Bowling Alley Startup Cost Comparison
Chicago, IL vs Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
$512,000 - $3,392,000
COL Index: 107.8
VS
Los Angeles, CA
$607,000 - $4,043,000
COL Index: 166.5
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Chicago, IL | Los Angeles, CA | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$2,000 - $8,000 | $2,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Facility Lease or Purchase
|
$195,700 - $1,565,200 | $250,000 - $2,000,000 | -22% |
|
Bowling Lanes & Equipment
|
$200,000 - $1,200,000 | $200,000 - $1,200,000 | Same |
|
Restaurant & Bar Build-Out
|
$34,500 - $230,000 | $40,500 - $270,000 | -15% |
|
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)
|
$64,700 - $323,400 | $99,900 - $499,500 | -35% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $512,000 - $3,392,000 | $607,000 - $4,043,000 | -16% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Chicago | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 107.8 | 166.5 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $25 - $65 | $30 - $85 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.15 | 1.35 |
| Sales Tax | 10.25% | 9.5% |
| Minimum Wage | $15.80/hr | $16.78/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $150 | $70 |
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