Interior Design Business Startup Cost Comparison

Boston, MA vs Chicago, IL

Boston, MA

$8,000 - $49,000

COL Index: 152.4

VS

Chicago, IL

$7,000 - $42,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Boston, MA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$4,800 - $28,700 $3,900 - $23,500 +22%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$800 - $4,500 $800 - $4,500 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$1,100 - $4,600 $800 - $3,200 +43%
Total Estimated Cost $8,000 - $49,000 $7,000 - $42,000 +16%

Local Market Factors

Factor Boston Chicago
Cost of Living Index 152.4 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.38 1.15
Sales Tax 6.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $15.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $500 $150

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