Franchises offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to invest in a proven business model with the support of a larger organization. For those looking to dive into business ownership, choosing the right franchise can be a path to success. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best franchises to open in the U.S., based on factors such as growth potential, brand recognition, support for franchisees, and overall financial stability.

1. McDonald’s – A global giant in fast food that provides extensive training and support.

2. Dunkin’ – Known for its coffee and baked goods, this franchise offers a loyal customer base and strong brand presence.

3. 7-Eleven – A leader in convenience stores with a turnkey setup for franchisees.

4. The UPS Store – Offering packing, shipping, printing, and small-business services with solid growth potential.

5. RE/MAX – A highly recognized real estate franchise with low overhead costs.

6. Sonic Drive-In – Famous for its carhop service, Sonic offers an iconic diner experience.

7. Great Clips – One of the largest salon brands that excels in efficient operations.

8. Taco Bell – A top player in the fast-food industry that continually innovates its menu.

9. Anytime Fitness – Offering 24/7 access to gyms and wellness centers with remote monitoring capabilities.

10. Sport Clips – Specializing in men’s hairstyling, providing personalized training and support.

11. Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting – Commercial cleaning is essential, and Jan-Pro has an established name with scalable business models.

12. Firehouse Subs – Provides gourmet sandwiches with a focus on community involvement.

13. Jersey Mike’s Subs – Experience rapid growth due to its fresh ingredients and straightforward business model.

14. Kumon Math & Reading Centers – Education franchises are booming and Kumon leads with a well-respected program worldwide.

15. Supercuts – Offering affordable haircuts in numerous locations ensuring steady walk-in traffic.

16. Planet Fitness – With low-cost memberships and brand popularity, it appeals to a broad clientele.

17. Mathnasium Learning Centers – Specialized tutoring for children, focusing solely on mathematics education.

18. Cruise Planners – A home-based travel agency franchise affiliated with American Express.

19. Chick-fil-A – Has high average sales per restaurant but also uniquely operates more like a partnership than a traditional franchise fee model.

20. Papa John’s Pizza – This company continues to grow due to its focus on quality ingredients and digital order technology.

These franchises are ranked highly not only because they have strong business models but also because they offer extensive support networks that can help new franchise owners succeed even without prior experience in the industry they choose to enter. Opening one of these franchises could be an exciting venture for any aspiring entrepreneur looking to make their mark with the support of an established brand behind them.

Remember that each franchise has its own set of challenges and it’s crucial to perform thorough research including understanding all legal requirements as well as the initial investment needed before committing to any franchise opportunity.