Hardee's Franchise Cost and Profits in 2026

By FDDIQ Research Team | April 2026

Based on 2025 FDD Filing

Quick Summary

$25,000

Franchise Fee

$2.0M

Midpoint Investment

9.5%

Total Fees

$1.2M

Median Revenue

-26

Net Closed

Cost Breakdown

Fee	Amount
Franchise Fee	$25,000
Total Investment Range	$1.4M - $2.6M
Midpoint Investment	$2.0M
Royalty Rate	4.0%
Advertising Fund	5.5%
Total Ongoing Fees	9.5%

Revenue and Profit Analysis

The median Hardee's franchise generates $1.2M in annual revenue. With estimated margins of 13%, that is approximately $161,011 in annual EBITDA.

Revenue per dollar invested: 0.62x.

Unit Count

Hardee's has 1,512 franchised units. Lost 26 net units (-1.7% decline).

SBA Loan Performance

SBA default rate: 25.0% across 7 loans. This is above the franchise industry average (~7-8%).

Key Risk Factors

Declining unit count (26 net closures)
High sba default rate (25.0%)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Hardee's franchise cost?

A Hardee's franchise requires a $25,000 franchise fee with total investment ranging from $1.4M to $2.6M. The midpoint investment is approximately $2.0M.

How much do Hardee's franchise owners make?

Based on the most recent FDD, the median Hardee's location generates $1.2M in annual revenue. With estimated industry margins of 13%, that translates to approximately $161,011 in EBITDA before debt service.

What is the Hardee's royalty rate?

Hardee's charges a 4% royalty on gross sales plus a 5.5% advertising fund, for a total ongoing fee burden of 9.5%.

Is a Hardee's franchise worth it?

Whether Hardee's is worth it depends on your market, experience, and financial goals. Key concerns include declining unit count (26 net closures), high SBA default rate (25.0%). The brand has been contracting with 26 net closures. The SBA loan default rate is 25.0%. Review the latest FDD thoroughly and validate with existing franchisees before investing.

What is the Hardee's franchise SBA loan default rate?

Based on SBA loan data, Hardee's has a 25.0% default rate across 7 loans. This is above the overall franchise industry average.

Want the full Hardee's FDD analysis?

Detailed financial data, Item 20 outlet counts, litigation history, and more.

View Full Hardee's Profile

Compare this franchise against the market

Before you rely on one brand's FDD, compare its startup cost, owner earnings, SBA default history, and ROI against the broader franchise market.

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