Convenience Store Startup Cost Comparison

Alexandria, VA vs Chicago, IL

Alexandria, VA

$60,000 - $389,000

COL Index: 143.6

VS

Chicago, IL

$59,000 - $393,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Alexandria, VA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Commercial Space & Build-Out
$27,100 - $189,500 $29,300 - $205,400 -8%
Equipment & Fixtures
$12,500 - $87,500 $12,500 - $87,500 Same
Initial Inventory & Supplies
$5,000 - $35,000 $5,000 - $35,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$2,000 - $12,000 $2,000 - $12,000 Same
Marketing & Grand Opening
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$10,800 - $50,300 $8,100 - $37,700 +33%
Total Estimated Cost $60,000 - $389,000 $59,000 - $393,000 -1%

Local Market Factors

Factor Alexandria Chicago
Cost of Living Index 143.6 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $28 - $55 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.35 1.15
Sales Tax 6% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $12.41/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $100 $150

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