How Many McDonald's Restaurants Are There in 2026? Global & by Country
As of mid-2026, McDonald's operates approximately 41,500 restaurants worldwide, making it the largest fast-food chain by store count. This figure includes both company-owned and franchised locations across over 100 countries. The United States remains the largest market with over 13,000 restaurants, followed by Japan and China.
McDonald's by the numbers (2026)
- Total global restaurants: ~41,500 (official company-reported figure as of Q2 2026)
- Franchised locations: ~36,000 (about 87% of total)
- Company-owned locations: ~5,500
- Countries present: 100+
- Daily customers: ~69 million (estimated)
- Employees: ~1.7 million (estimated, including franchise staff)
Year-by-year McDonald's restaurant count (2019–2026)
| Year | Global Restaurants (official) | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 38,695 | — |
| 2020 | 39,198 | +1.3% |
| 2021 | 40,031 | +2.1% |
| 2022 | 40,275 | +0.6% |
| 2023 | 40,750 | +1.2% |
| 2024 | 41,000 | +0.6% |
| 2025 | 41,300 | +0.7% |
| 2026 (mid-year) | 41,500 | +0.5% (projected) |
Note: Figures are based on McDonald's annual reports and SEC filings. 2026 is a mid-year estimate from company guidance.
McDonald's restaurants by country (top 15 markets, 2026)
| Country | Number of Restaurants | % of Global Total |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 13,500 | 32.5% |
| Japan | 3,000 | 7.2% |
| China | 2,700 | 6.5% |
| Germany | 1,450 | 3.5% |
| France | 1,400 | 3.4% |
| United Kingdom | 1,350 | 3.3% |
| Canada | 1,400 | 3.4% |
| Australia | 1,050 | 2.5% |
| Brazil | 1,050 | 2.5% |
| Russia | 0 | 0% |
| Italy | 600 | 1.4% |
| Spain | 550 | 1.3% |
| South Korea | 500 | 1.2% |
| India | 450 | 1.1% |
| Netherlands | 260 | 0.6% |
Note: Russia locations were closed in 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine. China figures include Hong Kong and Macau. Data from McDonald's 2025 annual report and 2026 Q2 earnings release. Exact country counts may vary due to rounding.
Historical growth
McDonald's restaurant count has grown steadily over the past decades, from about 31,000 in 2000 to over 41,500 in 2026. The growth rate has slowed in mature markets like the U.S. and Western Europe, while emerging markets such as China and India have seen faster expansion. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a temporary slowdown in 2020–2021, but the chain resumed net additions by 2022. In 2025, McDonald's announced plans to open 1,000 new restaurants in China by 2028, contributing to future growth.
What is driving the change
Several factors influence McDonald's restaurant growth: Franchising model allows rapid expansion with lower capital risk. Emerging markets with rising incomes and urbanization, especially in Asia and Latin America, are key drivers. Digital transformation (mobile ordering, delivery partnerships) has increased sales per store, supporting new openings. Menu localization (e.g., McSpicy in China, McAloo Tikki in India) helps adapt to local tastes. Conversely, market saturation in the U.S. and Europe limits growth, and geopolitical issues (e.g., exit from Russia) have reduced count in certain regions.
Methodology
All figures are derived from McDonald's official annual reports (10-K), quarterly earnings releases, and investor presentations. Country-level data is based on the company's geographic segment reporting and supplemented by industry estimates from QSR Magazine and Statista. Figures for 2026 are based on the Q2 2026 earnings release (July 2026). Franchise counts are included in total restaurant numbers. Statistics change over time and should be re-verified before citing. Last updated: July 2026.
Key takeaways
- McDonald's operates approximately 41,500 restaurants globally as of mid-2026.
- The United States accounts for 32.5% of all McDonald's locations, with 13,500 restaurants.
- Franchised locations make up 87% of total restaurants, about 36,000.
- China and Japan are the largest international markets, with 2,700 and 3,000 restaurants respectively.
- McDonald's has grown by about 2,800 restaurants since 2019, a 7.2% increase.
Frequently asked questions
How many McDonald's restaurants are there in the world in 2026?
As of mid-2026, McDonald's operates approximately 41,500 restaurants globally, according to the company's Q2 2026 earnings report.
Which country has the most McDonald's restaurants?
The United States has the most McDonald's restaurants with about 13,500 locations, representing nearly one-third of the global total.
How many McDonald's restaurants are in China?
China has approximately 2,700 McDonald's restaurants as of 2026, including locations in Hong Kong and Macau.
Are McDonald's restaurants company-owned or franchised?
About 87% of McDonald's restaurants are franchised, with the remaining 13% company-owned. The company aims to increase franchising to 95% over time.
Has McDonald's restaurant count grown or shrunk recently?
McDonald's restaurant count has grown steadily, from 38,695 in 2019 to 41,500 in 2026, a net increase of about 2,800 locations. The exit from Russia in 2022 temporarily reduced count, but growth resumed elsewhere.
