Five Guys vs Culver'sFranchise Comparison 2026
Five Guys and Culver's represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Five Guys | Culver's | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $55,000 | -55% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $306,000 | $2.6M | -88% |
| Total Investment (High) | $641,000 | $8.6M | -93% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $825,000 | -64% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 4.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 1.5% | 2.5% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.4M | $3.7M | -62% |
| Number of Locations | 1,700 | 960 | More |
| Year Founded | 1986 | 1984 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 3 weeks | 8 weeks | Shorter |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Five Guys
Premium burger concept with fresh ingredients and no freezers. Higher food costs but strong brand loyalty and per-unit sales.
About Culver's
Midwest-based fast-casual chain famous for ButterBurgers and frozen custard with one of the highest AUVs in QSR.
Investment Comparison
Five Guys requires a lower initial investment (avg $473,500) compared to Culver's(avg $5.6M), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Culver's may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Culver's has lower ongoing fees (6.5% total) compared to Five Guys(7.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Five Guys has a significantly larger footprint with 1,700 locations compared to Culver's's 960. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Five Guys vs Culver's franchise?
Five Guys requires an initial investment of $306,000 to $641,000, while Culver's requires $2.6M to $8.6M. Five Guys has the lower average investment at $473,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Five Guys vs Culver's?
Five Guys charges a 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Culver's charges 4.0% royalty plus 2.5% advertising fee (6.5% total). Culver's has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Five Guys or Culver's?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Culver's generates $3.7M per location compared to $1.4M for Five Guys. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Five Guys have vs Culver's?
Five Guys has 1,700 locations, while Culver's has 960 locations. Five Guys has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Five Guys or Culver's a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Five Guys and Culver's are established QSR brands with proven models. Five Guys offers a lower entry point, while Culver's shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
Stay Updated on Franchise Comparisons
Get detailed franchise cost analysis and investment insights delivered weekly.
QSR Intelligence Briefing
Daily insights on the QSR industry. No spam, just intelligence.