Self-Storage Facility Startup Cost Comparison

San Diego, CA vs Chicago, IL

San Diego, CA

$644,000 - $8,166,000

COL Index: 160.2

VS

Chicago, IL

$557,000 - $7,093,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense San Diego, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$500 - $3,000 $500 - $3,000 Same
Land & Building
$447,800 - $6,717,400 $391,300 - $5,869,600 +14%
Storage Units & Access
$130,000 - $1,040,000 $115,000 - $920,000 +13%
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)
$48,100 - $320,400 $32,300 - $215,600 +49%
Total Estimated Cost $644,000 - $8,166,000 $557,000 - $7,093,000 +15%

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

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