Manufacturing Business Startup Cost Comparison
Helena, MT vs Houston, TX
Helena, MT
$56,000 - $937,000
COL Index: 98.5
VS
Houston, TX
$63,000 - $1,078,000
COL Index: 96.5
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Helena, MT | Houston, TX | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Licensing & Compliance
|
$2,000 - $15,000 | $2,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Manufacturing Space
|
$6,500 - $130,400 | $13,700 - $273,900 | -52% |
|
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
|
$4,500 - $45,000 | $4,600 - $46,000 | -2% |
|
Sales & Distribution
|
$3,000 - $20,000 | $3,000 - $20,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
|
$14,800 - $197,000 | $14,500 - $193,000 | +2% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $56,000 - $937,000 | $63,000 - $1,078,000 | -13% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Helena | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 98.5 | 96.5 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $10 - $20 | $18 - $45 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.9 | 0.92 |
| Sales Tax | 0% | 8.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $10.30/hr | $7.25/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $70 | $300 |
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