Tech Startup Startup Cost Comparison
Madison, WI vs Chicago, IL
Madison, WI
$20,000 - $158,000
COL Index: 102.5
VS
Chicago, IL
$25,000 - $190,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Madison, WI | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Incorporation & Legal Formation
|
$900 - $5,000 | $5,600 - $10,900 | -64% |
|
Legal & Intellectual Property
|
$2,000 - $15,000 | $2,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Computers & Hardware
|
$3,000 - $15,000 | $3,000 - $15,000 | Same |
|
Software & Cloud Services
|
$1,000 - $12,000 | $1,000 - $12,000 | Same |
|
Office or Coworking Space (Optional)
|
$0 - $24,000 | $0 - $47,000 | -49% |
|
Marketing & Product Launch
|
$2,000 - $20,000 | $2,000 - $20,000 | Same |
|
Business Insurance
|
$1,000 - $5,000 | $1,000 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital & Runway (3-6 months)
|
$10,300 - $61,500 | $10,800 - $64,700 | -5% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $20,000 - $158,000 | $25,000 - $190,000 | -17% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Madison | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 102.5 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $14 - $32 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 0.98 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 5.5% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $7.25/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $130 | $150 |
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