When it comes to premium burger franchises, Five Guys has carved a strong position in the fast-casual dining market. Known for its fresh, never-frozen beef patties, customizable burgers, and hand-cut fries, Five Guys has grown into one of the most recognized burger franchise opportunities worldwide.

If you’re an aspiring investor or entrepreneur, you may be asking: “What is the cost of owning a Five Guys franchise, and how much profit can it generate?” This guide explains everything you need to know about Five Guys franchise cost, fees, and profit margins, so you can evaluate whether this popular burger brand is worth your investment.

Why Choose a Five Guys Franchise?

Five Guys stands out in the competitive burger space for a few reasons:

• Strong brand recognition – Ranked among the top burger chains in the U.S.

• Premium quality menu – Fresh ingredients, no freezers, and customizable options.

• Proven franchise system – A globally recognized franchise model with consistent customer demand.

• High average unit volumes (AUVs) – Many Five Guys stores generate strong annual revenues.

This reputation makes Five Guys an attractive choice for investors seeking profitable fast-casual franchises.

Five Guys Franchise Cost Breakdown

Before you invest, you must understand the initial franchise costs and ongoing fees associated with Five Guys.

Initial Investment Range

The total estimated investment to open a Five Guys franchise in the USA ranges between:

• $306,200 – $641,250

This cost varies depending on factors such as location, size of the restaurant, and construction expenses.

Key Expenses Include:

• Franchise Fee: $25,000 per unit

• Real Estate & Build-Out Costs: $150,000 – $350,000

• Equipment & Furniture: $100,000 – $200,000

• Initial Inventory: $9,000 – $15,000

• Working Capital: $30,000 – $70,000

• Marketing & Miscellaneous Costs: $15,000 – $30,000

💡 Investors must also have a minimum net worth of $1.5 million and liquid capital of $500,000 to qualify.

Five Guys Franchise Fees & Royalties

Like most franchises, Five Guys charges ongoing fees to maintain brand standards and support.

• Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales

• Marketing Fee: 2% of gross sales

These fees go towards national marketing campaigns, training, and ongoing operational support.

Five Guys Franchise Profit Margins

One of the biggest questions investors ask is: “How much money can I make with a Five Guys franchise?”

Average Revenue

According to industry reports, the average Five Guys franchise generates $1.2M – $1.5M in annual revenue (varies by location).

Profit Margins

After deducting food costs, labor, rent, royalties, and other expenses, Five Guys franchise owners typically see a profit margin of 15% – 20%.

This means a well-run Five Guys location could bring in $180,000 – $300,000 in annual profit per store.

Is a Five Guys Franchise a Good Investment?

If you’re looking for a high-demand burger franchise with strong brand loyalty, Five Guys can be an excellent opportunity. However, the upfront investment is significant, and only qualified investors with high liquidity are approved.

Here’s a quick pros & cons breakdown:

✅ Pros:

• Strong global brand

• Premium product positioning

• Consistent demand & sales potential

• Scalable multi-unit opportunities
  
  

❌ Cons:

• High initial investment

• Competitive fast-casual burger market

• Strict franchise requirements
  
  

Final Thoughts

Investing in a Five Guys franchise can be highly profitable if you have the financial capability and business management skills to operate multiple units. With an estimated $300K+ profit potential per location, Five Guys remains one of the top burger franchise opportunities in the U.S. and abroad.

If you’re serious about entering the fast-casual restaurant industry, Five Guys offers a proven model that continues to attract loyal customers and strong investor interest.