Real Estate Agency Startup Cost Comparison
San Diego, CA vs Chicago, IL
San Diego, CA
$41,000 - $177,000
COL Index: 160.2
VS
Chicago, IL
$37,000 - $146,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | San Diego, CA | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$4,000 - $17,700 | $5,600 - $10,900 | +32% |
|
Broker License & Education
|
$2,000 - $6,000 | $2,000 - $6,000 | Same |
|
Office Lease (First + Last + Security)
|
$10,100 - $50,400 | $8,800 - $44,000 | +15% |
|
Office Build-Out & Furnishing
|
$3,900 - $19,500 | $3,500 - $17,300 | +13% |
|
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)
|
$12,800 - $48,100 | $8,600 - $32,300 | +49% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $41,000 - $177,000 | $37,000 - $146,000 | +19% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | San Diego | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 160.2 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $28 - $75 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.3 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 7.75% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $16.85/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