Franchises Under $100K: Let’s Dive In
Thinking about entrepreneurship but wary of the risk and complexity of building a business from scratch? Franchises offer a proven model, brand recognition, and ongoing support, often with a lower failure rate than independent startups.
And here’s the kicker: you don’t need a million dollars to start.
In 2025, numerous franchise opportunities require less than $100,000 in total investment, making them accessible to first-time franchisees, aspiring entrepreneurs, and smart investors.
What Is a Franchise?
A franchise is a structured business model that allows individuals (called franchisees) to legally operate a business using the brand, systems, training, and reputation of an already established company (the franchisor). Instead of starting a business from scratch with all the risk, guesswork, and uncertainty, a franchise gives you a shortcut to ownership with a blueprint for success.
Many people prefer to buy a franchise under $100K to lower their startup risk while gaining structure and support.
In this legal and commercial relationship, the franchisee typically pays:
- An initial franchise fee (one-time)
- Ongoing royalties (a percentage of revenue)
- Sometimes a marketing or brand fee
In exchange, they receive:
- The right to use the franchisor’s brand name and trademarks
- A proven operating system (what products to sell, how to market, customer service playbooks)
- Initial and ongoing training
- Help with site selection, equipment, software, and operations
- National marketing campaigns and vendor relationships
Quick Real-World Franchise Examples
- McDonald’s: You don’t invent burgers—you run a proven fast-food machine with global branding and systems.
- The UPS Store: No need to build a courier business. You use UPS’s name, pricing, and logistics.
- SuperGlass: They hand you the tools, training, and mobile setup to start fixing windshields right away.
- Jazzercise: You teach branded fitness classes with pre-made routines and a loyal fan base.
- Cruise Planners: Work from home booking trips using their software, deals, and travel brand.
- Coffee News: You print and distribute ad-based papers in local cafes using their ready-made design.
- Dream Vacations: Sell vacations online with their training, platform, and supplier discounts.
Each brand represents a practical and proven franchise under $100K for new business owners. Franchising allows you to skip the “startup guesswork” and go straight to scaling.
Why Franchising Matters: 20 Strategic Advantages
- Proven Business Model
You’re buying into a system that’s already been tested, optimized, and replicated successfully. - Brand Recognition
Customers trust and recognize established franchise brands, giving you an instant marketing edge. - Faster Time to Launch
Most franchisors help you go live quickly, especially important when starting a franchise under $100K. - Lower Risk of Failure
Franchises statistically fail far less than independent startups due to strong foundations and support. - Training & Onboarding Support
Training is comprehensive – this is especially important when running a franchise under $100K, where training can make or break success. - Built-in Marketing Power
National advertising, website infrastructure, and branding materials are often included. - Territory Protection
Many franchises grant exclusive or protected territories, shielding you from internal competition. - Access to Supply Chains
You benefit from bulk purchasing agreements, vendor partnerships, and streamlined sourcing. - Ongoing Business Coaching
Most franchisors assign mentors or business coaches to support your performance and growth. - Scalable Model
You can expand – even a franchise under $100K can grow to multi-unit ownership with the right reinvestment strategy. - Increased Loan Approval Odds
Banks and the SBA are more likely to finance a well-known franchise than a risky solo startup. - Support During Challenges
Franchisors often assist during economic downturns, crises, or unexpected obstacles. - Community of Franchisees
You join a network of peers who share insights, advice, and encouragement. - Reputation Management
Corporate teams monitor brand consistency, online reviews, and customer satisfaction on your behalf. - Easier Hiring and Training
Established systems help you onboard staff quickly and efficiently. - Built-In Exit Strategy
A franchise resale often has value because you’re selling a proven brand, not just a business idea. - Technology & Innovation Access
Franchisors often invest in R&D and share the latest tools with franchisees. - Focus on Execution, Not Strategy
You follow a playbook instead of building one from scratch—great for new entrepreneurs. - Legal & Compliance Support
Templates, contracts, and HR docs are crucial for a franchise under $100K if you lack legal experience. - Sense of Ownership Without Isolation
You get to own your business while having the backing of a larger organization.
Why Choose a Franchise Under $100K?
- Lower capital requirement – start your business without exhausting your savings or going into heavy debt
- Proven systems – get access to established business processes, SOPs, and marketing strategies
- Faster break-even – low overhead means you can reach profitability much sooner than with high-cost ventures
- Home-based and mobile options – operate from home, on the road, or in compact retail spaces.
- Reduced risk – follow a tested business model with lower chances of failure
- Access to brand recognition – use an established name customers already know and trust
- Easier financing approval – lenders are more likely to fund recognized, affordable franchises
- Simplified startup process – avoid guesswork with ready-to-use training, tools, and operational guides
- Flexible lifestyle – many low-cost franchises allow part-time hours or owner-operator freedom
- Scalable opportunities – start small and reinvest profits into expanding to multiple locations or services
- Industry variety – choose from travel, food, fitness, cleaning, education, pet care, and more—all under $100K
- Community support – join a network of fellow franchisees for peer learning and franchisor guidance
Key Factors to Evaluate Before You Buy
Before you jump in, evaluate the following:
- Total investment – includes franchise fee, equipment, licensing, setup, and working capital
- Franchise fee – the upfront cost to gain rights to use the brand and system
- Ongoing royalties – typically 4–10% of gross revenue; some charge flat rates
- Marketing/brand fund fees – national advertising or tech fees, often 1–3% extra
- Territory protection – ensure exclusive or defined rights to avoid overlapping markets
- Training and support – assess the quality and duration of onboarding and ongoing help
- Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) – especially Items 7 (startup costs) and 19 (earnings claims)
- Real franchisee feedback – talk to current owners to hear honest pros and cons
- Time commitment – some franchises require full-time work, others allow part-time
- Required experience – check if you need prior knowledge, licensing, or certifications
- Exit clause – understand your rights and process for resale or termination
- Litigation and legal history – review if the franchisor has past lawsuits or red flags
Your due diligence becomes even more critical when evaluating a franchise under $100K, where margins are often tighter.
Tip & Note:
Before you invest in any franchise, take a close look at your local market conditions. A business that thrives in one city might struggle in another. Study the demand, competition, demographics, and foot traffic in your area. Even a proven brand can underperform if there’s no local fit. Choosing the right location and customer base is just as important as choosing the right franchise.
Budget Breakdown
Here’s what you can typically afford under each tier:
- Under $10K – vending, cleaning kits, mobile car washes
- Under $20K – children’s education, travel agencies
- Under $50K – fitness training, pet services, print advertising
- Under $100K – food kiosks, commercial cleaning, senior care, home repair
Top 50 Franchise Opportunities in 2025 (Under $100K)
Here are 50 high-potential businesses for anyone looking to start a franchise under $100K in 2025.
| Franchise | Industry | Investment Range | Franchise Fee | Royalty / Marketing Fee |
| Cruise Planners | Travel | $2,095–$23,367 | $10,995 | 3% / 2% |
| Jan-Pro | Commercial Cleaning | $3,985–$51,605 | $1K–$40K | 7.5% / 1–2% |
| Dream Vacations | Travel | $2,670–$21,850 | $9,595 | 3% / 2% |
| Coffee News | $5,500–$11,500 | $5,000 | N/A / 2% | |
| TSS Photography | Photography | $18,450–$46,160 | $7,495 | 6% / 1% |
| SuperGlass Repair | Auto Services | $9,000–$35,000 | $5,000 | N/A |
| Proforma | Marketing | $15,000–$50,000 | $14,000 | 5% / 1% |
| Buildingstars | Cleaning | $2,245–$53,200 | $995–$47K | 10% / Varies |
| Jazzercise | Fitness | $3,000–$38,000 | $1,250 | 20% / Varies |
| Healthier4U Vending | Vending | $30K–$75K | $0 | N/A |
| Soccer Shots | Youth Sports | $34,500–$49,500 | $34,500 | 7% / 2% |
| Fit4Mom | Fitness | $6K–$24K | $6,000 | 10% / 1% |
| U.S. Lawns | Landscaping | $5K–$45K | $29,000 | 6% / 1.5% |
| Snapology | Education | $25K–$75K | $20,000 | 6% / 2% |
| Chem-Dry | Carpet | $56K–$100K | $23,500 | 5% / 2% |
| MobileStamp | Loyalty App | $8K–$25K | $8,000 | N/A |
| CruiseOne | Travel | $2,695–$23,470 | $14,000 | 7% / 2% |
| TeamLogic IT | Tech | $49,800–$70,800 | $45K | 5% / 1% |
| Cleanpro | Carpet | $35K–$50K | $14,950 | N/A |
| Tutor Doctor | Education | $33K–$61K | $29,700 | 8% / 2% |
| American Biz Systems | B2B Billing | $25K–$28K | $25,000 | N/A |
| Lawn Doctor | Landscaping | $65K–$100K | $30K | 10% / 2% |
| The Maids | Cleaning | $63K–$95K | $12,500 | 6.9% / 2% |
| Pet Wants | Pet Food | $42K–$60K | $38,500 | 7% / 2% |
| Fibrenew | Repair | $67K–$89K | $47,000 | 5% / 1% |
| 1-800-Water Damage | Restoration | $53K–$98K | $59K | 10% / 1% |
| Naturals2Go | Vending | $32K–$60K | $0 | N/A |
| Go Junk Free America | Junk | $50K–$75K | $30K | 8% / 1% |
| UPS Store (non-retail) | Shipping | $60K–$90K | $29,950 | 5% / 1% |
| Fresh Coat | Painting | $45K–$70K | $44K | 6% / 2% |
| Oxi Fresh | Carpet | $40K–$72K | $39,900 | 7% / 2% |
| Screenmobile | Repair | $45K–$70K | $39,500 | 6% / 1% |
| Senior Helpers | Elder Care | $50K–$95K | $49,500 | 5% / 1.5% |
| A Place at Home | Home Care | $60K–$85K | $49,500 | 5% / 2% |
| Bin There Dump That | Dumpster | $65K–$85K | $45,000 | 7% / 2% |
| Footprints Floors | Flooring | $60K–$90K | $60,000 | 6% / 1% |
| Assisting Hands | Health | $60K–$90K | $45,000 | 5% / 2% |
| Mosquito Joe | Pest Control | $65K–$85K | $35,000 | 10% / 2% |
| Dog Training Elite | Pet | $50K–$75K | $49,500 | 6% / 1.5% |
| Bio-One Inc. | Cleanup | $60K–$90K | $45,000 | 8% / 1% |
| Pool Scouts | Pools | $60K–$85K | $35,000 | 8% / 2% |
| Kitchen Solvers | Remodeling | $65K–$95K | $50,000 | 6% / 2% |
| PuroClean | Restoration | $70K–$95K | $50,000 | 7% / 1% |
| Zoom Drain | Plumbing | $85K–$100K | $49,500 | 6% / 1% |
| Budget Blinds | Home Decor | $85K–$100K | $60,000 | 7% / 2% |
| ComForCare | Home Care | $75K–$100K | $50,000 | 5% / 2% |
| The Grounds Guys | Lawn Care | $75K–$100K | $40,000 | 6% / 2% |
| TruBlue House Care | Home Services | $70K–$95K | $45,000 | 6% / 1.5% |
| Home Clean Heroes | Residential | $60K–$85K | $45,000 | 6% / 2% |
Financing Your Franchise Purchase
Even if you don’t have $50K–$100K sitting in your bank account, there are several ways to fund your franchise:
- SBA 7(a) Loans – Government-backed loans with favorable terms and lower interest rates; popular for first-time business owners
- Franchisor Financing – Some franchises offer internal installment plans or connect you with trusted lenders
- Equipment Financing – Get a loan specifically for tools, machinery, or technology required to operate
- Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) – Use the value of your home as collateral for flexible borrowing
- Unsecured Personal Loans – Ideal for those with good credit and no assets to pledge
- 401(k) Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS) – Use retirement funds to start a business, tax and penalty-free
- Business Credit Cards – Good for short-term, low-cost expenses, but be mindful of high interest rates
- Crowdfunding or Peer-to-Peer Lending – Raise capital from your network or platforms like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, or LendingClub
- Investor Partnerships – Partner with someone who provides the capital while you run operations (split ownership or profit share
These financing methods make it easier to purchase a franchise under $100K without draining your savings.
How to Launch Your Franchise (Step-by-Step)
- Request and Study the FDD
Carefully review the Franchise Disclosure Document—especially Items 7 (investment) and 19 (earnings). Consider hiring a franchise attorney. - Interview Existing Franchisees
Ask about startup challenges, earnings, support quality, and what they wish they knew before starting. - Secure Your Funding
Choose the right mix of SBA loans, HELOCs, equipment financing, or franchisor-provided options. - Complete Training and Onboarding
Attend the franchisor’s official training sessions to learn systems, branding, and daily operations. - Lock in Your Territory or Location
Finalize your area of operation—whether it’s a mobile zone, retail space, or defined service region. - Set Up Operations
Order equipment, install software, build your team, and connect with approved vendors and suppliers. - Launch Local Marketing
Start promoting early—leverage the franchisor’s marketing toolkit and local ad strategies to generate buzz. - Open Your Doors (or Go Live Online)
Start serving customers and offering your product/service officially. - Track KPIs Weekly
Monitor key metrics like revenue, customer acquisition, retention, and operational costs. Adjust as needed for growth.
Following these steps helps ensure a strong foundation for your franchise under $100K.
Final Thoughts
Franchising under $100K isn’t just affordable—it’s strategic. You get a head start with brand credibility, proven systems, and built-in support that reduce the learning curve and risk. Whether you’re looking for a flexible, home-based venture or a scalable path to long-term income, low-cost franchises offer the perfect balance of freedom and structure.
You don’t need millions to become a business owner—you just need the right opportunity, the right mindset, and the courage to start. If you do your research, choose the right fit, and take smart action, franchise ownership can be your shortcut to entrepreneurship without starting from scratch.
Helpful Franchise Resources
- Franchise Direct – Explore a wide range of franchises by investment level, industry, and location.
- SBA Franchise Directory – Official U.S. government list of franchises eligible for SBA financing.
- International Franchise Association (IFA) – The main advocacy and education body for franchising in the U.S.
- Franchise Gator – Compare low-cost franchises across categories and read helpful buyer guides.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) – Learn about business loans, startup help, and federal support for entrepreneurs.
- The Franchise Mall – Search franchises by sector, startup cost, and royalty fee structure.
- BizBuySell – Franchise Listings – Discover franchise resales and established units for sale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you have questions about starting a franchise under $100K? We’ve answered the most common ones below.
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1. What is the best franchise to start under $100K in 2025?
There’s no single “best” franchise—it depends on your goals, budget, and industry preference. However, popular choices under $100K include Cruise Planners (travel), Jazzercise (fitness), Jan-Pro (cleaning), and Dream Vacations (home-based travel).
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2. Can I get financing for a franchise under $100K?
Yes. You can explore SBA 7(a) loans, franchisor financing, HELOCs, 401(k) rollovers (ROBS), and unsecured personal loans. Many low-cost franchises are easier to finance due to their affordability and brand reputation.
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3. Are franchises under $100K profitable?
Many low-cost franchises are profitable, especially if you choose the right location, follow the franchisor’s system, and manage costs. Lower overhead often means faster break-even and higher ROI for the investment size.
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4. Can I run a franchise part-time or from home?
Yes. Many franchises under $100K are home-based or mobile-friendly. Options like Cruise Planners, Coffee News, and Dream Vacations can be run part-time from home, offering more flexibility and lower overhead.
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5. How much money can I make owning a low-cost franchise?
Earnings vary by brand, location, and effort. Some franchisors disclose average earnings in Item 19 of their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Talk to existing franchisees to get real-world insights.
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6. What’s included in the franchise fee?
The franchise fee typically includes the right to use the brand, initial training, setup assistance, operational playbooks, and ongoing support. It’s a one-time cost separate from equipment or working capital.
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7. Do I need experience to own a franchise?
Not always. Many franchises under $100K are designed for first-time entrepreneurs and provide full training and support. However, some may prefer or require industry experience, especially in technical or regulated sectors.
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8. What is the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)?
The FDD is a legal document that provides key information about the franchise, including costs, obligations, litigation history, earnings, and existing franchisee contacts. It’s critical to review it before signing any agreement.
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9. Are there franchises with no royalty fees?
Yes, some low-cost franchises like Healthier4U Vending and American Business Systems charge no ongoing royalty fees. These can be attractive for owners who want more profit control, but support levels may vary.
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10. How do I choose the right franchise under $100K?
Evaluate your skills, goals, budget, local market, and time availability. Then compare franchises based on their costs, support, reputation, earnings potential, and real franchisee feedback.
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11. What industries offer low-cost franchise opportunities?
You can find franchises under $100K in industries like travel, cleaning, food kiosks, pet care, senior care, fitness, education, vending, auto repair, and more. The variety allows you to align your business with your interests and skills.
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12. What’s the difference between the franchise fee and the total investment?
The franchise fee is the upfront cost to join a franchise system. The total investment includes the franchise fee plus additional costs like equipment, training, insurance, licenses, marketing, and working capital.
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13. Are low-cost franchises better than starting a business from scratch?
For many new entrepreneurs, yes. Franchises offer a proven business model, brand trust, and training—all of which reduce risk and increase your chances of success compared to starting from scratch.
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14. Can I operate a franchise while keeping my full-time job?
Some home-based or mobile franchises allow part-time ownership. However, others require full-time commitment. Review the franchisor’s expectations and time requirements before investing.
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15. What are the ongoing royalty and marketing fees?
These are recurring fees paid to the franchisor. Royalties are usually a percentage of your gross sales (e.g., 5–10%), while marketing/brand fees fund national advertising and tech support (usually 1–3%).
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16. Do all franchises provide territory protection?
Not all. Some offer exclusive territories, while others don’t restrict overlapping markets. Make sure to clarify this in the FDD and franchise agreement before signing.
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17. What training is included with a franchise?
Most reputable franchises include startup training on operations, customer service, marketing, and systems. Many also provide ongoing coaching, webinars, and peer support groups.
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18. How long does it take to launch a franchise?
It can take anywhere from 30 to 180 days, depending on the business model, location needs, equipment setup, and your financing timeline. Some home-based franchises launch in under a month.
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19. Is franchise ownership passive income?
Not usually at the start. Most require active involvement, especially in the beginning. However, once systems are in place and a team is hired, some owners scale into semi-passive or multi-unit management.
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20. What should I ask existing franchisees before joining?
Ask about startup challenges, time to break even, profitability, franchisor support, daily workload, common mistakes, and whether they’d invest again. Their real-world insights are key to setting realistic expectations.
