What’s the cheapest franchise to open for maxium profit right now? [2025]

Franchising is a popular path for entrepreneurs who want to own a business with proven systems and brand support. A franchise allows you to operate under an established company name while following its tested model. There are many types of franchises, food service, retail, cleaning, travel, and home- or mobile-based models, that fit different budgets and lifestyles.

Low-cost franchises are especially appealing in 2025 because they require less upfront capital, reducing financial risk for new entrepreneurs. Current trends show growing interest in affordable franchises with home-based or mobile operations, which minimize rent and staffing costs.

If you’re wondering what’s the cheapest franchise to open, this guide offers up-to-date information and insights. It covers franchise fees, total costs, and expert tips to help you find the right low-cost franchise opportunity for your goals.

Table of Contents

1. Why low-cost franchises are growing in 2025

Affordable franchises are on the rise as more people seek business ownership without heavy debt or investor reliance. Reports from franchise industry sources reveal that initial investments for some low-cost franchises start below $10,000. These models appeal to individuals looking for flexibility, minimal overhead, and fast setup times.

Key trend highlights:

More franchisors are offering home-based and online service models.
Small business optimism and gig-economy growth are fueling franchise demand.
Low startup costs allow quicker break-even points for motivated owners.

Choosing a low-cost franchise in 2025 lets entrepreneurs start lean and scale gradually while benefiting from brand recognition and training.

2. What’s the Cheapest franchise to open in 2025?

The cheapest franchise to open in 2025 is typically Jazzercise, a dance-based fitness franchise. Its initial franchise fee ranges from $1,250 to $3,500, with total startup costs between $2,000 and $10,000 depending on location and equipment.

Why Jazzercise is the cheapest:

What's the Cheapest franchise to open — What is the Cheapest franchise to open

Home-based or studio-light setup
Minimal equipment costs
Flexible schedules and quick launch timelines
Training and brand support included

Other noteworthy low-cost franchises include:

Cruise Planners (travel agency) – franchise fee around $10,000, home-based model.
Jan-Pro (commercial cleaning) – franchise fee from $3,000–$6,000.
Chester’s Chicken (food service) – total investment starting around $15,000.
Dream Vacations (travel) – franchise fee under $10,000 with strong travel industry partnerships.

Jazzercise leads as the most affordable, but other brands like Cruise Planners or Jan-Pro offer home-based flexibility and reliable support.

3. How we identify and compare the Cheapest franchises

Selecting what’s the cheapest franchise to open requires thorough research. We reviewed the latest Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) for 2024–2025, as well as rankings from Entrepreneur, Franchise Business Review, and the International Franchise Association.

Key comparison factors:

Initial franchise fees and full startup costs
Ongoing royalties and marketing fees
Flexibility of the business model (home-based, mobile, or storefront)
Brand reputation, franchisee satisfaction, and quality of training/support

This approach ensures that only transparent, proven, and cost-effective franchises make it to our recommendations.

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4. Top 10 Cheapest franchises to open in 2025 [Ranked]

When evaluating what’s the cheapest franchise to open, it is helpful to look at options that combine low startup costs with reliable support and brand strength. The franchises below generally require under $50,000 in total investment, with many ranging from $2,000 to $20,000, perfect for first-time entrepreneurs looking to start lean.

4.1. Jazzercise (fitness)

Jazzercise, founded in 1969, is one of the most affordable fitness franchises available.

Franchise Fee: $1,250–$3,500
Total Investment: $2,000–$10,000
Ongoing Fees: 10% royalty + 3% marketing
Model: Home/studio-based
Best For: Fitness enthusiasts seeking flexible schedules

This franchise stands out for its low costs, strong brand recognition, and fun, community-driven classes.

4.2. Cruise Planners (travel agency)

Cruise Planners is a home-based travel agency franchise with strong partnerships across the travel industry.

Franchise Fee: $10,000
Total Investment: $2,000–$23,000
Ongoing Fees: 5% royalty
Model: Home-based

It is ideal for travel lovers who want remote work opportunities and repeat-client potential.

4.3. Jan-Pro (cleaning services)

Jan-Pro specializes in commercial cleaning and offers scalable service contracts.

Franchise Fee: $3,000–$6,000
Total Investment: $5,000–$25,000
Ongoing Fees: 5–7% royalty
Model: Mobile/commercial cleaning

Its steady demand and eco-friendly approach make it appealing for service-minded entrepreneurs.

4.4. Dream Vacations (travel)

Dream Vacations is a home-based travel booking franchise with robust training and tools.

Franchise Fee: $9,800
Total Investment: $3,500–$21,000
Ongoing Fees: 6% royalty
Model: Home-based

It provides strong brand support and flexibility for those interested in the travel industry.

4.5. Chester’s Chicken (food)

Chester’s Chicken is a quick-service food brand known for its low-overhead kiosk model.

Franchise Fee: $15,000
Total Investment: $15,000–$40,000
Ongoing Fees: 6% royalty
Model: Kiosk or small storefront

This franchise is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking an affordable entry into the food sector.

4.6. Proforma (printing & marketing)

Proforma focuses on printing, promotional products, and marketing solutions.

Franchise Fee: $10,000
Total Investment: $12,000–$40,000
Ongoing Fees: 6% royalty
Model: Home/mobile marketing services

Its diverse product range is great for sales-oriented business owners.

4.7. Stratus Building Solutions (commercial cleaning)

Stratus Building Solutions offers eco-friendly commercial cleaning services.

Franchise Fee: $8,500–$31,000
Total Investment: Up to $50,000
Ongoing Fees: 5% royalty
Model: Mobile cleaning contracts

It’s growth-oriented, with strong sustainability initiatives.

4.8. Superglass Windshield Repair (auto repair)

Superglass specializes in mobile windshield repair, targeting a steady automotive market.

Franchise Fee: $9,750
Total Investment: $15,000–$45,000
Ongoing Fees: Low or no royalties
Model: Mobile repair service

Its low overhead and flexible hours make it appealing for hands-on workers.

4.9. Buildingstars (Cleaning)

Buildingstars provides janitorial and maintenance services with recurring contracts.

Franchise Fee: $4,500–$21,000
Total Investment: Up to $40,000
Ongoing Fees: 5% royalty
Model: Mobile cleaning services

It offers stable income through long-term business relationships.

Choosing the right one depends on your interests, budget, and long-term business goals.

5. Side-by-Side Comparison of Cheapest Franchises

The table below summarizes the key metrics to compare:

Name	Industry	Franchise Fee	Total Cost	Ongoing Fees	Model	Pros
Jazzercise	Fitness	$1,250–3,500	$2,000–10,000	10% royalty	Home/Studio	Flexible hours, low cost
Cruise Planners	Travel	$10,000	$2,000–23,000	5% royalty	Home	Remote setup, repeat clients
Jan-Pro	Cleaning	$3,000–6,000	$5,000–25,000	5–7% royalty	Mobile	Steady demand, scalable
Dream Vacations	Travel	$9,800	$3,500–21,000	6% royalty	Home	Strong training, flexible
Chester’s Chicken	Food	$15,000	$15,000–40,000	6% royalty	Kiosk/Store	Recognized brand
Proforma	Marketing	$10,000	$12,000–40,000	6% royalty	Home/Mobile	Diverse services
Stratus Building	Cleaning	$8,500–31,000	Up to $50,000	5% royalty	Mobile	Eco-friendly approach
Superglass	Auto Repair	$9,750	$15,000–45,000	Low/None	Mobile	Low overhead
Buildingstars	Cleaning	$4,500–21,000	Up to $40,000	5% royalty	Mobile	High repeat business

This comparison helps you quickly spot which franchise aligns with your budget, industry interest, and lifestyle.

6. In-depth profiles: Top 3 cheapest franchise opportunities

We analyzed the top three franchises, Jazzercise, Cruise Planners, and Jan-Pro, because they represent the best combination of affordability, brand support, and long-term potential. These franchises are highly regarded for offering low entry costs without sacrificing training or resources for success.

6.1. Jazzercise

Founded in 1969, Jazzercise provides dance-fitness classes in a fun, community-driven format. Franchisees benefit from:

Fast ROI, with typical payback within 1–2 years
Flexible class schedules that suit various lifestyles
Strong marketing campaigns and nationwide brand loyalty

Jazzercise is ideal for fitness enthusiasts who want a low-cost entry point and the opportunity to build a loyal local community.

6.2. Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners is a travel-planning franchise that operates entirely from home, offering services for cruises, tours, and vacations. Key benefits include:

Access to exclusive travel deals and strong industry partnerships
CRM and marketing tools to manage clients efficiently
Comprehensive ongoing training and tech support

This franchise is perfect for people with customer service or travel sales experience who prefer the flexibility of a home-based business.

6.3. Jan-Pro

Jan-Pro is a leader in commercial cleaning services, known for reliability and scalable operations. Franchisees gain advantages such as:

Steady client demand and recurring contracts
Eco-friendly cleaning supplies and methods
Hands-on training and ongoing local support

Jan-Pro is best suited for entrepreneurs who want a service business with consistent demand and strong growth potential.

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7. Key factors to consider before choosing a low-cost franchise

Choosing the right low-cost franchise requires more than just looking at the franchise fee. You need to evaluate the full financial picture, the level of franchisor support, and the growth potential to ensure long-term success.

Important factors to review:

Key factors to consider before choosing a low-cost franchise

Upfront vs. total investment: Review the complete cost structure, not just the franchise fee. Include equipment, supplies, and initial marketing expenses.
Ongoing fees: Royalties and marketing fees will directly impact your profit margins over time.
Support systems: Check the quality of initial training, marketing assistance, and operational support. Franchisee reviews can give honest insights.
Business model: Home-based or mobile models often have lower overhead but may take longer to scale compared to physical storefronts.

Balancing cost, support, and potential ROI is key to choosing the right franchise for your situation.

8. How to succeed with a cheap franchise: Tips & best practices

Starting a low-cost franchise is only the beginning, how you manage and grow it determines long-term success. To stand out in competitive markets, you need the right mix of strategy, marketing, and financial discipline.

Key tips to maximize success:

Invest time in franchisor training and marketing strategies. Leverage the tools, programs, and resources provided to get up to speed quickly.
Use local advertising and social media to attract customers. Targeted promotions and an active online presence help build brand awareness.
Network with other franchisees for insights and support. Peer connections can reveal practical tips and shortcuts to success.
Track finances carefully and plan reinvestment for growth. Maintain accurate financial records and reinvest profits into marketing or operations to scale sustainably.

With focus, effective marketing, and smart financial management, even a low-cost franchise can evolve into a sustainable, profitable business. Understanding what’s the cheapest franchise to open is only the first step, success depends on consistent effort and adapting to customer needs.

9. FAQs: What’s the Cheapest Franchise to Open?

Q1: What is the absolute cheapest franchise to open in 2025?

A1: Jazzercise is currently the lowest-cost option, with total startup costs starting around $2,000.

Q2: Can franchise fees be financed?

A2: Yes, many franchisors offer financing or partner with lenders to reduce upfront payment barriers.

Q3: Are home-based franchises profitable?

A3: Yes, they often have low overhead and flexible operations, but success depends on marketing and customer demand.

Q4: What industries have the cheapest franchises?

A4: Fitness, cleaning services, and travel agencies often have the lowest startup costs.

Q5: How long does it take to break even with a cheap franchise?

A5: Most low-cost franchises reach breakeven in 1–2 years, depending on effort and location.

Q6: Are no-money-down franchises real?

A6: Be cautious; many have hidden fees or higher royalties. Always review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Q7: Do cheap franchises offer good support?

A7: Reputable low-cost franchises provide training, marketing support, and operational guidance despite lower fees.

10. Conclusion

Finding what’s the cheapest franchise to open in 2025 involves comparing upfront costs, ongoing fees, and the quality of franchisor support. Jazzercise leads as the most affordable, while Cruise Planners and Jan-Pro offer home-based models with strong earning potential.

Key takeaways:

Low-cost franchises start around $2,000–$10,000 for initial investment.
Home-based and mobile models dominate the affordable franchise space.
Success requires leveraging training, marketing, and community support.

Choosing the cheapest franchise to open is just the first step, success comes from careful planning, ongoing learning, and maximizing the resources provided by your franchisor. Start exploring your options today to build a profitable and sustainable business in 2025 and beyond.

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