Five Guys vs Moe's Southwest GrillFranchise Comparison 2026
Five Guys and Moe's Southwest Grill 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 | Moe's Southwest Grill | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $30,000 | -17% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $306,000 | $350,000 | -13% |
| Total Investment (High) | $641,000 | $710,000 | -10% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $250,000 | +20% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 1.5% | 3.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.4M | $920,000 | +52% |
| Number of Locations | 1,700 | 720 | More |
| Year Founded | 1986 | 2000 | Older |
| Training Duration | 3 weeks | 4 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 Moe's Southwest Grill
Fresh Tex-Mex with free chips and salsa. Part of Focus Brands. Strong unit economics and operational simplicity.
Investment Comparison
Five Guys requires a lower initial investment (avg $473,500) compared to Moe's Southwest Grill(avg $530,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Moe's Southwest Grill may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Five Guys has lower ongoing fees (7.5% total) compared to Moe's Southwest Grill(8.0% 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 Moe's Southwest Grill's 720. 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 Moe's Southwest Grill franchise?
Five Guys requires an initial investment of $306,000 to $641,000, while Moe's Southwest Grill requires $350,000 to $710,000. Five Guys has the lower average investment at $473,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Five Guys vs Moe's Southwest Grill?
Five Guys charges a 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Moe's Southwest Grill charges 5.0% royalty plus 3.0% advertising fee (8.0% total). Five Guys has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Five Guys or Moe's Southwest Grill?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Five Guys generates $1.4M per location compared to $920,000 for Moe's Southwest Grill. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Five Guys have vs Moe's Southwest Grill?
Five Guys has 1,700 locations, while Moe's Southwest Grill has 720 locations. Five Guys has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Five Guys or Moe's Southwest Grill a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Five Guys and Moe's Southwest Grill 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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