Welding Business Startup Cost Comparison

McKinney, TX vs Chicago, IL

McKinney, TX

$21,000 - $120,000

COL Index: 102.8

VS

Chicago, IL

$26,000 - $138,000

COL Index: 107.8

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense McKinney, TX Chicago, IL Difference
Business Registration & Certifications
$1,900 - $6,100 $5,600 - $10,900 -52%
Welding Machines & Equipment
$5,000 - $30,000 $5,000 - $30,000 Same
Shop or Workspace
$2,600 - $26,100 $3,900 - $39,100 -33%
Fabrication Tools
$2,000 - $12,000 $2,000 - $12,000 Same
Safety Equipment & PPE
$500 - $2,000 $500 - $2,000 Same
Work Vehicle & Mobile Rig
$5,000 - $25,000 $5,000 - $25,000 Same
Business Insurance (Annual)
$2,000 - $8,000 $2,000 - $8,000 Same
Working Capital (3 Months)
$2,100 - $10,300 $2,200 - $10,800 -5%
Total Estimated Cost $21,000 - $120,000 $26,000 - $138,000 -14%

Local Market Factors

Factor McKinney Chicago
Cost of Living Index 102.8 107.8
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr) $18 - $42 $25 - $65
Labor Rate Index 1.02 1.15
Sales Tax 8.25% 10.25%
Minimum Wage $7.25/hr $15.80/hr
LLC Filing Fee $300 $150

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