After-School Program Startup Cost Comparison

Washington, DC vs Chicago, IL

Washington, DC

$29,000 - $171,000

COL Index: 148.7

VS

Chicago, IL

$27,000 - $144,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Washington, DC Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licensing
$3,800 - $12,300 $5,600 - $10,900 -2%
Facility Lease (First + Last + Security)
$7,200 - $57,400 $5,900 - $47,000 +22%
Space Setup & Renovation
$4,300 - $25,600 $3,500 - $20,700 +24%
Equipment & Supplies
$3,000 - $12,000 $3,000 - $12,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Transportation (Optional)
$0 - $12,000 $0 - $12,000 Same
Marketing & Parent Outreach
$1,500 - $6,000 $1,500 - $6,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$7,400 - $37,200 $5,400 - $27,000 +38%
Total Estimated Cost $29,000 - $171,000 $27,000 - $144,000 +17%

Local Market Factors

Factor Washington Chicago
Cost of Living Index 148.7 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.42 1.15
Sales Tax 6% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $17.50/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $99 $150

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