HVAC Startup Cost Comparison

Sarasota, FL vs Chicago, IL

Sarasota, FL

$27,000 - $135,000

COL Index: 108.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$31,000 - $140,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Sarasota, FL Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & HVAC License
$1,900 - $6,200 $5,600 - $10,900 -51%
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)
$5,400 - $27,100 $5,400 - $27,000 Same
Total Estimated Cost $27,000 - $135,000 $31,000 - $140,000 -5%

Local Market Factors

Factor Sarasota Chicago
Cost of Living Index 108.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $18 - $42 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 0.98 1.15
Sales Tax 7.5% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $13.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $125 $150

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