Solar Installation Business Startup Cost Comparison
Wilmington, NC vs Chicago, IL
Wilmington, NC
$35,000 - $199,000
COL Index: 99.8
VS
Chicago, IL
$56,000 - $326,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Wilmington, NC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$200 - $3,000 | $200 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Space & Equipment
|
$18,300 - $109,600 | $39,100 - $234,800 | -53% |
|
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 | $35,000 - $199,000 | $56,000 - $326,000 | -39% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Wilmington | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 99.8 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $14 - $28 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.95 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 7% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $125 | $150 |
View Full Details
Ready to Start Your Solar Installation Business?
Start your Solar Installation Business LLC in — free registered agent for 1 year.
Form Your LLC for $0 + State Fee →Trusted by 500,000+ businesses · Excellent rating on Trustpilot