Painting Startup Cost Comparison

Trenton, NJ vs Chicago, IL

Trenton, NJ

$13,000 - $74,000

COL Index: 100.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$14,000 - $60,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Trenton, NJ Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$5,400 - $26,200 $5,600 - $10,900 +92%
Work Vehicle
$2,000 - $15,000 $2,000 - $15,000 Same
Painting Equipment & Tools
$2,000 - $10,000 $2,000 - $10,000 Same
Initial Paint & Supplies
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$1,000 - $5,000 $1,000 - $5,000 Same
Marketing & Lead Generation
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$2,000 - $10,100 $2,200 - $10,800 -7%
Total Estimated Cost $13,000 - $74,000 $14,000 - $60,000 +18%

Local Market Factors

Factor Trenton Chicago
Cost of Living Index 100.8 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $12 - $24 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 0.98 1.15
Sales Tax 6.625% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $15.49/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $125 $150

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