How much does it cost to open an ice cream shop?

An ice cream shop typically costs $50,000 to $300,000 to open. A small scoop shop with used equipment can start at the lower end, while a shop making ice cream on-site with premium equipment and a full build-out will cost $150,000 or more. The batch freezer alone, which is the core piece of equipment, runs $10,000 to $40,000 new.

Is an ice cream shop profitable?

Ice cream shops can be very profitable, with gross margins of 60-70% on scooped ice cream. However, seasonality is a real challenge in northern climates where winter sales can drop 50-70%. Successful shops diversify with hot drinks, baked goods, or catering to maintain year-round revenue.

Should I make my own ice cream or buy wholesale?

Making your own ice cream gives you higher margins and a unique selling point, but requires a batch freezer ($10,000-$40,000) and more labor. Buying premium wholesale ice cream costs less upfront and simplifies operations. Many shops start with wholesale and add house-made flavors as they grow.

Ice Cream Shop Startup Cost Comparison

Great Falls, MT vs Chicago, IL

Great Falls, MT

$45,000 - $234,000

COL Index: 91.5

Chicago, IL

$61,000 - $309,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Great Falls, MT	Chicago, IL	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$900 - $3,700	$5,600 - $10,900	-72%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)	$2,600 - $14,100	$9,800 - $52,800	-73%
Ice Cream Equipment & Fixtures	$20,000 - $100,000	$20,000 - $100,000	Same
Initial Ingredients & Supplies	$2,000 - $8,000	$2,000 - $8,000	Same
Interior Build-Out & Design	$8,500 - $68,000	$11,500 - $92,000	-26%
Business Insurance (Annual)	$1,500 - $5,000	$1,500 - $5,000	Same
Marketing & Grand Opening	$2,000 - $8,000	$2,000 - $8,000	Same
Working Capital (3 Months)	$7,300 - $27,500	$8,600 - $32,300	-15%
Total Estimated Cost	$45,000 - $234,000	$61,000 - $309,000	-25%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Great Falls	Chicago
Cost of Living Index	91.5	107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$8 - $16	$25 - $65
Labor Rate Index	0.85	1.15
Sales Tax	0%	10.25%
Minimum Wage	$10.30/hr	$15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$70	$150

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