Sign Shop Startup Cost Comparison
Hartford, CT vs Chicago, IL
Hartford, CT
$15,000 - $75,000
COL Index: 107.3
VS
Chicago, IL
$23,000 - $115,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Hartford, CT | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$200 - $3,000 | $200 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Space & Equipment
|
$7,700 - $38,300 | $15,700 - $78,300 | -51% |
|
Initial Supplies & Inventory
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Business Insurance (Annual)
|
$500 - $3,000 | $500 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Marketing & Launch
|
$500 - $5,000 | $500 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$3,200 - $10,700 | $3,200 - $10,800 | -1% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $15,000 - $75,000 | $23,000 - $115,000 | -35% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Hartford | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 107.3 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $14 - $30 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.08 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 6.35% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $16.35/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $120 | $150 |
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