Cost to Start an Anytime Fitness Franchise in 2026

Per Anytime Fitness's current FDD, total estimated initial investment runs approximately $98K–$523K. Location size, leasehold build-out scope, and equipment selection drive most of the range. Major cost categories include:

• Franchise fee: $42,500
• Leasehold improvements and build-out: $30K–$200K
• Fitness equipment (cardio, strength, free weights, functional): $40K–$150K
• Technology systems (member management, key fob access, security cameras): $10K–$30K
• Signage: $5K–$20K
• Pre-opening training and travel: $3K–$10K
• Opening marketing and grand opening: $5K–$25K
• Working capital reserve: $10K–$50K
• Professional fees and permits: $5K–$20K

Anytime Fitness requires prospective franchisees to demonstrate a net worth of $300K+ and liquid capital of $100K+. These thresholds are among the more accessible in fitness franchising, reflecting the relatively lower total investment. Lenders will typically require 10–20% of project cost as an equity injection — at the $98K–$523K range, that is $10K–$105K depending on project scope and loan structure.

Anytime Fitness is on the SBA Franchise Directory, so SBA-approved lenders process applications without a separate franchise agreement review. At the $98K–$523K investment range, SBA 7(a) is the standard vehicle; SBA 504 applies if the operator purchases the real estate. Here is what lenders evaluate:

• DSCR 1.25×–1.35× on membership revenue pro forma: SBA SOP 50 10 8 sets the minimum DSCR floor at 1.15×, but participating lenders for fitness franchise startups typically require 1.25×–1.35×. For Anytime Fitness, the pro forma is membership-based (flat monthly dues × projected member count at stabilization) — lenders assess whether the local market can support the necessary member count to clear the DSCR threshold.
• Equity injection 10–20% of project cost: At the $98K–$523K range, that is $10K–$105K from personal funds not borrowed for this purpose. Startup franchise loans at the lower end of the range may qualify for the 10% SBA minimum; loans above $350K typically require 20% to satisfy lender risk standards per SOP 50 10 8.
• $100K+ liquid capital on hand at closing: Beyond the equity injection, lenders want to see reserves for the operating period before membership stabilizes. Anytime Fitness gyms typically take 12–24 months to reach full occupancy — reserves covering at least 6 months of operating expenses are standard ask.
• 24-hour low-staff model lowers labor DSCR risk: The flat-royalty structure ($649/month) and low staffing model (automated key fob access, minimal front desk hours) mean the labor component of the P&L is predictable and low. Lenders view this favorably versus full-service gym models with high variable labor cost.
• Fitness industry / membership business experience: Multi-unit operators and those with prior membership business (any vertical) present a stronger borrower profile. Operators without fitness background should demonstrate transferable sales, customer service, or operations management experience.