Jimmy John's vs Five GuysFranchise Comparison 2026
Jimmy John's and Five Guys 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 | Jimmy John's | Five Guys | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 | $25,000 | +40% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $330,000 | $306,000 | +8% |
| Total Investment (High) | $558,000 | $641,000 | -13% |
| Cash Required | $200,000 | $300,000 | -33% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 6.0% | Same |
| Advertising Fee | 4.5% | 1.5% | Higher |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.1M | $1.4M | -21% |
| Number of Locations | 2,800 | 1,700 | More |
| Year Founded | 1983 | 1986 | Older |
| Training Duration | 2 weeks | 3 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 Jimmy John's
Fast sandwich delivery specialist with 'freaky fast' positioning. Simpler operations than full-service QSR.
About Five Guys
Premium burger concept with fresh ingredients and no freezers. Higher food costs but strong brand loyalty and per-unit sales.
Investment Comparison
Jimmy John's requires a lower initial investment (avg $444,000) compared to Five Guys(avg $473,500), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Five Guys may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Five Guys has lower ongoing fees (7.5% total) compared to Jimmy John's(10.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Jimmy John'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 Jimmy John's vs Five Guys franchise?
Jimmy John's requires an initial investment of $330,000 to $558,000, while Five Guys requires $306,000 to $641,000. Jimmy John's has the lower average investment at $444,000.
What are the ongoing fees for Jimmy John's vs Five Guys?
Jimmy John's charges a 6.0% royalty plus 4.5% advertising fee (10.5% total). Five Guys charges 6.0% royalty plus 1.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Five Guys has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Jimmy John's or Five Guys?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Five Guys generates $1.4M per location compared to $1.1M for Jimmy John's. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Jimmy John's have vs Five Guys?
Jimmy John's has 2,800 locations, while Five Guys has 1,700 locations. Jimmy John's has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Jimmy John's or Five Guys a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Jimmy John's and Five Guys are established QSR brands with proven models. Jimmy John's 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.
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.