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.

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

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