KFC vs Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both KFC and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen are quick-service restaurants franchises. KFC requires an investment of $1.9M – $3.8M while Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen requires $1.2M – $3.9M. In terms of revenue, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen reports higher average unit revenue at $2.0M. On SBA loan performance, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen has a lower charge-off rate (10.4%) compared to KFC (12.3%). FranchiseVerdict rates KFC B (Above average) and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | KFC | Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove averageAbove average | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.9M – $3.8M | $1.2M – $3.9M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $50K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.3M | $2.0M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 12.3% (281 loans) | 10.4% (332 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,638 | 3,177 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2016 | 1976 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.9M – $3.8M
$1.2M – $3.9M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$50K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.3M
$2.0M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
12.3% (281 loans)
10.4% (332 loans)
Total Units
3,638
3,177
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2016
1976
FDD Year
2025
2025