Having a pool table in your home can give an amazing aesthetic and something to do with your time at home. If you have a pool table in your home, you can expect to spend hours in the evening and on the weekends socializing and playing billiards and enjoying it, but how much will a pool table cost you?
The average price for a pool table is between $1,200 and $5,000. The cheapest they are sold is about $600. Several factors can affect a pool table’s price. If you don’t want to buy a new pool table, there are other options available for you to be able to have still and enjoy a pool table in your home.
You can find the perfect pool table online or in a local store that will fit your needs. If you have the chance, you may be able to splurge and get parts of the pool table customized to your liking. If you don’t have as much money but still want to purchase a pool table, you can always buy a used pool table or rent one.
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Buying a Pool Table
When you are buying a pool table, there are certain things you should consider before making your purchase. One major consideration is the cost, or how much you’re willing to invest in buying a pool table. Some dealers will also offer customization options to have the pool table of your dreams. Some ways you can customize your pool table are:
- Felt material and color: the felt that is on the table comes in different qualities and colors. The higher quality felt will last longer but cost more money.
- Pockets: whether your pockets are a net or cup to catch the balls or have an intricate system to store them in the cabinet will affect your price.
- Slate material and thickness: pool tables are made of a variety of materials. The surface you play on will affect the price. Wooden and laminate tables are significantly cheaper than slate tables.
- Table size: you can buy a pool table that is between six and nine feet long. Smaller tables will be cheaper. Keep in mind the space you have for the pool table because you’ll also need space for the pool cues.
- Table type and material: Real pool tables will be more expensive than toy tables that you would purchase for teenagers in the basement. The frame or cabinet material will also affect the price.
Even with all of the customization options available, there are some standard prices for pool tables:
| Table Type | Price |
| Toy Tables | $600-$1,200 |
| Basic Tables | $1,200-$2,000 |
| Mid-Range Tables | $2,000-3,500 |
| Custom Tables | $3,500-$10,000 |
Where to Buy a Pool Table
If you’re in the market for a pool table, there are several places you can check out to find the perfect pool table for you at a price within your range. Some of the most common places to buy a pool table are recreational stores and online retailers.
Additional Costs of a Pool Table
Once you’ve decided on the look and feel of the pool table you want, you’ll have to look at the costs. Since many factors can affect the cost of the pool table, you should look back into how much you want to spend on the pool table. You’ll also want to look into whether or not you’ll have to buy accessories for the table, such as cues and balls.
Generally, most of the accessories will come with the pool table itself, but if you’re looking to expand your options, here are some prices for pool table extras:
- Balls and racking triangle: Almost every pool table will come with a set of balls and a racking triangle, but if you’re in the market for a different set or style, they cost $30 for a set of regulation balls, and specialized balls can cost over $200.
- Chalk: Most tables will come with pool chalk, and depending on how often you play, you won’t need to replenish your supply very often. Pool chalk costs $7 or more for a package.
- Cues: Pool cues come in different sizes, and the size you want or need might not come with the pool table you purchase. You can get a good set of pool cues for about $85. Different materials and lengths will affect the cost.
- Cue rack: Not many pool tables will come with a cue rack, so you should purchase one. You can buy a basic pool cue rack for $15, but there are more intricate ones for $90 and up.
- Cleaning supplies: Even if you have someone come in to clean and maintain your pool table every once in a while, it’s a good idea to have some microfiber cloths, a brush, and felt cleaner. You’ll also need something to clean and polish your balls. Together, these can cost $65.
- Table cover: Even if you play a game every day, it’s a great investment to buy a table cover to use when you’re not playing to prevent excess dust in the air from dropping onto the table. A table cover will cost about $40.
How Much Does A Used Pool Table Cost?
If you don’t want to spend as much money on a brand new pool table or you’re looking to sell an old pool table, there’s always a market for used pool tables. There are many factors to consider when purchasing or selling a used pool table, overall, considering the table’s condition. The better condition a pool table is in, the higher the price will be.
Depending on its use and the vendor, a used pool table will cost between $300 and $1000.
If you’re purchasing a used pool table, it would be in your best interest to be able to see the table in person. Doing so will help you estimate any possible repairs you will need to make yourself after purchasing the pool table. These should be added to the cost of buying the table.
If you’re purchasing a used table, you should also research the original price of the pool table and consider depreciation (or inflation if you’re buying a used, antique table).
Pool Table Maintenance and Repair Costs
If you’re buying a used pool table or selling your old pool table, you might want to look into how much it costs to maintain or repair any parts of the pool table to see if it’s worth the investment to buy a used or buy new. Here are some of the most common reasons pool tables need maintenance or repairs:
- Tears in the felt
- Replacing a warped or chipped slate
- Replacing the cushions
- Replacing or fixing pockets
Keep in mind the initial amount you spent on the pool table. If you purchased a toy or basic table, is it worth it to you to maintain and repair it regularly? Most cheaper pool tables would be better replaced than regularly maintained. It is better to be repaired and maintained if you have a pool table with higher quality materials, such as wool felt and thick slate.
Can you Rent a Pool Table?
If you don’t have the space or don’t want to purchase a pool table is it possible to rent a pool table but would like one for an event, such as a game night or a fundraiser, is it possible to rent a pool table?
Absolutely! You can rent a pool table from certain online vendors. If you don’t want to go through the online route, check with some local party suppliers to see if they rent out pool tables.
Conclusion
Buying a pool table doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you know where to look to find the best bang for your buck. Don’t hesitate to shop around and ask your vendor or salesperson questions before purchasing. You should also consider the price of maintenance and any accessories that you’ll need to purchase as well.