Bowling Alley Startup Cost Comparison

Chicago, IL vs New York, NY

Chicago, IL

$512,000 - $3,392,000

COL Index: 107.8

VS

New York, NY

$721,000 - $4,907,000

COL Index: 187.2

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Chicago, IL New York, NY Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Facility Lease or Purchase
$195,700 - $1,565,200 $347,800 - $2,782,600 -44%
Bowling Lanes & Equipment
$200,000 - $1,200,000 $200,000 - $1,200,000 Same
Restaurant & Bar Build-Out
$34,500 - $230,000 $43,500 - $290,000 -21%
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 $112,300 - $561,600 -42%
Total Estimated Cost $512,000 - $3,392,000 $721,000 - $4,907,000 -31%

Local Market Factors

Factor Chicago New York
Cost of Living Index 107.8 187.2
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $25 - $65 $40 - $120
Labor Rate Index 1.15 1.45
Sales Tax 10.25% 8.875%
Minimum Wage $15.80/hr $16.00/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $200

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