Embroidery & Custom Apparel Startup Cost Comparison

Chicago, IL vs Houston, TX

Chicago, IL

$12,000 - $63,000

COL Index: 107.8

VS

Houston, TX

$10,000 - $51,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Chicago, IL Houston, TX Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$7,800 - $39,100 $5,500 - $27,400 +43%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$1,500 - $7,500 $1,500 - $7,500 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$1,600 - $5,400 $1,400 - $4,800 +13%
Total Estimated Cost $12,000 - $63,000 $10,000 - $51,000 +23%

Local Market Factors

Factor Chicago Houston
Cost of Living Index 107.8 96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $25 - $65 $18 - $45
Labor Rate Index 1.15 0.92
Sales Tax 10.25% 8.25%
Minimum Wage $15.80/hr $7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $300

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