Clothing Store Startup Cost Comparison

Austin, TX vs Chicago, IL

Austin, TX

$26,000 - $150,000

COL Index: 105.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$29,000 - $167,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Austin, TX Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$16,700 - $100,400 $19,600 - $117,400 -15%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$3,800 - $22,500 $3,800 - $22,500 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$3,900 - $15,800 $4,000 - $16,200 -2%
Total Estimated Cost $26,000 - $150,000 $29,000 - $167,000 -10%

Local Market Factors

Factor Austin Chicago
Cost of Living Index 105.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $22 - $55 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.1 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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