Pickleball is not only fun, but it’s also one of the most affordable sports to get into. However, as with any hobby, costs can add up depending on how deep you dive into it. Whether you’re just playing with friends a few times a month or you’re out on the courts every day, it’s good to know where your money is going.
Let’s break down what the average casual pickleball player might spend in a year.
Cost Breakdown for 2024
| Item | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Paddle(s) | $100 – $400 |
| Shoes | $100 – $250 |
| Balls | $20 – $100 |
| Clothing | $100 – $300 |
| Court Fees | $100 – $500 |
| Tournament Fees | $50 – $200 |
| Lessons/Clinics | $50 – $500 |
| Travel (for tournaments or play) | $100 – $1,000 |
| Accessories (grips, bags, etc.) | $50 – $150 |
Paddles
Your paddle is one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll buy. Most casual players start with a mid-range paddle that costs around $100, but as you improve, you might want to invest in something more advanced.
Higher-end paddles can cost between $150 and $400. Some players also like to have a backup paddle or one that suits a different play style, which can further increase costs.
It’s also interesting to check out the results from a recent poll where we asked our readers how much they spent on their pickleball paddle.
Shoes
Good court shoes are essential for avoiding injury and playing comfortably. Pickleball involves a lot of quick movements, so your shoes will wear out faster than you might think.
Many players go through two pairs of shoes a year, especially if they play several times a week. Expect to spend between $100 to $250 annually on shoes.
Be sure to check out our guide on the best shoes for ankle support—essential gear for any pickleball player.
Balls
Pickleballs themselves are relatively inexpensive, but they do wear out, especially if you play frequently or in rough conditions.
Depending on how often you play, you might go through several dozen balls in a year. This could cost anywhere from $20 to $100 annually.
Clothing
While you can play pickleball in just about any athletic wear, many players prefer performance clothing that’s designed for the sport. Moisture-wicking fabrics, extra pockets, and a comfortable fit can make a difference in how you feel on the court.
This can add up to $100 to $300 a year, especially if you like to refresh your wardrobe regularly.
Court Fees
Not everyone has access to free public courts. If you play at a club or need to rent court time, those fees can quickly add up. Indoor courts, in particular, tend to charge higher fees, especially during colder months.
Depending on where you live and how often you play, you could spend $100 to $500 a year on court fees.
Tournaments and Lessons
If you’re competitive or looking to improve your game, you might start entering tournaments or taking lessons. Tournament entry fees are typically between $50 and $200, depending on the event.
Lessons can vary widely, from $20 per session with a local coach to $100 or more for a session with a pro. If you’re serious about improving, lessons might cost you between $50 to $500 annually.
Travel
For those who like to travel to different pickleball events or just enjoy playing on different courts, travel can be a significant cost.
Whether it’s gas money for local trips or flights and hotels for out-of-town tournaments, these expenses can range from $100 to $1,000 or more per year.
Accessories
Finally, there are all the little extras that you might not think about at first—like grips, bags, hats, visors, and water bottles. These accessories can enhance your comfort and performance on the court.
While none of these items are particularly expensive on their own, they can add up, potentially costing you $50 to $150 a year.
What Should You Spend?
When you tally everything up, a casual pickleball player might spend anywhere from $520 to $3,250 a year on the sport. The actual cost depends on how often you play, how much you invest in gear, and whether you’re diving into tournaments or taking lessons.
If you’re just starting out, try to keep your initial investment around $200 to $300 tops. Focus on essentials like a solid paddle, durable shoes, and a few quality balls. Intermediate players should consider investing around $400 to $800 to upgrade their gear, maybe adding in a lesson or two and trying out a tournament.
Pickleball is a sport that’s flexible enough to fit any budget, so spend wisely on what matters most to you and play at the level that brings you the most joy!
