Pawn Shop Startup Cost Comparison

New York, NY vs Chicago, IL

New York, NY

$92,000 - $358,000

COL Index: 187.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$56,000 - $220,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense New York, NY Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$69,600 - $278,300 $39,100 - $156,500 +78%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$7,500 - $30,000 $7,500 - $30,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $4,000 $500 - $4,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$14,000 - $37,400 $8,100 - $21,600 +73%
Total Estimated Cost $92,000 - $358,000 $56,000 - $220,000 +63%

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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