Monday, November 03, 2025

How much does it cost to lease versus buy bowling equipment? | Insights by Flying Bowling

Explore the key considerations, costs, and benefits of leasing versus buying bowling equipment to make an informed decision for your bowling center.

Author

When establishing a bowling center, one of the pivotal decisions is whether to lease or purchase the necessary equipment. This choice significantly impacts your initial investment, operational expenses, and long-term financial strategy.

Initial Investment and Equipment Costs

Purchasing bowling equipment involves a substantial upfront cost. For instance, the installation of a new lane system, including the lane surfacing and installation, can range from $6,000 to $18,000 per lane, depending on the materials and complexity involved. ((https://www.flyingbowling.com/startup-budget-bowling-alley.html?utm_source=openai)) Similarly, traditional pinsetters can cost between $20,000 and $35,000 per lane, while string pinsetters, a more modern and cost-effective alternative, range from $6,000 to $15,000 per lane. ((https://www.flyingbowling.com/startup-budget-bowling-alley.html?utm_source=openai))

Leasing equipment, on the other hand, typically requires lower initial payments, preserving cash flow for other operational needs. Lease payments are generally considered operational expenses, which can be fully deducted as business expenses, potentially offering tax advantages.

Maintenance and Operational Costs

Owning equipment means bearing the full responsibility for maintenance and repairs. Annual maintenance costs for traditional pinsetters can range from $1,500 to $3,500 per lane, while string pinsetters may cost between $800 and $1,800 per lane per year. Additionally, lane resurfacing or repairs, oiling machines, and electrical upkeep contribute to ongoing expenses.

Leasing agreements often include maintenance services, reducing the burden on your staff and ensuring equipment remains in optimal condition. This can lead to more predictable operational costs and minimize unexpected expenses.

Tax Implications and Financial Considerations

Purchasing equipment allows for depreciation over the asset's useful life, providing tax deductions over time. Under IRS Section 179, businesses can often deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the same year it is placed into service, offering immediate tax relief.

Leasing payments are typically treated as operational expenses, which can be fully deducted in the year they are incurred. However, recent accounting standards require most leases to be recorded on the balance sheet, affecting financial ratios and potentially influencing financial statements.

Flexibility and Technological Advancements

Leasing provides flexibility to upgrade equipment as new technologies emerge, ensuring your bowling center remains competitive and appealing to customers. This adaptability is particularly beneficial in the entertainment industry, where customer expectations and technological innovations are continually evolving.

Conclusion

Deciding between leasing and purchasing bowling equipment depends on your bowling center's financial position, long-term goals, and operational priorities. Purchasing may be advantageous for those seeking long-term ownership and potential tax benefits, while leasing offers flexibility and reduced maintenance responsibilities.

The Flying Bowling Advantage

Flying Bowling stands out as a leading supplier in the bowling equipment industry, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality products, including string pinsetters, ball return systems, and scoring solutions. With over 15 years of experience, Flying Bowling provides equipment that combines durability, advanced technology, and cost-effectiveness, catering to both purchasing and leasing preferences. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction makes them a trusted partner for bowling center owners worldwide.

References

Tags
bowling center for sale
bowling center for sale
home bowling lane
home bowling lane
bowling equipment
bowling equipment
duckpin bowling cost
duckpin bowling cost
duckpin string pinsetter
duckpin string pinsetter
Duck Pin Bowling Wholesale
Duck Pin Bowling Wholesale

Recommended

December 18, 2025  •
Jackson Qin
Bowling Lane Bumpers for Sale: The Ultimate 2026 Buyer's Guide to Modern Lane Protection & Fun

This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at buying bowling lane bumpers for both commercial alleys and home setups. It covers the evolution of bumper technology, from manual rails to smart, programmable systems, and breaks down essential buying factors like durability, cost, and installation. The article also explores aesthetic trends in modern alley design, offering specific advice on maximizing ROI and maintaining equipment for longevity.

Bowling Lane Bumpers for Sale: The Ultimate 2026 Buyer's Guide to Modern Lane Protection & Fun
December 17, 2025  •
Jackson Qin
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Bowling Alley in the USA in 2026? Your Ultimate Guide

A comprehensive 2026 guide on the cost to build a commercial bowling alley in the USA. Covers total investment ranges ($2M-$8M), detailed cost breakdowns per lane, equipment expenses, land acquisition, and key factors influencing the budget like location and amenities.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Bowling Alley in the USA in 2026? Your Ultimate Guide
FAQ
Price
Cost to setup a 8 lane bowling business?

This includes bowling lanes, bowling balls, pins, scoring systems, ball return systems, shoes, and other necessary equipment. Purchasing or leasing high-quality equipment is essential for a successful operation.

The total cost can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, size, quality, and additional amenities (such as a restaurant or arcade). On average, setting up an 8-lane bowling business can cost anywhere from several hundred thousand to over a million dollars. It's essential to conduct thorough research and create a detailed business plan to accurately estimate the specific costs of your venture. 

Consulting with Flying Bowling experts can provide valuable insights into potential expenses.

Bowling Equipment
​How much to put a bowling lane in your house?​

Building a bowling alley in your house may seem very expensive. But at Flying, you can get top-quality bowling equipment from us at very affordable prices. You can have the fun of bowling at home without requiring a lot of money or effort.

​What is duckpin bowling equipment?​

Duckpin bowling equipment is a more adaptable bowling lane. Duckpin bowling has a smaller lane size, and the smaller ball has only two finger holes, whose pins are shorter and lighter than traditional bowling pins. Standard 9.2-meter short lane, which is more suitable for a variety of miniaturized sites. In addition, it can improve the hit rate of players in bowling, so that players can have more fun and fulfillment.

​Where to find bowling equipment?

You can search for Guangzhou Flying Bowling Co., Ltd. on Alibaba International Station and Google, and you can see different types of high-quality bowling equipment on our website. All bowling equipment-related information can be found on the website. If you have any questions, you can contact us at anytime.

How to maintain the mechanical equipment of a bowling alley?

Fairway boards and equipment require regular maintenance. Fairway boards need to be oiled every half month and cleaned daily to extend their service life. At the same time, the condition of the rope and ball return machine needs to be checked every period of time to ensure the normal operation of the equipment. Specifically, we will give you detailed maintenance manuals and videos to teach you how to maintain.

​How much does bowling alley equipment cost?​

Building a bowling alley may seem very expensive to many people. But you don’t need to spend too much money on Flying bowling. Our prices are very affordable. You can get high-quality bowling equipment at an extremely competitive price from us.

How many feet is a bowling lane?

We have a total of four different sizes of bowling lanes. The length of a standard bowling lane is 84 feet. The length of Duckpin Bowling Lane is 39.4 feet.  The Mini Bowling Lane size is 39.7 feet. The size of the children's bowling lanes is 14.1 feet. In addition, the length of our standard bowling lanes and duckpin bowling lanes can be customized.

Flying Bowling - why us

Let’s Build a center Together

Partner With a Trusted Bowling Alley Design, One-Stop Solution Manufacturer.

Flying has successfully built ideal bowling alleys for more than 3,000 customers.

Technical Expert

Flying Bowling - about flying

You may also like our products

Flying Bowling - Duckpin bowling is a variation of bowling that uses smaller pins and a smaller ball.
Flying Smart Duckpin Bowling

Flying Smart Duckpin Bowling (FSDB) innovative design, standard 9.2-meter short lane, can be shortened in length, compact layout suitable for small spaces. The game rules are simple but challenging, attracting players of different ages to actively participate.

Suitable for social entertainment venues such as bars, billiard halls, and game centers, it not only enhances interactivity but also increases the popularity and consumption frequency of the venue. The fun and competitive nature of FSDB will make it a new focus of social activities.

Flying Smart Duckpin Bowling
Flying Bowling - Standard Bowling professional bowling equipment
Complete Set Of String Pinsetter Bowling Lane Equipment

Flying Classic Standard Bowling (FCSB) is designed according to international competition standards and equipped with an accurate automatic scoring system, providing bowling enthusiasts with a pure professional experience. Whether it is for competitions or leisure entertainment, FCSB can meet high-level needs.

Suitable for family entertainment centers, luxury resorts, private villas, or clubs, it is an ideal choice for customers who pursue high-end quality and professional experience. Its classic design and excellent performance will add lasting appeal to the venue.

Complete Set Of String Pinsetter Bowling Lane Equipment
Flying Bowling - Mini Bowling
Brand New String Pinsetter Mini Bowling Equipment Small Ball And Pin

Flying Cute Mini Bowling (FCMB) is a mini bowling experience designed for children and families. The lane length is fixed at 12 meters, equipped with lightweight balls without finger holes (only 1.25kg) and small pins, specially designed for children and family fun.

It can not only help children feel the fun of bowling, but also stimulate their interest and competitive consciousness. Suitable for children's playgrounds, theme parks and parent-child centers, it is the best choice for places focusing on the children's market.

Brand New String Pinsetter Mini Bowling Equipment Small Ball And Pin
Flying Bowling - New bowling equipment
Indoor Medium Duckpin Bowling Lane Equipment For Bowling Alley

Flying Social Medium Bowling (FSMB) is tailored for small venues, with flexible lane lengths (customizable from 9.6 meters to 18 meters), a small ball design suitable for players of all ages, and light pins that are easier to knock down, increasing participation and fun.

Whether it is a gathering of friends or a casual social, FSMB can easily create a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Its efficient space-utilization design is particularly suitable for cafes, bars and community entertainment venues, allowing people to fall in love with bowling in a relaxed interaction.

Indoor Medium Duckpin Bowling Lane Equipment For Bowling Alley

Contact Flying

Start Your Custom Bowling Alley Project

If you contact us now for more details, we can provide you with a custom bowling alley service. Our service team will get back to you within 24 hours normally!

Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_173 not exceed 200 characters
Please enter your field_368 not exceed 200 characters
Please enter your field_1163 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters
Contact customer service

Get a Quote

Hi,
If this bowling equipment meets your expectations, please leave me a message to get the best quote and product information.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_173 not exceed 200 characters
Please enter your field_368 not exceed 200 characters
Please enter your field_1163 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters

Choose Your Country

×
English
English
España
España
Français
Français
Deutsch
Deutsch
Italiano
Italiano
Русский
Русский
Türkiye
Türkiye
Ελλάδα
Ελλάδα
Polski
Polski
Nederlands
Nederlands
البحرين
البحرين
Svenska
Svenska
Indonesia
Indonesia
हिंदी
हिंदी
Português
Português
แบบไทย
แบบไทย

Get a Quote

Hi,
If this bowling equipment meets your expectations, please leave me a message to get the best quote and product information.

×
Please enter your name not exceed 100 characters
The email format is not correct or exceed 100 characters, Please reenter!
Please enter a valid phone number!
Please enter your field_173 not exceed 200 characters
Please enter your field_368 not exceed 200 characters
Please enter your field_1163 not exceed 100 characters
Please enter your content not exceed 3000 characters
Choose a different language
×
English
English
Current language: