How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in Milwaukee, WI?
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
$159.250 – $682.500
-9% vs national average
$159.250$420.875$682.500
LowNational avg: $462.500High
Milwaukee vs State & National Average
| Category | Milwaukee | Wisconsin Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $420.875 | $422.956 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $159.250 | $317.217 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $682.500 | $549.843 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $13.650 | $54.600 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $36.400 | $182.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $45.500 | $227.500 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $4.550 | $22.750 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $9.100 | $27.300 | |
| Marketing & branding | $4.550 | $18.200 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $27.300 | $91.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in Milwaukee?
In Milwaukee, WI, start a restaurant typically costs between $159.250 and $682.500. The average is $420.875, which is 9% below the national average.
Is Milwaukee expensive for start a restaurant?
Milwaukee has a cost-of-living index of 91 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 9% lower than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant costs in Milwaukee?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Wisconsin state regulations, and Milwaukee's overall cost of living (index: 91/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.