Gas Station Startup Cost Comparison

Los Angeles, CA vs Chicago, IL

Los Angeles, CA

$351,000 - $2,681,000

COL Index: 166.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$275,000 - $2,129,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Los Angeles, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$250,000 - $2,000,000 $195,700 - $1,565,200 +28%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$37,500 - $300,000 $37,500 - $300,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $40,000 $500 - $40,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$62,400 - $333,000 $40,400 - $215,600 +54%
Total Estimated Cost $351,000 - $2,681,000 $275,000 - $2,129,000 +26%

Local Market Factors

Factor Los Angeles Chicago
Cost of Living Index 166.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $85 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.35 1.15
Sales Tax 9.5% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.78/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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