Outfitting a commercial kitchen requires a significant investment, and the equipment you choose directly affects your food quality, kitchen efficiency, and overall profitability. From ovens and refrigerators to prep tables and dishwashers, the price range for commercial kitchen equipment can be wide, depending on brand, size, features, and quality.
This guide breaks down typical price ranges for essential commercial kitchen equipment, helping you make informed decisions and budget realistically for your restaurant, catering business, or institutional kitchen.
🏷️ What Influences Commercial Kitchen Equipment Prices?
Before diving into specific equipment costs, understand these factors that affect pricing:
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Equipment Type & Functionality: More complex machines cost more (e.g., combi ovens vs. basic ranges).
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Brand & Build Quality: Premium brands and stainless steel construction add to price.
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Size & Capacity: Larger units with higher volume capacity cost more.
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Energy Efficiency: Energy Star-certified equipment may have higher upfront costs but save money over time.
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New vs. Used: Used equipment costs less but may come with shorter warranties and more maintenance.
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Features & Technology: Digital controls, programmable settings, and smart features increase price.
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Installation & Accessories: Ventilation, plumbing, and electrical hookups add to total costs.
🍳 Commercial Cooking Equipment Prices
1. Ranges and Cooktops
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Basic gas or electric range: $1,000 – $5,000
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Heavy-duty ranges (4-6 burners): $3,000 – $10,000+
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Induction cooktops: $1,500 – $8,000 per unit
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Specialty cooktops (griddles, charbroilers): $1,500 – $7,000
2. Ovens
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Convection ovens: $3,000 – $8,000
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Combi ovens (steam + convection): $10,000 – $40,000+
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Deck ovens (pizza ovens): $5,000 – $15,000
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Microwave ovens (commercial grade): $500 – $2,500
3. Fryers
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Countertop fryers: $700 – $2,500
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Floor fryers (single or double basket): $1,500 – $5,000+
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Pressure fryers (for fried chicken): $5,000 – $20,000
4. Grills and Griddles
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Flat-top griddles: $1,500 – $7,000
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Charbroilers: $2,000 – $10,000
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Salamanders/broilers: $1,000 – $4,000
❄️ Refrigeration Equipment Prices
1. Reach-in Refrigerators & Freezers
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Single-door reach-in fridge: $2,000 – $5,000
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Double-door reach-in fridge: $3,000 – $8,000
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Reach-in freezer: $2,500 – $7,000
2. Walk-in Coolers and Freezers
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Walk-in cooler: $5,000 – $15,000+ (size-dependent)
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Walk-in freezer: $10,000 – $25,000+ (size-dependent)
3. Undercounter Refrigerators
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Undercounter fridge/freezer: $1,200 – $3,500
🧽 Dishwashing and Cleaning Equipment Prices
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Undercounter dishwashers: $3,000 – $8,000
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Conveyor dishwashers: $15,000 – $50,000+
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Glass washers: $3,000 – $7,000
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Pot and pan washers: $10,000 – $25,000
🍽️ Food Prep Equipment Prices
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Prep tables (with refrigeration): $1,500 – $5,000
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Commercial mixers: $1,000 – $10,000 (depending on capacity)
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Food processors: $500 – $4,000
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Slicers: $500 – $4,000
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Cutting boards and work tables: $300 – $2,000+
☕ Beverage Equipment Prices
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Coffee brewers: $500 – $5,000
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Commercial espresso machines: $2,000 – $15,000+
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Ice machines: $2,000 – $10,000
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Beverage dispensers: $500 – $3,000
🧊 Ventilation and HVAC
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Exhaust hoods: $5,000 – $20,000+ (depending on size)
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Make-up air units: $3,000 – $10,000+
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Fire suppression systems: $2,000 – $8,000+
📦 Other Equipment & Considerations
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Shelving units and racks: $100 – $1,000+ each
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Storage bins: $50 – $500
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Smallwares (pots, pans, utensils): Varies widely; budget $500 – $3,000+ for basic setups
💡 Tips to Manage Commercial Kitchen Equipment Costs
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Assess Your Needs: Buy equipment sized for your expected volume to avoid over- or under-spending.
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Buy New or Used: Consider certified used equipment for budget savings, but verify warranty and condition.
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Energy Efficiency: Invest in Energy Star-rated equipment to reduce ongoing utility costs.
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Plan for Installation: Account for delivery, setup, and potential kitchen modifications.
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Negotiate with Vendors: Ask about package deals or seasonal discounts.
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Maintenance & Warranties: Factor in ongoing service contracts or extended warranties.
📊 Example Budget Breakdown for a Mid-Sized Restaurant Kitchen
| Equipment Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Cooking Equipment | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Refrigeration | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Dishwashing | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Food Prep & Storage | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Ventilation & HVAC | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Smallwares & Miscellaneous | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Total | $58,000 – $152,000 |
🔍 Final Thoughts: Invest Wisely for Long-Term Success
Choosing commercial kitchen equipment is a significant step in launching or upgrading your food business. While costs vary widely, planning your budget with realistic price ranges and understanding your kitchen’s unique needs will help you make smart purchases that boost efficiency and food quality.