Bowling Alley Startup Cost Comparison

New Haven, CT vs Chicago, IL

New Haven, CT

$429,000 - $2,721,000

COL Index: 113.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$512,000 - $3,392,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense New Haven, CT Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Facility Lease or Purchase
$110,900 - $887,000 $195,700 - $1,565,200 -43%
Bowling Lanes & Equipment
$200,000 - $1,200,000 $200,000 - $1,200,000 Same
Restaurant & Bar Build-Out
$33,000 - $220,000 $34,500 - $230,000 -4%
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)
$68,300 - $341,400 $64,700 - $323,400 +6%
Total Estimated Cost $429,000 - $2,721,000 $512,000 - $3,392,000 -19%

Local Market Factors

Factor New Haven Chicago
Cost of Living Index 113.8 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $16 - $35 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.1 1.15
Sales Tax 6.35% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.35/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $120 $150

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