Bowling Alley Startup Cost Comparison
Washington, DC vs Chicago, IL
Washington, DC
$588,000 - $3,916,000
COL Index: 148.7
VS
Chicago, IL
$512,000 - $3,392,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Washington, DC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$2,000 - $8,000 | $2,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Facility Lease or Purchase
|
$239,100 - $1,913,000 | $195,700 - $1,565,200 | +22% |
|
Bowling Lanes & Equipment
|
$200,000 - $1,200,000 | $200,000 - $1,200,000 | Same |
|
Restaurant & Bar Build-Out
|
$42,600 - $284,000 | $34,500 - $230,000 | +23% |
|
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)
|
$89,200 - $446,100 | $64,700 - $323,400 | +38% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $588,000 - $3,916,000 | $512,000 - $3,392,000 | +15% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Washington | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 148.7 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $30 - $80 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.42 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 6% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $17.50/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $99 | $150 |
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