The franchise business model is booming in the US in 2025, and it is not just for expensive investors or fast-food goliaths anymore. A new wave of low-investment franchises is opening doors for everyday entrepreneurs to start a profitable business without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle, full-time venture, or passive income opportunity, here’s a list of the best low-cost franchise opportunities in the USA this year—along with why franchising is hotter than ever.
📈 Why Franchises Are Trending in 2025
Franchising offers a proven business model with built-in brand recognition, training, and support. In a year defined by economic uncertainty and remote-first trends, more Americans are choosing franchise ownership as a way to:
- Be their own boss
- Control their financial future
- Operate with lower risk than a startup
- Work locally but scale nationally
The good news? You no longer need $500K+ to get started.
🏆 Top 7 Low-Investment Franchise Opportunities (Under $50K–$100K)
1. Cruise Planners (Travel)
- 💰 Startup Cost: $10,000–$20,000
- 🏠 Work-from-home travel agency
- 🧠 No experience needed; full training provided
- 💡 Perfect for: Retirees, moms, travel lovers
Why it’s hot: Americans are traveling again in record numbers in 2025.
2. TSS Photography (School & Sports Photography)
- 💰 Startup Cost: $25,000–$45,000
- 📸 Operate seasonally with schools, sports leagues
- 📍 Local territory exclusivity
- 💡 Perfect for: Creatives, part-time entrepreneurs
Why it’s hot: Youth sports and events are back — and parents love keepsakes.
3. JAN-PRO Cleaning & Disinfecting
- 💰 Startup Cost: $4,000–$50,000
- 🧼 Commercial cleaning — recession-resistant
- 🔄 Recurring contracts = steady income
- 💡 Perfect for: Side hustlers, full-time owners, families
Why it’s hot: Office hygiene and cleanliness remain a high priority in a post-COVID world.
4. Chester’s Chicken (Food Kiosk Model)
- 💰 Startup Cost: $30,000–$50,000 (non-traditional locations)
- 🍗 Easy-to-run food counter for gas stations or food courts
- 💡 Perfect for: Small towns, rest stops, retail locations
Why it’s hot: High food demand with lower labor needs and smaller footprint.
5. Mosquito Squad (Pest Control)
- 💰 Startup Cost: ~$25,000–$45,000
- 🦟 Seasonal mosquito and tick control services
- 🔄 Repeat customers, scalable business
- 💡 Perfect for: Outdoor lovers, local service entrepreneurs
Why it’s hot: Warmer climate + rising health concerns = booming outdoor pest market.
6. Jazzercise (Fitness Franchise)
- 💰 Startup Cost: $2,500–$5,000
- 💃 Instructor-owned fitness class model
- 👯 Low overhead; can operate in schools or gyms
- 💡 Perfect for: Fitness instructors, wellness coaches
Why it’s hot: Community-based wellness continues to thrive in 2025.
7. Property Management Inc. (PMI)
- 💰 Startup Cost: ~$45,000
- 🏠 Residential/commercial property management
- 📉 No property ownership required
- 💡 Perfect for: Real estate professionals, remote workers
Why it’s hot: Housing demand + digital management = scalable opportunity.
🔑 What Makes a Great Low-Investment Franchise?
✅ Proven success model
✅ Training and support
✅ Flexible hours or location
✅ Recession resistance
✅ Low overhead + quick ROI
Before investing, always research the franchise disclosure document (FDD), talk to current franchisees, and consider your local demand start a profitable business
🧠 The Road Ahead
Franchising in 2025 is no longer reserved for millionaires or major investors. With a little capital and the right guidance, you can join the franchise gold rush—whether it’s through cleaning, travel, food, fitness, or services. In an era where freedom and flexibility matter most, a low-investment franchise could be your smartest move this year.
