Subway vs WingstopFranchise Comparison 2026
Subway and Wingstop represent two different approaches in the QSR space. Here's how they compare on investment costs, fees, revenue potential, and market presence.
Quick Comparison
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Subway | Wingstop | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $15,000 | $20,000 | -25% |
| Total Investment (Low) | $116,000 | $314,000 | -63% |
| Total Investment (High) | $263,000 | $956,000 | -72% |
| Cash Required | $80,000 | $300,000 | -73% |
| Royalty Rate | 8.0% | 6.0% | Higher |
| Advertising Fee | 4.5% | 4.0% | Higher |
| Estimated Revenue | $490,000 | $1.6M | -69% |
| Number of Locations | 20,133 | 2,100 | More |
| Year Founded | 1965 | 1994 | Older |
| Training Duration | 2 weeks | 4 weeks | Shorter |
Note: Data sourced from public FDD filings and industry reports. Actual costs vary by location, real estate, and format. Always review current FDD Item 7 and Item 19 disclosures before making investment decisions.
Detailed Analysis
About Subway
Lower-cost franchise option with flexible footprint. Lower per-unit sales but easier entry point for new franchisees.
About Wingstop
Wings and sides specialist with strong delivery and takeout focus. Smaller footprint than traditional QSR with high margins.
Investment Comparison
Subway requires a lower initial investment (avg $189,500) compared to Wingstop(avg $635,000), making it more accessible for first-time franchisees. However, Wingstop may offer higher revenue potential.
Fee Structure
Wingstop has lower ongoing fees (10.0% total) compared to Subway(12.5% total), which means more of each sales dollar stays with the franchisee. Over time, this can significantly impact profitability.
Market Position
Subway has a significantly larger footprint with 20,133 locations compared to Wingstop's 2,100. This larger network typically means better brand recognition, more purchasing power, and stronger operational support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open a Subway vs Wingstop franchise?
Subway requires an initial investment of $116,000 to $263,000, while Wingstop requires $314,000 to $956,000. Subway has the lower average investment at $189,500.
What are the ongoing fees for Subway vs Wingstop?
Subway charges a 8.0% royalty plus 4.5% advertising fee (12.5% total). Wingstop charges 6.0% royalty plus 4.0% advertising fee (10.0% total). Wingstop has lower total ongoing fees.
Which franchise makes more money: Subway or Wingstop?
Based on estimated average unit revenue, Wingstop generates $1.6M per location compared to $490,000 for Subway. However, profitability depends on many factors including local market, operating costs, and management.
How many locations does Subway have vs Wingstop?
Subway has 20,133 locations, while Wingstop has 2,100 locations. Subway has the larger footprint, which typically means stronger brand recognition and supply chain advantages.
Is Subway or Wingstop a better franchise investment in 2026?
Both Subway and Wingstop are established QSR brands with proven models. Subway offers a lower entry point, while Wingstop shows higher average revenue. The best choice depends on your available capital, local market conditions, and personal goals. Always review the current FDD before making investment decisions.
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