Top 20 Fastest-Growing QSR Brands in the USA

The USA quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by changing consumer preferences, innovative menu offerings, and aggressive expansion strategies by leading brands. From iconic fast-food giants like McDonald’s and Taco Bell to rising stars like Raising Cane’s and Wingstop, QSR chains are scaling nationwide to meet the increasing demand for convenience and affordability.

In this blog, we explore the Top 20 fastest-growing QSR brands in the USA, highlighting their store growth, investments, profits, and top-performing states to give you a complete picture of where the industry is headed.

#1. McDonald’s

McDonald’s is a globally recognized fast-food leader, celebrated for its iconic burgers, fries, and quick service. The brand continues to evolve its menu while maintaining its classic appeal.

Initial investment:- $1M–$2.2M; $45K fee; $500K–$750K in personal fund

Franchise Fee: $45,000

Estimated Annual Profit:- ~$150K; ROI in 6-9 Years

California leads with 1,225 outlets (~9% of the total), closely followed by Texas with 1,212. (Source - Franchise Chatter )

#2. Starbucks

Starbucks is the world’s most popular coffeehouse chain, known for premium coffee, innovative beverages, and creating welcoming spaces for customers. Its focus on personalization and sustainability drives its loyal fan base.

Initial Investment: ~$575,600 – $3,370,100

Franchise Fee: $25,000 – $45,000

Estimated Annual Profit: $50K–$150K per licensed store (approx. 10–15% profit margin on $540K–$1M+ revenue)

California leads with ~3,190 outlets (~19% of the U.S. total), followed by Texas ~1,474 and Florida ~934; New York ~761 and Washington ~710 round out the top five. (Source - Franchising.bk)

#3. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A is a leading chicken-focused QSR brand, loved for its signature chicken sandwiches and exceptional customer service. Its family-friendly approach and consistent quality make it a customer favorite.

Initial investment: $444,243 to $2,338,786, covering inventory, equipment rental, insurance, and other operational expenses

Franchise Fee: $10,000

Estimated Annual Profit (Chick-fil-A, USA): Approximately $200K–$240K, based on industry averages and percentage-of-sales estimates; higher-end estimates up to ~$1.31M EBITDA exist but are less commonly reflected in operator take-home.

Texas leads with ~495 outlets (~15% of U.S. total), followed by Florida ~246 (~7.5% of U.S. total) and Georgia ~259; North Carolina ~192 and California ~182 round out the top five. (Source - Business Insider)

#4. Taco Bell

Taco Bell is famous for its bold Mexican-inspired flavors and creative menu offerings. With innovative food combinations and affordable pricing, it has built a strong connection with younger audiences.

Initial investment: ~$575,600–$3,370,100

Franchise fee: $25,000–$45,000 (Source - IFPG)

Estimated Annual Profit: Franchisees typically earn $80,000–$90,000 per year, based on an average unit volume.

California leads with approximately 879 outlets (about 11% of the U.S. total), followed by Texas with ~716 (9%) and Florida with ~486 (6%). Ohio (~272 outlets) and Georgia (~271 outlets) round out the top five.

#5. Wendy’s

Wendy’s is known for its fresh, never-frozen beef burgers and quality ingredients. The brand thrives on menu innovation and clever marketing campaigns, making it a standout in the QSR burger segment.

Initial investment: ~$1.1M–$2.83M

Franchise fee: $50,000 per restaurant

Estimated Annual Profit: $80k–$90k likely applies to lower-volume operators, while typical operators can average up to $300k in profit.

Florida leads with approximately 512 outlets, followed by Texas with 466 and Ohio with 404. California, 300 outlets, and Georgia 292 outlets, round out the top five. (Source - Wendy's)

#6. Dunkin

Dunkin’ is a leading destination for coffee, donuts, and breakfast favorites. With a focus on speed, convenience, and affordability, it appeals to busy consumers seeking quick, tasty options.

Initial investment: ~$211,000–$1,833,000

Franchise fee: Typically $40,000–$90,000

Estimated Annual Profit: Lower-volume operators tend to earn around $80K–$90K, while active owner-operators with higher productivity can average up to $224K EBITDA annually.

New York leads with ~1,441 outlets (approx. 15% of all U.S. Dunkin' stores), New Jersey follows with ~1,040 outlets (approx. 11%). Florida is third with ~919 outlets (approx. 9%). Massachusetts ranks fourth with ~869 stores, and Illinois is fifth with ~718 outlets. (Source - Sharp sheets)

#7. Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle is renowned for its customizable burritos, bowls, and fresh ingredients. Its commitment to sustainability and “food with integrity” has made it a pioneer in the fast-casual dining space.

Franchising Model: Chipotle does not offer traditional franchises in the U.S. All locations are company-owned and operated

Initial investment: Ranges from $500,000 to $2 million

Franchising Fee: Does not operate under a franchise model. All Outlets are company-owned.

Estimated Annual Profit: Chipotle operates only company-owned outlets in the U.S., with an estimated annual EBITDA of around $170K per store. Strong restaurant-level profit margins of about 27% make Chipotle one of the most profitable fast-casual chains in the country.

California leads with ~507 locations (about 13% of the U.S. total), Texas follows with ~330 locations (approx. 9%), and Florida with ~272 locations (approx. 7%) (Source - Franchise Direct)

#8. Burger King

Burger King, home of the iconic Whopper, is a globally recognized brand known for flame-grilled burgers and diverse menu options. It combines tradition with innovation to serve a wide range of customers.

Initial investment: ~$363,400–$4,730,500

Franchise fee: Typically $50,000 (Source - Franchise Payback)

Estimated Annual Profit: Lower-volume operators typically earn around $80K–$90K EBITDA annually, while active, high-performing owner-operators can achieve profits of up to $224K–$275K per year on average.

Texas leads at approximately 571 locations, followed by Florida with around 500 outlets and California with about 480 locations.

#9. Subway

Subway is the world’s largest sandwich chain, known for its customizable subs and fresh ingredients. It focuses on healthy, affordable, and on-the-go meal choices for customers everywhere.

Initial investment: ~$207,000–$476,000

Franchise fee: ~$15,000

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, lower-volume Subway operators earn around $80K–$90K EBITDA per year, while high-performing locations in prime, high-traffic areas can generate annual profits ranging from $150K to $175K.

California leads at around 1,995 locations (~10%), followed by Texas with approximately 1,816 stores (~9%), and Florida with about 1,186 outlets (~6%). (Source - Vetted Biz)

#10. Domino’s Pizza

Domino’s is a global leader in pizza delivery, recognized for its technology-driven approach and consistently delicious menu. It continues to innovate with seamless ordering and fast service.

Initial investment: ~$156,450–$743,500

Franchise fee: $0–$10,000

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, locations earn around $192K annually, while high-performing stores in busy markets can make up to $262K or more per year.

Texas is leading the way at around 760 locations (~11%), followed by California with ~595 locations (~8%) and Florida with ~486 locations (~7%). (Source - Franchise Chatter)

#11. Panda Express

Panda Express is the largest American Chinese QSR chain, known for flavorful dishes like its signature Orange Chicken. It combines bold Asian-inspired flavors with quick, casual dining.

Initial investment: Approximately $515,000 – $3,276,000, covering licensing, construction, equipment, and startup costs.

Franchise fee (or License fee): Typically $25,000. (Source - Franchise Chatter)

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, franchise owners can expect roughly $179,000 EBITDA annually, based on a 15% margin of the ~$1.19 million average revenue per location.

California leads (approximately 603 units, ~25% of total U.S. locations), followed by Florida and Texas.

#12. Panera Bread

Panera Bread specializes in fresh-baked breads, soups, salads, and sandwiches, offering a cozy café experience. The brand’s focus on clean ingredients and wholesome choices attracts health-conscious consumers.

Initial Investment: Approximately $1,267,000 to $4,651,000, including construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses.

Franchise Fee: $35,000

Estimated Annual Profit (Revenue): Average annual revenue is about $2.60 million per unit, with high-performing locations potentially earning more.

Florida (~197 locations) and California (~196 locations) each hold around 9% of total locations, followed by Ohio with ~132 locations (6%). (Source - Panera Bread)

#13. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

Popeyes is famous for its Louisiana-style fried chicken, bold flavors, and rich heritage. Its menu combines Southern-inspired recipes with innovative offerings that keep fans coming back.

Initial investment: ~$505,000–$3,923,000

Franchise fee: $50,000

Estimated Annual Profit: Franchisees typically earn between $180K–$450K annually.

Texas leads with approximately 432 locations (~14%). California followed by 276 locations (~9% of total), and Florida with about 219 (~7%). (Source - Franchise Payback)

#14. Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut is one of the world’s most recognizable pizza brands, loved for its variety of pizzas, pastas, and sides. It blends classic flavors with modern twists to satisfy diverse customer tastes.

Initial investment: ~$462,000–$2,053,500

Franchise fee: Typically $25,000

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, locations generate between $98,000 to $147,000 in profit annually. Assuming average unit sales of about $983,000 and typical profit margins of 10%–15%, yearly earnings fall within this range.

Texas leads the U.S. for Pizza Hut locations with around 918 stores (~14% of the total), followed by California with 553 locations (~8%) and Florida with approximately 461 outlets (~7%). (Source - Franchise direct)

#15. Sonic Drive-In

Sonic is known for its unique drive-in experience, customizable drinks, and all-American menu favorites. Its fun, nostalgic vibe and playful brand identity set it apart from traditional QSR chains.

Initial investment: ~$865,000–$3,641,300

Franchise fee: $25,000–$45,000

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, Sonic Drive-In locations generate around $1.5 million in annual revenue, resulting in estimated profits of approximately $225K per year; high-performing units with margins of 18–22% can earn up to around $320K annually. (Source - Vetted Biz)

Texas leads with 929 locations, followed by Oklahoma with 264 locations and Tennessee with 222 locations. (Source - Sonic Franchising)

#16. Raising Cane’s

Raising Cane’s specializes in high-quality chicken-finger meals served with signature sauces and sides. Its simple, focused menu and strong brand loyalty have fueled rapid growth in recent years.

Initial Investment: ~$768K–$1.94M

Franchise Fee: $45,000

Estimated Annual Profit: $4.5M in average store revenue and ~15% margin, earnings could be ~$675K per location

Texas leads with 194 stores (~26%), followed by California with 84 stores (~12%) and Ohio with 63 stores (~7%). (Source - Franchiseba)

#17. Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen is a beloved brand famous for its soft-serve ice creams, Blizzards, and classic fast-food offerings. It creates memorable dining experiences through a mix of tradition and sweet indulgence.

Initial investment: Roughly $1.5–$2.54M,  typical range

Franchise fee: $45,000

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, Dairy Queen franchise owners in the U.S. earn around $194K annually, with top-performing locations in high-traffic areas generating profits well above $200K per year.

Texas led the count at ~527 locations (~13% of the U.S. total). Ohio (~253) and Illinois (~248) follow, while Florida (~143) and California (~70) also have a notable footprint. (Source - Franchise Chatter)

#18. KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)

KFC is a globally renowned brand known for its Original Recipe fried chicken and secret blend of 11 herbs and spices. It continues to deliver crispy, flavorful chicken meals enjoyed by millions.

Initial investment: ~$1,442,600–$2,771,550

Franchise fee: $45,000

Estimated Annual Profit: Most KFC outlets earn between $95K and $160K annually.

California led at around 432 locations, followed by Texas with 317 and Florida with 276 outlets. (Source - IFPG)

#19. Wingstop

Wingstop is a fast-growing chain specializing in flavorful chicken wings, tenders, and house-made sauces. Its variety, quality, and focus on bold flavors make it a favorite among wing lovers.

Initial investment: ~$298,000–$1,014,000

Franchise fee: Commonly $20,000 per store (plus $10,000 development fee in multi-unit deals)

Estimated Annual Profit: The average annual profit is approximately $200K, with top-performing locations in prime markets generating $200K to $220K or more.

Texas leads the network at ~461 locations (~21%), followed by California with ~421 outlets (~19%) and Florida with ~144 units (~7%). (Source - Biz2Credit)

#20. Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box is a versatile QSR brand offering burgers, tacos, breakfast, and late-night snacks. Its diverse menu and quirky personality make it a go-to destination for adventurous eaters.

Initial investment: ~$1,651,500–$4,032,100

Franchise fee: Up to $50,000

Estimated Annual Profit: On average, U.S. Jack in the Box locations generate an estimated annual profit of around $290K, with high-performing stores in busy markets potentially earning $300K or more per year.

California led at around 940+ locations, followed by Texas with 580+ and Arizona with nearly 180 outlets. (Source - IFPG)

Here is the List of Top 20 Fastest-Growing QSR Brands in the U.S. -

Source - qsrmagazine