Security Company Startup Cost Comparison

Chicago, IL vs Houston, TX

Chicago, IL

$20,000 - $109,000

COL Index: 107.8

VS

Houston, TX

$16,000 - $105,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Chicago, IL Houston, TX Difference
Licensing & Registration
$5,600 - $10,900 $2,000 - $10,000 +38%
Uniforms & Equipment
$2,000 - $15,000 $2,000 - $15,000 Same
Patrol Vehicle
$2,000 - $20,000 $2,000 - $20,000 Same
Insurance & Bonding
$3,000 - $15,000 $3,000 - $15,000 Same
Guard Training Program
$1,000 - $8,000 $1,000 - $8,000 Same
Marketing & Contract Bidding
$1,000 - $8,000 $1,000 - $8,000 Same
Working Capital (2 Months)
$5,400 - $32,300 $4,800 - $29,000 +12%
Total Estimated Cost $20,000 - $109,000 $16,000 - $105,000 +7%

Local Market Factors

Factor Chicago Houston
Cost of Living Index 107.8 96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $25 - $65 $18 - $45
Labor Rate Index 1.15 0.92
Sales Tax 10.25% 8.25%
Minimum Wage $15.80/hr $7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee $150 $300

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