Solar Installation Business Startup Cost Comparison

Washington, DC vs Houston, TX

Washington, DC

$68,000 - $391,000

COL Index: 148.7

VS

Houston, TX

$43,000 - $252,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Washington, DC Houston, TX Difference
Business Registration & Licenses
$200 - $3,000 $200 - $3,000 Same
Space & Equipment
$47,800 - $287,000 $27,400 - $164,300 +75%
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)
$11,200 - $44,600 $7,200 - $29,000 +54%
Total Estimated Cost $68,000 - $391,000 $43,000 - $252,000 +56%

Local Market Factors

Factor Washington Houston
Cost of Living Index 148.7 96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $80 $18 - $45
Labor Rate Index 1.42 0.92
Sales Tax 6% 8.25%
Minimum Wage $17.50/hr $7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee $99 $300

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