How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in Denver, CO?
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
$224.000 – $960.000
+28% vs national average
$224.000$592.000$960.000
LowNational avg: $462.500High
Denver vs State & National Average
| Category | Denver | Colorado Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $592.000 | $585.525 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $224.000 | $439.144 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $960.000 | $761.183 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $19.200 | $76.800 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $51.200 | $256.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $64.000 | $320.000 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $6.400 | $32.000 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $12.800 | $38.400 | |
| Marketing & branding | $6.400 | $25.600 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $38.400 | $128.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in Denver?
In Denver, CO, start a restaurant typically costs between $224.000 and $960.000. The average is $592.000, which is 28% above the national average.
Is Denver expensive for start a restaurant?
Denver has a cost-of-living index of 128 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 28% higher than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant costs in Denver?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Colorado state regulations, and Denver's overall cost of living (index: 128/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.