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

Madison, WI vs Houston, TX

Madison, WI

$80,000 - $315,000

COL Index: 102.5

Houston, TX

$82,000 - $325,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Madison, WI	Houston, TX	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$900 - $5,000	$1,900 - $6,200	-27%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)	$9,000 - $45,000	$12,300 - $61,600	-27%
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	$19,600 - $78,400	$18,400 - $73,600	+7%
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)	$15,400 - $51,300	$14,500 - $48,300	+6%
Total Estimated Cost	$80,000 - $315,000	$82,000 - $325,000	-3%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Madison	Houston
Cost of Living Index	102.5	96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$14 - $32	$18 - $45
Labor Rate Index	0.98	0.92
Sales Tax	5.5%	8.25%
Minimum Wage	$7.25/hr	$7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$130	$300

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