Arcade & Gaming Center Startup Cost Comparison

Boston, MA vs Chicago, IL

Boston, MA

$122,000 - $755,000

COL Index: 152.4

VS

Chicago, IL

$107,000 - $663,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Boston, MA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Commercial Lease & Build-Out
$47,800 - $358,700 $39,100 - $293,500 +22%
Arcade Games & Equipment
$40,000 - $250,000 $40,000 - $250,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$3,000 - $12,000 $3,000 - $12,000 Same
Concessions & Food Service
$5,000 - $25,000 $5,000 - $25,000 Same
Marketing & Grand Opening
$3,000 - $15,000 $3,000 - $15,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$22,900 - $91,400 $16,200 - $64,700 +41%
Total Estimated Cost $122,000 - $755,000 $107,000 - $663,000 +14%

Local Market Factors

Factor Boston Chicago
Cost of Living Index 152.4 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.38 1.15
Sales Tax 6.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $15.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $500 $150

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