Catering Business Startup Cost Comparison
Boston, MA vs Houston, TX
Boston, MA
$36,000 - $190,000
COL Index: 152.4
VS
Houston, TX
$26,000 - $134,000
COL Index: 96.5
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Boston, MA | Houston, TX | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$5,800 - $32,300 | $1,900 - $6,200 | +370% |
|
Commercial Kitchen Access
|
$7,200 - $43,000 | $4,100 - $24,700 | +74% |
|
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 | $4,800 - $19,300 | +58% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $36,000 - $190,000 | $26,000 - $134,000 | +41% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Boston | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 152.4 | 96.5 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $30 - $80 | $18 - $45 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.38 | 0.92 |
| Sales Tax | 6.25% | 8.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $15.00/hr | $7.25/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $500 | $300 |
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