Bar Startup Cost Comparison

Scottsdale, AZ vs Chicago, IL

Scottsdale, AZ

$98,000 - $408,000

COL Index: 125.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$100,000 - $409,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Scottsdale, AZ Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Liquor License
$2,100 - $15,000 $5,600 - $15,000 -17%
Commercial Lease (First + Last + Security)
$15,500 - $90,200 $17,600 - $102,700 -12%
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
$29,500 - $118,000 $28,800 - $115,000 +3%
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)
$18,800 - $62,800 $16,200 - $53,900 +16%
Total Estimated Cost $98,000 - $408,000 $100,000 - $409,000 -1%

Local Market Factors

Factor Scottsdale Chicago
Cost of Living Index 125.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $24 - $55 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.18 1.15
Sales Tax 8.05% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $14.35/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $50 $150

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