← Back
💼 Startup Cost Calculator
Plan Your Business Launch Budget
Reviewed by Maria Santos, CPA
Startup Accountant • 14 years • 800+ businesses launched
One-Time Costs
$
$
$
$
Monthly Operating Costs
$
$
$
💡 Expert Tips
- Triple your first estimate: Entrepreneurs budget $20k, reality is $60k. Unexpected costs: permits take 3 months longer, contractor quotes low then adds 40%, marketing doesn't work first 3 tries. Rule: Whatever you calculate, add 150-200% buffer.
- 6 months runway minimum, 12 is smart: "I'll be profitable in 3 months!" is a fantasy. Average: 12-18 months to break even. If you only fund 6 months and month 7 you're at 80% of break-even, you're dead. Can't get loans with no revenue history.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Only budgeting for 3 months runway: "I'll be profitable in 3 months!" Average: 12-18 months to break even. Budget for 12 months minimum or you'll run out of cash at month 4 when you're 80% there.
- Forgetting personal living expenses: Calculated $30k business costs, but forgot you need $40k/year to live. Month 6 you're broke personally even though business has cash. Budget BOTH business AND personal survival money.
- Not planning for the unexpected: Budgeted exactly $50k. Contractor quote comes in 30% high, supplier payment terms are 50% upfront not net-30. Real need: $75k. Always add 50-100% buffer for reality.