Etsy Shop Startup Cost Comparison

San Diego, CA vs Chicago, IL

San Diego, CA

$5,000 - $24,000

COL Index: 160.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$6,000 - $17,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense San Diego, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration
$4,000 - $17,700 $5,600 - $10,900 +32%
Etsy Shop Setup
$0 - $200 $0 - $200 Same
Materials & Equipment
$100 - $2,000 $100 - $2,000 Same
Product Photography
$100 - $500 $100 - $500 Same
Packaging & Shipping Supplies
$100 - $500 $100 - $500 Same
Marketing & Etsy Ads
$100 - $1,500 $100 - $1,500 Same
Working Capital (2 Months)
$200 - $1,600 $100 - $1,100 +50%
Total Estimated Cost $5,000 - $24,000 $6,000 - $17,000 +26%

Local Market Factors

Factor San Diego Chicago
Cost of Living Index 160.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $28 - $75 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.3 1.15
Sales Tax 7.75% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.85/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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