Convenience Store Startup Cost Comparison

Sunnyvale, CA vs Chicago, IL

Sunnyvale, CA

$76,000 - $495,000

COL Index: 192.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$59,000 - $393,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Sunnyvale, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Commercial Space & Build-Out
$39,800 - $278,500 $29,300 - $205,400 +36%
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)
$14,400 - $67,400 $8,100 - $37,700 +79%
Total Estimated Cost $76,000 - $495,000 $59,000 - $393,000 +26%

Local Market Factors

Factor Sunnyvale Chicago
Cost of Living Index 192.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $42 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.55 1.15
Sales Tax 9.375% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $18.55/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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