Cost to Open a Fast-casual eatery in Chicago (2026)
A data-backed estimate of startup investment, monthly costs, revenue, and break-even — based on 2026 IL, USA benchmarks.
📍 IL, USA👥 Pop. 2.7M🍽️ F&B density: High
$157K
Total investment
$4K
Monthly rent
$45K
Monthly costs
4+ mo
Break-even
Startup investment breakdown
Construction & build-out$53,000
Equipment$46,000
Licenses, inventory & launch$22,000
Security deposit (3 months rent)$10,500
Working capital reserve$25,000
Total startup investment$156,500
Estimated monthly operating costs
Rent$3,500
Payroll$16,200
Food cost (~33% of revenue)$22,063
Fixed costs (internet, software, maintenance)$180
Variable costs (utilities, marketing, packaging)$2,600
Total monthly costs (at typical revenue)$44,543
Revenue & break-even estimate
Monthly revenue range (80–180 customers/day @ $10–$18/ticket)$26K–$108K/mo
Estimated monthly profit range-$5,252 – $49,880/mo
Time to recoup investment4+ months
Estimates for the Chicago area using 2026 IL, USA benchmarks. Actual rent and costs vary by exact location, lease terms, and concept. Run your own numbers for a precise projection.
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