Health Clubs, Boutique Fitness & Gym Franchises
| Low | 1.2× |
| Median | 1.8× |
| High | 2.5× |
| Low | 1.5× |
| Median | 2.5× |
| High | 4× |
A well-run boutique fitness studio (e.g., Orangetheory, Barry's Bootcamp) with $300K SDE and strong membership retention (80%+ 12-month retention) typically sells for $540K–$750K (median 1.8× SDE). Multi-location fitness operators with management teams can command 2.5–3.5× SDE. Basic budget gyms trade at 1.2–1.8× SDE.
The U.S. fitness industry generates $37 billion annually (IHRSA 2024). Post-COVID recovery is ongoing — many mid-market gyms closed permanently. Boutique fitness (CrossFit, Orangetheory, spin studios) has high member loyalty and typically lower overhead. Budget gyms (Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness franchise) are volume-driven with low per-member margins. Multi-location operators (3+ locations) command premium valuations due to geographic diversification and management leverage.
Contact-based value drivers — buyer due diligence essential.
Gym SBA financing is challenging (approval 58–65%) because of post-COVID lender caution and membership churn risk. Single-location gyms are particularly hard to finance — lenders want to see 3+ years of stable membership data. Multi-location gyms with positive EBITDA and management in place can access SBA 7(a). Alternative financing (private investors, equipment financing) is often necessary for boutique studios.
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Open Business Valuation Calculator →Gyms are highly owner-dependent, with member churn often concentrated around membership plan anniversaries (January, September). A single-location gym where the owner IS the lead trainer or GM has no value without them. Post-COVID lender caution has made SBA financing scarce for single-location operations. However, boutique fitness concepts with strong per-member retention (monthly fee >$150, >80% 12-month retention) and documented systems can command 2.0–2.5× SDE.
The difference is revenue quality and exit optionality. A gym at 1× SDE likely has: (1) high owner dependency, (2) low monthly membership fee and high churn, (3) single location, (4) declining or flat membership. A gym at 3× SDE typically has: (1) professional management and documented systems, (2) high-revenue memberships (>$150/month) with >80% annual retention, (3) multiple locations or ability to scale without the owner, (4) diversified revenue (personal training, merchandise, nutrition). The EBITDA math matters: a $300K SDE gym at 3× = $900K valuation — buyers will require consistent membership data and a 3+ year track record.
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