Convenience Store Startup Cost Comparison
Durham, NC vs Chicago, IL
Durham, NC
$45,000 - $295,000
COL Index: 102.8
VS
Chicago, IL
$59,000 - $393,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Durham, NC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$500 - $5,000 | $500 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Commercial Space & Build-Out
|
$15,700 - $109,600 | $29,300 - $205,400 | -47% |
|
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)
|
$7,700 - $36,000 | $8,100 - $37,700 | -5% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $45,000 - $295,000 | $59,000 - $393,000 | -25% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Durham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 102.8 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $16 - $32 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.04 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 7.5% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $125 | $150 |
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