Jimmy John's vs Noodles & CompanyFranchise Comparison 2026
Jimmy John's and Noodles & Company 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 | Noodles & Company | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 | $30,000 | +17% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $330,000 | $693,000 | -52% |
| Total Investment (High) | $558,000 | $1.5M | -62% |
| Cash Required | $200,000 | $400,000 | -50% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 5.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 4.5% | 2.5% | Higher |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.1M | $1.1M | 0% |
| Number of Locations | 2,800 | 450 | More |
| Year Founded | 1983 | 1995 | Older |
| Training Duration | 2 weeks | 5 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 Noodles & Company
Global noodle dishes from Asian to Mediterranean cuisines. Fast-casual format with fresh preparation.
Investment Comparison
Jimmy John's requires a lower initial investment (avg $444,000) compared to Noodles & Company(avg $1.1M), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Noodles & Company may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Noodles & Company 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 Noodles & Company's 450. 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 Noodles & Company franchise?
Jimmy John's requires an initial investment of $330,000 to $558,000, while Noodles & Company requires $693,000 to $1.5M. Jimmy John's has the lower average investment at $444,000.
What are the ongoing fees for Jimmy John's vs Noodles & Company?
Jimmy John's charges a 6.0% royalty plus 4.5% advertising fee (10.5% total). Noodles & Company charges 5.0% royalty plus 2.5% advertising fee (7.5% total). Noodles & Company has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Jimmy John's or Noodles & Company?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Noodles & Company generates $1.1M 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 Noodles & Company?
Jimmy John's has 2,800 locations, while Noodles & Company has 450 locations. Jimmy John's has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Jimmy John's or Noodles & Company a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Jimmy John's and Noodles & Company are established QSR brands with proven models. Jimmy John's offers a lower entry point, while Noodles & Company 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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