Self-Storage Facility Startup Cost Comparison

Charlotte, NC vs Chicago, IL

Charlotte, NC

$398,000 - $4,851,000

COL Index: 98.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$557,000 - $7,093,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Charlotte, NC Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Land & Building
$252,200 - $3,782,600 $391,300 - $5,869,600 -36%
Storage Units & Access
$98,000 - $784,000 $115,000 - $920,000 -15%
Management Software & Security
$10,000 - $50,000 $10,000 - $50,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$5,000 - $20,000 $5,000 - $20,000 Same
Marketing & Visibility
$3,000 - $15,000 $3,000 - $15,000 Same
Working Capital (6 Months)
$29,500 - $196,400 $32,300 - $215,600 -9%
Total Estimated Cost $398,000 - $4,851,000 $557,000 - $7,093,000 -31%

Local Market Factors

Factor Charlotte Chicago
Cost of Living Index 98.2 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $16 - $42 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 0.98 1.15
Sales Tax 7.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $7.25/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $125 $150

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