Sonic vs Arby’s
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Sonic and Arby’s are quick-service restaurants franchises. Sonic requires an investment of $670K – $2.5M while Arby’s requires $652K – $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 Arby’s (18.2%). FranchiseVerdict rates Sonic A (Top Quintile) and Arby’s B (Above Average).
| Metric | Sonic | Arby’s |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | ATop QuintileTop Quintile | BAbove AverageAbove Average |
| Investment Range | $670K – $2.5M | $652K – $2.5M |
| Franchise Fee | $15K | $38K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 4.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.6M | $1.3M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 8.3% (144 loans) | 18.2% (198 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,412 | 3,265 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1974 | 2015 |
| FDD Year | 2026 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$670K – $2.5M
$652K – $2.5M
Franchise Fee
$15K
$38K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
4.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.6M
$1.3M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
8.3% (144 loans)
18.2% (198 loans)
Total Units
3,412
3,265
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1974
2015
FDD Year
2026
2026