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

Springfield, MO vs Houston, TX

Springfield, MO

$45,000 - $235,000

COL Index: 85.5

Houston, TX

$51,000 - $267,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Springfield, MO	Houston, TX	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$700 - $3,200	$1,900 - $6,200	-52%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)	$3,300 - $17,600	$6,800 - $37,000	-52%
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	$8,400 - $67,200	$9,200 - $73,600	-9%
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)	$6,800 - $25,700	$7,700 - $29,000	-11%
Total Estimated Cost	$45,000 - $235,000	$51,000 - $267,000	-12%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Springfield	Houston
Cost of Living Index	85.5	96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$10 - $20	$18 - $45
Labor Rate Index	0.84	0.92
Sales Tax	8.1%	8.25%
Minimum Wage	$12.30/hr	$7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$50	$300

View Full Details

Ready to Start Your Ice Cream Shop?

File your Ice Cream Shop LLC online and pay only the state fee on the basic plan.

Form Your LLC for $0 + State Fee →

Rated “Excellent” on Trustpilot · Registered agent service sold separately