How Much Does Start a Restaurant Cost in Washington, DC?
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
$266.000 – $1.140.000
+52% vs national average
$266.000$703.000$1.140.000
LowNational avg: $462.500High
Washington vs State & National Average
| Category | Washington | District of Columbia Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $703.000 | $690.975 | $462.500 |
| Low estimate | $266.000 | $518.231 | $346.875 |
| High estimate | $1.140.000 | $898.268 | $601.250 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & first months | $22.800 | $91.200 | |
| Kitchen equipment | $60.800 | $304.000 | |
| Interior buildout & renovation | $76.000 | $380.000 | |
| Licenses, permits & legal | $7.600 | $38.000 | |
| Initial inventory & supplies | $15.200 | $45.600 | |
| Marketing & branding | $7.600 | $30.400 | |
| Working capital (3 months) | $45.600 | $152.000 |
Start a Restaurant in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does start a restaurant cost in Washington?
In Washington, DC, start a restaurant typically costs between $266.000 and $1.140.000. The average is $703.000, which is 52% above the national average.
Is Washington expensive for start a restaurant?
Washington has a cost-of-living index of 152 (100 = national average). Start a Restaurant costs are 52% higher than the national average of $462.500.
What factors affect start a restaurant costs in Washington?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, District of Columbia state regulations, and Washington's overall cost of living (index: 152/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.