Catering Business Startup Cost Comparison
Dallas, TX vs Chicago, IL
Dallas, TX
$27,000 - $138,000
COL Index: 103.1
VS
Chicago, IL
$32,000 - $152,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Dallas, TX | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$2,000 - $6,500 | $5,600 - $10,900 | -48% |
|
Commercial Kitchen Access
|
$4,400 - $26,600 | $5,900 - $35,200 | -25% |
|
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)
|
$5,200 - $20,600 | $5,400 - $21,600 | -4% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $27,000 - $138,000 | $32,000 - $152,000 | -10% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Dallas | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 103.1 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $18 - $50 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.05 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 8.25% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $300 | $150 |
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