Know every dollar up front to keep cash stress low. Use this guide, then circle back to our furniture-store blueprint for the full launch plan and to our business-plan template for lender-ready numbers.
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Average cost range
| Category | Low setup | High setup |
|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit & build-out | $10,000 | $80,000 |
| Opening inventory | $20,000 | $300,000 |
| POS & software | $2,000 | $10,000 |
| Furniture & décor for showroom | $3,000 | $15,000 |
| Licenses & permits | $500 | $3,000 |
| Insurance & utilities deposits | $1,500 | $8,000 |
| Marketing launch fund | $2,000 | $10,000 |
| Contingency (10 %) | $4,000 | $42,000 |
| Total | $43,000 | $468,000 |
Actual spend swings with location, size, and brand mix.
Cost-saving tips
- Start small. Use a 1,000 sq ft showroom plus online sales.
- Negotiate vendor terms. Push for 30-day net and floor-plan financing.
- Lease big gear. Forklifts and delivery trucks cost less per month than buying.
- Stage with sample pieces. Order one of each style, then ship direct from vendor.
Monthly operating budget
After launch, expect operating costs near $15,000 – $25,000 for rent, payroll, ads, and utilities.
Key takeaways
Budget high—but spend smart. Most owners launch between $50,000 and $150,000, keep 10 % in reserve, and update costs quarterly.
FAQs
- How much money do I need to open a furniture store? Many small stores open between $50,000 and $150,000; large showrooms can top $500,000.
- Which cost is biggest? Opening inventory often eats over half the budget.
- How much inventory should I start with? Aim for 60 days of stock and reorder weekly.
- Is renting or buying better? Most new stores rent to stay flexible.
- How do I fund these costs? See our funding guide for SBA loans and vendor credit.
Further reading
- Furniture store funding options: SBA, vendor credit, lines of credit
- Furniture profit margin and markup guide
- Furniture store business plan template and checklist
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