How Much Does It Cost To Open a Lagree Studio?
If you’re inspired by the Lagree Method and dream of owning a studio, you’ve probably asked the most practical question: how much does it actually cost to open one?
Between securing your Lagree license, purchasing Megaformers, and designing a space and a brand that reflects your vision, the investment adds up quickly. But in today’s high-demand boutique fitness market, it can create a strong, scalable business that pays off for years to come.
In this guide, we’ll break down the typical costs involved in opening a Lagree studio so you can plan with confidence. And if you’re still deciding whether to start from scratch or buy an already thriving studio, our team at Boutique Fitness Broker can help you weigh both options and choose the path that fits your goals.
Disclaimer: All financial figures are estimates based on verified 2025 data and publicly available Lagree Fitness information. They are not official disclosures or guarantees from Boutique Fitness Broker.
How Much Does It Cost To Open a Lagree Studio?
Most first-time Lagree owners can expect a six-figure startup investment. The biggest capital investments are usually Megaformers and build-out. The biggest operational expenses are payroll and rent.
In a high-rent area with twelve or more Megaformer machines, total first-year costs (equipment, licensing, lease, build-out, and payroll) typically range from $385,000 to $780,000+.
In less expensive areas, a leaner eight-to-ten-machine studio might launch closer to $250,000 to $350,000, depending on rent, finishes, and staffing. There are also opportunities to finance the equipment and the license, so in this scenario, you don’t necessarily need this much cash up front.
Lagree’s recurring model can be a powerful profit driver once systems are in place. For example, studios in markets like Los Angeles or Palo Alto often charge $32–$42 per class or $259–$329 per month for memberships. With strong retention and streamlined operations, many owners recover their investment and reach profitability within a few years.
Explore available Lagree business listings.
An Example of a Modest Yet Scalable Lagree Studio Startup Budget
The table below summarizes broad cost ranges for typical expenses based on 2025 industry data and common Lagree studio setups. These numbers are meant to illustrate ballpark estimates for start-up and first-year expenses and not to serve as a definitive budget.
Every market is different. Your actual costs will depend on location, square footage, build-out scope, and staffing. Use this only as a starting point for due diligence, then adjust to your reality.
Typical Lagree Studio Startup Cost Estimates
| Category | Low Estimate (USD) | High Estimate (USD) |
Notes Based on verified 2025 data and boutique studio industry averages. Figures are estimates only. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Startup Range Estimate | $385,000 | $780,000+ | Includes first-year costs such as equipment, lease, licensing, payroll, and build-out. Smaller studios in mid-markets may start at $200K–$300K. |
| Lagree Studio License | $3,990 (annual) | $3,990 (annual) | Official annual fee per studio, royalty-free model. Upfront or tiered pricing may vary by studio size. |
| Megaformer Equipment (8 Machines) | $80,000 | $135,000 | New Megaformers $8.7K–$15.9K each; refurbished $8K–$10K; add $1K–$2K per unit for shipping/installation. |
| Additional Equipment & Accessories | $10,000 | $30,000+ | Bars, rigs, weights, mats, resistance bands, recovery tools, towels, cleaning supplies. |
| Studio Lease (Annual) | $22,500 | $100,000+ | ~1,500 ft² at approximately $15–$50/ft² per year (Gymdesk). Actual rates vary by market and property type. |
| Renovation & Build-Out | $120,000 | $225,000+ | ~1,500 ft² at a typical boutique build-out estimate of $80–$150/ft² depending on size and extent of renovations (flooring, lighting, mirrors, signage, décor). |
| Lease Deposit (Security + First/Last Month) | $15,000 | $45,000 | Typically 2–6 months’ rent; higher deposits are common for new businesses. |
| Staff Salaries (Year 1) | $100,000 | $180,000 | Four part-time instructors plus owner-led management with instructor pay around ~$35–$55/class. |
| Instructor Certification (2 Instructors) | $4,000 | $6,000 | Level 1 via Lagree Academy; renewals/CE typically $300–$500 annually. |
| Management Software & POS | $1,200 | $8,400 | $100–$700/month for tools like Mindbody, Zen Planner, Vagaro. |
| Insurance, Permits, Legal & Accounting Fees | $6,000 | $13,000 | Gym liability, permits, entity setup, lease review, tax prep, professional consults. |
| Utilities & Cleaning Services | $18,000 | $54,000 | Estimated at ~$1.5K–$4.5K/month for electricity, HVAC, water, Wi-Fi, janitorial. |
| Website & Marketing (Launch) | $5,000 | $15,000 | Website/branding/launch campaigns. Ongoing: ~$1K–$5K/month. |
Lagree Studio Licensing Costs
Your Lagree license is what gives you the right to use the Lagree method, brand, and proprietary equipment. Annual fees currently start around $3,990 per year (Lagree Fitness).
Lagree Franchise vs. Annual License
Lagree isn’t a franchise — it’s a licensed fitness method. You won’t owe royalties or surprise brand fees. You pay the annual license and purchase official Lagree machines; from there, you control your studio name, pricing, and membership model (with Lagree-certified equipment and instruction). This structure offers creative freedom with the credibility of a globally recognized method, a combination many owners prefer over a franchise model.
Equipment Costs and Requirements
Lagree Fitness requires licensed studios to use official machines and accessories from approved suppliers to meet brand safety and performance standards. Most boutique Lagree studios operate 4–10 Megaformers, depending on class size and space. Plan for essentials that complete the experience, like resistance tools, mats, towels, cleaning supplies, and replacement parts.
Megaformers: $9,000–$16,000 each (depending on model and condition)
Accessories and supplies: $10,000–$30,000 for bars, resistance equipment, mats, towels, cleaning supplies, and replacement parts
These upfront costs can feel significant, but your machines are the heart of your business. Well-maintained Megaformers hold value and perform for years.
How Much is a Lagree Megaformer?
Official new Megaformer models (M3, EVO, etc.) typically range from $8,695 to $15,900 each, with refurbished or used models available for $8,000–$10,000. Shipping and installation usually add another $1,000–$2,000 per unit.
This may be one of your biggest investments. But it’s also one of your most visible. Quality equipment not only enhances the client experience but also reassures future buyers that your studio is built on solid, professional ground.
Staffing and Certification Requirements
In most successful Lagree studios, the people behind the machines are just as important as the equipment itself. Whether you start as an owner-operator or plan to hire from day one, investing in your instructor team sets the tone for your business culture and client loyalty.
A strong starting team often includes:
A lead instructor or studio manager (often the owner at first)
Lagree-certified instructors who bring consistency and energy to every class
Front desk or membership staff who create a polished, welcoming experience
Lagree Certification Costs
Every Lagree class must be taught by a Lagree-certified instructor to uphold the Lagree Fitness Method’s standards of safety and effectiveness.
Level 1 certification: typically $2,000–$3,000 per instructor (Official Lagree Fitness).
Instructors must stay current through renewals and continuing education ($300-500).
If you’re starting as a certified Lagree instructor yourself, that’s a great head start—but from the business, budget for at least one additional team member to complete the certification program. It will give you flexibility, prevent burnout, and ensure class coverage as you grow.
Some owners also work directly with Lagree Master Trainers, who provide advanced training, workshops, and guidance on technique and class programming. Partnering with a Master Trainer can be a valuable way to maintain instructional quality, support ongoing education for your team, and deepen your studio’s connection to the broader Lagree community.
Your Instructor Team and Staff
Pay varies by market, but many boutique/premium studios typically pay around $35–$55+ per class or per hour (Indeed). A 30-class-per-week schedule might employ four part-time instructors plus a manager/desk role, for an annual payroll around $100,000–$180,000+.
The most successful Lagree studios are relationship-driven. Clients connect with the workout and the people who lead it. Prioritize instructors who build community, remember names, and embody your studio’s values, because that’s what keeps members coming back.
Space and Buildout Considerations
Your studio’s space is where the Lagree experience comes to life. Its location and vibe are critical. From ceiling height to lighting to the feel of the floor beneath your clients’ feet, every detail influences how your brand is perceived. It’s also where costs can vary the most.
Renovations and leases are often the largest variables in your start-up budget.
Typical considerations include:
Security deposit: two to three months of rent upfront, sometimes up to six
Monthly lease or mortgage: $15–$30 per square foot per year (in most metros)
Renovations and build-out: $80–$150 per square foot in high-demand cities
Equipment delivery and installation: including flooring, sound, and lighting systems
Furniture and décor: for seating, storage, and retail displays
Choosing a space that’s already been built out for fitness can save significant time and money – especially if plumbing, HVAC, or acoustic treatments are already in place.
Renovation Expenses
Industry sources show that build-out costs for boutique fitness studios can range up to $80–$150/ft², depending on location and scope (Fitness Business Association).
Depending on the size of your studio and the extent of upgrades needed, you may want to budget at least $90,000–$300,000 for the renovation, even if you’re working with an existing space. These choices define your client experience and your brand from day one.
Lease Expenses
Lease rates vary widely by city and building, but boutique studios in high-demand areas often range $15–$50/ft² annually (Gymdesk) or more, with landlords sometimes requiring 3–6 months’ rent upfront. In premium coastal or high-demand markets (like Orange County or Los Angeles), lease rates can climb above $40 per square foot annually.
Most Lagree studios are between 1,100 and 4,000 square feet, with high ceilings and open layouts that allow room for 4–10 machines, stretching areas, storage, and client amenities.
Smaller studios can create just as strong a brand presence as larger ones. It all depends on how you design the experience and where you are. Natural light, thoughtful décor, and clean, functional flow can make even modest spaces feel premium.
Other Startup and Operating Costs
Beyond space and equipment, a smooth operation depends on the systems behind the scenes. These are the tools and strategies that keep your business organized and clients truly happy.
Business Operations
New owners often underestimate how much time and peace of mind a well-run back office can save. Setting up reliable systems early helps you stay organized, professional, and ready for growth, and pays for itself easily – because your time is valuable.
Studio management software: $100–$700 per month
Insurance and permits: $3,000–$8,000+ per year
Utilities and cleaning services: $1,500–$4,500+ per month (depending on size)
Accounting and payroll tools: $3,000–$5,000 annually
Marketing and Launch
You’ve invested in space and equipment, now invest in visibility. Many boutique studios budget $500–$2,000 per month for marketing, though costs vary.
Your marketing launch might include:
A professional website optimized for search and online booking
Social media and email campaigns to build excitement before opening
Community partnerships with local wellness brands
A grand opening event or free-class series
Branded apparel or retail to reinforce your studio identity
A thoughtful marketing plan not only ensures your studio opens strong and stays top of mind in the community. These smaller touches often make the biggest difference in how professional (and profitable) your studio feels from day one.
Commonly Overlooked Costs
Even the most organized budgets miss a few details. Plan for a 10–15% contingency buffer to cover those last-minute surprises that almost always pop up before opening.
Examples include:
Legal and professional fees (lease reviews, accounting setup, consulting)
Signage and décor to bring your brand to life
Audio and lighting upgrades for a polished experience
Retail stock for branded apparel or accessories
Onboarding tools like welcome kits or referral gifts
Security systems and monthly monitoring
Another Option: Buying an Established Lagree Studio
Starting fresh isn’t the only path to Lagree ownership. In fact, buying an existing studio is often a smarter and more efficient way to step into business ownership—especially if you value speed, stability, and immediate cash flow.
An established studio already has what new owners spend months (or years) building:
A loyal client base
Certified instructors
A proven business model
A finished space with equipment in place
Instead of navigating construction timelines and permit delays, you can step into a business that’s already operating—and start generating revenue from day one.
Explore current Lagree listings or schedule a consultation to talk about your goals.
Whether you’re starting fresh or stepping into an existing studio, thoughtful planning today can set you up for long-term success tomorrow.
Boutique Fitness Broker
At Boutique Fitness Broker, we specialize in helping fitness and wellness entrepreneurs navigate every stage of ownership. Whether you’re exploring a brand-new Lagree concept or considering the purchase of an existing studio, we’ll help you:
Understand real market costs and opportunities
Connect with qualified buyers or sellers
Move forward with confidence, knowing you’re making an informed decision
Our team understands this industry because we’ve been in it. We know what it takes to build a profitable studio, the financial realities behind it, and the heart that goes into making it thrive.
