How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in St. Louis, MO?
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
$152.250 – $652.500
-13% vs national average
$152.250$402.375$652.500
LowNational avg: $462.500High
St. Louis vs State & National Average
| Category | St. Louis | Missouri Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $402.375 | $405.381 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $152.250 | $304.036 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $652.500 | $526.995 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $13.050 | $52.200 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $34.800 | $174.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $43.500 | $217.500 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $4.350 | $21.750 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $8.700 | $26.100 | |
| Marketing & branding | $4.350 | $17.400 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $26.100 | $87.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in St. Louis?
In St. Louis, MO, start a restaurant typically costs between $152.250 and $652.500. The average is $402.375, which is 13% below the national average.
Is St. Louis expensive for start a restaurant?
St. Louis has a cost-of-living index of 87 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 13% lower than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant costs in St. Louis?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Missouri state regulations, and St. Louis's overall cost of living (index: 87/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.