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Guide 8 min read Updated July 28, 2026

Cost to Start a BurgerFi Franchise in 2026

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 franchise costs at a glance

Total investment $700,000–$1.4M
Franchise fee $45,000
Royalty 5.5%
Liquid capital required $200,000
Net worth required $600,000
Source: Burgerfi Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) · as of 2026-07-28. Figures vary by market and site; verify against the current FDD before signing.

Key takeaways

  • Total estimated startup cost: $700,000–$1,390,000 (fast-casual better-burger, all-natural positioning)
  • Franchise fee: $45,000
  • Ongoing royalty: 5.5% of gross sales; advertising fund contribution applies
  • 100+ locations across the US; founded 2011 in North Palm Beach, FL; now part of BurgerFi International
  • Listed on the SBA Franchise Directory — eligible for expedited SBA loan processing
Ready to fund your BurgerFi franchise?

Total startup cost breakdown

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:

  • Franchise fee: $45,000
  • Real estate and leasehold improvements: $250,000–$650,000 (upscale inline or freestanding with open kitchen)
  • Kitchen equipment: $100,000–$250,000 (flat-tops, fryers, custard machines, refrigeration)
  • Furniture, fixtures, and interior design: $50,000–$150,000
  • Signage and exterior branding: $20,000–$60,000
  • Technology and POS systems: $15,000–$35,000
  • Training and travel: $10,000–$25,000
  • Grand opening marketing: $10,000–$30,000
  • Working capital (3 months): $30,000–$80,000
  • Permits, insurance, professional fees: $15,000–$40,000

Ongoing fees

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.

Financing options

BurgerFi is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan processing. Financing paths:

  • SBA 7(a) loan: Covers franchise fee, leasehold improvements, kitchen equipment, and working capital per the SBA 7(a) program. The $700K–$1.39M range fits within standard 7(a) loan limits.
  • SBA 504 loan: For freestanding builds or real estate purchase, SBA 504 pairs bank financing with an SBA debenture for fixed-asset-heavy projects up to $5.5M.
  • Equipment financing: Custard machines, flat-top grills, and refrigeration units can be financed separately over 5–7 years.
  • Working capital line of credit: Covers ramp-up costs, marketing spend, and labor management during the opening period.
  • Conventional commercial loan: For multi-unit operators with existing franchise performance history and strong credit profile.

Realistic ROI timeline

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.

Who's a good fit

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+.

What lenders look for in a BurgerFi franchise application

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 8:

  • 20–25% equity injection at $700K–$1.39M — lenders require $140K–$348K in verified equity before SBA commitment; ROBS and personal capital are the most common documented equity paths at this investment level
  • All-natural protein supply chain premium in DSCR — BurgerFi's all-natural beef (no hormones, steroids, or antibiotics) carries a premium COGS vs. conventional QSR beef; lenders assess the gross margin impact of the all-natural supply chain on pro forma DSCR, particularly during beef price volatility periods
  • Upscale build-out = higher leasehold improvement collateral discount — BurgerFi's open-kitchen design and premium interior aesthetics drive $250K–$650K in leasehold improvements; lenders value leasehold improvements at 50–60% of cost under SBA collateral policy, so total collateral coverage may be partial; strong personal guarantee strength partially offsets this
  • 100+ location brand scale vs. larger chains — lenders underwriting BurgerFi loans note the brand's smaller footprint relative to Shake Shack or Five Guys; applicants should document trade area demographics and competition analysis to address brand awareness and consumer demand in the specific market
  • Higher check average offsets royalty on per-transaction basis — BurgerFi's premium positioning generates higher average checks than standard QSR; lenders view the higher ticket positively in the DSCR model, as the 5.5% royalty on higher gross sales still produces more operating cash flow per transaction than lower-check brands

Apply for franchise financing

ClearValue Lending works with fast-casual and premium QSR franchise operators on SBA 7(a), SBA 504, equipment, and working capital financing. Start at small business financing or apply directly at Find my match. Your file routes to the funding partners best matched to your file.

Sources

  • BurgerFi is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan eligibility review. — SBA Franchise Directory
  • SBA 7(a) loans finance fast-casual restaurant franchise startups including leasehold improvements, kitchen equipment, franchise fee, and working capital up to $5M. — SBA 7(a) Loan Program
  • All franchise cost and fee disclosures are governed by the FTC Franchise Rule requiring a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) be delivered at least 14 days before signing. — FTC Franchise Rule — 16 CFR Part 436
  • Qualifying restaurant kitchen equipment and fixtures placed in service during the tax year may be immediately expensed under IRS Section 179. — IRS Publication 946

Frequently asked questions

What DSCR do lenders require for a BurgerFi franchise loan?
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).
How much equity do I need to finance a BurgerFi franchise?
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 8, Subpart B, Chapter 4.
How much does a BurgerFi franchise cost in 2026?
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.
What makes BurgerFi different from other burger franchises?
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.
What is the BurgerFi royalty rate?
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.
Can I finance a BurgerFi franchise with an SBA loan?
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.
Where is BurgerFi strongest?
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.
Summary:

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.

This article is for educational purposes and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Rates, fees, qualification requirements, and product availability are illustrative ranges that vary by lender, market conditions, and individual business profile. ClearValue Lending is a funding platform; all financing is subject to lender partner approval and terms. Always read your contract end-to-end and verify specific numbers before signing.

https://clearvaluelending.com/franchises/burgerfi/cost-to-start

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