Solar Installation Business Startup Cost Comparison

Spokane, WA vs Chicago, IL

Spokane, WA

$34,000 - $193,000

COL Index: 99.5

VS

Chicago, IL

$56,000 - $326,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Spokane, WA Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$17,400 - $104,300 $39,100 - $234,800 -56%
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)
$7,500 - $29,900 $8,100 - $32,300 -7%
Total Estimated Cost $34,000 - $193,000 $56,000 - $326,000 -41%

Local Market Factors

Factor Spokane Chicago
Cost of Living Index 99.5 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $12 - $28 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 0.92 1.15
Sales Tax 8.9% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.28/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $180 $150

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