Martial Arts Studio Startup Cost Comparison

Chicago, IL vs Houston, TX

Chicago, IL

$37,000 - $168,000

COL Index: 107.8

VS

Houston, TX

$28,000 - $138,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Chicago, IL Houston, TX Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$5,600 - $10,900 $1,900 - $6,200 +104%
Studio Lease (First + Last + Security)
$9,800 - $54,800 $6,800 - $38,300 +43%
Studio Build-Out
$5,800 - $28,800 $4,600 - $23,000 +25%
Training Equipment & Gear
$3,000 - $15,000 $3,000 - $15,000 Same
Uniform & Merchandise Inventory
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Marketing & Student Recruitment
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$6,500 - $32,300 $5,800 - $29,000 +11%
Total Estimated Cost $37,000 - $168,000 $28,000 - $138,000 +23%

Local Market Factors

Factor Chicago Houston
Cost of Living Index 107.8 96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $25 - $65 $18 - $45
Labor Rate Index 1.15 0.92
Sales Tax 10.25% 8.25%
Minimum Wage $15.80/hr $7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $300

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