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

Carmel, IN vs Chicago, IL

Carmel, IN

$85,000 - $334,000

COL Index: 106.5

Chicago, IL

$97,000 - $380,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Carmel, IN	Chicago, IL	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$1,400 - $5,100	$5,600 - $10,900	-61%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)	$11,700 - $58,700	$17,600 - $88,000	-33%
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	$20,400 - $81,600	$23,000 - $92,000	-11%
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)	$16,000 - $53,300	$16,200 - $53,900	-1%
Total Estimated Cost	$85,000 - $334,000	$97,000 - $380,000	-12%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Carmel	Chicago
Cost of Living Index	106.5	107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$18 - $42	$25 - $65
Labor Rate Index	1.02	1.15
Sales Tax	7%	10.25%
Minimum Wage	$7.25/hr	$15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$95	$150

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