How much does it cost to open a gym in Canada in 2026?
Opening a gym is an ambitious project that can become very profitable when well planned. However, many entrepreneurs underestimate the true cost of starting a fitness center.
Between the premises, equipment, layout and permits, investments can vary considerably depending on the type of gym you wish to create.
Here is an overview of the main costs to expect when opening a gym in Canada in 2026.
1. The commercial premises
The first thing to consider is the space you need for your gym.
Most training centers require between 3,000 and 10,000 square feet .
The cost of rent depends on several factors:
• the city
• visibility
• the size of the space
• the condition of the building
In Canada, the average cost can vary between $15 and $35 per square foot per year .
For a 5,000 square foot gym, this could represent approximately:
$75,000 to $175,000 per year
2. Training equipment
Equipment typically represents the largest investment in a gym.
A typical commercial gym should include:
• training racks
• Olympic bars
• weight plates
• dumbbells
• cardio machines
• training accessories
• flooring and carpets
The budget can vary considerably depending on the quality of the equipment.
On average:
Small boutique gym
$30,000 to $80,000
Complete Commercial Gym
$80,000 to $250,000
At Murph Fitness, we help gym owners design complete facilities with robust equipment built to withstand heavy use.
3. The layout of the gym
Setting up a gym is not limited to purchasing equipment.
You should also plan for:
• specific flooring
• mirrors
• paint
• changing rooms
• reception
• lighting
Depending on the level of development, costs can vary between:
$10,000 and $75,000
4. Licenses and insurance
To run a gym in Canada, you will also need to plan for:
• municipal permits
• commercial insurance
• operating licenses
These costs can vary between:
$2,000 and $10,000 per year
5. Marketing and Launch
A gym also needs to invest in its launch.
Expenses may include:
• online advertising
• website creation
• launch campaigns
• opening events
The initial marketing budget often varies between:
$3,000 and $15,000
How much should I budget in total?
In summary, opening a gym in Canada can cost between:
Small boutique gym
$50,000 to $150,000
Complete Commercial Gym
$150,000 to $350,000 or more
Plan your gym project carefully
Each project is unique. The location, target clientele, and type of training offered greatly influence the equipment and layout requirements.
At Murph Fitness , we support gym owners in planning their facility, choosing equipment and designing high-performance training spaces.
If you wish to create a gym or modernize your current facility, our team can help you build a project tailored to your vision.
Conclusion
Opening a gym is a significant investment, but with good planning and the right equipment, it is possible to create a sustainable and profitable training center.
Taking the time to properly structure your project and choosing quality equipment can make all the difference in the long run.
