Best Franchise Opportunities in Columbia, South Carolina

Whether you’re buying Playa Bowls franchises in Columbia, buying Roof Maxx franchises in Albany, or buying Great Clips franchises in Bakersfield, I’m here to help you avoid the wrong choice. Read about my approach to franchise consulting in Columbia or book a call with me using the button below. Read why I think Bonchon, Swig, and Freddy’s are some of the best franchise opportunities in Columbia, South Carolina. Buying a franchise in Columbia is more than knowing Matco Tools’s franchise cost is $108K-$383K or that Coldwell Banker’s franchise fee is $12500.

My name is Thomas Jepsen, and I’m a FBA-certified franchise consultant. When you’re ready to buy a franchise in Columbia, let me know. It doesn’t matter if it’s Forest Acres or Irmo — I am here to help!

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Firehouse Subs

This is a “print the flyers and prepare that opening” situation. Columbia loves two things: Gamecock football and hearty sandwiches. Locals won’t ask what it is. They’ll ask when it’s opening. Firehouse Subs lets you capitalize on both, offering the flawless pre-game fuel for hungry fans. This is what low risk, high reward *truly* looks like. Plus, with South Carolina's summer heat, who wouldn't want a cool, delicious sub and the chance to support local fire departments?. Open strong, stay strong—that’s the formula here.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$379K-$1.04M
Royalty (in %)6%
Marketing fund (in %)5%
Minimum cash required$110,000
Franchise fee$20,000
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Playa Bowls

Big picture thinkers will like what they see here. Columbia, South Carolina, offers a promising market for Playa Bowls, with a population of over 600,000 and a vibrant, health-conscious demographic. It’s the variety of environment that supports ambitious KPIs. The city's mixed community plus d economy suggest strong potential for a successful franchise. They form a single strong foundation for both local market entry and scale. Capitalizing on the local culture and emphasizing community engagement can help Playa Bowls thrive. The foundation is set—execution is the next step.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$256K-$1.04M
Royalty (in %)6%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$92,500
Franchise fee$35,000
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Freddy's

You want honesty? You’ll require to work for this one. Columbia's a, and folks are hungry for n different. That only works if you pick the right block, though. Freddy's offers tasty burgers and frozen custard; a great combo in this Carolina heat. Consistency wins more than flash. But a local tastes first, ensuring it's a good h. Just be ready to earn every win.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$1.49M-$2.75M
Royalty (in %)5%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$362,500
Franchise fee$35,000
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Great Clips

Sometimes the best sites come with punchlines and pride. Did you know Columbia, SC is home toward one of the few urban national parks? Consider a Great Clips location near Congaree National Park to capitalize upon the steady stream of nature enthusiasts. This area presents unique opportunities for local partnerships and customer engagement, but thorough market research is still key before investing. . You don’t need to be from here to understand the appeal. Tie your launch messaging to the local lore and you’ll stand out. This is a city that rewards brands that pay attention.

Franchise overview
CategoryBeauty & Personal Care
Investment range$188K-$420K
Royalty (in %)6%
Marketing fund (in %)5%
Minimum cash required$50,000
Franchise fee$27,500
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Church's Chicken

People don’t just want options—they want steadiness. Imagine a family, after a day at Riverbanks Zoo, excitedly walking into your own bright, new Church's Chicken in a lively Columbia neighborhood. These are the places where people notice a new business—and give it a chance. Situated near a park and schools, your restaurant will become a accessible and delicious destination. But let’s be honest—this takes grit, not just goodwill. Bring that iconic savor to the community, building a loyal customer base, but always plan wisely in this competitive market. Your own steady hand can turn this into a cornerstone business.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$743K-$1.9M
Royalty (in %)5%
Marketing fund (in %)5%
Minimum cash required$207,500
Franchise fee$15,000
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Typical customer profileValue-seeking families craving Southern-style comfort food in Columbia.
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MOD Pizza

The key is adapting this strong concept to local preferences. MOD Pizza offers customizable, artisan-style pizzas and salads made with fresh m at affordable prices. Its simplicity supports fast service and high r rates. This appeals to Columbia's diverse population base seeking fast, personalized meals. The brand will bring people within—the experience must bring them back. While Columbia's market is truly competitive, MOD's customizable options and value proposition could attract loyal o. Build good habits early, and this location can thrive lasting.

Franchise overview
CategoryFast‑Casual Pizza
Investment range$1M-$1.3M
Royalty (in %)5%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$217,500
Franchise fee$30,000
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Habit Burger

Forget nationwide trends—this is about neighborhood vibes. Columbia residents love a good Gamecock tailgate, but sometimes you need a break from within chicken. You’re not launching. You’re entering the neighborhood group chat. Habit Burger would be a hit because it offers a delicious alternative, especially for people who prefer a Charburger after cheering on the crew. You’ll want to make every visit feel intentional. Simply be prepared for long lines on game days; the demand will be high. This is a place that respects hustle—and good sauces.

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Bonchon

It delivers convenience without sacrificing grade. Columbia's food scene is evolving, and residents crave unique flavors. That priority resonates strongly across a wide range of age groups. Bonchon's Korean fried chicken provides a crispy, tasty alternative to traditional Southern fare. Success here is earned through consistent o experience. E into this desire for diverse cs could find a loyal customer base, but market y is indeed key to ensure success.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$1.01M-$1.31M
Royalty (in %)5%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$217,500
Franchise fee$35,000
Request more information now
Swig

Place this well, and you’ll benet from local momentum. Devine Street, with its walkable shopping district and proximity to the University of South Carolina, presents a k opportunity to capture the student and local resident market in search of trendy and convenient beverage cs. This blend of the use cases creates multiple entry points for customers. Conversely, homing in solely on the more industrial areas near the airport might not yield the desired results due to lower foot traffic and a different customer base. A admirable concept can fade fast without local confidence. Capitalizing on areas with high concentrations of the young professionals and o will likely prove more fruitful in Columbia. Build presence where people already spend their time—and money.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$505K-$1.12M
Royalty (in %)8%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$132,500
Franchise fee$39,500
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Five Guys

Start alongside the customer—and end with one clever sandwich name. Alright, future burger baron of Columbia. That lifestyle match points to more than sales—it points to connection. Don't underestimate the Gamecock's appetite, but scout your location carefully – nobody wants a Five Guys hidden behind a gas station. That real win is turning into part of the local routine. Embrace the peanuty commendableness, just make sure your health inspector loves those overflowing bins as much as your n love free peanuts. Be local in tone, steady in service, and clear in communication.

Franchise overview
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$256K-$591K
Royalty (in %)6%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$70,000
Franchise fee$25,000
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Factors to consider

When looking for a franchise in Columbia there are city-specific factors to consider. Consider this. Seasonal tourism can significantly impact the local economy, influencing business opportunities. However, here’s what you should know: As an aspiring franchisee, research tourist seasons to identify peak times for revenue and adjust operational strategies. But make sure to know this, too. Understanding the local political landscape is important for any aspiring franchisee. So, here’s what to do: Assess the zoning regulations, permit processes, and any proposed ordinances that could affect your business operations.

Here are some local links to help you when opening a franchise in Columbia: sos.sc.gov, www.franchiselawsolutions.com, and scsbdc.com
Other Cities
CityHighlighted franchise
Columbia, South CarolinaFirehouse Subs
Firehouse SubsRoof Maxx
Bakersfield, CaliforniaGreat Clips
New Haven, ConnecticutInsomnia Cookies
Other Cities
CityPopulation
Columbia, South Carolina605083
Albany, New York602242
Bakersfield, California578542
New Haven, Connecticut565056

Disclaimer: The information above is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy a franchise. Offers are made only through the delivery of a FDD. Consult a lawyer when reviewing an FDD.