Papa Johns vs Sonic
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Papa Johns and Sonic are quick-service restaurants franchises. Papa Johns requires an investment of $261K – $853K while Sonic requires $670K – $2.5M. In terms of revenue, Sonic reports higher average unit revenue at $1.6M. On SBA loan performance, Sonic has a lower charge-off rate (8.3%) compared to Papa Johns (18.1%). FranchiseVerdict rates Papa Johns A (Top Quintile) and Sonic A (Top Quintile).
| Metric | Papa Johns | Sonic |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | ATop QuintileTop Quintile |
| Investment Range | $261K – $853K | $670K – $2.5M |
| Franchise Fee | $25K | $15K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.2M | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 18.1% (323 loans) | 8.3% (144 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,291 | 3,412 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 2021 | 1974 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$261K – $853K
$670K – $2.5M
Franchise Fee
$25K
$15K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.2M
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
18.1% (323 loans)
8.3% (144 loans)
Total Units
3,291
3,412
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
2021
1974
FDD Year
2025
2026