Sonic vs Hardee's
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Sonic and Hardee's are quick-service restaurants franchises. Sonic requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.5M while Hardee's requires $1.4M – $2.6M. 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 Hardee's (39.0%). FranchiseVerdict rates Sonic A (Strongest tier) and Hardee's C (Average).
| Metric | Sonic | Hardee's |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | CAverageAverage |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.5M | $1.4M – $2.6M |
| Franchise Fee | $15K | $25K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 4.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.6M | $1.3M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 8.3% (144 loans) | 39.0% (55 loans) |
| Total Units | 3,412 | 1,571 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1974 | 2013 |
| FDD Year | 2026 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.5M
$1.4M – $2.6M
Franchise Fee
$15K
$25K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
4.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.6M
$1.3M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
8.3% (144 loans)
39.0% (55 loans)
Total Units
3,412
1,571
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1974
2013
FDD Year
2026
2026