Handyman Startup Cost Comparison

Arlington, VA vs Chicago, IL

Arlington, VA

$12,000 - $55,000

COL Index: 148.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$13,000 - $53,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Arlington, VA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$3,700 - $9,900 $5,600 - $10,900 -18%
Work Vehicle
$2,000 - $15,000 $2,000 - $15,000 Same
Tools & Equipment
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Common Supplies & Hardware
$300 - $1,500 $300 - $1,500 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$800 - $3,000 $800 - $3,000 Same
Marketing & Lead Generation
$500 - $4,000 $500 - $4,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$3,000 - $11,900 $2,200 - $8,600 +38%
Total Estimated Cost $12,000 - $55,000 $13,000 - $53,000 +2%

Local Market Factors

Factor Arlington Chicago
Cost of Living Index 148.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $60 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.38 1.15
Sales Tax 6% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $12.41/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $100 $150

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