Airbnb Rental Business Startup Cost Comparison

Seattle, WA vs Chicago, IL

Seattle, WA

$13,000 - $66,000

COL Index: 147.1

VS

Chicago, IL

$14,000 - $59,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Seattle, WA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Permits
$2,800 - $12,200 $5,600 - $10,900 -9%
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)
$4,400 - $22,100 $3,200 - $16,200 +37%
Total Estimated Cost $13,000 - $66,000 $14,000 - $59,000 +8%

Local Market Factors

Factor Seattle Chicago
Cost of Living Index 147.1 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $28 - $72 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.4 1.15
Sales Tax 10.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $19.97/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $200 $150

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