How much does it cost to build a tennis court in 2025?

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Why people build private tennis courts?

Thinking of building a tennis court? You’re not alone. From passionate players who want the convenience of a backyard court, to sports facility owners looking to attract more members—investing in a tennis court can be a game-changer.

For homeowners, it’s about freedom and lifestyle. No need to wait for a booking or drive across town just to play. A private court means more playtime, less hassle, and yes—it definitely adds a touch of luxury to your property.

But for businesses, the motivation is often even more practical. Tennis courts bring in revenue. They’re a solid long-term investment for gyms, clubs, schools, hotels, and resorts. A well-maintained court can boost memberships, increase property value, and help your facility stand out from competitors. And in a world where fitness and wellness are bigger than ever, tennis is a timeless sport that keeps people coming back.

Of course, all this doesn’t come cheap. The question on everyone’s mind is: How much does it actually cost to build a tennis court in 2025? That’s exactly what we’re breaking down in this guide—from average prices and key cost factors, to smart ways to save without cutting corners.

Whether you're building for passion or profit, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in.

Average cost range (basic to professional courts)

So, let’s talk numbers—because that’s probably why you’re here. How much does it actually cost to build a tennis court in 2025? Well, the short answer is: it depends. But here’s a good starting point.

A basic, entry-level tennis court typically costs around $25,000 to $40,000. This kind of setup usually includes a simple surface (like artificial turf or basic clay), basic fencing, and minimal extras. It’s great for recreational use at home or in community parks where top-tier finishes aren’t a must.

Now, if you’re aiming for something more polished—maybe for a school, sports club, or boutique fitness facility—the price jumps. Mid-range courts fall between $60,000 and $90,000, and usually include higher-quality surfacing (like asphalt or post-tensioned concrete), proper drainage, and durable fencing. You might even get some basic lighting in that range.

At the professional level, where standards are strict and quality is everything, costs can go as high as $100,000 to $120,000+. These courts are built to withstand serious wear and tear, meet competition standards, and often include high-end extras like LED lighting systems, professional-grade surfacing, advanced drainage, and even spectator seating.

So, depending on how serious your game (or business) is, your court can be as simple or as souped-up as you want. Just remember—this is only the starting point. The surface you choose, your location, and optional upgrades (we’ll cover those next) can all push your final cost up or down.

Main cost factors

Alright, now that you’ve seen the price range, let’s break down why building a tennis court can cost anywhere from $25K to over $100K. The truth is, several factors play a big role in the final price tag—and understanding these can help you make smarter choices during the planning process.

1. Court Surface Type

The surface is the biggest cost driver. Clay and artificial turf are on the more affordable side, starting as low as $25,000. Asphalt is a popular mid-range option that offers durability without the high cost of concrete. If you're going all-in, post-tensioned concrete courts cost the most—but they also last the longest and need the least maintenance. So while the upfront cost is higher, you might save more in the long run.

2. Site Preparation

Before any construction begins, the land has to be prepped. That means clearing debris, leveling the ground, grading, and sometimes even installing a drainage system. If your site is uneven or rocky, you’ll need more work—and more budget—to get it court-ready.

3. Location

Where you’re building matters. Labor and material costs vary depending on your region. Urban areas usually have higher prices due to labor demand, while rural locations might rack up extra transportation fees for materials. Local weather conditions can also affect the type of materials you’ll need and the construction timeline.

4. Accessories and Add-ons

Think nets, fencing, windscreens, lighting, and benches. These aren’t always included in the base price but are essential for a functional (and enjoyable) court. For example, fencing alone can cost $4,000 to $7,000, and professional-grade lighting can easily add $6,000 or more.

5. Intended Use

Are you building for fun? For a school or business? Or for high-level competitions? The level of play influences the design, materials, and features you’ll need. A casual backyard court won’t need the same surfacing or specs as a USTA-compliant facility.

6. Labor Costs

Labor can account for a big chunk of your budget—up to 30–50% of the total cost. Working with an experienced contractor ensures quality and reduces long-term issues, but it does come at a premium. And trust us, this isn’t the type of project where you want to cut corners.

Bottom line: your choices (and your location) shape your final cost. Understanding these main factors gives you more control and helps you budget smarter—before the first shovel even hits the ground.

Indoor vs outdoor tennis court costs

Here’s a big question to think about: Do you want your tennis court indoors or outdoors? Because the cost difference is huge.

Let’s start with the more common option—outdoor courts. These are way more affordable and easier to build. You’re usually looking at a price range of $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the surface you choose, where you live, and what extras you add (like fencing or lighting). Outdoor courts are perfect if you’re in a place with decent weather most of the year. But if it rains a lot or gets super hot or cold, your court might spend more time unused than actually played on.

Now, if you want to play year-round without worrying about the weather, you might be thinking about an indoor court. Just know it’s going to cost a lot more. Building a fully indoor tennis court can start at around $100,000 and go well over $200,000. Why? Because you’re not just building a court—you’re building a whole structure around it. That includes walls, a roof, lighting, ventilation, and maybe even heating or cooling.

There’s also a middle ground—tennis bubbles (yep, like a giant dome). These cost less than permanent buildings (around $45,000 to $100,000+), and they’re great if you want to cover an outdoor court temporarily during bad weather or winter months.

So, here’s the short version:

• Outdoor = cheaper, but weather matters.
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• Indoor = play anytime, but costs a lot more.
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• Tennis bubble = flexible option, mid-range cost.
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Pick the one that fits your needs—and your budget.

Optional add-ons (seating, landscaping, drainage)

Once the main court is built, you might be tempted to call it a day—but there are some optional features that can really take your tennis court to the next level. These extras aren’t always necessary, but they can improve the look, comfort, and functionality of your court—especially if it’s part of a business or community facility.

Seating is a great add-on if you plan to host matches, lessons, or spectators. Basic benches might only cost a few hundred dollars each, but more permanent bleacher-style seating can add several thousand to your total. It’s a small touch that can make your space feel more professional and comfortable.

Landscaping is another cost you might not think about at first—but it makes a big difference. Trees, shrubs, or decorative elements can enhance the overall experience and boost curb appeal (which matters a lot if you’re running a facility). Just make sure the design doesn’t interfere with visibility or drop leaves onto the court—because more greenery can also mean more maintenance.

Then there’s drainage, which might not sound exciting, but it’s super important—especially for outdoor courts. Without proper drainage, water can pool on the surface and damage the materials over time. A good drainage system helps protect your investment and keeps the court safe to use after rain. The cost will depend on your site’s natural slope and soil type, but it’s worth including in your budget from the start.

Other extras include things like storage units for rackets and balls, shaded areas, windscreens, and even sound systems. None of these are must-haves—but they can definitely enhance the user experience.

The takeaway? These add-ons might stretch your budget a bit, but they’re often worth it for the comfort, style, and long-term value they add to your tennis court.

Ongoing maintenance expenses

Building the court is just the beginning—keeping it in good shape is a whole other part of the investment. Just like a car needs regular servicing, a tennis court needs routine maintenance to stay safe, playable, and looking sharp.

On average, you can expect to spend around $1,000 to $3,000 per year on maintenance, depending on the surface type. Some courts are pretty low-maintenance, while others—like clay or grass—can be a bit more demanding.

Clay courts, for example, need daily or weekly care. That includes watering, brushing, and re-adding clay to even out the surface. You might also need a sprinkler system to keep it in playable condition, especially in dry climates. Over time, those small tasks add up in both cost and effort.

Grass courts are even higher maintenance. They need frequent mowing, watering, weed control, and seasonal care. These are beautiful but best left for clubs or facilities that can handle the upkeep.

Hard courts—like asphalt or concrete—are much easier to care for. Most of the time, it’s just about sweeping off debris, checking for cracks, and occasionally pressure washing. But every 4–5 years, they’ll need resurfacing and repainting, which can cost around $4,000 to $10,000 depending on the condition and size.

Also, don’t forget the smaller things—like keeping the lines visible, cleaning the net, or replacing worn-out windscreens. If you’re running a business or a community facility, professional maintenance might be the best option to keep everything in top shape without eating up your time.

In short: maintenance isn’t overwhelming, but it’s not optional either. Plan for it in your annual budget so your court doesn’t just look good on day one—but plays great for years to come.

DIY vs hiring a professional

If you’re handy or love a good challenge, the thought of building your own tennis court might cross your mind. After all, DIY projects can save money, right? But when it comes to something as big and technical as a tennis court, going the DIY route isn’t as simple—or as cost-effective—as it sounds.

Let’s be real: building a regulation tennis court requires heavy-duty equipment, technical know-how, and precise measurements. There’s grading, leveling, drainage, surfacing, fencing, and possibly lighting to deal with—not to mention permits and local building codes. Unless you’ve got experience in construction and access to the right machinery, DIY is probably not the best option.

That said, some people do take on smaller parts of the project themselves—like painting lines, installing nets, or handling basic landscaping. These can be great ways to trim costs without risking the overall quality of the court.

On the other hand, hiring a professional tennis court contractor means paying more upfront, but it comes with peace of mind. You get expert advice, proper materials, and most importantly, a court that’s safe, level, and built to last. A good contractor will also help you navigate things like zoning laws, drainage systems, and long-term maintenance planning.

Plus, many pros offer warranties and aftercare services, which can save you thousands over the years if any issues come up. For business owners or anyone planning to use the court frequently, going with a professional isn’t just the easier choice—it’s the smarter one.

Tips to save money without sacrificing quality

Building a tennis court doesn’t have to drain your entire budget. With some smart planning, you can cut costs without cutting corners. Here are a few practical ways to save money while still getting a court that’s built to last.

1. Choose a budget-friendly surface

The surface type has one of the biggest impacts on your total cost. If you're trying to stay within budget, consider artificial turf or basic clay, which are typically more affordable than concrete or asphalt. These still provide a solid playing experience—especially for recreational use—and can be upgraded later if needed.

2. Build during the off-season

Construction costs can vary depending on the time of year. Contractors tend to be less busy in the off-season (often late fall or winter in mild climates), which could mean better pricing and faster turnaround times.

3. Skip unnecessary extras—at first

You don’t need to install everything at once. Focus on getting the court itself built well, then add optional features like seating, windscreens, or lighting later. Prioritize the essentials, and leave the rest for future upgrades when your budget allows.

4. Get multiple quotes

Don’t go with the first contractor you find. Reach out to at least three experienced tennis court builders in your area. Compare not just pricing, but also materials, timelines, and what’s included in the service. A slightly higher quote might actually save you money in the long run if it comes with better-quality materials or a warranty.

5. Reuse or repurpose existing space

If you already have a flat area or an old sports court, you might be able to repurpose it instead of starting from scratch. Reusing parts of the existing sub-base or fencing can cut down significantly on site prep costs.

6. Plan for long-term maintenance

Investing in durable materials now might cost more upfront, but it reduces how much you’ll spend on repairs and resurfacing later. For example, post-tensioned concrete lasts longer and requires less maintenance than standard asphalt.

Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing quality—it just means making smarter decisions. Focus on the essentials, plan ahead, and work with trusted professionals who understand how to balance cost with performance.

Budgeting and planning advice

By now, you’ve probably realized that building a tennis court isn’t just about laying down a surface—it’s a full-on project that requires smart budgeting and clear planning. Whether you're a homeowner dreaming of your own court or a business owner adding a new revenue stream, the key is to plan ahead, know your numbers, and stay flexible.

Start by defining your goals. Is this court for personal use, a community space, or part of a commercial facility like a fitness studio or resort? Your goals will guide the rest of your decisions—surface type, lighting, seating, and so on. For businesses, also consider how quickly you want to start generating income from the court, and what features will help attract more bookings.

Next, build a realistic budget. Include everything: site prep, surfacing, fencing, lighting, accessories, and don’t forget the ongoing maintenance. Set aside a contingency fund (10–15% of the total budget) for unexpected costs. Construction projects almost always run into something unplanned—extra drainage, permitting delays, or material upgrades.

If you're running a business like a gym or sports facility, it's worth exploring tools that help you manage operations and maximize ROI from your new court. That’s where platforms like Rezerv come in. Rezerv is an all-in-one management software designed for sports and wellness businesses. You can use it to handle bookings, payments, scheduling, and even marketing—all in one place. If you're investing in a tennis court to grow your business, Rezerv helps you run it efficiently and keep things organized from day one.

Finally, don’t rush. It’s tempting to move quickly, especially when you’re excited about the project. But good planning takes time. Talk to experienced contractors, compare quotes, and ask lots of questions. The more you know upfront, the fewer surprises you’ll face down the line.

In the end, a tennis court is a big investment—but with thoughtful budgeting and solid planning, it’s one that can serve you (or your business) for decades.