Drone Business Startup Cost Comparison

Denver, CO vs Chicago, IL

Denver, CO

$6,000 - $44,000

COL Index: 118.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$9,000 - $45,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Denver, CO Chicago, IL Difference
FAA Certification & Business License
$2,100 - $9,200 $5,600 - $10,900 -32%
Drones & Camera Equipment
$1,500 - $20,000 $1,500 - $20,000 Same
Software & Editing
$300 - $3,000 $300 - $3,000 Same
Drone Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Marketing & Portfolio
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (2 Months)
$600 - $3,600 $500 - $3,200 +14%
Total Estimated Cost $6,000 - $44,000 $9,000 - $45,000 -7%

Local Market Factors

Factor Denver Chicago
Cost of Living Index 118.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $22 - $55 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.18 1.15
Sales Tax 8.81% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $18.29/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $50 $150

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