Every year, thousands of entrepreneurs and investors eagerly await the release of the Franchise 500—Entrepreneur Magazine’s definitive ranking of the top franchises in the U.S. In 2025, this list is more relevant than ever. It ranks franchises based on size, growth, financial strength, brand power, and more, offering a clear snapshot of which businesses are thriving in today’s dynamic market.

If you’re considering investing in a franchise, understanding the Franchise 500 list for 2025 — and how it has evolved over the past five years — can save you time, money, and uncertainty. Plus, we’ll show you how azibiz.com can simplify your search and guide you to the franchise that fits your goals perfectly.

Let’s dive in!

What Exactly Is the Franchise 500 and Why Should You Care in 2025?

The Franchise 500 is Entrepreneur’s annual ranking of the best franchises in America. It’s been published since 1979, earning a reputation as the go-to guide for franchise seekers. The list scores franchises on factors such as:

• Startup costs and fees

• Training and support

• Growth and size of franchise network

• Brand recognition and power

• Financial strength and stability

Why does this matter? Because franchising is a massive, competitive market with thousands of options. The Franchise 500 helps you cut through the noise and focus on businesses with proven track records and strong growth potential.

In 2025, this list isn’t just about big brands—it reflects the changing consumer landscape, new business models, and the rise of tech-driven services.

Looking Back: How the Franchise 500 Has Evolved Over the Last Five Years (2020-2025)

2020: The Pandemic Shock

COVID-19 dramatically disrupted franchising. Restaurants, retail stores, and personal services faced shutdowns and uncertainty. But some franchises thrived—especially those that quickly adapted to delivery, takeout, and contactless services.

Franchises like DoorDash, cleaning services, and home-based businesses surged in popularity.

2021–2022: Recovery and Innovation

As the country began reopening, franchises focused on hybrid models—combining online and in-person services. Health and wellness franchises, senior care, and tutoring services climbed the ranks.

The Franchise 500 reflected this shift, spotlighting franchises that innovated with technology and flexible service models.

2023: Growth and Stability

By 2023, many franchises bounced back fully. Traditional players like McDonald’s and Ace Hardware held strong, while emerging brands in fitness, tech, and elder care gained ground.

Sustainability and social responsibility also became more important, influencing franchise rankings and customer loyalty.

2024–2025: Technology and Purpose-Driven Growth

In 2025, tech integration and meaningful services are front and center. Franchises leveraging AI, telehealth, smart-home technologies, and eco-friendly practices are leading the pack.

Meanwhile, senior care franchises—reflecting America’s aging population—have soared in demand. This shift is reflected prominently in the Franchise 500 rankings, which now feature more franchises catering to health, wellness, and eldercare.

What 2025’s Franchise 500 Reveals About Today’s Best Franchise Opportunities

The 2025 Franchise 500 highlights several key trends:

• Senior Care Franchises: With 23 million Americans providing eldercare (more than those caring for children), franchises like Home Instead Senior Care and Comfort Keepers are booming. These businesses meet a critical, growing need and offer meaningful, recession-resistant opportunities.

• Tech-Enabled Franchises: Whether it’s automated marketing platforms, telehealth, or smart home services, franchises that embrace digital tools see faster growth and stronger customer engagement.

• Health and Wellness: Fitness studios, nutrition-focused franchises, and mental wellness services continue to climb thanks to increasing health consciousness.

• Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Brands: Consumers care about the environment more than ever, pushing franchises with green practices into the spotlight.

• Home-Based and Low-Overhead Models: Especially after the pandemic, many entrepreneurs prefer flexible, remote-friendly franchises that allow work-life balance.

How the Franchise 500 Scores Franchises: What Investors Should Know

Understanding the scoring criteria can help you weigh what matters most for you:

• Initial Investment and Fees: Know your financial limits. The Franchise 500 rates transparency and reasonableness of startup costs.

• Franchise Growth: Rapid expansion can signal a hot market—but also possible saturation. Look for steady, sustainable growth.

• Training and Support: New franchisees need robust onboarding and ongoing help. High scores here show a commitment to your success.

• Financial Stability: A franchise with solid revenue and profits means less risk.

• Brand Strength: Does the franchise have loyal customers and high visibility? This impacts your chances of thriving locally.

What the 2025 Franchise 500 Means for You as an Investor

If you’re new to franchising, or looking to add to your portfolio, 2025’s list is your treasure map. Here’s what it can do for you:

• Save Time: Focus your research on franchises that meet high standards.

• Reduce Risk: Avoid fly-by-night or poorly supported brands.

• Identify Trends: See where the market is heading and which industries offer long-term potential.

• Find a Match: Whether you want to run a home-based franchise, a large retail outlet, or a senior care service, the list helps you narrow down your options.

How azibiz.com Can Help You Navigate Franchise 500 and Find Your Ideal Franchise

Browsing the Franchise 500 is exciting but can also be overwhelming. That’s why tools like azibiz.com are game changers.

Azibiz offers a personalized franchise matching service that takes your budget, lifestyle, and goals into account to suggest franchises from the Franchise 500 and beyond. Plus, azibiz provides:

• Detailed franchise profiles so you can compare costs, support, and growth potential.

• Market demand data by ZIP code, helping you pick locations with the highest chances of success.

• Step-by-step guidance from licensing to staffing and marketing.

• Transparent information on fees, contracts, and exit strategies.

In short, azibiz.com helps turn the vast Franchise 500 list into a curated, actionable plan just for you.

Final Thoughts: Your Franchise Journey Starts with the Right Information

The 2025 Franchise 500 is more than a list—it’s a window into the future of franchising, showing which businesses have resilience, innovation, and purpose. It reflects changing consumer behaviors, economic realities, and technological advances that shape what’s possible for franchise owners.

But rankings alone won’t make your decision. Pair the Franchise 500 with tools like azibiz.com, thorough research, and conversations with franchisees to find the best fit for your life and ambitions.

If you’re ready to dive into franchising with confidence, start by exploring the Franchise 500. Then, let azibiz.com help you take the next step toward owning a franchise that matches your passion, budget, and lifestyle.

Explore the 2025 Franchise 500 and discover your ideal franchise at azibiz.com — your partner in smart franchising decisions.