Catering Business Startup Cost Comparison
Philadelphia, PA vs Chicago, IL
Philadelphia, PA
$29,000 - $163,000
COL Index: 114.5
VS
Chicago, IL
$32,000 - $152,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Philadelphia, PA | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$3,600 - $26,600 | $5,600 - $10,900 | +83% |
|
Commercial Kitchen Access
|
$4,900 - $29,300 | $5,900 - $35,200 | -17% |
|
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)
|
$5,700 - $22,900 | $5,400 - $21,600 | +6% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $29,000 - $163,000 | $32,000 - $152,000 | +4% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Philadelphia | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 114.5 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $20 - $55 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.12 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 8% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $125 | $150 |
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