Opening a Chick-fil-A business in Los Angeles in 2025 might be the ultimate dream—and for good reason. The chain is one of America’s top-performing quick-service chains, known for its iconic chicken sandwich, top-notch customer service, and unchanging community values. Before you jump into a life of waffle fries and drive-thru windows, though, let us talk dirty costs, prerequisites, and what it truly takes to become a Chick-fil-A Operator in California.
A brief history of Chick-fil-A
- Founded by: S. Truett Cathy in 1946 as “The Dwarf Grill” in Atlanta, Georgia
- First Chick-fil-A : Opened in 1967 in Greenbriar Shopping Center, Atlanta
- When: Franchising began: 1986
- HQ: Atlanta, Georgia
- Total Stores: 2,684+ (U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada)
One of the unique things about Chick-fil-A is their single-unit franchise model, where Operators are required to be very engaged with the day-to-day operations of a single store. That is, you’re not opening ten stores on day one — you’ll be packing that single store in Los Angeles to capacity.
Initial cost: What’s it going to cost to get started in LA
It isn’t inexpensive to start a Chick-fil-A—especially in a high-demand area such as Los Angeles. But don’t worry, Chick-fil-A’s initial franchise fee isn’t that terrible compared to all of the big-name fast-food chains.
LA-Specific issues
1. LA Real Estate
- The high-end areas like Hollywood, Santa Monica, or downtown area can potentially boost the rent levels.
- Corner spot with good visibility or a drive-thru capability is ideal but expensive.
2. Construction and Permits
- California’s zoning and health codes are strict, so construction might be delayed.
- Grease trap, ventilation system, and ADA compliance permits need to be factored into the budget.
3. Labor Costs
- California has a higher minimum wage than other states.
- Be willing to pay more to more experienced managers, kitchen personnel, and front-line personnel.
How Much Money Can You Make
Chick-fil-A franchise stores are some of the highest-grossing stores in the business.
Average unit volume (AUV):
- Chick-fil-A Average: $8.74 million/year
- Comparable chicken franchises (e.g., Popeyes, KFC): $1.66 million/year
With an estimated 15% profit margin, that’s approximately $1.31 million of annual profits (EBITDA) in a single location. Actual profits would hinge on operating costs, rent, and local demand, though.
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Ongoing royalties and fees
Franchising with Chick-fil-A differs from others in the low start-up fee but high revenue-sharing model.
Chick-fil-A Franchise Operator Fees:
- 15% royalty on gross sales
- 50% of pre-tax profit to Chick-fil-A, Inc.
- Marketing fee: National and local advertising, approximately 3.25% of gross sales
Although the company keeps a high percentage, the reward is access to a turnkey operation, national brand recognition, and ongoing corporate support.
Franchisee requirements to become a franchisee
While most franchises seek an individual applicant’s net worth as their standard, Chick-fil-A seeks character, leadership, and commitment.
What Chick-fil-A Seeks in Operators:
- Strong business sense or leadership potential
- Full-time, hands-on commitment to running the business
- Alignment with Chick-fil-A’s service culture and core values
- Inspirational and leadership skills to motivate a team
- Customer- and community-focused
No liquid capital or net worth requirement
Chick-fil-A supplies real estate, construction, and equipment (a departure from most franchises)
Timeline: How quickly can you open
If you’re planning to open in 2025, here’s a rough outline:
Step-by-Step Opening Process:
1. Online application through Chick-fil-A’s website
2. Interview and evaluation for multiple rounds
3. Extensive training (approximately 5-6 weeks)
4. Corporate assists you in finding and purchasing a location
5. Construction, staffing, and preparation period
6. Grand opening launch!
The entire process can take 12–18 months from approval to grand opening.
