Martial Arts Studio Startup Cost Comparison

New York, NY vs Chicago, IL

New York, NY

$50,000 - $248,000

COL Index: 187.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$37,000 - $168,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense New York, NY Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$5,300 - $17,100 $5,600 - $10,900 +36%
Studio Lease (First + Last + Security)
$17,400 - $97,400 $9,800 - $54,800 +78%
Studio Build-Out
$7,300 - $36,300 $5,800 - $28,800 +26%
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)
$11,200 - $56,200 $6,500 - $32,300 +74%
Total Estimated Cost $50,000 - $248,000 $37,000 - $168,000 +45%

Local Market Factors

Factor New York Chicago
Cost of Living Index 187.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $40 - $120 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.45 1.15
Sales Tax 8.875% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $200 $150

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