Bowling Alley Startup Cost Comparison

Carlsbad, CA vs Chicago, IL

Carlsbad, CA

$536,000 - $3,496,000

COL Index: 155.6

VS

Chicago, IL

$512,000 - $3,392,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Carlsbad, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Facility Lease or Purchase
$187,000 - $1,495,700 $195,700 - $1,565,200 -4%
Bowling Lanes & Equipment
$200,000 - $1,200,000 $200,000 - $1,200,000 Same
Restaurant & Bar Build-Out
$39,000 - $260,000 $34,500 - $230,000 +13%
Business Insurance (Annual)
$10,000 - $40,000 $10,000 - $40,000 Same
Marketing & League Development
$5,000 - $25,000 $5,000 - $25,000 Same
Working Capital (6 Months)
$93,400 - $466,800 $64,700 - $323,400 +44%
Total Estimated Cost $536,000 - $3,496,000 $512,000 - $3,392,000 +3%

Local Market Factors

Factor Carlsbad Chicago
Cost of Living Index 155.6 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $28 - $58 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.3 1.15
Sales Tax 8.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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