Carl's Jr. vs Farmer Boys
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Carl's Jr. and Farmer Boys are quick-service restaurants franchises. Carl's Jr. requires an investment of $1.5M – $3.2M while Farmer Boys requires $1.6M – $3.2M. In terms of revenue, Farmer Boys reports higher average unit revenue at $2.4M. Note: Reported as net sales, not gross sales. Farmer Boys has SBA lending data on file with a 10.0% charge-off rate. FranchiseVerdict rates Carl's Jr. B (Above average) and Farmer Boys B (Above average).
| Metric | Carl's Jr. | Farmer Boys |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove average | BAbove average |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $3.2M | $1.6M – $3.2M |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $45K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $2.4M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | Limited data | 10.0% (20 loans) |
| Total Units | 1,063 | 102 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | -6 units | +1 units |
| Year Began Franchising | 1984 | 1997 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $3.2M
$1.6M – $3.2M
Franchise Fee
$25K
$45K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$2.4M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
Limited data
10.0% (20 loans)
Total Units
1,063
102
Unit Growth (YoY)
-6 units
+1 units
Year Began Franchising
1984
1997
FDD Year
2024
2025