Owning a laundromat can be a profitable and rewarding business, but it’s not as simple as throwing in some machines and collecting quarters. The real cost of owning a laundromat goes beyond just the purchase price. It includes everything from equipment and utilities to maintenance, marketing, and operational expenses. If you’re serious about getting into the laundromat business—or growing your existing store—you need to understand these costs to maximize your profits and avoid costly mistakes.

At Laundry Advisors, we help laundromat owners turn their businesses into highly profitable, systematized operations. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced owner looking to scale, knowing the real numbers will set you up for success. Let’s dive into the true costs of owning a laundromat.

1. The Cost of Buying a Laundromat

The price of buying a laundromat varies widely depending on location, store size, and financial performance. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Small, older laundromat: $50,000 – $150,000
• Mid-sized, semi-updated laundromat: $150,000 – $600,000
• Large, high-performing laundromat: $500,000 – $1,000,000+
• Brand-new, built-from-scratch laundromat: $800,000 – $2,500,000+

Buying an existing laundromat with a solid customer base and cash flow can be a great way to hit the ground running. However, many laundromats on the market are outdated and need significant upgrades, which means additional costs.

If you’re building a store from scratch, you’ll face high initial investments in equipment, leasehold improvements, and business setup costs. While this route can be lucrative, it requires a strong business plan and financial backing.

2. Equipment Costs: The Heart of Your Business

Laundromat equipment is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. The type and number of machines you need depend on your store’s size and customer demand.

• Commercial Washers: $5,000 – $25,000 each (Dexter, Speed Queen, Huebsch, etc.)
• Commercial Dryers: $5,000 – $12,000 each
• Change Machines: $2,000 – $5,000
• Card Payment Systems: $10,000 – $50,000
• Folding Tables & Seating: $2,000 – $10,000
• Vending Machines (soap, snacks, drinks): $1,500 – $15,000

While buying used machines can save money upfront, new, high-efficiency equipment reduces utility costs and attracts more customers. Plus, some manufacturers offer financing options to spread out the expense.

3. Lease and Utility Costs: The Silent Killers

One of the biggest mistakes new laundromat owners make is underestimating their lease and utility costs. These can make or break your business.

Lease (Rent) Costs

• Location is key, and prime locations come at a price. Expect to pay $2,500 – $15,000 per month depending on your city and square footage.
• Negotiating a long-term lease (10–15 years) with favorable terms is crucial for stability. We encourage most people to have a minimum 10 year lease with two, five year options, giving you up to 20 years.

Utilities (Water, Gas, Electricity, Sewer)

Laundromats are utility-heavy businesses, and utility costs often eat up 20–40% of revenue.

• Water: $500 – $10,000 per month
• Gas (for dryers & water heaters): $700 – $8,000 per month
• Electricity: $500 – $5,000 per month
• Sewer & Wastewater: $500 – $5,000 per month

High-efficiency washers and dryers can significantly reduce these expenses, so investing in quality equipment pays off in the long run.

4. Maintenance & Repairs: Keeping Things Running

Broken machines mean lost revenue and frustrated customers. Regular maintenance and repairs are a necessary part of laundromat ownership.

• Routine maintenance (cleaning lint traps, checking water lines, etc.): $100 – $1,000 per month
• Minor repairs (small parts, belts, hoses): $100 – $1,000 per month
• Major repairs (motor replacements, circuit board failures): $1,000 – $5,000 per incident

Having a trusted technician or learning to handle minor repairs yourself can save you thousands of dollars over time.

5. Labor Costs: Will You Run It Yourself or Hire a Team?

Laundromats can be semi-passive businesses, but they aren’t truly “set it and forget it.” You need staff if you offer wash-and-fold services, pickup & delivery, or extended hours.

• Attendant salaries: $12 – $20 per hour
• Wash-and-fold employees: $500 – $5,000 per month (depending on volume)
• Payroll taxes, insurance, and benefits add another 15–30% on top of wages.

If you want a hands-off business, you’ll need strong systems in place to train employees and manage operations remotely.

6. Marketing & Customer Acquisition

Even the best laundromat won’t thrive without customers. Marketing is essential to attract and retain a loyal customer base.

• Website & SEO: $500 – $2,000 upfront, $50 – $500 per month
• Social Media Advertising: $100 – $1,000 per month
• Google Ads & Local SEO: $100 – $1,00 per month
• In-store promotions & signage: $500 – $5,000 annually

Word-of-mouth and repeat customers are key, so investing in a clean, well-run store with great customer service will pay off over time.

7. Unexpected Costs: Be Ready for Surprises

Every business owner faces unexpected expenses. In the laundromat world, these could include:

• Equipment breakdowns & emergency repairs
• Lease renegotiations & rent increases
• City regulations & permit changes
• Competitive threats (new laundromats opening nearby)

Having a cash reserve of at least 3–6 months of expenses is a smart way to handle surprises without financial stress.

So, Is a Laundromat Worth It?

Absolutely—if you do it right!

The laundromat business offers steady demand, high-profit potential, and semi-passive income, but success doesn’t happen by accident. Understanding the real costs of ownership ensures you make informed decisions, avoid pitfalls, and build a thriving business.

If you’re serious about owning a laundromat—or taking your current store to the next level—Laundry Advisors is here to help. Our monthly Master Mind subscription provides expert coaching, business growth strategies, marketing tools, training resources, and access to an elite community of laundromat owners.

Want to maximize your profits and grow your laundromat the smart way? Join Laundry Advisors today and start building the laundromat business of your dreams!