How much does it cost to start an ATM business?

An ATM business starts for $3,000 to $30,000. A single used ATM costs $2,000 to $3,000 and a new one $5,000 to $8,000. Plus $1,000 to $5,000 in cash to load the machine. Starting with 3 to 5 machines in good locations requires $10,000 to $30,000. The key is securing locations with high foot traffic and cash-dependent customers.

How much does an ATM make per month?

An ATM generates $200 to $1,500 per month in surcharge revenue depending on location. The average ATM processes 200 to 300 transactions per month at $2.50 to $3.50 surcharge. After location commission (usually 50 cents per transaction), processing fees, and cash loading costs, net profit is $150 to $1,000 per machine per month.

Is the ATM business dying?

While overall ATM transactions have declined due to digital payments, ATMs in the right locations remain profitable. Bars, nightclubs, convenience stores, and cash-only businesses still generate strong ATM revenue. The key is placing machines where cash is specifically needed, not in locations where card payments are easily available.

ATM Business Startup Cost Comparison

Washington, DC vs Houston, TX

Washington, DC

$5,000 - $55,000

COL Index: 148.7

Houston, TX

$4,000 - $53,000

COL Index: 96.5

Detailed Cost Comparison

Expense	Washington, DC	Houston, TX	Difference
Business Registration & Licenses	$200 - $1,000	$200 - $1,000	Same
ATM Machines (1-5)	$2,000 - $30,000	$2,000 - $30,000	Same
Initial Cash Loading	$1,000 - $15,000	$1,000 - $15,000	Same
Transaction Processing Setup	$200 - $1,000	$200 - $1,000	Same
Installation & Connectivity	$200 - $1,500	$200 - $1,500	Same
Business Insurance	$300 - $1,500	$300 - $1,500	Same
Working Capital (2 Months)	$700 - $4,500	$500 - $2,900	+53%
Total Estimated Cost	$5,000 - $55,000	$4,000 - $53,000	+5%

Local Market Factors

Factor	Washington	Houston
Cost of Living Index	148.7	96.5
Commercial Rent ($/sqft/yr)	$30 - $80	$18 - $45
Labor Rate Index	1.42	0.92
Sales Tax	6%	8.25%
Minimum Wage	$17.50/hr	$7.25/hr
LLC Filing Fee	$99	$300

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