If you’re sick of seeing the same franchise opportunities on lists of “TheTop Franchises,” you’re going to like “The Top Franchises to Own in 2026.” A lot.
Now, I’m not saying that the writers of some of the “Top Franchises” lists that are online right now are wrong about what they feel are the “top” or “best” franchises to buy.
What I am saying is there are lots of franchise opportunities that are good. Maybe even great. And they’re not mentioned a lot. Well, not enough, anyway.
That being said, the franchise list I put together, does, in fact, include brands you may have never heard of…some hidden gems. Plus, some franchise brands you have heard of. My point?
All of the “top” franchise opportunities named on my 2026 list and others are opinion-based.
Note: The 17 franchises I’ve chosen aren’t listed in any particular order.
They’re based on my opinion of brands that I feel are worth a serious look.
Key Takeaways on The Top Franchises to Own in 2026
Finding the right franchise in 2026 isn’t about chasing the “hottest” brand everyone’s talking about. It’s about discovering the opportunities that align with your specific goals, skills, and market conditions.
That’s why the franchise opportunities highlighted here span diverse industries. From wellness and home services to education and pet care. Each offering unique advantages for different types of aspiring franchisees.
But, what makes a franchise worth considering in 2026?
Look for recession-resistant industries, recurring revenue models, and concepts that solve real problems people face on a daily basis.
Your Investment in a Franchise, The Systems in Place and Your Goals
You need to know that some of the top franchises for 2026 on the list below require substantial capital and hands-on operational commitment, while others offer low-overhead, home-based models. The common thread?
They’re all built on proven systems that give you a fighting chance against starting from scratch.
Instead, it’s to identify which opportunity matches your financial capacity, management style, and long-term vision.
So, whether you’re drawn to the wellness boom, essential home services, or premium education markets, the right franchise for you is the one that you feel can take you where you want to go in life.
“The best way to predict your future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
The Top 17 Franchises to Consider Owning in 2026
1. Burn Boot Camp
Burn Boot Camp
Burn Boot Camp franchise is a boutique fitness franchise focused on community-based, high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
It differentiates itself from big-box gyms by emphasizing a supportive, female-focused (though co-ed camps exist) environment. The brand’s core philosophy revolves around mental and emotional transformation alongside physical fitness.
The Burn Boot Camp app, their personal training-in-a-group-setting method, unlimited 45-minute Camps, personalized nutrition guidance, complimentary Childwatch, and a unique Floating Floor to protect joints and prevent injury further set this franchise concept apart as leaders in the fitness industry.
In addition, franchisees have access to our expert-driven marketing strategies and resources, from local outreach to impactful national campaigns, helping to boost your brand’s visibility and growth.
That said, Minuteman Press has been in the printing game since 1973, and they’ve cracked the code on staying relevant in a digital world. And that’s why I included this franchise opportunity in “The Top Franchises to Own in 2026.”
With that in mind, I want you to think beyond basic printing: this franchise offers digital printing, large format signs, promotional products, branded apparel, and direct mail services. What’s the real opportunity here?
Every business needs marketing materials, and they reorder regularly.
Translation: you’re not running a print shop. You’re managing a marketing solutions provider for local businesses.
The good news is that it’s accessible for aspiring franchisees without industry experience.
Finally, as a franchisee you’ll have local support. How?
With Regional Support offices that are staffed with representatives that provide local, face-to-face assistance. Another words, humans.
Royalty Fee: 6% of gross monthly sales (capped at a reasonable level)
Advertising Fee: No separate marketing fee – franchisees control local advertising
Check your email to opt-in to quiz/newsletter. NOTE: You may need to check your spam folder and/or Gmail promotion folders for the link. Click it, so you can take the quiz...
This Senior Care Business is Included in The Top Franchises to Own in 2026
3. BrightStar Care
America’s aging population isn’t slowing down…and neither is demand for quality home care.
BrightStar Care operates at the intersection of a massive demographic trend and a fragmented market. But, what sets this franchise apart?
They offer the full continuum of care. From companion services to skilled nursing, meaning clients don’t need to switch providers as their needs evolve.
And the business model is management-focused: you’re building a team of caregivers and matching them with clients, not providing care yourself. With Joint Commission Accreditation (the gold standard in healthcare), you’re positioning yourself above most competitors from day one.
Finally, multiple revenue streams including private home care, medical staffing for facilities, and national account contracts that corporate helps you secure.
With that being said, here’s something most people don’t know about Ace Hardware: you’re not paying ongoing royalties. Instead, franchisees become actual shareholders in a retailers’ cooperative.
Let that sink in. You actually own a piece of the parent company.
In truth, the Ace Hardware franchise business model is brilliant:
Ace leverages collective buying power across 5,966 locations while you maintain local ownership and control. You’re competing against Home Depot and Lowe’s, but with a neighborhood advantage and personalized service.
But please note, that owning and operating an Ace Hardware store near you requires substantial capital and a serious commitment to community service.
That’s because the company has a strong emphasis on being a helpful, local pillar in your community, aligning with the “helpful hardware folks” brand.
Ace Hardware Franchise Investment
Initial Investment: $272,500 – $2.1 million+
Franchise Fee: $5,000 Royalty Fee: No royalty – profit-sharing cooperative model
Advertising Fee: 2% prior year purchases (after first year $6,000 flat), optional regional advertising
The garage makeover industry is booming, and Garage Experts dominates this niche market.
Think about it: today’s homeowners are investing in their spaces like never before, and the garage is no longer just for parking cars.
With that in mind, this franchise specializes in epoxy floor coatings, custom storage cabinets, and overhead organization systems…all with lifetime warranties. The beauty of this model?
Low overhead, potentially high margins, and recurring revenue through referrals. You’re not manufacturing products yourself; they’re produced at corporate and shipped to you at distributor prices.
In addition, you’ll use proprietary 3D software to wow clients with renderings before installation, making the sales process smoother. It’s a “refined blue-collar” business; hands-on work with solid, well-known margins in a unique service sector.
Garage Experts Franchise Cost
Initial Investment: $103,000 – $199,000
Franchise Fee: $15,000 – $76,000
Royalty Fee: $500/month (months 1-6), $900/month (months 7-12), then 6% gross revenue or $1,800/month minimum
City Wide Maintenance flips the traditional service business model on its head.
You’re not hiring janitors or landscapers. Instead, you’re managing relationships and subcontracting the actual work.
With those things in mind, it’s important for you top know that this is a sales and management franchise, not a service delivery franchise.
Here’s the opportunity: commercial buildings need janitorial services, landscaping, window washing, and dozens of other maintenance services.
To that end, City Wide franchisees act as the general contractor, finding clients and managing a network of independent service providers. You’re building a business focused on relationships, not labor management headaches.
Finally, the business model scales beautifully because you’re not limited by your own capacity to perform work. As long as you are good at sales.
City Wide Maintenance Franchise Cost
Initial Investment: $174,000 – $372,000
Franchise Fee: $70,000
Royalty Fee: 5% of gross sales OR $0-$5,000/month minimum (varies by months in operation)
Advertising Fee: 1% of gross sales to Marketing Fund
Quick oil changes represent a $9 billion industry, and Take 5 has refined the model to near perfection. The concept?
10-minute oil changes without appointments, and customers stay in their cars throughout the process.
And with 1,006 locations nationwide, Take 5 is capitalizing on two consumer trends: convenience and speed.
This translates into the “pit crew” approach…technicians work from below the vehicle, creates a unique customer experience while increasing efficiency. This isn’t your father’s quick lube shop; it’s a systematized operation built for volume.
Last but not least, the brand’s rapid growth trajectory speaks volumes. The automotive service industry remains recession-resistant; people need oil changes regardless of economic conditions.
For aspiring franchise owners with operational expertise and strong management skills, Take 5 offers entry into a proven model within a stable industry segment.
“Dream big, start small, but most of all, start.” – Simon Sinek
The Top 17 Franchises to Own in 2026 Include These 3 Food Franchises
8. McAlister’s Deli
McAlisters Deli (PRNewsfoto/McAlisters Deli)
McAlister’s Deli occupies the fast-casual sweet spot: quality food, reasonable prices, and faster service than traditional restaurants.
Part of the Focus Brands family (which includes Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, and Cinnabon), franchisees are backed by significant corporate resources and infrastructure.
The restaurant menu centers on deli sandwiches, baked potatoes, soups, salads, and their famous sweet tea. Items with broad appeal and strong margins.
The fact is, fast-casual dining continues to outpace traditional quick-service restaurants because consumers are willing to pay slightly more for better quality and experience. Read this to see why. It gets better.
The brand has cultivated an extremely loyal following in Southern and Midwest markets and is actively expanding into new territories.
But before you get too excited about owning a McAlister’s Deli franchise near you, you’ll need to have restaurant management experience or at least the willingness to be deeply involved in daily operations.
Finally, the support system that normally comes with food franchise ownership provides stability that independent concepts can’t come close to matching.
P.S. I can’t help but thinking about how good a hot corned-beef sandwich would taste right now.
McAlister’s Deli Franchise Investment Cost
Initial Investment: $1.04 million to $2.44 million
If so, Marco’s Pizza gives you a fighting chance against the big players.
Founded by an actual Italian (Pasquale “Pat” Giammarco), this brand differentiates itself through quality. This includes fresh dough made daily in-store, a secret sauce recipe, and 3 signature cheeses.
And the good news?
There are around 1,200+ locations and prime territories available in the U.S. and international markets.
And according to information published on the Marco’s Pizza franchise website, it’s a franchise opportunity “Made for Multi-Unit Growth.”
Specifically, “Business support, enterprise-level systems and an experienced corporate leadership team make Marco’s an ideal investment for multi-unit entrepreneurs.”
Marco’s Pizza Franchise Cost
Initial Investment: $287,000 – $807,000
Franchise Fee: $25,000
Royalty Fee: 5.5% of net royalty sales (multi-unit franchisee incentives: 0% first 6 months, 2.5% months 7-18)
Advertising Fee: 7% total marketing (1% Brand Development Fund, up to 5.5% Geography Based Advertising)
Local Store Marketing: 7% minus other contributions
Cousins Maine Lobster rode the food truck wave to create a multi-faceted seafood franchise.
What started as a single food truck in Los Angeles (featured on Shark Tank) has evolved into a franchise system offering food trucks, brick-and-mortar restaurants, and ghost kitchen concepts.
Furthermore, the brand brings authentic Maine lobster to markets nationwide, capitalizing on the premium positioning of Maine seafood. The business model’s flexibility is its strength: you can start with lower investment food trucks and potentially expand to fixed locations.
The opportunity for you?
Premium pricing power. Consumers willingly pay $15-20+ for lobster rolls. Plus, Shark Tank exposure continues driving brand awareness, giving franchisees marketing momentum that independent seafood operators can’t match. That’s one of the reasons why I included this food franchise in my list of “The Top Franchises to Own in 2026.”
Finally, your success as a franchise owner requires operational excellence in food handling, strong location strategy for mobile units, and customer service that justifies premium pricing in a competitive food landscape.
Cousins Maine Lobster Franchise Cost
Initial Investment: $194,000 to over $968,900, depending on the model (food truck vs. restaurant)
Early childhood education is one of the most recession-resistant industries in franchising, and The Goddard School sits at the premium end of the market.
With that in mind, it’s a well-known fact that today’s parents don’t compromise when it comes to their children’s education and development. The Goddard School differentiates itself through a proprietary curriculum focused on play-based learning, experienced teachers, and strong parent communication systems.
Now, these aren’t daycare centers. They’re accredited private preschools serving children six weeks through six years old. You’re building a business asset that serves your community while creating a stable, recurring revenue model.
The Goddard School franchise provides extensive support for franchisees through site selection, construction, curriculum, and ongoing operational guidance.
Plus, you’ll have multiple revenue streams through infant care, preschool programs, and before/after kindergarten care.
The Goddard School Franchise Investment
Initial InvestmentOptions:
Build-to-Suit Lease: $952,500 – $1.36 million
Retrofit Lease: $1,482,500 – $4,583,000
Buy Land & Build: $5,230,000 – $8,570,000
Franchise Fee: $40,000 – $50,000
Royalty Fee: 6% of gross sales OR $2,500/month (first 90 days), then $3,500/month minimum
Advertising Fee: 2% gross sales for Brand Fund ($900/month first 90 days, then $1,200/month minimum), plus 2% local advertising
For more information on this education franchise, go to The Goddard School franchising website.
Franchise purchasing tip: I was recently interviewed by the folks at America’s Small Business Network. Watch the interview so you can get several of my franchise buying tips you can use right now.
12. Goldfish Swim School
I don’t want to freak you out here, but drowning is a leading cause of death for children under five. And Goldfish Swim School addresses this critical need while building a thriving business.
With that in mind, this isn’t your local YMCA swim program.
Instead, it’s a premium, year-round swim instruction facility featuring pools heated to a comfortable 90 degrees, a proprietary curriculum called “The Science of SwimPlay®,” and a vibrant, kid-friendly environment.
The business model features multiple revenue streams: swim lessons, birthday parties, swim team programs, and special clinics.
Finally, the demographic trends are favorable; parents recognize water safety as essential, not optional. And territory protection ensures you’re not competing against another Goldfish location nearby.
Goldfish Swim School Franchise Investment
Initial Investment: $1.6 million-to almost $6 million
The School of Rock franchise business transforms music education into a performance-based experience. How?
Rather than solitary practice in a bedroom, students learn by forming bands and performing live music. And the methodology works, and parents are willing to pay premium rates for results-oriented music instruction.
Not only that, this School of Rock franchise combines consistent recurring revenue (monthly tuition payments) with high emotional engagement.
For instance, your students aren’t learning scales in isolation; they’re preparing for real performances at actual venues, creating unforgettable experiences that drive long-term enrollment.
Finally, the School of Rock business model features multiple revenue streams: group lessons, private instruction, camps, workshops, and merchandise. You’re not just running a music school; you’re becoming a hub for the local music community. For proof, ask Greg Moore.
School of Rock Franchise Cost
Initial Investment: $425,250 to $704,800
Franchise Fee: $59,900
Royalty: 8%
Marketing: 3%
The Top Franchises to Own in 2026 Include Retail, Travel, Pets and a Service Business
14. Great Clips
Great Clips continues to dominate the value haircut segment with over 4,400 salons across North America.
The genius of this model? Simplicity and consistency. No appointments necessary, predictable pricing, and standardized service delivery make this a systems-driven business. Customers know exactly what they’re getting, which drives repeat visits and brand loyalty.
Furthermore, Great Clips franchises appeal to busy professionals and families looking for convenient, affordable haircuts without the uncertainty of independent salons.
Apart from that, the “beauty” of the haircut business is recurring revenue. People need haircuts every 4-8 weeks regardless of economic conditions.
Finally, Great Clips franchisees benefit from massive brand recognition, sophisticated marketing support, and proprietary technology including mobile check-in systems.
Note: The Great Clips franchise development team only wants people in their franchise system who are looking to own multiple salons.
Cruise Planners proves that low-investment, home-based franchises can work just fine. And a lot of today’s consumers love to cruise!
As the nation’s largest home-based travel franchise, they’ve built a model that eliminates the overhead of retail storefronts while tapping into the $150+ billion travel industry.
In this case, you’re not booking tickets at a strip mall office. Instead, you’re building a travel advisory business from your home office, leveraging corporate relationships with cruise lines, tour operators, and hotel chains.
The franchise company provides access to state-of-the-art booking systems, marketing materials, ongoing training, and most importantly, preferred commission rates negotiated through their collective booking volume.
Cruise Planners Franchise Investment
Initial Costs: $2,295 – $23,665
Franchise Fee: $695 – $10,995
Royalty: 3% of commissionable sales, with potential reductions or elimination at high sales volumes.
Pet Butler takes a decidedly unglamorous task; pet waste removal. And turns it into a recurring revenue business model.
Here’s the reality: dog owners hate scooping poop, and they’ll happily pay someone else to handle it.
More importantly, the business is simple: crews visit residential properties on weekly schedules, remove pet waste from yards, and dispose of it properly.
The genius here is in the recurring revenue model. Once you sign a customer, they typically stay for years because nobody wants to go back to handling this task themselves.
The team at Pet Butler provides routing software, training, a call center and marketing support. You’re building a route-based business similar to lawn care services.
Finally, the pet industry continues growing, as 67% of U.S. households own pets…creating sustained demand. Success factors include operational efficiency, employee management, and aggressive customer acquisition, but the fundamentals are solid for aspiring franchise business owners seeking straightforward service businesses.
Glass Doctor is a recession-resistant franchise business opportunity for those looking for a service industry.
In brief, this franchise business is best suited for operators with strong management skills who can lead logistics and teams, rather than perform the technical work themselves.
As for what you’ll do as a Glass Doctor franchisee, you’ll provide products and services for residential and commercial glass repair and replacement. Specifically, windows, doors, storefronts, auto glass, and specialty glass applications.
Notably, the essential nature of glass repair creates steady demand: broken windows need immediate attention, creating urgency that drives sales. No matter where the U.S. economy stands.
Finally, the Glass Doctor business model combines emergency repair services (immediate revenue) with planned replacement projects (larger tickets, scheduled work). So, in a perfect world, you’ll almost always have work. That means revenue!
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney
Choosing a franchise isn’t about falling in love with a brand or getting swept up in someone else’s hype.
Instead, it’s about doing serious research, understanding the real numbers, and making an informed decision based on facts…not feelings.
with that in mind, every franchise on “The Top 17 Franchises to Own in 2026” offers potential, but potential means nothing without proper due diligence.
The franchises that succeed aren’t always the ones with the biggest marketing budgets or the most buzz.
Instead, they’re the ones where the owner’s skills, resources, and goals align perfectly with the business model.
So, don’t chase franchise trends that may have a short cycle. Don’t rush the investigative process. Take your time, ask hard questions, and find the franchise opportunity that’s genuinely right for you. That’s how you build something that lasts.
(Disclosure: I’ve done some marketing work with two of the franchise opportunities I added to the list of top franchises for 2026. They are Pet Butler and BrightStar Care, and I still have professional relationships with both companies.)
Frequently Asked Questions About The Top Franchises to Own in 2026
1. What makes a franchise opportunity worth considering in 2026?
Look for franchises in recession-resistant industries with recurring revenue models. The strongest opportunities solve real problems people face daily—whether that’s childcare, home maintenance, or wellness services. Pay attention to concepts with proven systems, strong unit economics, and demographic trends working in their favor.
2. Are food franchises still a good investment?
Food franchises can be excellent investments if you choose wisely. Fast-casual concepts continue outpacing traditional quick-service restaurants because consumers will pay more for quality. However, food franchises require significant capital, operational expertise, and deep involvement in daily management. They’re not passive investments.
3. What industries are most recession-resistant for franchises?
Healthcare and senior services, children’s education, essential home services, quick-service food, and pet care historically perform well during economic downturns. People still need childcare, oil changes, and home repairs regardless of economic conditions. However, no business is completely recession-proof.
4. Should I buy a single unit or go multi-unit from the start?
Start with one unit unless you have extensive operational experience in that industry. Learn the business, prove the model works in your market, and build your management systems. Many successful multi-unit franchisees started with a single location and expanded after demonstrating success. Some brands like Great Clips specifically seek multi-unit operators.
5. What’s the most important factor when choosing a franchise?
Your own capabilities and commitment level. The best franchise opportunity means nothing if you lack the skills, capital, or dedication to execute the model properly. Match your personal strengths, financial resources, and lifestyle goals to the franchise requirements. That alignment matters more than any “top franchise” ranking.
About the Author The Franchise King®, Joel Libava, is a leading franchise expert, author of "Become a Franchise Owner!" and "The Definitive Guide to Franchise Research." Featured in outlets like The New York Times, CNBC, and Franchise Direct, Joel’s no-nonsense approach as a trusted Franchise Ownership Advisor helps aspiring franchisees make smart, informed decisions in their journey to franchise ownership. He owns and operates this franchise blog. Note: When you buy through links on this website, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Joel Libava
