How much does it cost to open a small restaurant?

A small restaurant (under 2,000 sq ft) typically costs $75,000 to $150,000 to open, including lease deposits, equipment, permits, and initial inventory. Costs vary significantly by location.

What is the most expensive part of opening a restaurant?

Kitchen equipment and interior build-out are usually the largest expenses, often accounting for 40-60% of total startup costs.

Can I open a restaurant with $50,000?

It's possible with a very small space, used equipment, and a location with low commercial rents. Food trucks ($50K-$100K) are a more realistic option at this budget.

Restaurant Startup Cost Comparison

Atlanta, GA vs Houston, TX

Atlanta, GA

$86,000 - $342,000

COL Index: 101.4

Houston, TX

$82,000 - $325,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Atlanta, GA	Houston, TX	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$2,400 - $8,900	$1,900 - $6,200	+40%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)	$12,900 - $64,600	$12,300 - $61,600	+5%
Kitchen Equipment & Fixtures	$25,000 - $100,000	$25,000 - $100,000	Same
Initial Food & Beverage Inventory	$5,000 - $15,000	$5,000 - $15,000	Same
Interior Build-Out & Renovation	$20,800 - $83,200	$18,400 - $73,600	+13%
Business Insurance (Annual)	$3,000 - $10,000	$3,000 - $10,000	Same
Marketing & Grand Opening	$2,000 - $10,000	$2,000 - $10,000	Same
Working Capital (3 Months)	$15,200 - $50,700	$14,500 - $48,300	+5%
Total Estimated Cost	$86,000 - $342,000	$82,000 - $325,000	+5%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Atlanta	Houston
Cost of Living Index	101.4	96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$18 - $48	$18 - $45
Labor Rate Index	1.04	0.92
Sales Tax	8.9%	8.25%
Minimum Wage	$7.25/hr	$7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$100	$300

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