Self-Storage Facility Startup Cost Comparison

Los Angeles, CA vs Chicago, IL

Los Angeles, CA

$704,000 - $9,001,000

COL Index: 166.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$557,000 - $7,093,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Los Angeles, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Land & Building
$500,000 - $7,500,000 $391,300 - $5,869,600 +28%
Storage Units & Access
$135,000 - $1,080,000 $115,000 - $920,000 +17%
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)
$50,000 - $333,000 $32,300 - $215,600 +54%
Total Estimated Cost $704,000 - $9,001,000 $557,000 - $7,093,000 +27%

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

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