How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in Los Angeles, CA?
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
$290.500 – $1.245.000
+66% vs national average
$290.500$767.750$1.245.000
LowNational avg: $462.500High
Los Angeles vs State & National Average
| Category | Los Angeles | California Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $767.750 | $752.488 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $290.500 | $564.366 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $1.245.000 | $978.234 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $24.900 | $99.600 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $66.400 | $332.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $83.000 | $415.000 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $8.300 | $41.500 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $16.600 | $49.800 | |
| Marketing & branding | $8.300 | $33.200 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $49.800 | $166.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, CA, start a restaurant typically costs between $290.500 and $1.245.000. The average is $767.750, which is 66% above the national average.
Is Los Angeles expensive for start a restaurant?
Los Angeles has a cost-of-living index of 166 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 66% higher than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant 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.