Summary:
Top-performing franchises offer flexible ownership models and low overhead.
Snap-on Tools and Kona Ice lead the way in growth and scalability.
Anago Cleaning Systems provides comprehensive training and support for franchisees.
Dream Vacations allows for running a travel business remotely.
Signal has seen explosive growth due to increased demand for security services.
Part-time doesn't mean small-time — just ask the franchisees behind these top-performing brands. From mobile models like Kona Ice to high-ranked residential cleaning services like Anago Cleaning Systems, these franchises offer flexible ownership models and are growing fast, proving that you can build a successful business without giving up your full-time job. Whether you're looking to earn extra income, test the waters of entrepreneurship, or grow something on the side, these opportunities offer the freedom to work on your terms.
Each year, Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 evaluates the top franchise brands based on costs and fees, unit size and growth, franchisee support, financial strength and stability, and brand power. Here’s a look at the top-ranked part-time franchises for 2025:
1. Snap-on Tools
- Founded: 1920
- Franchising since: 1991
- Overall Rank: 16
- Number of units: 4,674
- Initial investment: $217,505 - $481,554
With over 4,600 mobile tool stores, Snap-on Tools remains a dominant player in the automotive space, offering flexibility and strong franchisee support.
2. Stratus Building Solutions
- Founded: 2004
- Franchising since: 2006
- Overall Rank: 23
- Number of units: 4,182
- Initial investment: $4,450 - $79,750
Stratus Building Solutions is one of the fastest-growing franchises in the cleaning industry, appealing to entrepreneurs looking for scalable service-based opportunities.
3. Budget Blinds
- Founded: 1992
- Franchising since: 1994
- Overall Rank: 26
- Number of units: 1,498
- Initial investment: $100,500 - $211,250
A leader in custom window coverings, Budget Blinds continues to expand with a strong brand presence.
4. Kona Ice
- Founded: 2007
- Franchising since: 2008
- Overall Rank: 30
- Number of units: 1,814
- Initial investment: $173,356 - $222,141
Kona Ice offers a fun and profitable mobile shaved ice business, with 30% growth fueled by strong demand.
5. The Maids
- Founded: 1979
- Franchising since: 1981
- Overall Rank: 34
- Number of units: 1,628
- Initial investment: $80,880 - $158,900
With over 1,600 units, The Maids is a trusted choice for franchisees entering the residential cleaning space.
6. Dream Vacations
- Founded: 1991
- Franchising since: 1992
- Overall Rank: 41
- Number of units: 2,078
- Initial investment: $2,590 - $21,870
Dream Vacations offers a travel business model with low startup costs, perfect for remote operations.
7. Anago Cleaning Systems
- Founded: 1989
- Franchising since: 1991
- Overall Rank: 44
- Number of units: 1,873
- Initial investment: $11,265 - $68,250
Anago provides comprehensive training and marketing support, making it a solid choice for entrepreneurs.
8. Matco Tools
- Founded: 1979
- Franchising since: 1993
- Overall Rank: 46
- Number of units: 1,903
- Initial investment: $107,476 - $340,059
Matco Tools operates mobile tool stores, catering to mechanics and technicians.
9. Transworld Business Advisors
- Founded: 1979
- Franchising since: 2010
- Overall Rank: 51
- Number of units: 486
- Initial investment: $96,705 - $122,465
Transworld connects buyers and sellers and has seen a 52% increase in units.
10. Signal
- Founded: 2003
- Franchising since: 2008
- Overall Rank: 63
- Number of units: 1,465
- Initial investment: $126,950 - $5,093,300
Signal has experienced over 100% growth, capitalizing on the demand for private security services.
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