Chipotle vs McDonald's (CMG vs MCD)
Chipotle (CMG) vs McDonald's (MCD) in plain English: P/E, growth, margins, debt and dividend side by side, key differences and which fits each investor profile.
Chipotle (CMG) and McDonald's (MCD) compete in restaurants. Here are Chipotle and McDonald's side by side with their real figures as of November 4, 2026: what sets them apart, which fits each kind of investor and the most common questions, without telling you whether to buy Chipotle or McDonald's.
Chipotle vs McDonald's: the figures
| Figure | Chipotle | McDonald's |
|---|---|---|
| Share price | $35.20 (November 4, 2026) | $280.22 (November 4, 2026) |
| Market cap | $44.5 billion | $198.3 billion |
| P/E (TTM) | 32.9x | 22.8x |
| Forward P/E | 26.5x | 20.4x |
| Revenue growth (quarter) | +9.6% | +3.7% |
| Net margin (TTM) | 10.8% | 31.7% |
| Net debt / EBITDA | 2.1x | 3.6x |
| Dividend yield | 0.00% | 2.93% |
| Beta | 0.99 | 0.43 |
Chipotle and McDonald's figures from Yahoo Finance, the same source the Fintols analysis uses, retrieved on November 4, 2026; N/A means that Chipotle or McDonald's figure is not available, and we never estimate it.
3 key differences between Chipotle and McDonald's
- Profitability: for every 100 of sales, McDonald's keeps 31.7 as net profit and Chipotle keeps 10.8.
- Dividend: McDonald's pays a dividend yielding 2.93% and Chipotle pays none.
- Valuation: Chipotle trades at 32.9x its annual earnings and McDonald's at 22.8x; the market pays more for each dollar of Chipotle profit, usually because it expects more growth.
Chipotle or McDonald's: which fits your profile
- If you want growth: Chipotle is growing faster today, so it fits better with investors who put business growth first, usually accepting a higher P/E and a bumpier ride.
- If you want income (dividends): McDonald's pays the higher dividend relative to its price.
- If you prefer caution: Chipotle has less debt relative to its profit, which usually gives more room in a bad year.
- If price is what matters most to you: McDonald's trades on the lower P/E; check first whether that is an opportunity or a sign of a business that grows less.
Neither Chipotle nor McDonald's wins on everything, and owning both is also an option: spreading money across several companies or an index fund reduces what rides on each one.
How Chipotle and McDonald's make money
Chipotle (CMG)
Chipotle Mexican Grill runs its own fast-casual Mexican restaurants rather than franchising them, selling made-to-order burritos, bowls, tacos and salads in store and through its app. Nearly all revenue comes from food and beverage sales, with delivery fees making up the rest. Most locations are in the United States. Full Chipotle analysis.
McDonald's (MCD)
McDonald's has most of its restaurants run by franchisees, who pay it rent and royalties on sales, and that is its main source of profit. The rest comes from sales at company-operated restaurants. It reports three segments: U.S., International Operated Markets, and International Developmental Licensed Markets. Full McDonald's analysis.
Frequently asked questions: Chipotle vs McDonald's
Is Chipotle or McDonald's the better stock?
Choosing between Chipotle and McDonald's depends on what you are looking for. Chipotle is growing faster right now, and McDonald's trades on the lower P/E. Fintols does not tell you whether to buy Chipotle or McDonald's: it shows you the differences so you can decide.
Which pays a higher dividend, Chipotle or McDonald's?
As of November 4, 2026, McDonald's yields 2.93% and Chipotle pays none. Also check how much of their profit Chipotle and McDonald's pay out: if it is more than they earn, it cannot last.
Which is more expensive, Chipotle or McDonald's?
On P/E, Chipotle (32.9x) is more expensive than McDonald's (22.8x) as of November 4, 2026. A higher P/E can be justified if earnings grow faster, so compare it with each company's growth in the table.
Can I own both Chipotle and McDonald's?
Yes. Many people spread their money across several companies, such as Chipotle and McDonald's, or use index funds so they do not depend on just one. If you are starting out, decide how much you want to invest and for how long before buying Chipotle or McDonald's.
More comparisons with Chipotle or McDonald's
More companies like Chipotle and McDonald's: restaurants stocks. Educational content about Chipotle and McDonald's, not investment advice.