Cost to Open a Restaurant 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
$325K
Total investment
$7K
Monthly rent
$86K
Monthly costs
5+ mo
Break-even

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Startup investment breakdown

Construction & build-out$116,250
Equipment$109,836
Licenses, inventory & launch$39,000
Security deposit (3 months rent)$20,400
Working capital reserve$40,000
Total startup investment$325,486

Estimated monthly operating costs

Rent$6,800
Payroll$33,155
Food cost (~33% of revenue)$39,600
Fixed costs (internet, software, maintenance)$750
Variable costs (utilities, marketing, packaging)$5,300
Total monthly costs (at typical revenue)$85,605

Revenue & break-even estimate

Monthly revenue range (40–100 customers/day @ $25–$60/ticket)$34K–$206K/mo
Estimated monthly profit range-$23,033 – $91,823/mo
Time to recoup investment5+ 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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