Best Franchise Opportunities in Baltimore, Maryland

Whether you’re buying Cinnabon franchises in Baltimore, buying MOD Pizza franchises in St. Louis, or buying Great Clips franchises in Portland, I’m here to help you avoid the wrong choice. Read about my approach to franchise consulting in Baltimore or book a call with me using the button below. Read why I think Five Guys, Mochinut, and Sweetgreen are some of the best franchise opportunities in Baltimore, Maryland. Buying a franchise in Baltimore is more than knowing The UPS Store Traditional’s franchise cost is $94K-$496K or that Jackson Hewitt’s franchise fee is $25000.

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

Book a free call to discuss 100s of opportunities we didn’t have space to display on this page.

Disclosure: Some franchisors pay us if you open with them after our introduction; you do not pay us. We recommend brands based on fit & include non-partner options..
Cinnabon

Strong markets breed strong businesses—along alongside this is one of them. Baltimore, Maryland, together with its resident pool of 2,189,589, could be a good market for Cinnabon. That scale creates room for both core offerings and local experimentation. Baltimore's diverse community and l foot traffic areas present an prospect for Cinnabon. These advantages position your franchise for early o. With a strategic marketing approach, the franchise might be genuinely able to flourish. That data points toward proaability and operational success.

Franchise overview & key stats of Cinnabon
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)3%
Minimum cash required$72,500
Franchise fee$30,500
We assessed potential challenges (with example location)Federal Hill: Customer parking, scarce space, and possibly different patron preferences than Cinnabon's target. Labor pool competition is pronounced.
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA systems-focused, experienced multi-unit food operator with significant liquid capital.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA first-time franchisee seeking semi-passive opportunities.
How much can you make as a franchise owner? (FDD Item 19 – see disclosure)Enclosed mall franchises made an average of $720k in net sales (not profit), according to the 2024 FDD
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Medi-Weightloss

Fells Point’s wellness spending supports a physician-referred model. This waterfront community's demand underpins a brand with reported monthly median gross sales ($59,487 for mature clinics). Source: FDD, Item 19.

Franchise overview & key stats of Medi-Weightloss
CategoryHealthcare
Marketing fund (in %)1%
Minimum cash required$62,500
Franchise fee$60,000
Neighborhood(s) we analyzed & suggestHarbor East (Affluent, health-conscious demographic), Charles Village (Dense residential area with students and professionals, near JHU), Pigtown (Redeveloping area with growing residential density and potential for an underserved market)
We assessed potential challenges (with example location)Thames Street's historic infrastructure necessitates costly plumbing for sink-per-exam-room build-outs; limited access challenges 15-minute consult caps by impacting patient punctuality and provider utilization.
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageFormer medical sales rep or healthcare administrators familiar with the value of the "physician-supervised" USP.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitCandidates unfamiliar with regulatory hurdles.
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About the page’s author, Thomas Jepsen
Franchise consultant & growth strategist
As seen in: Yahoo Finance

Master’s in Accounting, Strategy & Control. FBA-certified in franchises and FDD analysis. Raised institutional funding and completed a venture exit. Has advised aspiring franchisees on 20+ different business categories. Thomas helps aspiring franchisees evaluate brands objectively – it is my mission to steer you away from bad franchises.

Thomas Jepsen
Swig

The scene is already set—you just need to plug in the right piece. Imagine a bustling Baltimore neighborhood, families stroll by, and college students study nearby. There’s something quietly powerful about blending into a community rhythm. Your Swig location becomes that preferred c: friends laughing over custom sodas, parents grabbing a refreshing treat, and locals connecting over unique flavors. That local love comes after consistent delivery. While c isn't guaranteed, this vibrant community is thirsty for something new, and Swig could be it!. The right owner might be able to really thrive in this setting.

Franchise overview & key stats of Swig
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$132,500
Franchise fee$39,500
Neighborhood(s) we analyzed & suggestCanton (high foot traffic), Hampden (eclectic atmosphere), Locust Point (growing residential area)
Typical customer profileTech-savvy Baltimoreans valuing convenience and unique, personalized beverages.
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA hands-on owner-operator with experience in multi-unit QSR.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA passive investor who is afraid of high-volume, low-ticket sales
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Bonchon

Well-known brands still need great a. Bonchon offers crispy, double-fried Korean fried chicken with signature sauces and Asian-inspired dishes. Its approach fits well in communities that value speed and service. Baltimore residents will appreciate the unique flavor profiles, craveable crunch, and shareable meal options. But scaling up starts with getting one p really right. However, success depends on securing one prime location and effectively promotion to a diverse customer base. It’s all about showing up well—every shift, every service, every week.

Franchise overview & key stats of Bonchon
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$217,500
Franchise fee$35,000
How much can you make as a franchise owner? (FDD Item 19 – see disclosure)Bonchon's 2025 FDD reported median sales (not profit) of $1.358M for mature stores
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MOD Pizza

Neglect nationwide trends—this is about neighborhood vibes. Baltimoreans love a good underdog story and crave customization, simply like their rowhomes. Expect to be genuinely meme’d—and maybe even celebrated. MOD Pizza lets you build your own ideal pie, escaping the crab-cake-everything overload. The local crowd can be loyal—if you earn it. Just be sure to offer Old Bay seasoning – we're keeping it real here, hon!. Respect the vibe, serve that local community, and that results is expected to follow.

Franchise overview & key stats of MOD Pizza
CategoryFast‑Casual Pizza
Investment range$1M-$1.3M
Royalty (in %)5%
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$217,500
Franchise fee$30,000
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageAn experienced multi-unit restaurant operator.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA person with no restaurant experience, looking for a low-risk investment.
How much can you make as a franchise owner? (FDD Item 19 – see disclosure)No Item 19 claims in the 2024 FDD.
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Five Guys

It all offers everyday value with flexible local potential. Baltimore residents value quality, freshly made food, and Five Guys delivers that with customizable burgers and fries. That need is widespread—and growing steadily. The chain's no-frills approach resonates with the city's down-to-earth energy. You’re building not just reach, but credibility. Whilst competition is intense, a well-managed Five Guys can carve out a loyal r base. There’s upside here—if supported by n control.

Franchise overview & key stats of Five Guys
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$70,000
Franchise fee$25,000
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA highly-capitalized manager with restaurant experience.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA first-time entrepreneur looking for a hands-off business.
How much can you make as a franchise owner? (FDD Item 19 – see disclosure)No financial performance data in the Item 19 2025 FDD
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Mochinut

Identifying the right blend of the audience segments and traffic is essential. Consider locating your Mochinut in the vibrant Canton neighborhood, known for its young professionals, d, plus bustling waterfront, as it offers elevated foot traffic and a strong sense of community that could readily embrace your unique treats. This zone ls enough activity to support nutritious order volume. However, avoid prioritizing an area like downtown Baltimore's financial district, as its business-centric atmosphere could not offer the consistent leisure n base vital for a dessert-focused franchise. You'll need to align pricing and experience with neighborhood predictations. While downtown has potential, the reliance on weekday office crowds introduces more risk than the more residential Canton area. Treat each neighborhood like its own opportunity—and you’ll win.

Franchise overview & key stats of Mochinut
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Investment range$234K-$486K
Royalty (in %)5%
Marketing fund (in %)N/A
Minimum cash required$60,000
Franchise fee$35,000
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA meticulous, hands-on, trend-savvy operator who understand the power of Instagram.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA passive investor that's inexperienced in the retail food business.
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Playa Bowls

Start with the customer—and end with a clever sandwich name. So, you want to bring a taste of the tropics to Baltimore? Stellar. The rhythm here pairs well with strong customer service and visibility. Just remember, Marylanders love their crab cakes, so don't skimp on the local flavor, or assume everyone knows what pitaya is. Be present and engaged—not just open for business. Adopt the "hon," be truly patient with explaining açai, and you'll be golden. You don’t must have to stand out overnight—you need to fit in well and last.

Franchise overview & key stats of Playa Bowls
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$92,500
Franchise fee$35,000
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Factors to consider

When looking for a franchise in Baltimore there are city-specific factors to consider. Consider this. For aspiring franchisees, reliable public transportation is vital, especially for areas with high foot traffic. However, here’s what you should know: Assess the frequency of public transit, its coverage, and the convenience of access points near potential locations. But make sure to know this, too. Consider the local event’s impact on the specific city’s economy as a franchisee. So, here’s what to do: As an aspiring franchisee, you should look for how these local events affect the business’s sales and operational capabilities.

Here are some local links to help you when opening a franchise in Baltimore: egov.maryland.gov, www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov, and marylandsbdc.org

Our Evaluation Methodology

  • 1
    Franchisor Vetting & Financial Due Diligence

    FDD review & Baltimore's pulse informed us. We linked prospective owner success to Charm City's economic drivers, closely reviewed Item 19 & litigation history. This made sure financial stability.

  • 2
    Local Market Feasibility & Demographic Alignment

    We prioritized franchise models demonstrating fit with Baltimore's population density, median household household income ($52k), and key sectors (health services, education).

Earnings disclaimer

If any earnings claims are made for a prospective franchisor, those are verified against the Item 19 FDD version specified. No financial claims outside those made in an FDD may be shared with a franchisee. Please contact us in case you see discrepancies. Missing earnings claims do not mean an FDD is missing an Item 19.

City Highlights

🏙️ Retail corridor Archetype

Expect a mix of mature, dense urban streets with modern strip malls and big-box retailers along major roadways.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
🛣️ Major corridor access Access

I-95 and I-695 deliver regional connectivity; commuter and weekend traffic benefit from accessible routes.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
🎓 University presence Demand

Baltimore's universities like Johns Hopkins & University of Maryland present a pipeline of room to grow employees, but rivalry for talent can be high.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
🏭 Industry snapshot Broad

The area indicates a diverse sector mix, with strong representation across services, clinical care, and government industries.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
Other Cities
CityHighlighted franchise
Baltimore, MarylandPanera
PaneraMOD Pizza
Portland, OregonGreat Clips
San Antonio, TexasMochinut
Other Cities
CityPopulation
Baltimore, Maryland2189589
St. Louis, Missouri2127843
Portland, Oregon2084045
San Antonio, Texas2069843

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.