Introduction: Is Opening an Arcade Business Profitable in 2026?
Opening an arcade in 2025 remains a lucrative business opportunity. With the rise of Family Entertainment Centers (FECs), indoor amusement parks, and arcade game centers, entertainment venues are booming in both shopping malls and tourist destinations.
However, the big question is: How much does it actually cost to open an arcade business?
The answer depends on several factors, including the location, arcade machines, management systems, and the overall arcade setup.
In this guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with starting an arcade and help you understand the budget requirements for a successful arcade business.
Step 1: Defining Your Arcade Business Model
The type of arcade you want to open significantly impacts your budget. Different types of venues have different costs. Here are the most common arcade business models:
1. Classic Arcade (Traditional)
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Focuses on traditional arcade machines like racing games, shooting games, and claw machines.
2. Family Entertainment Center (FEC)
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A larger-scale operation, often including indoor playgrounds, arcade machines, and VR attractions.
3. Kids Entertainment Center
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Focuses on smaller spaces with kids-focused attractions like soft play areas and kids arcade games.
4. Indoor Amusement Park Solution
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A full-service setup with arcade machines, rides, and interactive games.
Each model requires different arcade project solutions, arcade game room setups, and levels of investment.
Step 2: Arcade Equipment Costs (Machines & Setup)
One of the most significant upfront costs is purchasing arcade machines and equipment. The cost of these machines varies greatly depending on type, quality, and size.
Typical Arcade Machine Costs:
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Standard Arcade Machines: $1,000 – $5,000 per unit
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Claw Machines: $2,000 – $8,000 each
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Racing Game Machines: $3,000 – $8,000 per unit
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Shooting Game Machines: $4,000 – $10,000 per unit
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VR Arcade Machines: $7,000 – $20,000+ per unit
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Redemption Machines: $3,000 – $8,000 per unit
Additional Equipment Costs
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Prize vending machines
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Arcade furniture (benches, seating, tables)
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Arcade POS systems (for payments)
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Game room signage and branding
For a small to medium-sized arcade with 20–30 machines, the initial cost for equipment could range from $30,000 to $150,000 or more.
Step 3: Arcade Setup Costs: Venue & Installation
After purchasing the arcade machines, the next major cost is the arcade venue setup. This includes:
1. Venue Costs
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Location rent: The price varies significantly depending on location (shopping malls, tourist areas, etc.)
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Space size: Typically, an arcade setup requires anywhere from 500-2,000㎡, depending on the venue and business model.
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Interior design and theme: Budget for floor planning, layout optimization, and visual aesthetics to attract customers.
Average venue setup cost:
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Small arcade: $5,000 – $15,000
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Medium-sized arcade or FEC: $15,000 – $50,000
2. Installation & Setup Services
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Arcade game installation
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Arcade management software installation
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Arcade POS system integration
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Professional layout design services
Installation and setup services can cost around $5,000 – $10,000, depending on the complexity of the project.
Step 4: Arcade Management System (Software)
A smart arcade management system is critical for efficient operations. It helps you manage:
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Payments (cashless transactions)
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Data analytics (revenue tracking, customer insights)
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Machine monitoring (remote control, maintenance alerts)
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Customer engagement (loyalty programs, promotions)
Costs for an arcade management system typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the features and integration.
Step 5: Operating Costs: Staff, Utilities, and Maintenance
Operating an arcade requires ongoing costs to keep the business running smoothly.
Key Operating Costs:
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Staff: Arcade operators, cashiers, and machine maintenance staff. Typically, salaries range from $10/hour to $25/hour per employee.
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Utilities: Electricity, water, and internet for the venue. Expect monthly costs of $500 – $2,000.
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Machine maintenance: Regular machine upkeep and repairs cost between $500 to $2,000 per month depending on machine usage.
Step 6: How to Reduce Costs with an Arcade Turnkey Solution
Many operators use arcade turnkey solutions to reduce the risk of mistakes and high startup costs. An arcade turnkey solution typically includes:
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Full arcade setup (equipment, machines, layout, and branding)
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Arcade management system integration
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Installation & training services
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Ongoing maintenance support
Benefits of Arcade Turnkey Solutions
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All-in-one package with a single point of contact.
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Reduced setup time—ready to open faster.
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Streamlined machine selection and optimized game mix for higher ROI.
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Professional guidance on location selection, pricing, and promotions.
A turnkey arcade solution can cost between $50,000 and $200,000, depending on your arcade size and complexity.
Step 7: Marketing & Promotions to Increase Revenue
Effective marketing helps your arcade business attract more customers and boost revenue.
Marketing Ideas for Arcades:
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Social media campaigns: Promote offers, events, and new machines.
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Birthday party packages: Offer group deals for families and schools.
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Special events: Host tournaments, themed nights, or loyalty programs.
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Membership cards: Encourage repeat visits with special discounts.
Investing in marketing can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 per year, depending on the scale of your campaigns.
Arcade Turnkey Solutions from BLEE: Your One-Stop Arcade Business Partner
As a leading arcade full solution supplier, BLEE offers a comprehensive suite of services to help you start and grow your arcade business. Whether you’re opening a small arcade game center or a large FEC, BLEE provides:
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Arcade machines wholesale supplier
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Arcade game center setup
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Arcade management software integration
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Custom arcade game solutions
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Arcade venue design services
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Turnkey arcade project solutions
With BLEE’s arcade turnkey project solutions, you get all-in-one support from planning, machine selection, installation, and ongoing service—making your arcade business journey smoother and more profitable.
FAQ
How much does it cost to open a small arcade?
Opening a small arcade can cost between $10,000 to $30,000, depending on location and equipment.
What is included in an arcade turnkey solution?
An arcade turnkey solution includes arcade machines, management systems, installation, training, and ongoing support.
What are the best arcade machines for revenue generation?
Claw machines, racing games, and shooting games typically provide the highest ROI.
How long does it take to set up an arcade business?
The setup time for a small arcade can be between 1-3 months, depending on the complexity and size of the project.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Investment with a Smart Arcade Solution
Opening an arcade business requires a significant investment, but with careful planning, the right machines, and an arcade turnkey solution, your business can see high returns.
With BLEE’s arcade business solutions, you get everything you need to open and operate a successful arcade or FEC. From arcade machines to arcade game center solutions, BLEE offers the expertise and equipment to help you grow your arcade business and achieve long-term success.
📩 Contact BLEE today to get started with your arcade turnkey solution and secure your arcade business success.
