How Much It Costs to Buy McDonald's and Chick-fil-A Franchise in USA in 2026
Owning a McDonald's or Chick-fil-A is one of the most profitable small businesses in America. But the cost to buy them in 2026 is very different.
If you are a Nigerian in USA or planning to Japa, this is the real cost breakdown for both franchises, including franchise fee, insurance, and loan requirements.
1. McDonald's Franchise Cost in USA in 2026
McDonald's is the most expensive but also the richest. There are over 13,000 locations in the USA.
- Franchise Fee: $45,000
- Total Initial Investment: $1,366,000 to $2,643,000
- Liquid Cash Required: At least $500,000 cash in bank
- Monthly Rent to McDonald's: 10% - 15% of sales (McDonald's owns the land)
- Royalty Fee: 4% of monthly sales
- Business Insurance: $15,000 - $40,000 per year for liability, property, and workers compensation
- Contract Term: 20 years
Profit: Average McDonald's in USA makes $2.8 million sales per year. Owner keeps about $150,000 to $300,000 profit after rent and fees.
2. Chick-fil-A Franchise Cost in USA in 2026
Chick-fil-A is the cheapest to start but the hardest to get. They get 60,000 applications per year and approve only 75 people.
- Franchise Fee: $10,000 (cheapest in USA)
- Total Initial Investment: $10,000 only (Chick-fil-A pays for building, equipment, and everything - worth $2 million)
- Liquid Cash Required: No minimum, but need good credit
- Monthly Rent: Included, but Chick-fil-A takes 15% of sales + 50% of profit
- Business Insurance: $12,000 - $25,000 per year (required)
- You Cannot Own Multiple Stores: You must work full time in the store
Profit: Average Chick-fil-A makes $8.6 million sales per year (highest in USA fast food). Owner keeps about $200,000 to $350,000 profit per year after Chick-fil-A takes its share.
McDonald's vs Chick-fil-A: Which Is Better for Nigerians in USA?
If you have $500,000 to $1 million cash and want to be an investor who owns multiple stores and hires managers, choose McDonald's. Banks like Chase and Bank of America easily give business loans for McDonald's because it is a trusted brand.
If you have only $10,000 but you are ready to work in the restaurant every day and you want low risk, choose Chick-fil-A. It is the best ROI because you invest $10k to control a $2 million business.
How to Get Business Loan for Franchise in USA in 2026
For both franchises, you need:
1. Business plan
2. LLC registration ($200 - $500)
3. Business bank account in USA
4. Business insurance certificate
5. Good credit score of 680+ in USA
SBA loan in USA will give you up to 80% of McDonald's cost at 7.5% - 10% interest for 10 years.
Which one would you choose if you have the money in USA?
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