Dance Studio Startup Cost Comparison
Helena, MT vs Chicago, IL
Helena, MT
$25,000 - $113,000
COL Index: 98.5
VS
Chicago, IL
$38,000 - $170,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Helena, MT | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$1,100 - $4,300 | $5,600 - $10,900 | -67% |
|
Studio Lease (First + Last + Security)
|
$3,300 - $19,600 | $9,800 - $58,700 | -67% |
|
Studio Build-Out
|
$7,200 - $31,500 | $9,200 - $40,300 | -22% |
|
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)
|
$5,900 - $27,600 | $6,500 - $30,200 | -9% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $25,000 - $113,000 | $38,000 - $170,000 | -34% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Helena | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 98.5 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $10 - $20 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.9 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 0% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $10.30/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $70 | $150 |
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