Travel Agency Startup Cost Comparison
San Jose, CA vs Chicago, IL
San Jose, CA
$12,000 - $71,000
COL Index: 185.5
VS
Chicago, IL
$12,000 - $52,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | San Jose, CA | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$4,100 - $18,100 | $5,600 - $10,900 | +35% |
|
Host Agency Fees & Consortia
|
$200 - $1,500 | $200 - $1,500 | Same |
|
Industry Accreditation & Training
|
$500 - $5,000 | $500 - $5,000 | Same |
|
Software & Booking Tools
|
$500 - $3,000 | $500 - $3,000 | Same |
|
Office Setup
|
$1,400 - $14,100 | $1,000 - $9,800 | +44% |
|
Errors & Omissions Insurance (Annual)
|
$500 - $2,500 | $500 - $2,500 | Same |
|
Marketing & Client Acquisition
|
$1,500 - $8,000 | $1,500 - $8,000 | Same |
|
Working Capital (3 Months)
|
$3,700 - $18,600 | $2,200 - $10,800 | +72% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $12,000 - $71,000 | $12,000 - $52,000 | +30% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | San Jose | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 185.5 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $35 - $95 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.55 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 9.375% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $17.55/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $70 | $150 |
View Full Details
Ready to Start Your Travel Agency?
Start your Travel Agency LLC in — free registered agent for 1 year.
Form Your LLC for $0 + State Fee →Trusted by 500,000+ businesses · Excellent rating on Trustpilot