CostOfCity

How Much Does Start a Coffee Shop Cost in Los Angeles, CA?

Startup costs for a new coffee shop or cafe. Updated March 2026 with data from BLS, U.S. Census Bureau, and industry surveys.

Typical Cost Range
$132.800$498.000
+66% vs national average
$132.800$315.400$498.000
LowNational avg: $190.000High

Los Angeles vs State & National Average

CategoryLos AngelesCalifornia AvgNational Avg
Average cost$315.400$309.130$190.000
Low estimate$132.800$231.848$142.500
High estimate$498.000$401.869$247.000

Detailed Cost Breakdown

ItemLowHigh
Lease & deposit$13.280$49.800
Espresso machine & equipment$24.900$83.000
Interior design & buildout$33.200$166.000
Initial inventory$4.980$16.600
Licenses & permits$3.320$13.280
Working capital$16.600$83.000

Start a Coffee Shop in Nearby Cities

Long Beach, CA
$294.500
+55% vs national
Anaheim, CA
$307.800
+62% vs national
Santa Ana, CA
$300.200
+58% vs national
Irvine, CA
$332.500
+75% vs national
Riverside, CA
$228.000
+20% vs national

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does start a coffee shop cost in Los Angeles?

In Los Angeles, CA, start a coffee shop typically costs between $132.800 and $498.000. The average is $315.400, which is 66% above the national average.

Is Los Angeles expensive for start a coffee shop?

Los Angeles has a cost-of-living index of 166 (100 = national average). Start a Coffee Shop costs are 66% higher than the national average of $190.000.

What factors affect start a coffee shop costs in Los Angeles?

Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, California state regulations, and Los Angeles's overall cost of living (index: 166/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.