Cost

How much does tennis cost?

$189 buys all 2 essentials.

2 priced items · checked 10 Sept 2026 · retailer prices, we earn a commission

Everything essential, cheapest sensible pick

$189

2 items, nothing rented

Against 247 hobbies

Above median

Dearer than 77% of them. Median hobby: $84.

What each thing costs

Every essential item, cheapest sensible option first. Mid-range and top picks alongside.

Tennis Racket essential

mid $119top $293

$99

Tennis Shoes essential

mid $109top $100

$90

All 2 essentials

$189

What you need

$189

Everything you need to start tennis. None of it is a big commitment.

Tennis Racket

$99

Start with an oversized head (100+ sq in), lighter weight (270–285g), and open string pattern. Avoid heavy advanced frames.

HEAD Ti.S6

mid $119top $293

Tennis Shoes

$90

Court-specific shoes provide the lateral support that running shoes lack — essential for preventing ankle and knee injuries.

ASICS Solution Swift FF Tennis Shoes

mid $109top $100

Later, if you stay

Not needed to start. These are the upgrades that matter once the habit has stuck.

Tennis Bag & Accessories

$80

Carry your rackets, shoes, and gear between sessions.

Head Tour Team 6 Racket Tennis Bag

mid $130top $179

Startup cost · all 247 hobbieslog scale
$1
$84
$1245
$199

Tennis costs more to start than 77% of the 247 hobbies we price. The median is $84.

Cost questions

How much does Tennis cost to start?

About $189 for the 2 essential items, taking the cheapest sensible option for each.

What does each thing cost for Tennis?

Tennis Racket: from $99. Tennis Shoes: from $90.

Is Tennis an expensive hobby?

Tennis costs about $199 to start, dearer than 77% of the 247 hobbies we price. The median hobby costs $84, so this is one of the pricier ones to get into.

What should I buy first for Tennis?

tennis racket, tennis shoes — $189 together. They are the cheap half of the kit and the half you keep whatever you decide about the rest.

Hobbies that cost about the same

The 6 nearest to tennis by startup cost, out of 247.