CostOfCity

How Much Does Start a Coffee Shop Cost in Memphis, TN?

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
$65.600$246.000
-18% vs national average
$65.600$155.800$246.000
LowNational avg: $190.000High

Memphis vs State & National Average

CategoryMemphisTennessee AvgNational Avg
Average cost$155.800$157.510$190.000
Low estimate$65.600$118.133$142.500
High estimate$246.000$204.763$247.000

Detailed Cost Breakdown

ItemLowHigh
Lease & deposit$6.560$24.600
Espresso machine & equipment$12.300$41.000
Interior design & buildout$16.400$82.000
Initial inventory$2.460$8.200
Licenses & permits$1.640$6.560
Working capital$8.200$41.000

Start a Coffee Shop in Nearby Cities

Little Rock, AR
$163.400
-14% vs national
Jackson, MS
$152.000
-20% vs national
Nashville, TN
$197.600
+4% vs national
St. Louis, MO
$165.300
-13% vs national
Huntsville, AL
$172.900
-9% vs national

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does start a coffee shop cost in Memphis?

In Memphis, TN, start a coffee shop typically costs between $65.600 and $246.000. The average is $155.800, which is 18% below the national average.

Is Memphis expensive for start a coffee shop?

Memphis has a cost-of-living index of 82 (100 = national average). Start a Coffee Shop costs are 18% lower than the national average of $190.000.

What factors affect start a coffee shop costs in Memphis?

Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Tennessee state regulations, and Memphis's overall cost of living (index: 82/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.