Catering Business Startup Cost Comparison
Boston, MA vs Chicago, IL
Boston, MA
$36,000 - $190,000
COL Index: 152.4
VS
Chicago, IL
$32,000 - $152,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Boston, MA | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$5,800 - $32,300 | $5,600 - $10,900 | +131% |
|
Commercial Kitchen Access
|
$7,200 - $43,000 | $5,900 - $35,200 | +22% |
|
Catering Equipment & Supplies
|
$5,000 - $30,000 | $5,000 - $30,000 | Same |
|
Delivery Vehicle
|
$5,000 - $35,000 | $5,000 - $35,000 | Same |
|
Initial Food & Supply Inventory
|
$1,500 - $5,000 | $1,500 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Business Insurance (Annual)
|
$2,000 - $6,000 | $2,000 - $6,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Branding
|
$1,500 - $8,000 | $1,500 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$7,600 - $30,500 | $5,400 - $21,600 | +41% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $36,000 - $190,000 | $32,000 - $152,000 | +23% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Boston | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 152.4 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $30 - $80 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.38 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 6.25% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $15.00/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $500 | $150 |
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