Manufacturing Business Startup Cost Comparison
Charleston, SC vs Chicago, IL
Charleston, SC
$65,000 - $1,092,000
COL Index: 110.8
VS
Chicago, IL
$75,000 - $1,229,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Charleston, SC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Licensing & Compliance
|
$2,000 - $15,000 | $5,600 - $15,000 | -17% |
|
Manufacturing Space
|
$12,600 - $252,200 | $19,600 - $391,300 | -36% |
|
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
|
$5,300 - $53,000 | $5,800 - $57,500 | -8% |
|
Sales & Distribution
|
$3,000 - $20,000 | $3,000 - $20,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
|
$16,600 - $221,600 | $16,200 - $215,600 | +3% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $65,000 - $1,092,000 | $75,000 - $1,229,000 | -11% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Charleston | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 110.8 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $18 - $40 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.06 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 9% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $110 | $150 |
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