Tech Startup Startup Cost Comparison

Pasadena, CA vs Chicago, IL

Pasadena, CA

$28,000 - $222,000

COL Index: 152.3

VS

Chicago, IL

$25,000 - $190,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense Pasadena, CA Chicago, IL Difference
Incorporation & Legal Formation
$3,300 - $14,300 $5,600 - $10,900 +7%
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 - $49,600 $0 - $47,000 +6%
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)
$15,200 - $91,400 $10,800 - $64,700 +41%
Total Estimated Cost $28,000 - $222,000 $25,000 - $190,000 +16%

Local Market Factors

Factor Pasadena Chicago
Cost of Living Index 152.3 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $30 - $65 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.32 1.15
Sales Tax 10.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $16.00/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $70 $150

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