How much does it cost to build a tennis court?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

For those who enjoy tennis, having a private tennis court installed at home could be a great addition to the property. Not only will this allow you to play whenever the mood strikes and never have to worry about finding an open court, but it enhances the value of your property and gives you a unique feature to offer if you ever decide to sell. Plus, custom tennis courts can be designed in all styles, with multiple surfaces to choose from and other details to make it uniquely yours.

The average cost to install a tennis court ranges from $45,000 to $80,000, with most people spending about $65,000 on a singles tennis court made of concrete with a resilient surface finish. For those on a budget, a smaller singles court with minimal room for side runs and run-backs and mid-grade materials can be installed for as little as $25,000. At the high end, you could spend as much as $150,000 on an indoor doubles court measuring 130 x 70 feet with acrylic materials and the construction of a 150 x 100 feet corrugated metal pole building structure with electrical and HVAC to house the court.

Cost to Put in a Tennis Court

Tennis Court Installation Cost By Type

The average cost of a tennis court installation by type is $45,000 to $90,000, depending on whether it is a singles court or a doubles court, among other factors. The standard tennis court sizes vary for these two factors. You’ll have to consider the space required for the side run on doubles courts, the space between the court and the sideline, and the run-back, or distance behind the baseline. Even though you’re not playing on these surfaces, per se, they are necessary to meet the regulations of standard tennis court installation.

The average doubles tennis court dimensions are 78 feet by 36 feet, but that only includes the playable area. When you add the additional space for the side runs and run-backs and other details of the tennis court layout, you end up with a standard size that is much closer to 130 feet by 70 feet for a standard doubles tennis court. The caveat here is that courts can be made smaller for private recreational use, so if you are limited on space or simply want something more “homey,” that is an option. Singles tennis court dimensions are just a few feet smaller than doubles courts in the play area at 78 feet by 27 feet but can be as big or small as you’d like in the side and back non-playable areas.

The exact dimensions of your total tennis court build will vary depending on whether you are installing a singles court or a doubles court. The play area is standard on both courts, but doubles courts are wider to accommodate the second player. In the table below, you will see the two common tennis court sizes, including playable and non-playable space, and their average costs, including materials and installation. Cheaper and more expensive options are available for homeowners.

Tennis Court Surfaces Cost

The average tennis court surface cost ranges from $20,0000 to $100,000 installed, including labor and all materials. Several factors impact this price, including the type of material, how accessible it is, how easy it is to install, and other considerations. To choose the right tennis court surface material, it helps to explore all available options. There are pros and cons to consider when comparing your tennis court surfacing options. In the table and subsections below, we discuss the most common types of surfaces used, their costs, and other factors for either singles or doubles court.

Grass Tennis Court

The average grass tennis court construction cost starts with an average cost of $20,000 to $75,000 for materials, assuming that you are using an organic turf or grass material. Grass is ideal for high-speed play, and it offers a less expensive option. However, it requires maintenance to handle, including the fact that it has to be inspected daily and may not be used on damp or rainy days. Proper mowing and maintenance must be considered, and more. It’s a cheap option, but it’s a lot of work.

Synthetic Grass Tennis Court

You can install a synthetic grass tennis court for about $25,000 to $80,000 for materials alone. Again, this court offers high-speed play and a decent amount of bounce. It’s also one of the most affordable options on the market today. It can be less work than organic grass and can be easier to install. You may want to consult with your installation expert to decide whether organic or synthetic grass or turf is the better choice when you want a basic, budget-friendly tennis court at home.

Asphalt Tennis Court

The average asphalt tennis court cost is about $40,000 to $80,000 in material costs, offering something a little more expensive than grass that’s a firmer, more supportive surface. While it’s more expensive, asphalt is quick to install and includes a resilient coating to provide a durable surface for years of enjoyment. However, asphalt is a fickle material that can be cracked by heat and exposure. It may also require significant maintenance and more repairs than other materials, but it’s an affordable option.

Concrete Tennis Court

The average cost to install a concrete tennis court is about $45,000 to $80,000 for materials, labor, and other expenses. The exact cost varies depending on the type of concrete you choose and how much you have installed. It is a long-lasting choice for a tennis court that offers several surfacing options and a lower-maintenance solution than those discussed thus far. However, it develops cracks over time and is more expensive than some other options for what you get.

Clay Tennis Court

A clay tennis court is one of the most popular options. The cost to build a clay tennis court is about $60,000 to $90,000. Clay has the benefit of a lower-speed bounce which can be great for slower gameplay and those who don’t want the high speeds of hard surfaces like concrete. This high-maintenance material can be impacted by wind and often needs replacing as a part of maintenance. Because of its high cost and these factors, it’s not a primary choice for many homeowners. However, it is an option that is available for those who are willing to do the work.

Acrylic Tennis Court Surface

An acrylic tennis court surface costs about $65,000 to $100,000 for the materials and labor to install a regulation court. This involves using an acrylic layer over the top of asphalt or concrete, creating a more durable surface that is resilient, low maintenance, and will not crack or otherwise need repair. It is more expensive and doesn’t include as many options as some surface materials. It offers a polished, professional look and a premium surface, so it’s worth the investment for some people.

Rubber Tennis Court Surface

A rubber tennis court surface installation costs between $75,000 and $100,000, on average, including all materials and labor. Depending on the base material like concrete or asphalt, and the cushioning material you choose, the cost of this surface could be higher or lower than the average. Rubberized or cushioned courts are ideal because they offer resilience and durability, along with fast speeds and a good bounce on the ball.

Tennis Court Cost by Part

The average cost of tennis court parts ranges from $30 to $30,000, depending on the part and its features and functions. Some of the parts and accessories will be necessary installations for a complete and finished court. Others will be optional upgrades or add-ins, such as lighting for night games or a backboard so that you can play solo when no one is around. In the table and subsections below, we’ll discuss all of the most common tennis court parts and their related costs, and whether they’re necessary or optional items.

Tennis Ball Basket

A tennis ball basket can be purchased for about $30 to $80 and is a great way to keep your tennis balls organized and contained when you’re not playing. These baskets are typically made of metal or plastic material that can stand up to the elements and come in several sizes and styles. Consider whether you want a personal-size basket or a basket large enough for everyone to share. This optional addition will help keep your court looking great by keeping things organized when it’s not being used.

Tennis Racket Rack

You can purchase a tennis racket rack to store your rackets for approximately $50 to $150. These racks come in several styles and sizes and can be made from metal, wood, or other materials. You can find storage for a few rackets or a rack that’s large enough to hold as many as a dozen or more. The size, style, and materials used for construction impact the price that you pay. Tennis racket racks can be a great optional feature to secure your racks, but they aren’t a necessary addition.

Tennis Windscreens

You will spend an average of $100 to $400 on custom tennis windscreens. Custom windscreens help prevent the wind from impacting play and give you the chance to have better control over the ball. It may also afford you the chance to play in less-than-favorable conditions where you might not be able to without these screens. These screens come in several sizes and styles, impacting the price that you pay for these solutions.

Tennis Court Scorekeeper

If you don’t want to worry about keeping score or want a more professional court, consider installing a tennis court scorekeeper for an average cost of $100 to $600. Scorekeepers are available in mechanical and electronic versions and come in several styles, sizes, and price ranges. What you choose will ultimately impact how much you pay, with digital scorekeepers and high-tech options costing significantly more. This is an optional upgrade, but one that could be worth considering.

Tennis Court Net

The average cost to build net installations for your tennis court is $200 to $300. The net is the center divider on the court that is an integral part of gameplay. The average tennis court net height and length is 3.5 feet by 42 feet. You can choose from single and braided styles, among other details. You cannot have a complete court without a net, so make sure that this is a priority on your list. Some professional installers may include a net in the materials by default, but you shouldn’t bank on that.

Tennis Court Seating

If you choose to add tennis court seating, you will expect to spend about $200 to $2,000. You can choose a variety of seating options for the side of your tennis courts, including several styles of benches and chairs. The seating you choose will impact the cost of the addition. You can opt to leave the seating out for now if you’re on a budget or don’t find it necessary. However, it’s a great way to rest between games without going back to the house or walking to another area where you can sit down.

Tennis Court Lighting

If you choose to install tennis court lighting, you can expect to spend an average of $2,000 to $5,000 for the project. Your final costs will depend on what type of outdoor lighting you choose, how much lighting is installed, and what type of power the lights require. If the court needs to be wired for electricity, this could incur an additional cost. You can also find several less expensive options, including solar lighting and light fixtures. Lighting the tennis court makes it easy to enjoy in the evenings or even early morning in climates where the weather allows it.

Build A Tennis Backboard

The cost to build a tennis backboard is around $5,000 to $10,000. This can be a great choice for those who want a surface that returns the ball and allows them to play solo when no one else is around. Backboards come in all shapes and sizes. Depending on the materials used, you will find various finish options. You can choose a backboard that matches your court or have something fabricated that stands out and adds an accent. This is not essential, but it can be a great addition.

Tennis Court Fencing

Tennis court fencing has an average cost of $5,000 to $12,000, depending on the type of fence you choose and the amount of fencing you need. You can choose from vinyl, chain link, wood, and decorative metal fence materials. Height options vary, but you should install a fence high enough to contain any stray balls. Most people opt for fences that range from 10 to 15 feet. You will be able to decide on a height that fits your installation. The higher and longer your fence, the more it will cost.

Tennis Court Bubble

Some people will opt to install a tennis court bubble instead of fencing, which can be done for $10,000 to $30,000. This bubble protects the court from the elements and creates an enclosed space when you may not have the room or materials to build an indoor tennis court. It’s a premium feature that isn’t required for a tennis court, but it makes playing more enjoyable in climates where there is limited good outdoor weather.

Average Cost of Tennis Court Installation

The average cost of tennis court installation for labor alone is between $30,000 and $35,000, which will be added to the average $10,000 to $50,000 cost of materials for the total project cost range of $45,000 to $80,000. The labor and installation process varies depending on the surface material you have chosen, the size of the court, and other included features. You will be paying for the excavation and leveling of the land, drainage, backfilling, and other tasks required to create the surface. Labor costs include all parts of the installation, including accessories and other details before completion.

The installation process needs to be done by professionals and takes time. For hard courts, the surface has to be cured for 30 to 60 days before an acrylic coating can be applied. Then, it must cure again before it can be used. Once the court is completed, the fence needs to be put in, the lines will need to be painted, and the fencing and landscaping will need to be done. This is where homeowners can choose to add seating, scorekeepers, backboards, and other details.

Tennis Court Paint Cost

The average cost of tennis court paint for lining the court is $300 to $600, depending on the type of surface being worked on and the size of the court. The lines can be painted as part of a new installation or even a resurfacing project on an existing court. This involves using a regulation line painting machine or tool that allows the lines to be measured and accurately placed on the court. This must be done by a professional who understands the dimensions of a tennis court and can paint the lines according to regulation standards.

Cost to Build Indoor Tennis Court

Some people opt to build an indoor tennis court, which has a cost range from $70,000 to $150,000. The cost depends on what type of building is used to house the court and whether the building is already in place. If you are building an entirely new construction project, it will be toward the high end of the price range. If you have an existing structure and are retrofitting it for a court, it may be a bit cheaper since you don’t have to build the building. This can be an ideal choice for those who want to ensure they can play regardless of the weather or other outdoor conditions. Those who don’t want to use a bubble or dome could also consider this option.

Indoor courts can use some of the same materials as outdoor tennis courts. Most are made of a hard surface, such as concrete or wood, and then covered with an acrylic, rubber, or other cushioned surface. Some people choose to install artificial turf or synthetic clay to mimic an outdoor experience. However, most people install a hard surface like concrete and have it overlaid with acrylic, rubber, or other cushioned materials. Carpeted courts, while less common, are also an option for indoor use.

Tennis Court Maintenance Cost

The average cost of maintenance for a tennis court is $1,800 per year. This cost depends on the type of court materials used, the condition of the court, and the climate. Indoor courts and those in certain areas with mild climates may have fewer maintenance costs. Conversely, outdoor courts that experience the seasons can have much higher maintenance costs. You will pay more to maintain surfaces like grass or concrete, while a material such as acrylic or rubber will require less attention and money over time. Some of the most common maintenance requirements for the different surface materials are listed below:

Grass: Grass is the highest maintenance choice for a tennis court surface. It must be kept short, weed-free, and healthy, which means frequent mowing, watering, and other care.

Synthetic Grass: This type of grass requires less maintenance than regular grass. Just keeping leaves and debris off the surface and using a leaf blower to remove any accumulated debris should be enough.

Asphalt: Asphalt is durable and affordable, but it can crack and wear with age. It will require resurfacing every few years. The court may sink in spots and create small divots or puddles, known as “bird baths,” which will eventually need to be fixed.

Concrete: This is another low-maintenance choice, only requiring occasional resurfacing. Concrete is more durable than asphalt, so it will not need to be resurfaced as frequently.

Clay: Clay is a little less maintenance, but because it is light and can be blown around by the wind, the court may need raking or brushing from time to time. Some clay is lost entirely, which means courts may need additional clay each year.

Acrylic: These courts are the lowest maintenance option. With regular cleaning, they require little to no attention.

Rubber: This surface material is relatively easy to maintain. Rubber requires sweeping frequently to avoid any debris getting in the pores of the material. An annual washing and painting should keep the rubber surface in good condition.

Tennis Court Landscaping

In addition to installing your new tennis court, you can expect to spend between $500 and $2,500 on landscaping, depending on the features you choose. Some people skip this step or save it for later to reduce their budget. However, having the complete project done can make it much more enjoyable. Landscaping could include grass planting around the court, trees, shrubs, and even mulch along the sides of the court, if you desire. You can talk to your installation provider about the landscaping options to design your perfect court.

To build a tennis court, you need an extensive amount of prep work related to landscaping and grading before the installation begins. The land needs to be cleared of all debris, trees, rocks, old landscaping, structures, or anything else that prevents a court from being installed. Then, the area for the court will be measured, marked off, and excavated to allow room for proper grading and any necessary subsurface layers. To ensure a level playing surface, the entire area will be excavated and then backfilled and graded before any surfaces are poured or installed. For acrylic and cushioned courts and some other composite materials, a subsurface installation may be required before the court can be installed.

Tennis Court Colors

The materials used for a tennis court are available in a host of color options. Materials like acrylic have an array of bold, bright color options, while even gravel and rubber materials offer some color variations. You can choose from standard greens, brick red colors, and blues, or choose another color entirely. The available selection depends on the type of material used. Some surfaces, such as acrylic, concrete, wood, and rubber, can even be painted with almost any color, giving you the chance to create the perfect custom tennis court, no matter what surface you choose.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Tennis Court Removal

It will cost approximately $8,000 to $12,000 if you need to remove a tennis court before installing a new one. The process depends on the material used for the court and how difficult it is to remove. It may also require resurfacing the ground, leveling, and grass planting if a new court is not being installed. Removing a tennis court is a big project that should be done by professionals. If you have fencing, seating, landscaping, or other elements, it could drive up the final cost.

Tennis Ball Machine

For about $300 to $1,000, you can invest in a premium tennis ball machine that will serve you balls when you want to play on your own. Tennis tutors and ball machines are available in several different styles, making it easy for you to find what you like best. Pros pay more for high-end tennis ball machines. Those who are just starting out or who just want a basic machine can spend much less and still get a great product. This is not a necessary expense, but it adds more enjoyment to your court.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. Installing, repairing, or resurfacing a tennis court is not recommended as a DIY project. There are special considerations regarding regulation sizing and the unique materials and process used to install a tennis court. It’s also a time-consuming job even for a dedicated team of installation professionals, so it would be a huge task for you alone. For a high-quality, regulation tennis court, always rely on the pros.
• Estimates. You must get a few estimates before deciding who will be installing your court. Compare two or three different companies to see what they offer, both in terms of their costs and how long they say the project will take, as well as what you get for the money. After all, you can’t know that you’re getting the best people for the job if you don’t check out a few of the options.
• Warranties. Consider whether companies offer warranties or guarantees on their installation. Some may offer premium warranties at an additional cost, which is also an option that can enhance your investment and give you protection for years to come. If you want, you can even inquire about this when getting estimates to help your decision.
• Insurance. It will be important to inform your insurance company of the new addition to your property, as it may change the risk level. More importantly, it will change the value of your property. The tennis court may need to be declared separately in some policies because of its cost value. This won’t significantly impact your insurance rates, but you have to make sure they’re aware of the new court and the construction process.
• Permits. Most cities and municipalities require permits for major construction projects and outdoor work, such as what is involved in installing a tennis court. Typically, the company you choose to work with will obtain the permits needed for the job. Still, you should call your municipality or governmental authority ahead of time to be sure. Otherwise, huge fines and other penalties could be incurred.
• ROI. Adding a tennis court to your home will increase its value, generally speaking. The exact amount of added value depends on the size and type of court you install, your home’s location, and other details. Typically, though, you can expect to significantly improve your home’s value as long as you live in a neighborhood where this kind of upgrade will be well-received.
• Court Orientation. Areas north of the 37th parallel are recommended to have a court orientation of north-south to accommodate the best sun angles in the summer months for mid-to-late afternoon use. Since it is possible to play year-round below the 37th parallel, this is less important. However, it is generally accepted that the best choice is north-south orientation since the sun travels from east to west.
• Replacing vs Resurfacing. In some cases, you might not need to replace your tennis court completely. If you are considering replacing the court you already have, get a professional to advise you. Over time, the surfaces used for these courts are prone to wear, and in some cases, you can simply have them resurfaced, which can save a lot of time and money versus a full replacement.
• Replacing vs Repairing. You might find yourself in a position where you don’t necessarily need to replace the entire tennis court. If you have minor damage or repairs that need to be performed, it may be more affordable to make the necessary fixes. Of course, this is where it is helpful to get estimates from the pros so that you can see what a few different people have to say about the best course of action.