Catering Business Startup Cost Comparison

Boston, MA vs Miami, FL

Boston, MA

$36,000 - $190,000

COL Index: 152.4

VS

Miami, FL

$30,000 - $154,000

COL Index: 128.3

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Boston, MA Miami, FL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$5,800 - $32,300 $2,600 - $9,500 +215%
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 $6,400 - $25,700 +19%
Total Estimated Cost $36,000 - $190,000 $30,000 - $154,000 +23%

Local Market Factors

Factor Boston Miami
Cost of Living Index 152.4 128.3
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.38 1.08
Sales Tax 6.25% 7%
Minimum Wage $15.00/hr $13.00/hr
LLC Filing Fee $500 $125

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