Restaurant Industry Statistics - CO Restaurant Association

The Colorado Restaurant Industry in 2026

“246,000+ Employees”
Colorado restaurants employ almost 10% of the state’s labor force.

“69% Independent”
The majority of Colorado restaurants are independently owned and operated.

“$5.9 billion”
Colorado restaurants pay billions in taxes each year.

“12,900+ Locations”
Colorado is one of the most restaurant-dense states in America, with about one restaurant for every 450 residents, placing us roughly in the top ten nationally.

“12,900+ Locations”
Colorado has lost hundreds of restaurant locations in recent years due to challenging economic conditions.

“$29+ Billion”
Colorado restaurants are engines of our state economy, earning billions in revenue. Every additional dollar spent in local restaurants contributes $1.91 to the state economy.

An Industry of Opportunity…

“Minorities & Women”
Restaurants employ more minority managers and have more women in management and ownership positions than any other industry.

“80% Entry to Owner”
Four in five restaurant owners say their first restaurant job was an entry-level position.

“30% First-Time Workers”
One in three adults found their first job in the restaurant industry.

…But Not Without Its Challenges

“Industry Margins Are Tighter Than Ever”
About 3¢ -- or less, lately -- is all that remains from each dollar spent at a restaurant after operators pay for labor, overhead, and food.

“Operational Costs Continue to Skyrocket”
Colorado menu prices sit 5.1% above the national average in an attempt to offset runaway costs.

“Labor Challenges Continue”
Local restaurants continue to struggle with hiring qualified staff, even as industry wages in Colorado have risen 34% since 2020.

“498”
Number of Colorado eating and drinking establishments lost between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025, according to CDLE data

CRA Industry Impact Data

The CRA conducts regular impact surveys to gather data on the issues facing Colorado restaurants. We receive feedback from hundreds of operators across the state, painting a clear picture of the state of the restaurant industry at a moment in time.