10 Most Expensive Gyms in 2024
Compare the most expensive gyms with the most expensive gym memberships. From LA Fitness, to David Barton Gym, Equinox, and more.
If you are a gym owner that wants to increase gym member retention, increase gym revenue and profitability, and run a successful gym business, then paying attention to your gym pricing strategy is key. Often you may need to know how to increase gym prices and go upmarket with a premium gym experience.
These high-end fitness clubs and luxury gym chains are some of the most expensive gyms in the US and there is much you can learn as a gym owner. While your goal might not necessarily be to be one of the fanciest gyms or the “bougie gyms” or “rich people gyms”, some of your gym marketing ideas should contemplate this more premium positioning, and how it might help you fit into the premium gym category.
Read on to learn all about the most expensive health clubs, and see if you can pick up some fitness trends that might apply to your gym. From the most successful boutique fitness studios to the rise of HVLP gyms, there are many lessons to learn from the most successful gyms in the US.
Then check out the best gym management software to help make your gym stand out, no matter whether you are the world’s most expensive gym or the world’s cheapest gym.
10 Most Expensive Gym Memberships in the US
The most expensive gym memberships have to set themselves apart from the pack. If they want people to shell out this kind of money for membership, there better be some serious benefits!
- The most expensive gym memberships have to set themselves apart from the pack.
- Some are franchises with multiple locations.
- More expensive gym memberships equate to greater gym amenities and perks.
All of these health club amenities come at a hefty price. The 10 most expensive gym memberships offer members not only the best of the best to help them get into top physical shape but also a number of other perks that make the membership dues worthwhile.
#10 – L.A. Fitness
Fees: Up to $87 a month
Amenities: State of the art equipment, personal trainers, childcare, classes
When it comes to expensive gym memberships, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York take the cake. L.A. Fitness, a chain that has locations across the country, boasts some of the highest fees for their state of the art gyms.
With intense classes that start as early at six in the morning and run continuously all day, the staff at L.A. Fitness is dedicated to getting you beach-ready.
While the fees vary from city to city, users have reported monthly fees of up to $87 a month for an all-access pass.
#9 – Crunch Fitness
Fees: Up to $110 a month
Amenities: Celeb sightings, high-intensity classes, boxing rings, advanced equipment
With 31 locations in New York City, Los Angeles, Sacramento, Boston, Portland, and Miami, Crunch Fitness is the club for the “beautiful people” who don’t mind breaking the bank for the perfect body.
Crunch Fitness is known for its classes. Its pole dancing class usually requires advance sign up due to the popularity of the newest fitness craze. Crunch is also known for its boxing rings, martial arts classes, and one on one training from experts in fitness.
Most Crunch locations offer childcare for an additional fee. (Even the kids have to pay for the privilege of a Crunch membership!)
Crunch is one of New York City’s most popular gyms and many local athletes train in their facilities.
#8 – David Barton Gym
Fees: $400 initiation, $125 a month
Amenities: Basketball courts, classes, personal service
This Bellevue, Washington gym offers laundry service, shoeshine, saunas, NBA regulation basketball courts and hundreds of classes weekly.
In addition to their state of the art cardio equipment, they also offer personal training, nutrition coaching and individualized weight loss plans.
#7 – East Bank Club
Fees: $500 initiation fee, $170 a month
Amenities: Rooftop pool, massive sundeck, golf options
Chicago’s premier fitness club is one of the most expensive in the region. It features two indoor swimming pools and one rooftop pool (with a 60,000-foot sundeck), an indoor driving range, and eight tennis courts.
This club is the ultimate in luxury and has a price to match.
#6 – SoulCycle
Fees: $32 per class, up to $3,000 for a 50 class pack
Amenities: High-tech interactive bikes, personalized options allow you to track your progress
While not technically a full gym membership, SoulCycle must be mentioned when it comes to expensive fitness. This spinning-only facility offers bicycling classes that will burn calories and a hole in your wallet.
SoulCycle offers high-tech spinning classes that run all day long in one of its twelve New York City locations.
In these classes, you can challenge yourself with a fully interactive screen that allows you to track your progress. You can even “race” other class members for a truly challenging experience.
Riders are charged a fee per class and have the option of purchasing multi-class packages.
#5 – New York Sports Clubs
Fees: Vary by location and membership level – up to $225 a month
Amenities: Classes, sports activities, swimming pools
Despite the name, NYSC operates in several locations. The popular chain has outlets in Washington, D.C., Boston and Philadelphia.
These behemoth clubs offer amenities such as the latest elliptical equipment, cardio theater, racquetball courts, basketball and boxing rings.
Some facilities boast an Olympic-sized swimming pool complete with aqua aerobics classes. Some locations offer childcare for an additional fee.
For the price of your NYSC membership, you will get a toned body that is ready for the catwalk or the beach.
#4 – Equinox
Fees: Vary by membership level, up to $500 a month
Amenities: Juice bars, personal training, spa
Known as the fitness club to the stars, Equinox fitness is one of the most expensive gyms in the country. Its atmosphere is less gym and more “health spa.”
Equinox gyms feature juice bars, saunas, whirlpools, upgraded locker rooms, and the latest cardio technology. Their classes are taught by some of the most sought-after instructors in the region and there is often a long waiting list to get into these sweat-inducing sessions.
The classes run the gamut from Vinyasa Yoga to spin, Zumba and strength training.
#3 – The Houstonian
Fees: $24,000 initiation fee, $365 a month
Amenities: Facilities that satisfy professional athletes
With up to 150 classes per week, this Houston, Texas, fitness center will work you into shape in no time.
This sprawling facility offers swimming pools, batting cages, an indoor driving range and equipment that is usually reserved for professional athletes.
As a matter of fact, many of Houston’s top professional football players train at this fitness center.
#2 – The Detroit Athletic Club
Fees: up to $400 a month
Amenities: Boat access, spectacular views
This bastion of the elite offers fitness with a breathtaking view of the Detroit River and the Windsor, Canada, skyline.
With several floors of equipment, intense classes, racquetball and more, you can get into shape before you head out on your yacht.
The club also offers a marina and boat docking.
#1 – The Madison Square Club
Fees: $26,000 annually
Amenities: Luxurious accommodations, training with the best
Based in New York City, this club is run by celebrity trainer David Kirsch. This center offers luxury products in private showers, state of the art equipment, laundry service, and even monogrammed towels.
Work out with the area’s top fitness leader in an upscale environment. When it comes to expensive gyms, this one takes the cake.
What is the highest paid gym in the world?
The highest-paid gym in the world is often considered to be Madison Square Club in New York, founded by celebrity trainer David Kirsch. Membership fees and personal training sessions here can be exceptionally high, catering to an elite clientele.
What gym has the most money?
In terms of revenue, LA Fitness is one of the gyms with the most money, boasting a large number of locations across the United States and a significant member base.
What are the expensive gyms in the US?
Expensive gyms in the US include Equinox, The Houstonian Club, and East Bank Club in Chicago. These gyms offer luxury amenities, extensive fitness programs, and often cater to a high-end clientele.
What is the most expensive Equinox membership?
The most expensive Equinox membership is the E by Equinox tier, which can cost upwards of $500 per month, offering exclusive services like personalized training, luxury amenities, and access to all club locations.
Which gym do most celebrities go to?
Many celebrities frequent Dogpound and Tracy Anderson Studios, known for their high-profile clientele and personalized, high-intensity workouts tailored to the entertainment industry’s demands.
Do billionaires go to gym?
Yes, many billionaires prioritize fitness and go to exclusive gyms or have personal trainers. Some may even have custom gym facilities in their homes or offices.
How many billionaires workout?
While specific numbers are hard to come by, a significant portion of billionaires includes regular workouts in their routine, understanding the importance of physical fitness for overall well-being and performance.
Who are the richest fitness entrepreneurs?
Richest fitness entrepreneurs include Mark Mastrov, founder of 24 Hour Fitness, Bikram Choudhury of Bikram Yoga, and Tony Horton, creator of P90X. Their success comes from building fitness empires that have a global reach.
Read More: Richest Fitness Billionaires
Why are gyms so expensive?
Gyms can be expensive due to factors like location, the range of amenities and services offered, the cost of maintaining state-of-the-art equipment, and the expertise of the staff. Luxury and boutique gyms also factor in exclusivity and specialized programs into their pricing.
What is the most famous gym in the USA?
The most famous gym in the USA is arguably Gold’s Gym in Venice, California, known as “The Mecca of Bodybuilding” and has a storied history with many celebrity patrons.
What gym is in all 50 states?
Anytime Fitness is in all 50 states, known for its 24/7 access and convenience, making it one of the most accessible gym chains in the country.
What is the most successful gym in the US?
One of the most successful gyms in the US is Planet Fitness, known for its affordable memberships and widespread availability, catering to a broad demographic.
Read More:
How much is Equinox per month in LA?
Equinox membership costs in LA can vary but typically start around $200 per month, with variations depending on the specific club location and membership tier.
Is it hard to get out of Equinox membership?
Canceling an Equinox membership can be challenging due to strict cancellation policies and contracts. It’s essential to review the membership agreement for specific terms and conditions.
What makes Equinox special?
Equinox is known for its luxury amenities, high-end fitness equipment, exclusive classes, and spa-like locker rooms, setting it apart as a premium fitness experience.
Who is the No 1 gym trainer in the world?
While subjective, Joe Wicks, also known as The Body Coach, is renowned worldwide for his fitness programs, reaching a broad audience through his online platforms and publishing.
Can you make millions owning a gym?
Owning a successful gym, especially a franchise or a chain of boutique studios, can be highly profitable, with some top gym owners making millions through diversified services and scaling their business models.
What are the most successful boutique fitness studios?
Successful boutique fitness studios include SoulCycle, Barry’s Bootcamp, and Orangetheory Fitness, known for their unique fitness concepts, strong brand identities, and loyal customer bases.
Read More: Most Successful Boutique Fitness Studios
How much do top gym owners make?
Top gym owners’ earnings can vary widely based on the gym’s location, size, and business model. Successful owners can make six to seven-figure incomes, especially if they expand their brand through franchising or additional services.
Read More: How much do top gym owners make?
How can I run a successful gym business?
Running a successful gym business involves understanding your target market, offering high-quality and unique fitness experiences, maintaining top-notch facilities, and providing excellent customer service. Utilizing effective gym management software like Exercise.com can streamline operations and enhance member engagement, contributing to business success.
Read More:
What is the best gym management software?
The best gym management software offers comprehensive features that cater to all aspects of gym operations, from membership management and scheduling to billing and reporting. Exercise.com stands out for its versatility, customizability, and robust support, making it an excellent choice for gyms looking to optimize their operations and provide exceptional service to their members.
