Manufacturing Business Startup Cost Comparison

Raleigh, NC vs Chicago, IL

Raleigh, NC

$62,000 - $1,061,000

COL Index: 100.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$75,000 - $1,229,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Raleigh, NC Chicago, IL Difference
Licensing & Compliance
$2,000 - $15,000 $5,600 - $15,000 -17%
Manufacturing Space
$12,200 - $243,500 $19,600 - $391,300 -38%
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
$5,100 - $51,000 $5,800 - $57,500 -11%
Sales & Distribution
$3,000 - $20,000 $3,000 - $20,000 Same
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
$15,100 - $201,600 $16,200 - $215,600 -7%
Total Estimated Cost $62,000 - $1,061,000 $75,000 - $1,229,000 -14%

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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