Launching a burger franchise is one of the most exciting paths to business ownership — but before flipping your first patty, you need a clear understanding of the financial investment involved. At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, we break down the real costs, so you can plan smart and succeed faster.
Whether you’re eyeing a small food truck or a full-scale gourmet restaurant, this guide will help you estimate what it takes to get started.
🧾 Initial Franchise Fee
Most burger franchise brands charge an initial franchise fee — a one-time payment that grants you the license to use their brand, systems, and support.
- Range: $20,000 – $50,000
- What’s Included: Brand rights, training programs, initial marketing, and startup support
🏗️ Build-Out and Equipment Costs
Your next biggest expense is setting up your physical space, including:
- Kitchen equipment (grills, fryers, refrigeration)
- Countertops, décor, and furniture
- Construction and permits
- Typical Range:
- Food truck: $80,000 – $150,000
- Small kiosk or mall unit: $120,000 – $250,000
- Full restaurant location: $250,000 – $800,000+
🛠️ Ongoing Fees: Royalties and Marketing
Most burger franchises charge:
- Royalties: 5%–8% of gross sales
- Marketing Fees: 1%–3% of gross sales
These help fund national advertising, ongoing support, menu innovation, and technology upgrades.
👷 Staffing & Training
You’ll need to hire and train a team to maintain food quality and service standards. This includes:
- Manager salaries
- Crew/staff wages
- Uniforms and onboarding materials
- Estimate: $20,000 – $50,000 upfront
📦 Inventory & Opening Supplies
Your opening inventory includes:
- Food ingredients
- Packaging (boxes, wrappers, cups)
- Cleaning supplies and POS systems
- Budget: $10,000 – $20,000
💰 Total Estimated Startup Investment
| Format | Investment Range |
|---|---|
| Food Truck | $100,000 – $180,000 |
| Kiosk/Mall Stand | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Fast Casual Outlet | $250,000 – $600,000 |
| Full-Service Gourmet | $500,000 – $1,000,000+ |
💡 Pro Tip: Costs vary widely by brand, location, and format — always request an official Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) before committing.
📈 Planning for Profitability
Most burger franchises aim for break-even within 1–2 years, depending on:
- Location traffic
- Operational efficiency
- Marketing strategy
- Product pricing and menu mix
👔 Want Help Choosing the Right Burger Brand?
At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, we don’t just list brands — we help you compare, plan, and succeed. Through our partnership with Star Brands Consulting Group, you can get personalized guidance on:
- Brand selection
- Territory research
- Financial projections
- Growth strategy