Airbnb Rental Business Startup Cost Comparison

Milwaukee, WI vs Chicago, IL

Milwaukee, WI

$9,000 - $50,000

COL Index: 95.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$14,000 - $59,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Milwaukee, WI Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Permits
$900 - $4,000 $5,600 - $10,900 -70%
Furnishing & Decor
$3,000 - $20,000 $3,000 - $20,000 Same
Smart Locks & Technology
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Professional Photography
$200 - $1,000 $200 - $1,000 Same
Guest Supplies & Welcome Kit
$300 - $1,500 $300 - $1,500 Same
Short-Term Rental Insurance (Annual)
$1,000 - $3,000 $1,000 - $3,000 Same
Listing Setup & Marketing
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$2,900 - $14,400 $3,200 - $16,200 -11%
Total Estimated Cost $9,000 - $50,000 $14,000 - $59,000 -19%

Local Market Factors

Factor Milwaukee Chicago
Cost of Living Index 95.8 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $14 - $32 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 0.92 1.15
Sales Tax 5.5% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $7.25/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $130 $150

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