Manufacturing Business Startup Cost Comparison

Austin, TX vs Chicago, IL

Austin, TX

$68,000 - $1,165,000

COL Index: 105.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$75,000 - $1,229,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Austin, TX Chicago, IL Difference
Licensing & Compliance
$2,000 - $15,000 $5,600 - $15,000 -17%
Manufacturing Space
$16,700 - $334,800 $19,600 - $391,300 -14%
Manufacturing Equipment
$15,000 - $400,000 $15,000 - $400,000 Same
Initial Raw Materials
$5,000 - $100,000 $5,000 - $100,000 Same
Insurance & Compliance
$5,000 - $30,000 $5,000 - $30,000 Same
Production Staff & Training
$5,500 - $55,000 $5,800 - $57,500 -4%
Sales & Distribution
$3,000 - $20,000 $3,000 - $20,000 Same
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
$15,800 - $210,400 $16,200 - $215,600 -2%
Total Estimated Cost $68,000 - $1,165,000 $75,000 - $1,229,000 -5%

Local Market Factors

Factor Austin Chicago
Cost of Living Index 105.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $22 - $55 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.1 1.15
Sales Tax 8.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $7.25/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $300 $150

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