Moving Company Startup Cost Comparison

Los Angeles, CA vs Chicago, IL

Los Angeles, CA

$32,000 - $158,000

COL Index: 166.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$31,000 - $140,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Los Angeles, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Moving Licenses
$4,000 - $14,400 $5,600 - $10,900 +12%
Moving Trucks
$10,000 - $60,000 $10,000 - $60,000 Same
Moving Equipment & Supplies
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Packing Supplies Inventory
$1,000 - $4,000 $1,000 - $4,000 Same
Business & Cargo Insurance (Annual)
$5,000 - $18,000 $5,000 - $18,000 Same
Marketing & Lead Generation
$2,000 - $12,000 $2,000 - $12,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$8,300 - $41,600 $5,400 - $27,000 +54%
Total Estimated Cost $32,000 - $158,000 $31,000 - $140,000 +11%

Local Market Factors

Factor Los Angeles Chicago
Cost of Living Index 166.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $85 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.35 1.15
Sales Tax 9.5% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.78/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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