Manufacturing Business Startup Cost Comparison

Washington, DC vs Chicago, IL

Washington, DC

$85,000 - $1,412,000

COL Index: 148.7

VS

Chicago, IL

$75,000 - $1,229,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Washington, DC Chicago, IL Difference
Licensing & Compliance
$3,800 - $15,000 $5,600 - $15,000 -9%
Manufacturing Space
$23,900 - $478,300 $19,600 - $391,300 +22%
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
$7,100 - $71,000 $5,800 - $57,500 +23%
Sales & Distribution
$3,000 - $20,000 $3,000 - $20,000 Same
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
$22,300 - $297,400 $16,200 - $215,600 +38%
Total Estimated Cost $85,000 - $1,412,000 $75,000 - $1,229,000 +15%

Local Market Factors

Factor Washington Chicago
Cost of Living Index 148.7 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.42 1.15
Sales Tax 6% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $17.50/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $99 $150

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