Convenience Store Startup Cost Comparison

Chicago, IL vs Los Angeles, CA

Chicago, IL

$59,000 - $393,000

COL Index: 107.8

VS

Los Angeles, CA

$72,000 - $470,000

COL Index: 166.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Chicago, IL Los Angeles, CA Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Commercial Space & Build-Out
$29,300 - $205,400 $37,500 - $262,500 -22%
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)
$8,100 - $37,700 $12,500 - $58,300 -35%
Total Estimated Cost $59,000 - $393,000 $72,000 - $470,000 -17%

Local Market Factors

Factor Chicago Los Angeles
Cost of Living Index 107.8 166.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $25 - $65 $30 - $85
Labor Rate Index 1.15 1.35
Sales Tax 10.25% 9.5%
Minimum Wage $15.80/hr $16.78/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $70

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