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HowMuchToStart

Franchise vs. Independent Business Calculator

Compare the costs of buying a franchise versus starting an independent business from scratch.

Franchise vs. Independent Calculator

Compare the real 5-year cost of buying a franchise vs. going independent.

Select a business type above to compare franchise vs. independent costs.

How to Use This Calculator

  • 1Select a business type to compare franchise and independent startup costs side by side.
  • 2Review the initial investment, ongoing royalty fees, and 5-year total cost comparison.
  • 3Use the pros/cons analysis to make an informed decision about your business path.

Disclaimer: The cost estimates on HowMuchToStart.com are for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Actual startup costs may vary significantly based on location, scale, market conditions, and individual circumstances. We recommend consulting with a local accountant, attorney, or SCORE mentor before making financial decisions. Data sources include the SBA, state government agencies, industry associations, and market research.