The US restaurant chains are the lifelines of many urban professionals and families. From morning snacks to late-night coffees, these restaurants are at the heart of US social life. Some of these chains have created a differentiator for themselves globally. Subway, Domino’s, McDonald’s, and Starbucks operate globally and are household names even in other countries.
These mammoths pose formidable competition to new entrants and therefore, an analysis of their presence and locations in US states, territories, and cities will help in understanding the current competition and opportunities in areas where these top restaurant brands have minimal presence.
This report provides an in-depth analysis and insights into the contemporary US restaurant chains and highlights their presence across the USA.
Key Findings
- Subway, Starbucks, and McDonald’s are the three top restaurant chains in the USA as per locations.
- Subway operates 20460+ restaurants in the USA and holds the distinction of a restaurant chain with the highest number of locations across the USA.
- Starbucks, the coffee giant, has 17K+ locations in the USA.
- McDonald’s bags the third spot with 13600+ restaurants across the USA.
- California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois are the top 5 US states that are home to most branches of the restaurant chains.
- Houston, Chicago, San Antonio, and New York City are among the top cities with the highest restaurant chain locations.
- Guam, the US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico are among the States where the top restaurant chain brands have the least or no presence.
Most restaurant chain brands choose highly populated and urban or semi-urban areas as their preferred location for restaurant presence.
Top 10 Restaurant Chains in the USA
Subway
Subway, with 20,464 locations across the United States, leads in restaurant count. Known for customizable sandwiches and the “Eat Fresh” slogan, it offers a healthier fast food alternative. The chain serves all 50 USA states with options from classic Italian B.M.T. to regional favorites.
- Total U.S. Locations: 20464
- Top 10 States: California (1997), Texas (1816), Florida (1187), Ohio (946), Illinois (909), New York (762), Michigan (751), Georgia (703), North Carolina (675), Pennsylvania (624)
Subway Locations: Top States
Subway has the highest presence in the US state of California with 1997 locations. It operates around 9.75% of its total restaurants in California. Texas with 1816 restaurants is home to 8.86% of Subway’s total restaurant locations. Florida ranks third when it comes to Subway locations. It hosts Subway’s 5.45% of total US locations with 1187 restaurant outlets. The top three states with the most Subway locations (California, Texas, and Florida) are all coastal states with large populations. Subway’s business model is particularly successful in urban environments with high foot traffic.
Subway Locations: Top Cities
Houston City has the highest number of Subways with 203 restaurants. Next comes Chicago with 188 and San Antonio with 114 locations.
States with No Subway Location
Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands have no Subway restaurants and present an opportunity for restaurant businesses that want to set foot in these areas. They will meet less competition as a prominent player in the restaurant industry is not present in these states and territories.
2. Starbucks
Starbucks, with 17015 locations nationwide, has transformed American coffee culture since 1971. From Pumpkin Spice Lattes to mobile ordering, Starbucks has loyal customers and its ethical sourcing appeals to conscious consumers.
- Total U.S. Locations: 17015
- Top 10 States: California (3170), Texas (1467), Florida (919), New York (748), Washington (729), Illinois (719), Arizona (598), Virginia (525), Ohio (516), Colorado (508)
Starbucks Locations: Top States
Starbucks has the highest concentration of coffee restaurants in California, with 3,170 locations, making up 18.64% of its total U.S. presence. Texas follows with 1,467 stores, representing 8.62% of Starbucks’ national footprint. Florida ranks third, housing 5.4% of Starbucks’ total U.S. locations with 919 stores. Notably, Starbucks has a strong presence in urban and high-foot-traffic areas, particularly in states with major metropolitan hubs.
Starbucks Locations: Top Cities
Chicago leads with 193 Starbucks locations, followed closely by New York City with 190 and Las Vegas with 182. These cities are known for their bustling commercial districts, high tourist activity, and strong coffee culture, making them ideal markets for Starbucks.
States with no Starbucks presence:
Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa have no Starbucks locations, representing potential expansion opportunities.
3. McDonald’s
McDonald’s, operating 13622 locations, represents classic American fast food. Since 1940, it’s been known for Golden Arches, Big Macs, and consistent, affordable meals. Its franchise model enables a nationwide presence.
- Total U.S. Locations: 13622
- Top 10 States: California (1224), Texas (1196), Florida (882), Illinois (639), Ohio (615), New York (572), Michigan (524), Pennsylvania (475), North Carolina (475), Georgia (444)
McDonald’s Locations: Top States
McDonald’s has its largest presence in California with 1224 locations, accounting for 8.9% of its total U.S. footprint. Texas follows closely with 1196 locations, representing 8.72% of the total. Florida comes in third with 882 locations, making up 6.4% of all McDonald’s in the U.S.
McDonald’s Locations: Top Cities
Houston leads with 125 locations, benefiting from its large population and diverse economic base. Chicago follows with 103 locations, reflecting its historical connection to McDonald’s corporate presence. San Antonio comes in third with 78 locations, indicating strong demand in Texas’ metro areas.
State with no McDonald’s location:
American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands currently have no McDonald’s locations, making them potential expansion targets.
4. Dunkin’ Donuts
Dunkin’ Donuts, with 9793 locations, serves coffee and baked goods nationwide. Founded in 1950 in Quincy, Massachusetts, it dominates the Northeast as an East Coast icon. Known for diverse donuts, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches, Dunkin’s signature blend coffee also competes with Starbucks.
- Total U.S. Locations: 9793
- Top 10 States: New York (1447), Massachusetts (1038), Florida (918), New Jersey (867), Illinois (719), Pennsylvania (653), Connecticut (472), Maryland (314), Georgia (295), Ohio (272)
Dunkin’ Donuts Locations: Top States
Dunkin’ Donuts has the highest number of locations in New York with 1447 stores, making up 14.7% of its U.S. presence. Massachusetts, where Dunkin’ was founded, follows with 1,038 locations (10.6%), and Florida ranks third with 918 stores (9.4%).
Dunkin’ Donuts Locations: Top Cities
Chicago leads with 207 locations, showing Dunkin’s ability to thrive outside the East Coast.
New York City has 171 stores, and Brooklyn has 135 locations.
State without Dunkin’s Presence: Dunkin’ Donuts lacks a presence in 11 states and territories, including Idaho, South Dakota, Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Puerto Rico. Expansion into these regions could introduce the brand to untapped markets with potential demand for coffee and breakfast offerings.
5. Hunt Brothers Pizza
Hunt Brothers Pizza operates 9703 locations through partnerships with convenience stores and gas stations. By targeting underserved markets, they’ve created a successful niche in convenient, affordable pizza.
- Total U.S. Locations: 9703
- Top 10 States: Texas (1041), Alabama (998), Georgia (869), Louisiana (820), Tennessee (729), Mississippi (658), North Carolina (449), Kentucky (447), Missouri (408), Oklahoma (392)
Hunt Brothers Pizza Locations: Top States
Hunt Brothers Pizza has the largest presence in Texas, with 1041 locations, accounting for 10.72% of its total U.S. footprint. Alabama follows closely with 998 locations (10.28%), while Georgia ranks third with 869 locations (8.95%).
Hunt Brothers Pizza Locations: Top Cities
Memphis leads with 124 locations, Montgomery follows with 59 locations, and Lake Charles has 56 locations, showcasing Hunt Brothers’ strength in smaller Southern markets.
States without Hunt Brothers Pizza: Hunt Brothers does not operate in 17 states and territories, including Rhode Island, California, U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Connecticut, Idaho, New Hampshire, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska, Massachusetts, Nevada, Vermont, Utah, American Samoa, Washington, Oregon, Guam, Arizona, and Maine.
6. Taco Bell
Taco Bell’s 8093 locations have served Mexican-inspired fast food since 1962. Known for bold flavors and innovation, they attract younger consumers with items like Doritos and Locos Tacos. Affordable prices, customization options, and digital integration maintain their relevance.
- Total U.S. Locations: 8,093
- Top 10 States: California (416), Texas (307), Florida (205), Ohio (249), Michigan (216), Illinois (206), New York (172), North Carolina (159), Georgia (156), Indiana (138)
Taco Bell Locations: Top States
Taco Bell has the largest presence in California, with 416 locations, accounting for 5.14% of its total U.S. footprint. Texas follows with 307 locations (3.79.%), and Florida ranks third with 205 locations (2.33%). With its affordable menu, bold flavors, and digital integration, Taco Bell thrives in states with young, diverse, and urban populations.
Taco Bell Locations: Top Cities
Houston leads with 67 locations, reflecting Texas’ love for fast, affordable Mexican-inspired food. Las Vegas follows with 45 locations, benefiting from the city’s tourism-driven demand. Chicago is in third place with 39 locations.
States with no Taco Bell Presence
Taco Bell is absent in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and Guam, creating expansion opportunities.
7. Domino’s
Domino’s, with 7092 locations, has pioneered pizza delivery since 1960. From 30-minute delivery guarantees to their menu that features diverse toppings, crusts, and specialty pizzas for varied tastes, Domino’s remains a preferred restaurant choice nationwide.
- Total U.S. Locations: 7,092
- Top 10 States: Texas (760), California (599), Florida (490), North Carolina (315), Ohio (279), Pennsylvania (276), Georgia (249), New York (240), Virginia (233), Illinois (233)
Domino’s Locations: Top States
Domino’s has the strongest presence in Texas, with 760 locations, making up 10.72% of its U.S. stores. California follows with 599 locations (8.42%), and Florida ranks third with 490 locations (6.85%). As a delivery-first brand, Domino’s succeeds in suburban and urban areas, with a focus on quick service and convenience.
Domino’s Locations: Top Cities
Houston leads with 65 locations, capitalizing on its high population density. San Antonio follows with 38 locations, further reinforcing Texas’ importance to the brand. Las Vegas has 35 locations, serving both residents and tourists.
States with no Domino’s restaurant: Domino’s lacks presence in Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa.
8. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut, operating 6710 locations helped shape America’s pizza culture. Known for pan pizza, stuffed crust, and red-roofed restaurants, they’ve adapted to changing preferences through menu innovation and digital ordering.
- Total U.S. Locations: 6710
- Top 10 States: Texas (947), California (525), Florida (447), Ohio (278), North Carolina (258), Georgia (260), Virginia (203), Pennsylvania (200), Missouri (199), and Illinois (180)
Pizza Hut Locations: Top States
Pizza Hut’s largest footprint is in Texas, with 947 locations, accounting for 14.11% of its total U.S. presence. California follows with 525 locations (7.28%), and Florida ranks third with 447 locations (6.66%). With its dine-in, carryout, and delivery model, Pizza Hut is a favorite among US Pizza lovers.
Pizza Hut Locations: Top Cities
Houston has 111 locations, San Antonio follows with 58 locations, and Las Vegas rounds out the top three with 43 locations.
States with no Pizza Hut: Pizza Hut does not operate in American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, or Puerto Rico, leaving room for market expansion in these regions.
9. Burger King
Burger King’s 6638 locations serve flame-grilled burgers and their success stems from iconic items like the Whopper and Impossible Whopper, plus creative marketing with “Have It Your Way” customization. Strong presence and convenient service options maintain their position as a major fast-food restaurant chain.
- Total U.S. Locations: 6638
- Top 10 States: Texas (571), Florida (500), California (480), New York (351), Ohio (291), Pennsylvania (271), Georgia (269), Illinois (268), Michigan (237), and North Carolina (226)
Burger King Locations: Top States
Burger King is most prominent in Texas, with 571 locations (8.6%). Florida follows with 500 locations (7.53%), while California ranks third with 480 locations (7.23%).
Burger King Locations: Top Cities
Houston leads with 82 locations, Chicago follows with 45 locations, and Miami has 39 locations.
States without Burger King: Burger King is absent in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and Guam, leaving an opportunity for expansion in these untapped regions.
10. Wendy’s
Wendy’s, with 5957 locations, serves fresh, never frozen beef. Founded by Dave Thomas in Columbus, Ohio, they stand out with square hamburgers and made-to-order meals. Their menu features Singles, Doubles, and baked potatoes.
- Total U.S. Locations: 5957
- Top 10 States: Florida (512), Texas (465), Ohio (402), California (300), Georgia (294), Pennsylvania (261), North Carolina (259), New York (231), Michigan (225), Virginia (214)
Wendy’s Locations: Top States
Wendy’s has the most locations in Florida, with 512 stores (8.58%). Texas follows with 465 locations (7.79%), and Ohio, the brand’s home state, ranks third with 402 locations (6.76%).
Wendy’s Locations: Top Cities
Houston leads with 46 locations, and Miami follows with 35 locations, benefiting from tourism and urban density. Orlando has 34 locations.
States without no Wendy’s: Wendy’s does not operate in Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, or American Samoa, indicating potential for expansion into underserved markets.
Chain Restaurants in the US: Insights from the Report
The US restaurant industry is one of the most resilient industries in the world. From the economic catastrophes of 2008 to the pandemic of 2020, it has witnessed it all and still stands towering at more than 225 billion in net revenue. Niche-specific restaurant chains are expanding and catering to custom food choices.
The research highlights the dominance of brands like Subway, Starbucks, McDonald’s, Domino’s, etc. State-wise and city-wise analysis from the report reveals that the most populous and economically active states like California, Texas, and Florida host the majority of these restaurant chains. Territories like Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands present potential growth opportunities for brands looking to enter less saturated markets.
Conclusion
The research explores how top restaurant chain brands choose and strategize their locations. New entrants and existing restaurant chains that want to expand further in the US market will benefit from the research report that we have presented. The report will help in understanding the competitive landscape in the restaurant chain market and ease the decision for choosing the right location for further expansion or establishing a new restaurant. With this data, you can get insights into market gaps in the US restaurant industry.
If you are looking for up-to-date structured data on locations of all major restaurant brands in the USA, then connect with us or buy restaurant data here.
