Travel Agency Startup Cost Comparison
Washington, DC vs Chicago, IL
Washington, DC
$11,000 - $59,000
COL Index: 148.7
VS
Chicago, IL
$12,000 - $52,000
COL Index: 107.8
Detailed Cost Comparison
| Expense | Washington, DC | Chicago, IL | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Registration & Licenses
|
$3,800 - $12,300 | $5,600 - $10,900 | -2% |
|
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
|
$1,200 - $12,000 | $1,000 - $9,800 | +22% |
|
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)
|
$3,000 - $14,900 | $2,200 - $10,800 | +38% |
| Total Estimated Cost | $11,000 - $59,000 | $12,000 - $52,000 | +9% |
Local Market Factors
| Factor | Washington | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 148.7 | 107.8 |
| Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) | $30 - $80 | $25 - $65 |
| Labor Rate Index | 1.42 | 1.15 |
| Sales Tax | 6% | 10.25% |
| Minimum Wage | $17.50/hr | $15.80/hr |
| LLC Filing Fee | $99 | $150 |
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