Five Guys vs Jack in the BoxFranchise Comparison 2026
Five Guys and Jack in the Box 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 | Jack in the Box | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $50,000 | -50% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $306,000 | $1.9M | -84% |
| Total Investment (High) | $641,000 | $4.0M | -84% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $500,000 | -40% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 1.5% | 5.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.4M | $2.0M | -30% |
| Number of Locations | 1,700 | 2,218 | Fewer |
| Year Founded | 1986 | 1951 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 3 weeks | 10 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 Jack in the Box
West Coast QSR chain with a diverse menu spanning burgers, tacos, breakfast, and late-night items. Publicly traded (JACK).
Investment Comparison
Five Guys requires a lower initial investment (avg $473,500) compared to Jack in the Box(avg $3.0M), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Jack in the Box may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Five Guys has lower ongoing fees (7.5% total) compared to Jack in the Box(10.0% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Jack in the Box has a significantly larger footprint with 2,218 locations compared to Five Guys's 1,700. 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 Jack in the Box franchise?
Five Guys requires an initial investment of $306,000 to $641,000, while Jack in the Box requires $1.9M to $4.0M. Five Guys has the lower average investment at $473,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Five Guys vs Jack in the Box?
Five Guys charges a 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Jack in the Box charges 5.0% royalty plus 5.0% advertising fee (10.0% total). Five Guys has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Five Guys or Jack in the Box?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Jack in the Box generates $2.0M 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 Jack in the Box?
Five Guys has 1,700 locations, while Jack in the Box has 2,218 locations. Jack in the Box has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Five Guys or Jack in the Box a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Five Guys and Jack in the Box are established QSR brands with proven models. Five Guys offers a lower entry point, while Jack in the Box 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
Weekly insights on the QSR industry. No spam, just intelligence.