Auto Body Shop Startup Cost Comparison
Billings, MT vs Houston, TX
Billings, MT
$31,000 - $177,000
COL Index: 98.5
VS
Houston, TX
$43,000 - $252,000
COL Index: 96.5
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Billings, MT | Houston, TX | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$200 - $3,000 | $200 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Space & Equipment
|
$14,800 - $88,700 | $27,400 - $164,300 | -46% |
|
Initial Supplies & Inventory
|
$7,500 - $45,000 | $7,500 - $45,000 | Same |
|
Business Insurance (Annual)
|
$500 - $6,000 | $500 - $6,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Launch
|
$500 - $5,000 | $500 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$7,400 - $29,600 | $7,200 - $29,000 | +2% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $31,000 - $177,000 | $43,000 - $252,000 | -29% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Billings | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 98.5 | 96.5 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $10 - $24 | $18 - $45 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.88 | 0.92 |
| Sales Tax | 0% | 8.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $10.30/hr | $7.25/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $70 | $300 |
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