Food Truck Startup Cost Comparison
Washington, DC vs Houston, TX
Washington, DC
$72,000 - $259,000
COL Index: 148.7
VS
Houston, TX
$61,000 - $226,000
COL Index: 96.5
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Washington, DC | Houston, TX | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$3,800 - $12,300 | $1,900 - $6,200 | +99% |
|
Food Truck Vehicle
|
$30,000 - $120,000 | $30,000 - $120,000 | Same |
|
Kitchen Equipment
|
$10,000 - $40,000 | $10,000 - $40,000 | Same |
|
Initial Food Inventory
|
$1,500 - $5,000 | $1,500 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Commissary Kitchen (Annual)
|
$14,300 - $43,000 | $8,200 - $24,700 | +74% |
|
Business & Vehicle Insurance (Annual)
|
$3,000 - $8,000 | $3,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Branding
|
$2,000 - $8,000 | $2,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$7,400 - $22,300 | $4,800 - $14,500 | +54% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $72,000 - $259,000 | $61,000 - $226,000 | +15% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Washington | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 148.7 | 96.5 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $30 - $80 | $18 - $45 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.42 | 0.92 |
| Sales Tax | 6% | 8.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $17.50/hr | $7.25/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $99 | $300 |
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