Is Tennis Expensive? Here’s What You Need to Know

A lot of people wonder if tennis is an expensive sport to get into. The answer is that it can be, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what you need to know.

The Cost of Tennis

Like with any sport, playing tennis comes with some associated costs. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for years, you’ll need to factor in the cost of equipment, court fees, and lessons. In this article, we’ll break down the cost of playing tennis so you can better understand what you’re getting into.

Court Fees

Tennis court fees vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. They also vary depending on whether you are playing singles, doubles, or mixed doubles. In general, peak hours are from 4 pm to 8 pm during the week, and from 8 am to 1 pm on weekends. Court fees during these times are usually $20 per hour for singles and $30 per hour for doubles. Court fees during off-peak hours are usually $10 per hour for singles and $20 per hour for doubles.

Equipment

If you’re just starting out, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on equipment. A decent racket (which can be found for around $60-$70) and a can of balls (which typically cost around $15-$20) is all you really need. Of course, as you get better, you may want to invest in better quality equipment, but that’s not necessary upfront.

Playing Tennis

Tennis is usually an inexpensive sport to take up and you can often find good quality equipment for cheap at garage sales or online. However, as with any hobby, there are always going to be ways to spend more money than necessary. In this article, we’ll touch on some of the ways you can keep your tennis costs down.

Membership Fees

Tennis is an excellent way to get some exercise, fresh air, and socialize all at the same time. For many people, the biggest barrier to playing is the cost. Let’s take a look at some of the fees associated with playing tennis and see if it’s really as expensive as you think.

One-time Fees
The biggest one-time fee associated with playing tennis is the cost of racquets. A decent quality racket will cost between $50 and $200. If you plan on playing competitively, you will also need to invest in a few other pieces of equipment, such as tennis shoes, balls, and a bag to hold everything. These items can add up, but you can often find them on sale or second-hand.

Recurring Fees
If you want to play tennis on a regular basis, you will need to pay for a membership at a club or court. These memberships can range widely in price, depending on the location and amenities offered. In general, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 per month.

Some clubs offer pay-as-you-go options that can be more affordable if you don’t plan on playing every week. Private courts may also be an option if there is someone you know who wants to split the cost with you.

Cost of Lessons
If you are just starting out, or if you want to improve your game, taking lessons from a professional tennis coach is a good idea. The cost of these lessons will depend on your location and the experience of the coach, but expect to pay around $60 per hour.

With all of these costs considered, playing tennis can be as expensive or as affordable as you want it to be. If you are looking for a way to get some exercise without breaking the bank, this could be the perfect sport for you!

Tournament Fees

Tournament fees for U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) events typically range from $16 to $54 for singles, $24 to $64 for doubles and $5 to $16 for mixed doubles, depending on the type of event. The USTA also charges an annual membership fee of $50 for individuals and $60 for families, which entitles members to participate in USTA-sanctioned events, receive a magazine subscription and take part in other member benefits. In addition, many clubs and facilities require players to purchase an annual or monthly membership in order to participate in activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tennis can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many ways to save money on tennis equipment and clothing. You can also find free or low-cost tennis courts in your area. With a little planning, you can enjoy the game of tennis without breaking the bank.