Handyman Startup Cost Comparison

Chicago, IL vs Houston, TX

Chicago, IL

$13,000 - $53,000

COL Index: 107.8

VS

Houston, TX

$9,000 - $47,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Chicago, IL Houston, TX Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$5,600 - $10,900 $1,900 - $6,200 +104%
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)
$2,200 - $8,600 $1,900 - $7,700 +13%
Total Estimated Cost $13,000 - $53,000 $9,000 - $47,000 +18%

Local Market Factors

Factor Chicago Houston
Cost of Living Index 107.8 96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $25 - $65 $18 - $45
Labor Rate Index 1.15 0.92
Sales Tax 10.25% 8.25%
Minimum Wage $15.80/hr $7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $300

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