Best Franchise Opportunities in Washington, District of Columbia

Whether you’re buying Firehouse Subs franchises in Washington, buying Firehouse Subs franchises in Boston, or buying Twice the Ice franchises in Phoenix, I’m here to help you avoid the wrong choice. Read about my approach to franchise consulting in Washington or book a call with me using the button below. Read why I think Freddy’s, Mochinut, and Sweetgreen are some of the best franchise opportunities in Washington, District of Columbia. Buying a franchise in Washington is more than knowing Dunkin”s franchise cost is $211K-$1.83M or that Taco Bell Traditional’s franchise fee is $35000.

My name is Thomas Jepsen, and I’m a FBA-certified franchise consultant. When you’re ready to buy a franchise in Washington, let me know. It doesn’t matter if it’s Capitol Hill or Navy Yard — 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..
Firehouse Subs

Smart investors look for patterns—this one's hard to miss. Washington, District of Columbia, is a promising location for Firehouse Subs. It’s a single landscape where smart s can carve out lasting value. The city's sizable population of 5146120 people suggests a strong customer base. Such synergy between infrastructure and economic activity minimizes risk. The t of a mixed community with various dining preferences can easily foster a successful franchise. All things considered, this market checks every major box.

Franchise overview & key stats of Firehouse Subs
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)5%
Minimum cash required$110,000
Franchise fee$20,000
We assessed potential challenges (with example location)Shaw Firehouse Subs: Niche demographic fit, competitive labor pool, inconsistent midday trade traffic existing preliminary hurdles.
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA community-minded, systems-focused owner-operator with QSR experience.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitAn absentee owner that's inexperienced managing a younger workforce.
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Mr. Transmission

The ATF Headquarters’ commuter traffic presents a strong service market. Mr. Transmission’s inventory-light model is suited for diverse vehicle needs. The system (100+ units) reports $800k median gross sales. Source: FDD, Item 19.

Franchise overview & key stats of Mr. Transmission
CategoryAutomotive & Boat
Marketing fund (in %)N/A
Minimum cash required$57,500
Franchise fee$45,000
Neighborhood(s) we analyzed & suggestSODO (Industrial zone with high traffic volume), Lynnwood (Major commuter hub with growing residential and commercial base), Spokane Valley (Growing car-dependent population with a strong local economy)
We assessed potential challenges (with example location)NoMa's nascent industrial base and tech-centric workforce necessitates extensive regional recruitment for ASE-Certified Master Builders and proactive, specialized non-OBDII parts sourcing.
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA B2B Sales Hunter who's not afraiad of fleet account management. An active owner-operator, focused on local business relationships.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitAbsentee investors that aren't used to high-ticket sales, both B2B and B2C.
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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
Black Bear Diner

Imagine the sound of laughter, foot traffic, and orders being called out. Imagine families and friends gathering at your Black Bear Diner, drawn in by the scent of comfort food. These environments are where businesses become memories. Nestled in a lively, family-oriented neighborhood with schools and local shops, your own diner becomes a community hub. No matter this foot traffic, the systems behind it matter most. While success isn't assured, hard work and dedication could lead to a thriving business. With care, this could become a consistent, lasting part of the the neighborhood.

Franchise overview & key stats of Black Bear Diner
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)1%
Minimum cash required$350,000
Franchise fee$39,500
Neighborhood(s) we analyzed & suggestCapitol Hill (High foot traffic, residential area), Navy Yard (New development, growing population), NoMa (Increasing residential buildings, proximity to Union Station)
Typical customer profileFamily-oriented diners seeking comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageAn outgoing, experienced QSR operator who is passionate about diner experiences.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA passive investor, unwilling to work unconventional hours.
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Twice the Ice

The concept is proven—what issues now is positioning. Twice the Ice ps purified water and bagged ice through automated, self-serve kiosks, offering convenience and affordability. Its own menu is built for a-frequency visits. Washington D. But none of it matters i solid planning and follow-through. Cresidents, with their active lifestyles and a for quality, will relish readily available ice and water. If you're prepared to run it tightly, there’s strong upside here.

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Playa Bowls

We’ve got appetite, attitude, and just enough sarcasm to make it work. DC residents require a single healthy energy boost after navigating political gridlock. It's less about hunger and more about emotional snacks. Playa Bowls offers acai bowls as well as smoothies, a single flawless bipartisan snack. Consistency will determine how long the excitement lasts. But, remember, even a tasty bowl can't solve all of Washington's problems!. You bring the savor, and the neighborhood will bring the foot traffic.

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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Freddy's

This concept meets key criteria for today’s busy consumers. Freddy's offers a family-friendly atmosphere and classic American food, a welcome addition to DC's diverse culinary scene. This concept meets this require for affordability without compromise. Residents appreciate quality and value, aligning with Freddy's devotion to fresh ingredients and affordable prices. Sustained growth will require dependable service and adaptability. Thrivingly tapping into the local community will be key to booming within this competitive market. The fit is strong—execution will determine the outcome.

Franchise overview & key stats of Freddy's
CategoryRestaurants & Food
Marketing fund (in %)2%
Minimum cash required$362,500
Franchise fee$35,000
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageA well-funded, restaurant-experienced, culture ambassador with a passion for nostalgia
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitA passive investor with no QSR experience
How much can you make as a franchise owner? (FDD Item 19 – see disclosure)Average annual gross receipts (not profit) of $1.86M across 463 franchised restaurants (Item 19, 2025)
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Mochinut

Geographic focus is just as important as brand strength. Focus your early efforts on establishing a Mochinut in the vibrant and densely populated Columbia Heights neighborhood, leveraging its high foot traffic and diverse demographic eager for trendy treats. This area reflects an upward trend in community engagement and outlay. Within contrast, avoid prioritizing a location in the more residential and less densely populated Palisades area, where brand reach and spontaneous impulse purchases may be r. Be mindful—dense doesn’t always mean desirable g context. With prudent planning and community engagement, a Mochinut could thrive in many DC neighborhoods, but Columbia Heights us a strong base for success. Make the right moves early—and the location will work for you.

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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Great Clips

Put on your game face and your apron—it’s go time. L naming your salon "Hair Force One" near the White House, unless you *want* a Secret Service visit. You’ll need to show up with more than just signage—you’ll need personality. Don't assume all people in D. It helps to be close to home involved—not simply present. Conly cares about politics; they still need haircuts. With a single steady hand and community awareness, this business can thrive.

Franchise overview & key stats of Great Clips
CategoryBeauty & Personal Care
Marketing fund (in %)5%
Minimum cash required$50,000
Franchise fee$27,500
We Analyzed Who Has an AdvantageSemi-absentee investor focused on multi-unit growth with management experience.
We Analyzed Who Is a Bad FitSomeone inexperienced in recruiting.
How much can you make as a franchise owner? (FDD Item 19 – see disclosure)$382k median sales across all salons eligible to be open the entire year (2025 FDD)
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Factors to consider

When looking for a franchise in Washington there are city-specific factors to consider. Consider this. Local government regulations are critical to franchise success in this city. However, here’s what you should know: As an aspiring franchisee, look for the specific licenses, permits, and zoning requirements that impact your business model. But make sure to know this, too. Cultural nuances are crucial in understanding the local market dynamics. So, here’s what to do: As an aspiring franchisee, look for insights into local customs, preferences, and values to tailor your offerings effectively.

Here are some local links to help you when opening a franchise in Washington: dlcp.dc.gov, otr.cfo.dc.gov, and dslbd.dc.gov

Our Evaluation Methodology

  • 1
    Franchisor Vetting & Financial Due Diligence

    We targeted DC franchises, attentively analyzing FDDs, Item 19, and litigation history. Stability linked to the Capital's broad local economy was key, demanding robust financial performance metrics.

  • 2
    Local Market Feasibility & Demographic Alignment

    We matched DC's demographics (50th percentile HH household income, Dupont Circle's density) to franchise aim market locales. Strong matches made sure potential for success.

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

Dense urban essential with mixed-use buildings and pedestrian-oriented shopping along principal avenues.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
🛣️ Major corridor access Access

I-95, I-66, and US-50 support regional access, channeling considerable commuter and weekend traffic through the area.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
🎓 University presence Demand

A strong presence from schools like Georgetown and George Washington University increases the pool of young, educated talent.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
🏭 Industry snapshot Broad

This area has a notable government and service sector presence, alongside significant tourism.

As of 2025 Confidence: High
Other Cities
CityHighlighted franchise
Washington, District of ColumbiaPanera
PaneraFirehouse Subs
Phoenix, ArizonaTwice the Ice
Detroit, MichiganPanera
Other Cities
CityPopulation
Washington, District of Columbia5146120
Boston, Massachusetts4355184
Phoenix, Arizona4065338
Detroit, Michigan3716929

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.