Plumbing Startup Cost Comparison
Durham, NC vs Chicago, IL
Durham, NC
$17,000 - $92,000
COL Index: 102.8
VS
Chicago, IL
$21,000 - $97,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Durham, NC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Plumbing License
|
$1,400 - $6,300 | $5,600 - $10,900 | -53% |
|
Service Vehicle
|
$5,000 - $35,000 | $5,000 - $35,000 | Same |
|
Plumbing Tools & Equipment
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Parts & Supplies Inventory
|
$1,000 - $5,000 | $1,000 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Business Insurance (Annual)
|
$2,000 - $7,000 | $2,000 - $7,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Lead Generation
|
$1,000 - $8,000 | $1,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$3,100 - $15,400 | $3,200 - $16,200 | -5% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $17,000 - $92,000 | $21,000 - $97,000 | -8% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Durham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 102.8 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $16 - $32 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.04 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 7.5% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $125 | $150 |
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