Clothing Store Startup Cost Comparison
Columbia, SC vs Chicago, IL
Columbia, SC
$16,000 - $94,000
COL Index: 92.4
VS
Chicago, IL
$29,000 - $167,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Columbia, SC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$200 - $3,000 | $200 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Space & Equipment
|
$7,800 - $47,000 | $19,600 - $117,400 | -60% |
|
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)
|
$3,500 - $13,900 | $4,000 - $16,200 | -14% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $16,000 - $94,000 | $29,000 - $167,000 | -44% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Columbia | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 92.4 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $12 - $24 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.9 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 8% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $110 | $150 |
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