Real Estate Agency Startup Cost Comparison
Los Angeles, CA vs Chicago, IL
Los Angeles, CA
$43,000 - $182,000
COL Index: 166.5
VS
Chicago, IL
$37,000 - $146,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Los Angeles, CA | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$4,000 - $14,400 | $5,600 - $10,900 | +12% |
|
Broker License & Education
|
$2,000 - $6,000 | $2,000 - $6,000 | Same |
|
Office Lease (First + Last + Security)
|
$11,300 - $56,300 | $8,800 - $44,000 | +28% |
|
Office Build-Out & Furnishing
|
$4,100 - $20,300 | $3,500 - $17,300 | +17% |
|
Technology & MLS Access
|
$3,000 - $12,000 | $3,000 - $12,000 | Same |
|
Insurance (Annual)
|
$2,000 - $8,000 | $2,000 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Brand Building
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3-6 Months)
|
$13,300 - $50,000 | $8,600 - $32,300 | +55% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $43,000 - $182,000 | $37,000 - $146,000 | +23% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Los Angeles | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 166.5 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/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 |
View Full Details
Ready to Start Your Real Estate Agency?
Start your Real Estate Agency LLC in — free registered agent for 1 year.
Form Your LLC for $0 + State Fee →Trusted by 500,000+ businesses · Excellent rating on Trustpilot