HVAC Startup Cost Comparison

Detroit, MI vs Los Angeles, CA

Detroit, MI

$25,000 - $129,000

COL Index: 89.5

VS

Los Angeles, CA

$32,000 - $158,000

COL Index: 166.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Detroit, MI Los Angeles, CA Difference
Business Registration & HVAC License
$800 - $5,000 $4,000 - $14,400 -68%
Service Vehicle(s)
$8,000 - $45,000 $8,000 - $45,000 Same
HVAC Tools & Diagnostic Equipment
$5,000 - $25,000 $5,000 - $25,000 Same
Parts & Refrigerant Inventory
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Business Insurance & Bonding (Annual)
$3,000 - $12,000 $3,000 - $12,000 Same
Marketing & Lead Generation
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$4,500 - $22,400 $8,300 - $41,600 -46%
Total Estimated Cost $25,000 - $129,000 $32,000 - $158,000 -19%

Local Market Factors

Factor Detroit Los Angeles
Cost of Living Index 89.5 166.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $10 - $28 $30 - $85
Labor Rate Index 0.85 1.35
Sales Tax 6% 9.5%
Minimum Wage $10.33/hr $16.78/hr
LLC Filing Fee $50 $70

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