McDonald’s vs Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both McDonald’s and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen are quick-service restaurants franchises. McDonald’s requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.8M while Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen requires $1.2M – $3.9M. In terms of revenue, McDonald’s reports higher average unit revenue at $4.1M. On SBA loan performance, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen has a lower charge-off rate (10.4%) compared to McDonald’s (16.7%). FranchiseVerdict rates McDonald’s A (Strongest tier) and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | McDonald’s | Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.8M | $1.2M – $3.9M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $50K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $4.1M | $2.0M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 16.7% (24 loans) | 10.4% (332 loans) |
| Total Units | 13,706 | 3,177 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1955 | 1976 |
| FDD Year | 2026 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.8M
$1.2M – $3.9M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$50K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$4.1M
$2.0M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
16.7% (24 loans)
10.4% (332 loans)
Total Units
13,706
3,177
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1955
1976
FDD Year
2026
2025