How much does a Starbucks franchise cost? For U.S. buyers, Starbucks is not a standard franchise offer with a published buy-in price. It operates company-run and licensed stores. Dutch Bros also says it no longer offers new franchises. That makes availability the first question to settle before comparing costs.
This guide explains the two ownership models and how to research coffee businesses that accept franchise applications.
Starbucks franchise cost: licensing comes first
A licensed Starbucks store is different from buying a traditional coffee franchise. Starbucks describes licensed coffeehouses in settings such as hotels, hospitals, airports, grocery stores, and campuses. A licensing arrangement depends on the location, operating partner, and agreement.
We have not verified a current, standard U.S. Starbucks licensing investment range. Treat online estimates as estimates, rather than a price offered to every buyer. Ask Starbucks about eligibility and written terms before budgeting for a licensed location.
Costs to discuss include equipment, construction, inventory, staffing, and ongoing payments under the agreement. A license fee alone would not tell you the full amount needed to open and operate.
Dutch Bros franchise cost: new franchises are unavailable
Dutch Bros states that it no longer offers the option to franchise. Its new locations are company-owned. Regional operator roles are offered internally to employees who meet its requirements.
An operator role is not the same as buying a franchise. Historical franchise-cost figures do not establish a current opportunity for an outside investor.
Starbucks vs. Dutch Bros: what buyers can compare
| Question | Starbucks | Dutch Bros |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership model relevant to a new buyer | Company-operated stores and selected licensed arrangements | Company-owned new locations; internal operator career path |
| Standard franchise application for outside buyers | Not a traditional U.S. franchise offer | No new franchise offer |
| How to assess cost | Confirm licensing eligibility and obtain written terms | Do not treat old franchise estimates as a current offer |
Coffee franchise alternatives to research
If your goal is to own a coffee business through a franchise agreement, start with brands that currently invite applications. Ziggi’s Coffee, Just Love Coffee Cafe, and Scooter’s Coffee have franchise-development websites. Availability still depends on your market and qualifications.
- Read the Ziggi’s Coffee profile.
- Explore the Just Love Coffee Cafe profile.
- Use our coffee franchise comparison guide to compare formats.
Questions to ask before choosing a coffee business
- Is the territory available?
- What is the total opening budget, rather than just the franchise or license fee?
- How much cash must remain available after opening?
- What staffing, operating hours, and owner involvement are required?
- Which payments continue after the business opens?
- What do current owners say about costs and support?
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy a Dutch Bros franchise?
Dutch Bros says it no longer offers new franchises. Its internal regional operator path is a separate employment opportunity.
Is a Starbucks license the same as a franchise?
No. The agreement and eligibility differ. Confirm the specific arrangement with Starbucks instead of assuming it works like a conventional franchise purchase.
Does a famous coffee brand guarantee profit?
No. Rent, labor, sales volume, financing, and operating costs affect results. Compare a realistic local budget and speak with owners before investing.
Prepare a coffee-business comparison
For each option on your shortlist, record the proposed format, target market, total opening budget, cash you can commit and the role you want to take. Mark unanswered questions clearly so a familiar brand name does not substitute for a workable ownership plan.
Plan your next step
Speak with a FranchiseTop40 advisor about your budget, preferred format, and market. Tell us your city or state, whether you prefer a drive-thru or a cafe, and when you hope to open. Our approach emphasizes confidential franchise research; we do not sell prospect information as an ordinary lead portal.
Ownership information checked October 2, 2026. Sources: Starbucks licensed-store explanation, Dutch Bros franchise FAQ, and the brands’ franchise-development websites.