Wingstop vs Carl's Jr.Franchise Comparison 2026
Wingstop and Carl's Jr. 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 | Wingstop | Carl's Jr. | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $20,000 | $25,000 | -20% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $314,000 | $1.5M | -79% |
| Total Investment (High) | $956,000 | $3.2M | -70% |
| Cash Required | $300,000 | $380,000 | -21% |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 4.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 4.0% | 6.0% | Lower |
| Estimated Revenue | $1.6M | $1.3M | +23% |
| Number of Locations | 2,100 | 1,350 | More |
| Year Founded | 1994 | 1941 | Newer |
| Training Duration | 4 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 Wingstop
Wings and sides specialist with strong delivery and takeout focus. Smaller footprint than traditional QSR with high margins.
About Carl's Jr.
West Coast premium burger chain known for charbroiled burgers and bold marketing. Part of CKE Restaurants alongside Hardee's.
Investment Comparison
Wingstop requires a lower initial investment (avg $635,000) compared to Carl's Jr.(avg $2.3M), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Carl's Jr. may offer similar revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Both brands have similar ongoing fee structures (10.0% total), so the difference in profitability will primarily come from top-line revenue, operating efficiency, and local market conditions.
Market Position
Wingstop has a significantly larger footprint with 2,100 locations compared to Carl's Jr.'s 1,350. 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 Wingstop vs Carl's Jr. franchise?
Wingstop requires an initial investment of $314,000 to $956,000, while Carl's Jr. requires $1.5M to $3.2M. Wingstop has the lower average investment at $635,000.
What are the ongoing fees for Wingstop vs Carl's Jr.?
Wingstop charges a 6.0% royalty plus 4.0% advertising fee (10.0% total). Carl's Jr. charges 4.0% royalty plus 6.0% advertising fee (10.0% total). Carl's Jr. has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Wingstop or Carl's Jr.?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Wingstop generates $1.6M per location compared to $1.3M for Carl's Jr.. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Wingstop have vs Carl's Jr.?
Wingstop has 2,100 locations, while Carl's Jr. has 1,350 locations. Wingstop has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Wingstop or Carl's Jr. a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Wingstop and Carl's Jr. are established QSR brands with proven models. Wingstop offers a lower entry point, while Wingstop 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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