BurgerFi franchise startup costs run $700K–$1.39M for a fast-casual better-burger concept built around all-natural, hormone- and antibiotic-free beef. The premium positioning commands higher check averages than traditional QSR and appeals to health-conscious and quality-driven consumer segments.
BurgerFi is a fast-casual better-burger franchise founded in 2011 in North Palm Beach, Florida. The brand operates 100+ locations across the United States with a differentiated positioning around all-natural beef — no hormones, steroids, or antibiotics — and a broader premium menu that includes chicken, hot dogs, and custard shakes. BurgerFi's upscale inline format features open-kitchen design and modern interior aesthetics that position it above standard QSR in both perception and average check. The brand has expanded beyond its Florida roots and operates in multiple US states. Prospective franchisees should review the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) under the FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436).
Per the current FDD filed under the FTC Franchise Rule (16 CFR Part 436), total estimated initial investment for a BurgerFi franchise runs $700,000–$1,390,000. The upscale interior design and open-kitchen format drive higher build-out costs than simpler inline concepts:
BurgerFi charges a 5.5% royalty on gross sales plus advertising fund contributions. The 5.5% rate reflects the brand's premium positioning and the ongoing investment in menu development, marketing, and supply chain for all-natural proteins. The higher check average relative to traditional QSR partially offsets the royalty on a per-transaction basis.
BurgerFi is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan processing. Financing paths:
Premium fast-casual burger concepts at the $700K–$1.39M investment level typically target break-even within 24–48 months. BurgerFi's higher check average — driven by all-natural protein pricing and custard add-ons — supports stronger unit-level economics than standard QSR at equivalent traffic volumes. Location selection in premium retail corridors, coastal markets, and college-town environments where quality-conscious consumers concentrate is the primary performance driver.
BurgerFi suits operators with fast-casual or premium food service management experience who want a quality-positioning burger brand with strong consumer appeal among millennial and Gen Z segments. The higher build-out cost requires a disciplined site selection approach to ensure traffic volume justifies the investment. Financial benchmarks typically include net worth of $600K+ and liquid capital of $200K+.
BurgerFi is on the SBA Franchise Directory, so SBA-approved lenders can process applications without individual agreement review. At $700K–$1.39M for a fast-casual better-burger concept, the upscale build-out and all-natural protein positioning create specific underwriting considerations. Here is what lenders evaluate per SBA SOP 50 10 7:
SBA 7(a) is the standard structure — covering franchise fee, leasehold improvements, kitchen equipment, and working capital under a 10-year term. For locations with owned real estate, SBA 504 provides long-term fixed-rate financing. Use our SBA loan payment calculator to model monthly payments at your target loan amount before applying.
SBA guidelines set a minimum DSCR of 1.15×. In practice, lenders underwriting $700K–$1.39M fast-casual builds typically require 1.25×–1.35× to account for the higher build-out cost and 12–18 month ramp period for a new location. Pro forma projections should use conservative year-one AUV and stress-test the 5.5% royalty plus advertising fund contributions against realistic traffic assumptions. Source: SBA Standard Operating Procedure 50 10 7 (sba.gov).
SBA requires a minimum 10% equity injection of total project cost. At $700K–$1.39M, lenders typically expect 20–25% — meaning $140K–$348K in documented borrower equity. Equity can come from personal savings or ROBS (retirement funds rolled into the business without early withdrawal penalties). Borrowed equity is generally not acceptable without SBA approval. Source: SBA SOP 50 10 7, Subpart B, Chapter 4.
ClearValue Lending works with fast-casual and premium QSR franchise operators on SBA 7(a), SBA 504, equipment, and working capital financing. Apply for franchise financing at Find my match. Your file routes to one matched lender.
Per the current FDD, total estimated initial investment runs $700,000–$1,390,000. The franchise fee, leasehold improvements, and kitchen equipment for the open-kitchen format are the primary cost drivers.
BurgerFi positions around all-natural beef — no hormones, steroids, or antibiotics — and a broader premium menu including chicken, custard shakes, and hot dogs. The upscale open-kitchen interior design creates a premium dining experience above traditional QSR.
BurgerFi charges a 5.5% royalty on gross sales plus advertising fund contributions. The 5.5% rate reflects the brand's premium positioning and investment in all-natural supply chain and menu development.
Yes. BurgerFi is on the SBA Franchise Directory. SBA 7(a) can cover leasehold improvements, kitchen equipment, franchise fee, and working capital. SBA 504 is available for freestanding builds or real estate purchase.
BurgerFi is strongest in coastal markets, the Southeast, and college-town environments where quality-conscious consumers respond to all-natural and premium positioning. The brand was founded in North Palm Beach, FL and retains strong Florida market presence.