How Much Does It Cost to Open a Coffee Shop

Opening a coffee shop is one of the most popular business ideas among entrepreneurs — a chance to create community, serve daily joy, and build a brand around experience. But before you start designing your logo or choosing beans, you need to understand what it actually costs to open one.

While coffee shops can start small, the investment is often higher than expected once equipment, licenses, and interior design are added up. In this guide, we’ll break down the key cost categories, explore ways to save, and show you how modern tools like EasyMenus can simplify your setup.

Typical Startup Costs

Most new coffee shops in Europe require an investment between €20,000 and €120,000, depending on size, location, and style. A small kiosk might operate on a modest budget, while a full espresso bar in a busy city can easily exceed €100,000.

Your main expenses will come from equipment (espresso machines, grinders, refrigerators), furniture, initial stock, and rent. You should also plan for at least three months of operational costs before your first profits arrive.

For a deeper overview of restaurant-related businesses, visit the main guide:👉 How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant or Café

Breaking Down the Costs

• Espresso Equipment – Professional machines range from €3,000 to €15,000. Many new owners start with semi-automatic models to save money.

• Furniture and Interior Design – A warm, inviting layout is key. Depending on size, interior design can range between €5,000 and €30,000.

• Licensing and Permits – Food safety certifications, business registration, and if you plan to sell snacks or alcohol, additional permits. Learn more about the requirements from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

• Staff and Training – Even if you plan to run it yourself at first, budget for barista training, payroll deposits, and uniforms.

• Marketing and Branding – Your café’s identity is everything. Online visibility, signage, and menu design all require early investment.

How to Reduce Costs

New owners often overspend early on. Here are realistic ways to keep your startup affordable:

• Buy refurbished equipment. Companies like Coffee Hit or Espresso Parts offer reliable used gear.• Start with a lean menu. Limit your drink range and grow later — smaller menus mean smaller supply and training costs.• Use digital tools. With EasyMenus, you can create a digital, multilingual menu that’s easy to update and available via QR code. No more reprinting paper menus every time you change a price.• Negotiate your rent. Sometimes landlords offer discounts if you take longer leases or handle small renovations yourself.

How Long Until You Break Even

For most independent coffee shops, it takes between 12 to 24 months to break even. Success depends on your daily sales volume and cost control. Setting realistic expectations early helps you manage cash flow and avoid surprises.

Consistency, quality, and smart marketing are your best investments — not fancy decor. A well-run small café can be more profitable than a large, over-designed space.

Helpful External Resources

For further research and real-world insights, check these trusted sources:

Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) – Global standards and certifications.

European Coffee Federation – Data on European coffee markets.

Related Articles

To compare your coffee shop idea with other types of food businesses, check out our related guides:

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Bar

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Bakery

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Small Restaurant

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant

Each post explores unique cost factors and includes practical tips on budgeting and equipment selection.

Final Thoughts

Opening a coffee shop is as much about mindset as money. If you plan well, invest in the right equipment, and stay flexible, your café can become both profitable and beloved.

Use digital tools like EasyMenus to keep your menu fresh, modern, and easy to update — letting you focus more on your customers and less on maintenance.

For a full breakdown of costs across all restaurant types, return to our main guide:👉 How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant or Café