Laundromat, Still Good Investments?
Why Self-Service Laundry Remains a Smart Bet in 2025
The Spin Cycle of a Smart Investment
Back in the early 2000s, I remember walking into a neighborhood laundromat on a hot summer day. The place was packed—people folding clothes, chatting, feeding quarters into humming machines. It didn’t seem glamorous, but it did seem busy. And busy often means profitable. Fast-forward to today, and the question still lingers: Are laundromats still good investments?
The short answer: yes, if done right. With the right mix of equipment, maintenance strategy, and financing, laundromats can offer steady, passive income with relatively low labor costs. In this article, we’ll dig into the cost of Speed Queen commercial machines, leasing options, service contracts, and what kind of revenue you might expect depending on your machine mix.
The Heart of the Operation: Speed Queen Equipment Costs
Speed Queen is one of the most respected names in commercial laundry. Known for durability and innovation, their machines are a preferred choice for many laundromat owners.
#### Washer and Dryer Costs (2024 Estimates):
| Size | Type | Estimated Cost Each |
|————-|————–|———————-|
| Small | Washer | $4,000 – $5,000 |
| Medium | Washer | $5,500 – $6,500 |
| Large | Washer | $7,000 – $9,000 |
| Small | Dryer | $3,500 – $4,500 |
| Medium | Dryer | $4,800 – $6,000 |
| Large | Dryer | $6,500 – $8,000 |
Note: Prices vary by distributor, model, and features like card payment integration.
For a mix of 12 washers and 12 dryers (4 small, 4 medium, 4 large of each), total equipment costs can range between $160,000 to $210,000 including installation.
Lease or Buy? The Big Decision
#### Leasing: The Practical Route for Many
Leasing equipment allows owners to conserve capital and access newer machines with less upfront cost. Here’s how it typically breaks down:
- Lease Terms: Usually 3, 5, or 7 years. Some vendors offer 10-year leases, but these are less common.
- Monthly Payments: For a 5-year lease on 24 machines, expect payments between $3,000 to $4,000/month, depending on the exact mix and features.
- Buy-Out Options: Most leases offer a buy-out clause at the end, often for $1 or fair market value.
- Service Contracts: Often bundled into the lease or available separately. These cover routine maintenance and parts replacement, reducing downtime risk.
#### Benefits of Leasing:
- Lower upfront capital
- Access to the latest models
- Predictable monthly costs
- Potential tax deductions
#### Drawbacks:
- Higher total cost over time
- Locked into long-term payments
Maintenance: Keep It Running, Keep It Profitable
Commercial machines are built to last, but they still need care. If you self-maintain, expect to spend $300–$1,000/month on parts and service, depending on usage and age of machines. With a service contract, you may pay a flat fee of $500–$800/month, which offers peace of mind and fewer surprises.
Speed Queen also offers a network of certified technicians and smart machine diagnostics that can alert you to potential problems before they become costly.
Revenue Projections: What Can You Expect?
This varies by location, but here are general revenue figures based on machine type and usage:
| Machine Size | Average Cycle Price | Avg. Daily Uses | Monthly Revenue (per machine) |
|————–|———————|——————|——————————-|
| Small | $2.75 | 4–6 | $330–$495 |
| Medium | $4.00 | 4–6 | $480–$720 |
| Large | $6.00 | 3–5 | $540–$900 |
Using these estimates:
- 24-machine setup (12 washers + 12 dryers):
Monthly revenue = $10,000–$15,000
- 36-machine setup (18 washers + 18 dryers):
Monthly revenue = $15,000–$22,000
Note: These figures assume a mid-traffic location. High-traffic urban laundromats can earn significantly more.
Bottom Line: Are Laundromats Still Worth It?
Yes—if you choose the right location, manage costs, and maintain your machines. Leasing Speed Queen equipment with service contracts offers a manageable entry point for new owners, while revenue potential remains strong in communities where laundry access is essential.
Laundromats are not get-rich-quick ventures, but they are durable, cash-flowing assets—especially attractive in uncertain economic times.
Further Reading & Resources
Official site with product specs, leasing info, and dealer locator.
Industry association offering free resources, market data, and operational advice.
One of the largest distributors offering flexible leasing terms for Speed Queen.
Step-by-step guide to business setup, financing, and operations.
