Security Company Startup Cost Comparison

San Diego, CA vs Chicago, IL

San Diego, CA

$21,000 - $132,000

COL Index: 160.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$20,000 - $109,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense San Diego, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Licensing & Registration
$4,000 - $17,700 $5,600 - $10,900 +32%
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)
$8,000 - $48,100 $5,400 - $32,300 +49%
Total Estimated Cost $21,000 - $132,000 $20,000 - $109,000 +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

Ready to Start Your Security Company?

Start your Security Company LLC in โ€” free registered agent for 1 year.

Form Your LLC for $0 + State Fee โ†’

Trusted by 500,000+ businesses ยท Excellent rating on Trustpilot

Start Your LLC โ€” $0 + State Fee