What guides does CostCrunch offer?

CostCrunch offers free guides on startup costs by business type, 1099 vs W-2 cost differences, break-even analysis, and how to start specific businesses like bars and cleaning companies. All guides are updated with 2026 data.

How much does it cost to start a small business?

Average small business startup costs range from $3,000 for home-based service businesses to $150,000+ for brick-and-mortar retail or restaurants. The biggest drivers are location (lease vs. home-based), equipment requirements, licensing, and initial inventory.

What is the difference between a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employee?

W-2 employees cost employers 18–25% more than base salary once you add FICA (7.65%), FUTA, SUTA, workers' comp, and benefits. 1099 contractors typically charge a higher hourly rate but cost nothing in payroll taxes. The break-even point is roughly 52 weeks of full-time work.

How do I calculate my break-even point?

Break-Even Units = Fixed Costs ÷ (Price per Unit − Variable Cost per Unit). For revenue: Break-Even Revenue = Fixed Costs ÷ Contribution Margin Ratio. Example: $10,000 fixed costs, $50 price, $20 variable cost → Break-even = 334 units/month or $16,667/month in revenue.

Small Business Cost Guides (2026) — CostCrunch

Startup Costs

Average Startup Costs for a Small Business

$3,000–$150,000 depending on type. Cost breakdowns by industry, with SBA and Census data.

By business type →

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Bar?

$150,000–$850,000 depending on size, liquor license, and location. Every cost broken down.

Full cost breakdown →

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Gym?

$30,000--$500,000 depending on size. CrossFit box, boutique studio, or traditional gym -- every cost broken down.

Equipment + staffing →

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Restaurant?

Food truck to full-service: $50,000--$750,000+. Buildout, permits, equipment, and the working capital math.

All restaurant types →

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Daycare?

Home-based ($10K--$50K) to licensed center ($75K--$300K). Staff ratios, licensing, and what parents actually pay.

Licensing + cost breakdown →

Cost to Start a Cleaning Business

$2,000–$50,000 for residential or commercial. Equipment, insurance, licensing, and marketing covered.

Residential & commercial →

Employment & Hiring

1099 vs W-2: What's the Real Cost Difference?

W-2 employees cost 18–25% more than base salary. 1099 contractors cost nothing in payroll taxes. The break-even point is ~52 weeks.

Cost comparison + calculator →

Financial Analysis

Break-Even Analysis: How to Calculate Your Break-Even Point

Formula: Fixed Costs ÷ (Price − Variable Cost). How to calculate it, use it, and avoid common mistakes.

Formula + worked examples →

Also see: Business Formation Guides

Step-by-step guides to starting each type of small business, forming an LLC by state, and getting licensed.

All Business Types Form an LLC by State

Need a calculator instead?

CostCrunch has 16 free financial calculators for small business owners — payroll taxes, startup costs, break-even, employee cost, and more.

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