Convenience Store Startup Cost Comparison

Santa Clarita, CA vs Chicago, IL

Santa Clarita, CA

$56,000 - $361,000

COL Index: 148.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$59,000 - $393,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Santa Clarita, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Commercial Space & Build-Out
$22,800 - $159,800 $29,300 - $205,400 -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)
$11,100 - $52,000 $8,100 - $37,700 +38%
Total Estimated Cost $56,000 - $361,000 $59,000 - $393,000 -8%

Local Market Factors

Factor Santa Clarita Chicago
Cost of Living Index 148.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $22 - $48 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.2 1.15
Sales Tax 9.5% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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