How much does it cost to open an arcade?

An arcade costs $100,000 to $500,000 to open. A small retro arcade with 30-40 games in a modest space starts at $100,000. A modern family entertainment center with 60+ games, VR, redemption prizes, and food service runs $300,000 to $500,000. Game purchases are the largest expense at $1,000 to $8,000 per machine.

Are arcades still profitable?

Modern arcades and family entertainment centers are profitable when they offer experiences people cannot get at home. Revenue per game averages $100 to $300 per week. Birthday parties and group events generate $200 to $800 per event. Adding food, VR, and prize redemption creates multiple revenue streams. Successful arcades generate $500,000 to $2 million in annual revenue.

How many arcade games do I need?

A viable arcade needs 30 to 50 games minimum to feel full and offer variety. Mix classic games (Pac-Man, pinball), modern racing and shooting games, redemption prize games, and VR or interactive experiences. Redemption games where players win tickets for prizes typically generate the highest revenue per square foot.

Arcade & Gaming Center Startup Cost Comparison

Salt Lake City, UT vs New York, NY

Salt Lake City, UT

$92,000 - $552,000

COL Index: 107.5

New York, NY

$149,000 - $939,000

COL Index: 187.2

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Salt Lake City, UT	New York, NY	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$500 - $3,000	$500 - $3,000	Same
Commercial Lease & Build-Out	$24,300 - $182,600	$69,600 - $521,700	-65%
Arcade Games & Equipment	$40,000 - $250,000	$40,000 - $250,000	Same
Business Insurance (Annual)	$3,000 - $12,000	$3,000 - $12,000	Same
Concessions & Food Service	$5,000 - $25,000	$5,000 - $25,000	Same
Marketing & Grand Opening	$3,000 - $15,000	$3,000 - $15,000	Same
Working Capital (3 Months)	$16,100 - $64,500	$28,100 - $112,300	-43%
Total Estimated Cost	$92,000 - $552,000	$149,000 - $939,000	-41%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Salt Lake City	New York
Cost of Living Index	107.5	187.2
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$16 - $40	$40 - $120
Labor Rate Index	1.02	1.45
Sales Tax	7.75%	8.875%
Minimum Wage	$7.25/hr	$16.00/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$54	$200

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