Cost to Open a Fast-Casual Eatery in Los Angeles (2026)

A data-backed estimate of startup investment, monthly costs, revenue, and break-even — based on 2026 CA, USA benchmarks.

📍 CA, USA👥 Pop. 3.9M🍽️ F&B density: Very high
$154K
Total investment
$4K
Monthly rent
$44K
Monthly costs
4+ mo
Break-even

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Startup investment breakdown

Construction & build-out$49,290
Equipment$44,712
Licenses, inventory & launch$22,000
Security deposit (3 months rent)$12,750
Working capital reserve$25,000
Total startup investment$153,752

Estimated monthly operating costs

Rent$4,250
Payroll$15,390
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)$44,483

Revenue & break-even estimate

Monthly revenue range (80–180 customers/day @ $10–$18/ticket)$26K–$108K/mo
Estimated monthly profit range-$5,192 – $49,940/mo
Time to recoup investment4+ months

What's different about opening in Los Angeles

Los Angeles spreads demand across neighborhoods rather than concentrating it, so foot traffic varies enormously street to street — a block that looks comparable to another can deliver half the covers. Health department requirements are strict, and parking minimums can quietly shape which spaces are even viable. Outdoor seating, permitted properly, is worth more here than in most US markets.

Estimates for the Los Angeles area using 2026 CA, 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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Fast-Casual Eatery costs in other cities