How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in Memphis, TN?
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
$143.500 – $615.000
-18% vs national average
$143.500$379.250$615.000
LowNational avg: $462.500High
Memphis vs State & National Average
| Category | Memphis | Tennessee Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $379.250 | $383.413 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $143.500 | $287.560 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $615.000 | $498.437 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $12.300 | $49.200 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $32.800 | $164.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $41.000 | $205.000 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $4.100 | $20.500 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $8.200 | $24.600 | |
| Marketing & branding | $4.100 | $16.400 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $24.600 | $82.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in Memphis?
In Memphis, TN, start a restaurant typically costs between $143.500 and $615.000. The average is $379.250, which is 18% below the national average.
Is Memphis expensive for start a restaurant?
Memphis has a cost-of-living index of 82 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 18% lower than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant 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.