Embroidery & Custom Apparel Startup Cost Comparison

Philadelphia, PA vs Chicago, IL

Philadelphia, PA

$11,000 - $57,000

COL Index: 114.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$12,000 - $63,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Philadelphia, PA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$6,500 - $32,600 $7,800 - $39,100 -17%
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)
$1,700 - $5,700 $1,600 - $5,400 +6%
Total Estimated Cost $11,000 - $57,000 $12,000 - $63,000 -9%

Local Market Factors

Factor Philadelphia Chicago
Cost of Living Index 114.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $20 - $55 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.12 1.15
Sales Tax 8% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $7.25/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $125 $150

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