Auto Body Shop Startup Cost Comparison

Rochester, MN vs Chicago, IL

Rochester, MN

$35,000 - $204,000

COL Index: 101.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$56,000 - $326,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Rochester, MN Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$19,100 - $114,800 $39,100 - $234,800 -51%
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)
$7,600 - $30,500 $8,100 - $32,300 -6%
Total Estimated Cost $35,000 - $204,000 $56,000 - $326,000 -37%

Local Market Factors

Factor Rochester Chicago
Cost of Living Index 101.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $14 - $30 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1 1.15
Sales Tax 7.375% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $10.85/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $155 $150

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