Bowling Alley Startup Cost Comparison

Los Angeles, CA vs Chicago, IL

Los Angeles, CA

$607,000 - $4,043,000

COL Index: 166.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$512,000 - $3,392,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Los Angeles, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Facility Lease or Purchase
$250,000 - $2,000,000 $195,700 - $1,565,200 +28%
Bowling Lanes & Equipment
$200,000 - $1,200,000 $200,000 - $1,200,000 Same
Restaurant & Bar Build-Out
$40,500 - $270,000 $34,500 - $230,000 +17%
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)
$99,900 - $499,500 $64,700 - $323,400 +54%
Total Estimated Cost $607,000 - $4,043,000 $512,000 - $3,392,000 +19%

Local Market Factors

Factor Los Angeles Chicago
Cost of Living Index 166.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $85 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.35 1.15
Sales Tax 9.5% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.78/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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