Dance Studio Startup Cost Comparison

Boston, MA vs Chicago, IL

Boston, MA

$45,000 - $225,000

COL Index: 152.4

VS

Chicago, IL

$38,000 - $170,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Boston, MA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$5,800 - $32,300 $5,600 - $10,900 +131%
Studio Lease (First + Last + Security)
$12,000 - $71,700 $9,800 - $58,700 +22%
Studio Build-Out
$11,000 - $48,300 $9,200 - $40,300 +20%
Sound System & Equipment
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Dancewear & Merchandise Inventory
$1,500 - $6,000 $1,500 - $6,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$1,500 - $6,000 $1,500 - $6,000 Same
Marketing & Student Recruitment
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$9,100 - $42,700 $6,500 - $30,200 +41%
Total Estimated Cost $45,000 - $225,000 $38,000 - $170,000 +30%

Local Market Factors

Factor Boston Chicago
Cost of Living Index 152.4 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.38 1.15
Sales Tax 6.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $15.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $500 $150

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