Data note: Figures sourced from Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD) Item 7. Some brands have wide investment ranges due to equipment, real estate, or working capital requirements. AUV = Average Unit Volume. Growth rate = net franchise unit change year-over-year.
All Under $25K Franchises — Ranked by Investment
| # | Franchise | Category | Investment | Royalty | AUV | Satisfaction | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eXp Realty | Real Estate | $3,000–$8,000 | 5.0% | N/A | +5.6% | |
| 2 | Cruise Planners | Retail & Services | $2,095–$23,465 | 3.0% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 3 | Soccer Shots | Education & Children | $36,000–$55,000 | 8.0% | $200K | +10.0% | |
| 4 | Jan-Pro | Home Services | $4,250–$56,000 | 10.0% | $80K | +1.0% | |
| 5 | i9 Sports | Education & Children | $38,000–$70,000 | 7.0% | $250K | +10.0% |
Real Estate
| Franchise | Investment Range | Royalty | AUV | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eXp Realty | $3,000–$8,000 | 5.0% | N/A | +5.6% |
Retail & Services
| Franchise | Investment Range | Royalty | AUV | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cruise Planners | $2,095–$23,465 | 3.0% | N/A | N/A |
Education & Children
| Franchise | Investment Range | Royalty | AUV | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soccer Shots | $36,000–$55,000 | 8.0% | $200K | +10.0% |
| i9 Sports | $38,000–$70,000 | 7.0% | $250K | +10.0% |
Home Services
| Franchise | Investment Range | Royalty | AUV | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan-Pro | $4,250–$56,000 | 10.0% | $80K | +1.0% |
Frequently Asked Questions
+ What is the cheapest franchise to start in 2026?
The lowest-cost franchises include eXp Realty ($3,000–$8,000), Cruise Planners ($2,095–$23,465), and Jan-Pro ($4,250). However, total investment varies significantly — low franchise fees can be offset by high royalties or equipment costs.
+ Are under-$25K franchises profitable?
Profitability depends on the business model. Real estate and travel franchises have low overhead but generate revenue through commissions. Service franchises (cleaning, fitness) require more operational effort but produce higher absolute margins. Item 19 of each FDD provides financial performance representations.
+ What are the hidden costs of low-investment franchises?
Watch for: high royalty rates (10%+), equipment lease obligations, software/subscription fees, minimum advertising contributions, and territory fees. Some "low cost" models require master franchise purchases that add significant capital requirements.
+ Do under-$25K franchises require prior experience?
Most do not. Jan-Pro, Cruise Planners, and i9 Sports are designed for first-time entrepreneurs. eXp Realty requires a real estate license in most states. Always review the FDD Item 4 (required experience) and Item 5 (franchisee obligations).
+ What financing options exist for sub-$25K franchises?
SBA microloans (up to $50K), home equity lines, seller financing, and franchisor financing programs are common. Some franchises (Soccer Shots, i9 Sports) have in-house financing. The SBA 7(a) loan program can also be used for franchise investments under $25K.
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