At a Glance: Key Differences
Data-driven observations based on disclosed figures. Not investment advice — verify current numbers in each franchise's FDD.
Investment & Fees
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Min Investment | $103K | $115K |
| Max Investment | $226K | $149K |
| Franchise Fee | $32K | $49K |
| Royalty Rate | 9.0% | 10.0% |
| Ad Fund Rate | 2.0% | 2.0% |
Unit Economics
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Unit Revenue | $400K | $400K |
| Avg Profit Margin | N/A | N/A |
Scale & Growth
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Total Units | 710 | 1,100 |
| Annual Growth | -1.5% | 4.0% |
| Failure Rate | 4.5% | 4.0% |
Franchisee Performance
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Franchisee Satisfaction | 65/100 | 75/100 |
Track Record
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Years in Business | 45 | 22 |
| Years Franchising | 44 | 19 |
Financial Requirements
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Min Net Worth Required | $200K | $200K |
| Liquid Capital Required | $75K | $100K |
Operations
| Metric | Sylvan Learning | Mathnasium |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Employees | 6 | 6 |
| Training Weeks | 2 | 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sylvan Learning or Mathnasium a better franchise investment?
The answer depends on your goals, budget, and market. Sylvan Learning has 710 total units and a 65/100 franchisee satisfaction score. Mathnasium has 1,100 total units and a 75/100 franchisee satisfaction score. Use our ROI Calculator to model both scenarios.
How much does it cost to open a Sylvan Learning franchise?
Based on data in our database, opening a Sylvan Learning franchise requires an initial investment of $103K – $226K. The franchise fee is $32K, with ongoing royalties of 9.0%. Always request the current FDD for exact figures.
How much does it cost to open a Mathnasium franchise?
Based on data in our database, opening a Mathnasium franchise requires an initial investment of $115K – $149K. The franchise fee is $49K, with ongoing royalties of 10.0%. Always request the current FDD for exact figures.
What is the royalty rate for Sylvan Learning vs Mathnasium?
Sylvan Learning's royalty rate is 9.0%. Mathnasium's royalty rate is 10.0%. That means Mathnasium has the lower ongoing royalty burden.
Which has more locations — Sylvan Learning or Mathnasium?
Sylvan Learning has 710 total units. Mathnasium has 1,100 total units. A larger system can mean more brand recognition, but also more territorial competition.
Is Sylvan Learning or Mathnasium semi-absentee friendly?
Sylvan Learning is typically run as a owner-operator model. Mathnasium is typically run as a owner-operator model. If passive income is your goal, semi-absentee models let you hire a manager to run day-to-day operations.
Related Comparisons
Data sourced from franchise disclosure documents and public records. Investment ranges, royalty rates, and unit counts change — always request current FDD before making investment decisions. Last updated March 2026.
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