Law Firm Startup Cost Comparison
Madison, WI vs Chicago, IL
Madison, WI
$40,000 - $188,000
COL Index: 102.5
VS
Chicago, IL
$52,000 - $237,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Madison, WI | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Bar Requirements
|
$900 - $4,600 | $5,600 - $10,900 | -67% |
|
Bar Admission & Licensing
|
$2,000 - $6,000 | $2,000 - $6,000 | Same |
|
Office Lease (First + Last + Security)
|
$6,000 - $36,000 | $11,700 - $70,400 | -49% |
|
Office Build-Out & Furnishing
|
$4,900 - $29,400 | $5,800 - $34,500 | -15% |
|
Technology & Equipment
|
$5,000 - $20,000 | $5,000 - $20,000 | Same |
|
Professional Liability Insurance (Annual)
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Client Development
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
|
$15,400 - $61,500 | $16,200 - $64,700 | -5% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $40,000 - $188,000 | $52,000 - $237,000 | -21% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Madison | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 102.5 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $14 - $32 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.98 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 5.5% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $130 | $150 |
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