Carl's Jr. vs KFC
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Carl's Jr. and KFC are quick-service restaurants franchises. Carl's Jr. requires an investment of $1.5M – $3.2M while KFC requires $1.1M – $3.8M. In terms of revenue, Carl's Jr. reports higher average unit revenue at $1.4M. On SBA loan performance, Carl's Jr. has a lower charge-off rate (0.0%) compared to KFC (12.3%). FranchiseVerdict rates Carl's Jr. A (Top Quintile) and KFC A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | Carl's Jr. | KFC |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $3.2M | $1.1M – $3.8M |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $45K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 4.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4M | $1.3M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 0.0% (34 loans) | 12.3% (281 loans) |
| Total Units | 1,063 | 3,638 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1984 | 1952 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $3.2M
$1.1M – $3.8M
Franchise Fee
$25K
$45K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
4.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4M
$1.3M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
0.0% (34 loans)
12.3% (281 loans)
Total Units
1,063
3,638
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1984
1952
FDD Year
2024
2025