Solar Installation Business Startup Cost Comparison

Columbia, MO vs Chicago, IL

Columbia, MO

$32,000 - $183,000

COL Index: 91.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$56,000 - $326,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Columbia, MO Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$16,100 - $96,500 $39,100 - $234,800 -59%
Initial Supplies & Inventory
$7,500 - $45,000 $7,500 - $45,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$500 - $6,000 $500 - $6,000 Same
Marketing & Launch
$500 - $5,000 $500 - $5,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$6,900 - $27,500 $8,100 - $32,300 -15%
Total Estimated Cost $32,000 - $183,000 $56,000 - $326,000 -44%

Local Market Factors

Factor Columbia Chicago
Cost of Living Index 91.8 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $11 - $26 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 0.85 1.15
Sales Tax 8.975% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $13.75/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $50 $150

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