Language School Startup Cost Comparison

Raleigh, NC vs Chicago, IL

Raleigh, NC

$9,000 - $66,000

COL Index: 100.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$12,000 - $89,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Raleigh, NC Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$4,900 - $36,500 $7,800 - $58,700 -38%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$1,500 - $11,300 $1,500 - $11,300 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$1,500 - $7,600 $1,600 - $8,100 -6%
Total Estimated Cost $9,000 - $66,000 $12,000 - $89,000 -26%

Local Market Factors

Factor Raleigh Chicago
Cost of Living Index 100.8 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $16 - $40 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.02 1.15
Sales Tax 7.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $7.25/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $125 $150

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