How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in Chicago, IL?
Total cost to open a new restaurant from scratch. Updated March 2026 with data from BLS, U.S. Census Bureau, and industry surveys.
Typical Cost Range
$187.250 – $802.500
+7% vs national average
$187.250$494.875$802.500
LowNational avg: $462.500High
Chicago vs State & National Average
| Category | Chicago | Illinois Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $494.875 | $493.256 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $187.250 | $369.942 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $802.500 | $641.233 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $16.050 | $64.200 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $42.800 | $214.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $53.500 | $267.500 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $5.350 | $26.750 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $10.700 | $32.100 | |
| Marketing & branding | $5.350 | $21.400 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $32.100 | $107.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in Chicago?
In Chicago, IL, start a restaurant typically costs between $187.250 and $802.500. The average is $494.875, which is 7% above the national average.
Is Chicago expensive for start a restaurant?
Chicago has a cost-of-living index of 107 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 7% higher than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant costs in Chicago?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Illinois state regulations, and Chicago's overall cost of living (index: 107/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.