fil-A provides extensive support to help franchisees maintain the brand’s high standards.

Sonic

Initial Investment: $1,714,200 - $3,370,900

Unit Count: 3,500+

For over 65 years, Sonic Drive-In has been appreciated for its distinctive drive-in and drive-thru service that lets customers enjoy their meals without leaving their cars. This nostalgic, unique concept, along with a varied menu featuring burgers, hot dogs and signature drinks, distinguishes Sonic in the fast-food industry. The brand is committed to franchisee success through comprehensive training and creative marketing, supporting ongoing popularity and expansion. 

Arby’s

Initial Investment: $336,500 - $927,900

Unit Count: 3,500+

Arby’s specializes in roast beef sandwiches and a varied menu featuring market-fresh sandwiches and wraps, as well as milkshakes, and — a crowd favorite — curly fries. Its restaurants are built in either traditional or non-traditional styles, showcasing a range of options for franchisees. The adaptable, modern design enables the brand to fit its restaurants into nearly any prime commercial location. 

Jersey Mike’s Subs

Initial Investment: $194,035 - $954,611

Unit Count: 2,000+

Jersey Mike’s is renowned for its East Coast-style subs and active community engagement. Its dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and delivering outstanding customer service has cultivated a loyal following. 

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

Initial Investment: $383,500 - $3,695,800

Unit Count: 4,000+

Founded in 1972, Popeyes is famous for its distinctive Cajun- and Creole-inspired menu, which includes spicy chicken, chicken tenders and fried shrimp. With more than 2,700 locations across North America, the franchise provides comprehensive support throughout the development and operational phases to ensure owner success. Popeyes offers a flexible restaurant design, allowing franchisees to adapt their locations to various market conditions, making it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs eager to invest in a globally recognized brand.

Bojangles

Initial Investment: $720,220 - $3,779,700

Unit Count: 800+

Bojangles’ franchise business model centers on its renowned Southern-inspired menu, which features a variety of flavorful chicken, biscuits and sides. Founded in 1977, Bojangles has built a strong reputation for its distinctive offerings and regional charm, establishing itself as a beloved brand in the quick-service restaurant sector. The franchise model emphasizes extensive support for its operators, including comprehensive training programs, operational guidance and marketing resources. Franchisees can choose a free-standing, traditional restaurant or an express concept with the brand.

Investing in a fast-food franchise has many benefits. Many franchisors within the fast-food industry provide a variety of store formats and investment options to accommodate different market sizes and locations, enabling franchisees to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences. The consistent demand for convenient dining options also helps ensure steady revenue streams and means that this industry is only likely to continue to grow.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.