Manufacturing Business Startup Cost Comparison

San Diego, CA vs Houston, TX

San Diego, CA

$85,000 - $1,401,000

COL Index: 160.2

VS

Houston, TX

$63,000 - $1,078,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense San Diego, CA Houston, TX Difference
Licensing & Compliance
$4,000 - $17,700 $2,000 - $15,000 +28%
Manufacturing Space
$22,400 - $447,800 $13,700 - $273,900 +63%
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
$6,500 - $65,000 $4,600 - $46,000 +41%
Sales & Distribution
$3,000 - $20,000 $3,000 - $20,000 Same
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
$24,000 - $320,400 $14,500 - $193,000 +66%
Total Estimated Cost $85,000 - $1,401,000 $63,000 - $1,078,000 +30%

Local Market Factors

Factor San Diego Houston
Cost of Living Index 160.2 96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $28 - $75 $18 - $45
Labor Rate Index 1.3 0.92
Sales Tax 7.75% 8.25%
Minimum Wage $16.85/hr $7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $300

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