Handyman Startup Cost Comparison

Newark, NJ vs Chicago, IL

Newark, NJ

$19,000 - $94,000

COL Index: 115.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$13,000 - $53,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Newark, NJ Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$10,600 - $51,700 $5,600 - $10,900 +278%
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)
$2,300 - $9,200 $2,200 - $8,600 +6%
Total Estimated Cost $19,000 - $94,000 $13,000 - $53,000 +71%

Local Market Factors

Factor Newark Chicago
Cost of Living Index 115.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $16 - $38 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.14 1.15
Sales Tax 6.625% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $15.49/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $125 $150

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