Five Guys vs Jersey Mike'sFranchise Comparison 2026
Five Guys and Jersey Mike'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 | Jersey Mike's | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $18,500 | +35% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $306,000 | $178,000 | +72% |
| Total Investment (High) | $641,000 | $787,000 | -19% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $150,000 | +100% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 6.5% | Lower |
| Advertising Fee | 1.5% | 2.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.4M | $1.2M | +17% |
| Number of Locations | 1,700 | 2,800 | Fewer |
| Year Founded | 1986 | 1956 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 3 weeks | 3 weeks | Same |
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 Jersey Mike's
Authentic sub shop with strong unit economics and growing presence. Fresh slicing and 'A Sub Above' positioning.
Investment Comparison
Five Guys requires a lower initial investment (avg $473,500) compared to Jersey Mike's(avg $482,500), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Jersey Mike's may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Five Guys has lower ongoing fees (7.5% total) compared to Jersey Mike's(8.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Jersey Mike's has a significantly larger footprint with 2,800 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 Jersey Mike's franchise?
Five Guys requires an initial investment of $306,000 to $641,000, while Jersey Mike's requires $178,000 to $787,000. Five Guys has the lower average investment at $473,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Five Guys vs Jersey Mike's?
Five Guys charges a 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Jersey Mike's charges 6.5% royalty plus 2.0% advertising fee (8.5% total). Five Guys has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Five Guys or Jersey Mike's?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Five Guys generates $1.4M per location compared to $1.2M for Jersey Mike's. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Five Guys have vs Jersey Mike's?
Five Guys has 1,700 locations, while Jersey Mike's has 2,800 locations. Jersey Mike's has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Five Guys or Jersey Mike's a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Five Guys and Jersey Mike's are established QSR brands with proven models. Five Guys offers a lower entry point, while Five Guys 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.
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