Top 10 Franchises Under $50K

There’s no doubt that the cost of owning a franchise can be daunting–but it doesn’t have to be. 

Although some of the biggest names in the business come with a hefty price tag, there are plenty of more affordable options available if you know where to look. Industries such as commercial cleaning, travel agencies and athletics tend to run a lot lower in price than restaurants, for example. 

With that said, here are 10 opportunities that have an investment of under $50,000. 

JAN-PRO Cleaning & Disinfecting

Investment Range: $1,250–$50,000
Unit Count: 10,000+

This low-cost commercial cleaning franchise has a range of options designed to fit different financial needs and goals. JAN-PRO Franchise Development plans start as low as $1,250 and go up to $50,000. At a minimum, owners will need $1,250 for the down payment and $900 for JAN-PRO Franchise Development’s starter kit. 

Dream Vacations

Investment Range: $3,500–$10,500
Unit Count: 1,600+

One of the top names that pops up on nearly every “cheapest franchises to buy” list is Dream Vacations, the home-based travel agency franchise. Certain owners can take even more off of the standard travel agency franchise cost of $10,500, with the franchise offering discounts for military members and community heroes. And, because Dream Vacations can be run out of a franchisee’s own home and requires no inventory, it is able to maintain low overhead.

Cruise Planners

Investment Range: $2,000–$23,000 
Unit Count: 2,500+

Backed by American Express Travel, Cruise Planners is one of the largest franchised travel agencies in the world. As a home-based agency, it is also one of the more flexible and low-cost models for franchisees, with an initial franchise fee of $10,995. Contrary to its name, services include more than just cruise planning, from land vacations to travel insurance, car rentals, hotels and more. 

Christmas Decor

Investment Range: $9,000 + territory fee 
Unit Count: 300

Christmas Decor* has become the leading holiday decorating brand in the U.S. and Canada. For over 20 years, the brand has perfected the craft of making properties beautiful for the holidays. And now, Christmas Decor has made it easier than ever to enjoy the profitable world of holiday decorating with its newest program allowing franchisees to join its network for a low cost of $9,900, plus a territory fee. 

Jazzercise

Investment Range: $2,000–$22,000
Unit Count: 8,000+

Started in 1969 by Judi Sheppard Missett, Jazzercise is one of the most well-known fitness franchises today. The brand boasts one of the biggest loyal customer bases across the globe and requires a low upfront investment fee for franchisees. This is largely due to the fact that franchisees can find affordable space at a school, church or community center that will welcome their Jazzercise business.

Soccer Shots

Investment Range: $43,000–$55,300
Unit Count: 260+

Soccer Shots was founded in 1997 by college and professional soccer teammates Jeremy Sorzano and Jason. The pair formed the company after recognizing a lack of quality soccer programs for young children. Today, the brand has expanded to over 200 franchises at a relatively low cost. Although it can cost up to $55,300 on the high end, franchisees can also have investments as low as $43,000. 

National Property Inspections

Investment Range: $40,600–$49,400
Unit Count: 220+

Founded in 1987, National Property Inspections, Inc. (NPI) is one of the most established companies in the inspection industry. With the higher end of its investment range of just under $50,000, NPI is an affordable opportunity for entrepreneurs. The brand also provides a 20% discount on its $34,900 franchise fee for eligible military veterans, police officers, firefighters and first responders. 

Amazing Athletes

Investment Range: $32,900–$61,650
Unit Count: 140+

Amazing Athletes is the largest multi-sport education program in the country. The brand, which is under the Youth Athletes United umbrella, teaches sports, nutrition and muscle groups in this preschool-based program. With the chance to buy into multiple units across multiple territories and brands, a Youth Athletes United franchise opportunity boasts a low investment relative to return on capital with a 100% cash-on-cash return.

Jantize America

Investment Range: $5,000–$49,000
Unit Count: 150+

Jantize America is a low-cost, proven franchise concept that allows entrepreneurs to capitalize on the booming commercial cleaning industry. Jantize offers a unique business model that allows owners to exercise different strengths and choose a level of investment. Single-unit opportunities start as low as $5,000–$25,000.  

360clean

Investment Range: $20,800 to $29,000
Unit Count: 65+

360clean is a commercial cleaning franchise that offers health-focused services for offices. Because 360clean is a home-based business with little overhead expenses, costs are substantially lower than most franchises.