BrightStar Care Franchise Cost 2026: $132K–$235K Initial Investment, Royalties & FDD Data

Name: BrightStar Care
Brand: BrightStar Care

Key Investment Facts

✓ Data verified · 2026-05-02 · Confidence: 90%

[LAST UPDATED: May 2, 2026] · [VERIFIED · FDD]

Initial Investment

$132K–$235K

[VERIFIED · FDD 2026]

Franchise Fee

$50K

Royalty Rate

5.25%

Avg Unit Revenue

$2.4M

[VERIFIED · FDD 2026]

Total Units

408

Annual Growth

+20 units/yr

About BrightStar Care

BrightStar Care operates within the senior home healthcare sector, distinguishing itself through a business model that provides a full continuum of care, including both non-medical assistance and skilled nursing services. Franchisees manage a clinical and administrative team to deliver medical and personal care directly to clients' homes. With 408 locations across 38 states, the brand occupies a high-tier market position as the only franchisor offering this comprehensive range of services. According to the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the average revenue per location is $2.4 million. The company’s growth trajectory and infrastructure were further influenced by a strategic private equity investment in 2026, positioning the brand for continued expansion in a fragmented healthcare market.

The total initial investment for a BrightStar Care franchise ranges from $132,000 to $235,000, which includes a standard franchise fee of $50,000. Ongoing operational costs include a royalty fee set at 5.25% of gross revenue. Variance in the initial investment is primarily driven by local real estate costs, initial staffing requirements, and the scale of the territory's marketing launch. These fees grant the franchisee access to proprietary operating systems, clinical oversight protocols, and brand-wide referral networks. The relatively low capital expenditure compared to the average unit volume reflects a service-based model where costs are concentrated in human capital and regulatory compliance rather than heavy equipment or inventory.

BrightStar Care presents a robust financial profile for prospective investors looking to enter the home health care industry. The franchise system reports an impressive average unit revenue of approximately $2.4 million per year, reflecting the high demand for its comprehensive range of medical and non-medical services. Detailed financial performance data is transparently provided within the brand’s Franchise Disclosure Document, specifically under Item 19. This transparency allows potential owners to evaluate the historical earnings and expense patterns of existing locations, providing a data-driven foundation for business planning and financial projections.

On an operational level, franchisees act as business managers who oversee a team of skilled caregivers and administrative staff rather than providing direct clinical care themselves. Their day-to-day responsibilities involve business development, community networking, and ensuring high standards of clinical excellence. The franchise utilizes a protected territory structure, which grants owners exclusive rights to market and operate within a specific geographic area. To ensure long-term success, BrightStar Care provides extensive support systems, including initial training, ongoing operational guidance, and a centralized clinical team to assist with regulatory compliance and quality assurance.

BrightStar Care demonstrates significant stability and market presence with a total of 408 units currently in operation. The company has been in business for 24 years and has spent 21 of those years expanding through its franchising model. In 2026, the brand transitioned to private equity ownership following its acquisition by an undisclosed Strategic PE Partner. This long-standing history combined with recent institutional backing suggests a mature system that has successfully navigated various economic cycles while maintaining a large footprint in the home care sector.

Prospective franchisees should meet a minimum net worth requirement of 500,000 dollars and possess at least 100,000 dollars in liquid capital. The ideal candidate typically has a background in sales, management, or healthcare operations and is looking for a lifestyle that balances professional growth with mission-driven service. While the system is accessible to first-time business owners due to its established support structure, experienced operators may find the scalability particularly attractive. Key risks to consider include the ongoing challenge of caregiver recruitment and retention in a competitive labor market, as well as the complexities of navigating evolving healthcare regulations.

Item 19 (Financial Performance Representation): Available — franchisees can view historical earnings data.

Tags: senior care, home health, medical, skilled nursing, recession-resistant

Franchise Referral Program

Ready to Explore BrightStar Care?

Get a personalized investment analysis and introduction to the franchise development team — free. No obligation.

✓ Free — No obligation ✓ Your data stays private ✓ 188+ franchises in our database

Investment Overview: Is BrightStar Care Worth It?

Opening a BrightStar Care franchise requires an initial investment in the range of $132K to $235K. The initial franchise fee is $50K, which grants you access to the brand, training, and operational systems. Ongoing royalty fees are 5.25% of gross revenue. BrightStar Care operates in the Senior Care sector and typically requires owner-operator involvement.

As of the most recent disclosure, BrightStar Care has 408 total franchise units (395 franchised). Recent growth shows 20 new units opened last year, which signals steady market presence in the Senior Care space.

BrightStar Care provides an Item 19 Financial Performance Representation in its FDD, which means prospective franchisees can review historical earnings data before investing. We recommend using our AI Financial Model tool to project personalized returns, and reviewing the full FDD analysis before making any investment decision.

Risk Assessment

Overall Risk

9/10 Lower Risk

Key risk signals from FDD data. Higher score = lower risk. Verify in the franchise's current disclosure document.

📉

Franchisee Turnover (Item 20)

+20 opened, 0 closed last year

Growing

⚠️

Failure Rate

Not publicly disclosed

Unknown

🗺️

Territory Protection

Territory terms not disclosed

Unknown

💸

Ongoing Fee Burden

5.3% of revenue (royalty)

Low

Data as of May 2026. Not investment advice — review current FDD before investing.

Ownership & Private Equity

Current Owner

Strategic PE Partner (undisclosed)

Acquired

2026

PE ownership not publicly confirmed. BrightStar Care is a premium home care and medical staffing franchise; franchisees typically generate $2.4M+ average annual revenue per 2024 FDD.

⚠️ PE ownership can affect franchise support culture and resale terms. Always review the most recent FDD for ownership disclosures.

Franchisee Q&A

Real answers from verified BrightStar Care owners

💬

No questions yet

Be the first to ask a verified BrightStar Care franchisee

Frequently Asked Questions About BrightStar Care

How much does it cost to open a BrightStar Care franchise?

The total initial investment for a BrightStar Care franchise ranges from $132K to $235K. This includes the franchise fee of $50K, plus buildout, equipment, inventory, and working capital. Ongoing royalty fees are 5.25% of gross revenue. Always request the current Franchise Disclosure Document for exact, up-to-date figures.

Is BrightStar Care a good franchise to buy in 2026?

BrightStar Care operates in the Senior Care sector with 408 total units. Whether it's a good investment depends on your market, capital, and goals. We recommend using our AI Financial Model tool to project personalized returns before making a decision.

Can I run a BrightStar Care franchise as a semi-absentee owner?

BrightStar Care typically operates under a owner-operator model. Owner-operators are expected to be involved in daily management. This hands-on model usually offers more control over operations and customer experience but requires a greater time commitment.

What is the failure rate for BrightStar Care franchises?

Specific failure rate data for BrightStar Care is not publicly disclosed. Failure rates vary by market and operator experience. Always review Item 20 of the FDD, which discloses franchisee turnover, transfers, and terminations over the past three years.

How does BrightStar Care compare to other Senior Care franchises?

BrightStar Care competes with other brands in the Senior Care space. Key differentiators include investment level ($132K to $235K), and the owner-operator operating model. Use our franchise comparison tool to see side-by-side data against specific competitors.

Explore Similar Opportunities

All Senior Care Franchises More $100K–$300K Franchises Calculate ROI Analyze FDD

Compare BrightStar Care Against

BrightStar Care vs Home Instead Compare → BrightStar Care vs Visiting Angels Compare → BrightStar Care vs Right at Home Compare → BrightStar Care vs Comfort Keepers Compare →

Browse all comparisons →

More Senior Care Franchises

Home Instead

Home Instead operates within the non-medical in-home senior care industry, positioning itself as the world’s leading provider of in-home senior care services. The business model focuses on providing companionship, personal care, and specialized dementia support to aging adults in their private residences. Franchisees act as executive directors, overseeing daily operations that include caregiver recruitment, client consultations, and local relationship management. By leveraging a global network of over 1,200 locations, the company maintains a high-volume market position, competing through standardized service protocols and extensive brand recognition in a fragmented healthcare landscape. The total initial investment for a Home Instead franchise ranges from approximately $130,000 to $200,000, including a $59,000 initial franchise fee. Franchisees are also required to pay ongoing royalties of 5.00% of gross revenue and an advertising fund contribution of 1.00%. Cost variance is largely determined by local real estate prices, state-specific licensing fees, and the amount of liquid capital required to sustain operations during the initial client acquisition phase. These fees provide the infrastructure for centralized support, including training modules and national marketing campaigns, which are essential for scaling a service-based business in a regulated environment. The Home Instead franchise offers a robust financial profile for prospective investors looking to enter the senior care industry. On average, a single unit generates approximately $1.8 million in annual revenue. New franchise owners can typically expect to reach profitability within about 10 months of launching their operations. For those seeking a deeper dive into the numbers, the company provides detailed financial performance data within Item 19 of their Franchise Disclosure Document. This transparency allows potential franchisees to evaluate the historical earnings and expenses associated with the brand before making a commitment. Operationally, Home Instead utilizes an owner-operator involvement model where the franchisee plays an active role in managing the business. While the business can be run from a commercial office, a home-based option is available to help reduce initial overhead costs. New owners undergo three weeks of initial training to learn the systems, which eventually support a staff of roughly 50 employees per location. Day-to-day responsibilities focus on client intake, caregiver recruitment, and community networking within a specific territory structure. To ensure long-term success, the company provides comprehensive franchisee support systems covering marketing, technology, and ongoing clinical education. Home Instead demonstrates a high level of stability and maturity within the senior care industry, boasting 32 years in business and 30 years of franchising experience. The system currently supports approximately 1,200 total units, reflecting a massive footprint that has reached a stage of steady, incremental expansion with a 1.00% net growth rate. Financial health across the network appears robust, as evidenced by a low 2.00% failure rate. Furthermore, the brand maintains a strong relationship with its partners, reflected in a franchisee satisfaction score of 81 out of 100, suggesting that the established support systems and operational model continue to meet the expectations of its long-term and new owners alike. This opportunity is designed for individuals with a minimum net worth of $250,000 and at least $100,000 in liquid capital. The model ideally suits owner-operators who possess strong interpersonal skills and a background in management or community service, as the business relies heavily on relationship building and staff coordination. It offers a lifestyle fit for those seeking meaningful work in the aging-in-place sector, making it accessible for both first-time entrepreneurs and experienced franchisees looking to diversify. However, prospective owners must be prepared for significant labor challenges, specifically the ongoing difficulty of recruiting and retaining qualified caregivers. Additionally, because the brand is highly established, new franchisees may face limited territory availability in prime markets, necessitating a careful look at local competition.

$130K–$200K Senior Care Owner-Operator

Right at Home

Right at Home operates within the non-medical home care sector, providing personal care and companionship services to seniors and adults with disabilities. The business model is service-oriented, relying on the recruitment and management of a decentralized workforce of caregivers who provide assistance in the client’s residence. Franchisees primarily focus on business development, establishing referral networks with healthcare providers, and overseeing operational compliance and staff scheduling. In the competitive landscape, the brand occupies an established position among national providers, leveraging its scale to compete against both large-scale franchises and local independent agencies. Success in this model is largely dependent on the franchisee’s ability to maintain high caregiver retention rates and manage the logistical complexities of hourly home-based service delivery. The total initial investment for a Right at Home franchise ranges from $88,000 to $158,000, which includes a standard franchise fee of $50,000. Variance in the total cost is typically driven by local real estate expenses for a required office space, state-specific licensing fees, and the amount of initial working capital reserved for payroll and operations. Ongoing financial obligations include a royalty fee of 5.00% of gross revenue and a 2.00% contribution to the national advertising fund. These fees grant the franchisee access to proprietary operating systems, initial training programs, and centralized marketing initiatives intended to maintain brand awareness and provide technical support for the business. The Right at Home franchise presents a strong financial profile for entrepreneurs looking to enter the senior care market. According to recent data, the average unit revenue for a franchise location is approximately $1.3 million per year. Many owners see a relatively quick return on their investment, with the typical time to reach profitability being about 10 months. For those seeking more granular details regarding earnings and expenses, the company provides comprehensive financial performance data within Item 19 of its Franchise Disclosure Document. This level of transparency helps prospective franchisees evaluate the potential for growth and sustainability within their specific markets. From an operational standpoint, the brand follows an owner-operator involvement model that emphasizes active leadership and community engagement. While many choose a traditional office, a home-based option is available to help manage initial costs. New franchisees receive two weeks of initial training to master day-to-day responsibilities, which involve overseeing a team of roughly 30 employees and managing client relationships. Each location operates within a defined territory structure to ensure a dedicated service area. Furthermore, the franchise provides extensive support systems, including marketing assistance and operational guidance, to help owners navigate the complexities of the home care industry effectively. Right at Home has established a significant presence in the home care industry with 700 total units currently in operation. The brand demonstrates long-term stability, having been in business for 29 years and franchising for 24 of those years. Recent performance metrics show a steady net growth rate of 2.00 percent, balanced against a relatively low failure rate of 2.50 percent. Franchisee sentiment remains generally positive, reflected in a satisfaction score of 79 out of 100. This combination of longevity and consistent unit counts suggests a mature system that has refined its operational model over several decades. This opportunity is designed for individuals with a minimum net worth of $200,000 and at least $100,000 in liquid capital. The model primarily suits owner-operators who possess strong interpersonal skills and a background in management or community service. It offers a lifestyle fit for those seeking meaningful work in the healthcare sector, appealing to both first-time business owners and experienced franchisees looking for a scalable service model. However, potential candidates must consider key risks such as the ongoing challenge of caregiver recruitment and retention in a competitive labor market. Additionally, navigating the complex regulatory landscape of home health services requires constant vigilance to maintain compliance and operational standards.

$88K–$158K Senior Care Owner-Operator

Visiting Angels

Non-medical home care services for seniors.

$84K–$132K Senior Care Owner-Operator

Always Best Care

Always Best Care operates within the senior care sector, utilizing a multi-revenue stream model that encompasses non-medical in-home care, assisted living placement services, and skilled nursing. Franchisees manage a business that coordinates care providers for elderly clients who wish to age in place, while also acting as referral agents for residential care facilities. Day-to-day operations involve staff recruitment, client assessments, and networking with local healthcare professionals to build a referral pipeline. By combining home care with placement services, the company positions itself as a comprehensive solution provider in a fragmented market, catering to varying levels of acuity and client budgets. The total initial investment for an Always Best Care franchise ranges from $81,100 to $139,100, which includes a standard franchise fee of $50,000. Ongoing costs include a royalty fee of 6.00% of gross revenue and a 2.00% contribution to the system-wide advertising fund. These fees grant access to proprietary operating systems, brand trademarks, and centralized marketing support. Variance in the total investment is primarily driven by regional differences in office lease rates, local licensing requirements, and the initial scale of the staff recruitment phase. Capital requirements are relatively low compared to facility-based models, as the business is primarily service-oriented and does not require significant real estate holdings. The Always Best Care franchise presents a compelling financial profile for prospective business owners in the senior care sector. On average, units generate approximately $900,000 in annual revenue, demonstrating the strong demand for non-medical home care and assisted living placement services. New franchisees can typically expect a relatively quick ramp-up period, with the average time to reach profitability estimated at around 10 months. For those seeking a deeper dive into the numbers, the company provides detailed Item 19 financial performance data within their Franchise Disclosure Document, allowing for a transparent look at historical earnings and expenses across the network. Operationally, the franchise follows an owner-operator involvement model, though it offers the flexibility of a home-based option to keep overhead low during the initial stages. The system is designed to be scalable, with a typical location employing around 25 people to manage client care and administrative tasks. New owners receive two weeks of initial training to prepare for day-to-day responsibilities, which include networking, staff management, and client consultations. The business is organized around protected territory structures, ensuring each franchisee has a dedicated market area. To ensure long-term success, Always Best Care provides robust franchisee support systems, including marketing assistance, field support, and technology platforms to streamline scheduling and billing. Always Best Care is a well-established brand in the senior care sector, boasting 28 years in business and 17 years of franchising experience. The system currently operates 230 total units and maintains a modest net growth rate of 2.00 percent alongside a 4.00 percent failure rate. Franchisee satisfaction is rated at 76 out of 100, indicating a generally positive relationship between the corporate office and its partners. A major shift in the company structure occurred in 2025 when it was acquired by the private equity firm NexPhase Capital, a move that signals a new chapter of institutional backing for the brand. The opportunity is geared toward individuals with a minimum net worth of $200,000 and $75,000 in liquid capital. It best suits owner-operators who have strong leadership skills and a desire for a community-focused lifestyle. While the model is accessible to first-time franchisees due to its structured support, it also appeals to experienced operators looking to scale in the healthcare space. Prospective owners should be aware of key risks, including the ongoing challenge of recruiting and retaining quality caregivers and the potential for increased labor costs driven by changing state and federal regulations.

$81K–$139K Senior Care Owner-Operator

Similar Investment Range

Other franchises with similar startup costs across categories.

Wild Birds Unlimited

Backyard bird feeding and nature specialty retail.

$187K–$351K Retail & Services Owner-Operator

College HUNKS

College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving operates within the home services sector, utilizing a dual-revenue model that combines professional moving services with junk removal. Franchisees manage daily operations centered on logistics, labor management, and fleet maintenance. The business model relies on a centralized sales and loyalty center to handle inbound inquiries, allowing owners to focus on local execution and staff development. In a fragmented market, the company positions itself through high-visibility branding and a standardized service protocol designed to differentiate it from smaller, independent operators. The total initial investment for a franchise ranges from $109,000 to $352,000, which includes a standard franchise fee of $50,000. This variance in startup costs is primarily driven by the scale of the initial truck fleet, local real estate requirements for vehicle storage, and the amount of initial working capital reserved for early-stage operations. Ongoing financial obligations include a 7.00% royalty on gross revenue and a 2.00% contribution to the brand development fund. These fees facilitate access to the franchisor’s proprietary booking systems, national marketing initiatives, and continuous operational support. The College HUNKS franchise presents a compelling financial profile for prospective investors looking to enter the moving and junk removal industry. On average, a single unit generates approximately $1.4 million in annual revenue, demonstrating the strong market demand for their specialized services. New franchisees can typically expect to reach profitability within about 10 months of launching their operations. For those seeking a more granular look at the numbers, the company provides comprehensive Item 19 financial performance data within their Franchise Disclosure Document, allowing for a transparent evaluation of potential earnings and costs. Operationally, the franchise utilizes an owner-operator involvement model that emphasizes active leadership and community engagement. While many locations operate from commercial spaces, a home-based option is available to help reduce initial overhead costs. New owners undergo two weeks of initial training to master the business system before managing a team of roughly 20 employees. Day-to-day responsibilities involve overseeing logistics, marketing, and staff management within a defined territory structure. To ensure long-term success, the brand provides robust franchisee support systems including a centralized call center and dedicated business coaching to assist with scaling the enterprise. College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving has established a robust presence in the home services sector over its twenty years in business. Having spent sixteen of those years as a franchisor, the brand has expanded to approximately 200 total units across North America. The system demonstrates strong vitality with a 15.00% net growth rate and a notably low failure rate of just 2.50%. This stability is reflected in the internal culture, where franchisee satisfaction scores currently sit at 82 out of 100, suggesting a supportive and reliable environment for those entering the network. Prospective owners should prepare for a financial commitment requiring a minimum net worth of $300,000 and at least $100,000 in liquid capital. The model is particularly well-suited for owner-operators who possess strong leadership skills and a background in sales or team management. While the business offers a flexible lifestyle fit for those seeking to build a local legacy, it appeals to both first-time entrepreneurs and experienced multi-unit owners due to its scalable nature. However, candidates must be aware of risks such as high labor turnover in the moving industry and the ongoing logistical challenges of maintaining a large fleet of vehicles.

$109K–$352K Home Services Owner-Operator

⚠️ [SEEK EXPERT ADVICE] — Data is for educational reference only. Verify all figures with the franchisor's official FDD before making any investment decision. FranchiseStack does not provide investment, legal, or financial advice. Last reviewed 2026-05-02.

BrightStar Care Franchise

Key Investment Facts

About BrightStar Care

Ready to Explore BrightStar Care?

Investment Overview: Is BrightStar Care Worth It?

Risk Assessment

Ownership & Private Equity

Franchisee Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions About BrightStar Care

How much does it cost to open a BrightStar Care franchise?

Is BrightStar Care a good franchise to buy in 2026?

Can I run a BrightStar Care franchise as a semi-absentee owner?

What is the failure rate for BrightStar Care franchises?

How does BrightStar Care compare to other Senior Care franchises?

Explore Similar Opportunities

Compare BrightStar Care Against

More Senior Care Franchises

Similar Investment Range

Get Your AI Match Score

Compare BrightStar Care

Free Tools

Browse by Budget

Explore by Budget

Explore by Category

Free Tools

Resources

BrightStar Care Franchise

Key Investment Facts

About BrightStar Care

Ready to Explore BrightStar Care?

Investment Overview: Is BrightStar Care Worth It?

Risk Assessment

Ownership & Private Equity

Franchisee Q&A

Verify: I Own a BrightStar Care Franchise

Frequently Asked Questions About BrightStar Care

How much does it cost to open a BrightStar Care franchise?

Is BrightStar Care a good franchise to buy in 2026?

Can I run a BrightStar Care franchise as a semi-absentee owner?

What is the failure rate for BrightStar Care franchises?

How does BrightStar Care compare to other Senior Care franchises?

Explore Similar Opportunities

Compare BrightStar Care Against

More Senior Care Franchises

Similar Investment Range

Get Your AI Match Score

Compare BrightStar Care

Free Tools

Browse by Budget

Explore BrightStar Care

You're in the queue.

Explore by Budget

Explore by Category

Free Tools

Resources