Escape Room Startup Cost Comparison
New York, NY vs Chicago, IL
New York, NY
$98,000 - $638,000
COL Index: 187.2
VS
Chicago, IL
$64,000 - $418,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | New York, NY | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$500 - $3,000 | $500 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Commercial Lease & Build-Out
|
$52,200 - $347,800 | $29,300 - $195,700 | +78% |
|
Room Design & Construction
|
$21,800 - $174,000 | $17,300 - $138,000 | +26% |
|
Technology & Booking System
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Business Insurance (Annual)
|
$2,000 - $8,000 | $2,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Launch
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$15,000 - $74,900 | $8,600 - $43,100 | +74% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $98,000 - $638,000 | $64,000 - $418,000 | +53% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | New York | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 187.2 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $40 - $120 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.45 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 8.875% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $16.00/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $200 | $150 |
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