If you’re planning to start a laundromat business, one of the biggest questions that comes to mind is “How much does a laundromat cost?”

The answer depends on several factors such as location, size of the facility, type of equipment, and whether you are buying an existing laundromat or building one from scratch.

Laundromats are known for being stable, recession resistant businesses, but they do require a significant upfront investment. This guide will help you understand all major costs so you can plan your budget effectively.

Cost of Buying an Existing Laundromat

One of the easiest ways to enter the laundry business is to purchase an existing laundromat.

This option saves you time on setup, permits, and construction. The cost usually ranges between $100,000 to $600,000, depending on factors like:

  • Location & Neighborhood
    A laundromat in a busy residential area or near apartments will cost more because of higher customer potential.
  • Age & Condition of Equipment
    If the washers and dryers are old, you may need to invest in replacements soon. Newer, energy efficient machines raise the business price.
  • Monthly Revenue & Cash Flow
    A laundromat that already generates consistent profit will naturally have a higher selling price.
  • Lease Terms
    Favourable rent and a long lease period also increase the cost of acquisition.

Buying an existing laundromat is ideal for beginners who want immediate cash flow without major construction work.

Cost to Start a Laundromat from Scratch

If you prefer building your laundromat from the ground up, you’ll have more control over design, technology, and branding.

However, the startup cost is higher. Typically, starting a laundromat from scratch costs anywhere between $200,000 and $1,000,000+.

  • Leasehold Improvements ($50,000 – $200,000)
    You may need to renovate the space, add drainage, upgrade plumbing, improve flooring, and install ventilation systems.
  • Commercial Laundry Equipment ($150,000 – $400,000+)
    High quality washers and dryers are the biggest expense.

A single commercial washer costs $1,000 – $10,000 depending on size, while dryers can range from $800 – $8,000 each.

For a mid – sized laundromat with 20 – 40 machines, this adds up quickly.

  • Plumbing, Electrical & Gas Setup ($30,000 – $100,000)
    Laundromats require heavy utilities. Professional installation ensures machines run efficiently and meet local building codes.
  • Payment Systems & Technology ($5,000 – $25,000)
    This includes card payment systems, mobile pay, POS software, and security cameras.
  • Initial Supplies ($5,000 – $10,000)
    Such as cleaning supplies, detergent vending machines, coin changers, and seating.
  • Working Capital ($10,000 – $50,000)
    You’ll need backup funds to cover utilities, marketing, and other operational needs for the first few months.

Monthly Operating Costs

To understand how much a laundromat costs in the long run, you must consider monthly expenses. These ongoing costs will impact your profit margins.

  • Rent ($3,000 – $15,000)
    Location matters. High-traffic commercial areas have higher rent but attract more customers.
  • Utilities ($2,000 – $10,000)
    Some laundromats run fully unattended, while others hire attendants for cleaning, customer support, and wash-and-fold services.
    Insurance, permits, and miscellaneous ($200 – $1,000)
    Liability insurance and local permitting fees are mandatory for business safety and compliance.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the basics, here are some optional or variable costs:

  • Marketing & Branding ($500 – $5,000+)
    Grand opening promotions, signboards, flyers, and digital marketing.
  • Wash & Fold or Pickup & Delivery Setup ($5,000 – $30,000)
    If you plan to add premium services, you’ll need extra equipment and staff.
  • Franchise Fees (if applicable)
    Laundromat franchises can cost between $300,000 and $1,000,000 including franchise fees and build-out costs.

Is a Laundromat a Profitable Investment?

Once you understand how much a laundromat costs, the next question is profitability.

The average laundromat can generate $15,000 to $300,000+ in annual profit, depending on location, number of machines, and additional services.