Bar Startup Cost Comparison

Providence, RI vs Chicago, IL

Providence, RI

$85,000 - $348,000

COL Index: 106.3

VS

Chicago, IL

$100,000 - $409,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Providence, RI Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Liquor License
$2,000 - $15,000 $5,600 - $15,000 -17%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)
$9,000 - $52,500 $17,600 - $102,700 -49%
Bar Equipment & Fixtures
$15,000 - $60,000 $15,000 - $60,000 Same
Initial Liquor & Beverage Inventory
$8,000 - $25,000 $8,000 - $25,000 Same
Interior Build-Out & Renovation
$26,300 - $105,000 $28,800 - $115,000 -9%
Sound System & Security
$5,000 - $25,000 $5,000 - $25,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$4,000 - $12,000 $4,000 - $12,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$15,900 - $53,200 $16,200 - $53,900 -1%
Total Estimated Cost $85,000 - $348,000 $100,000 - $409,000 -15%

Local Market Factors

Factor Providence Chicago
Cost of Living Index 106.3 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $14 - $32 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.05 1.15
Sales Tax 7% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $15.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $150

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