How Much Does it Cost to Build a Pickleball Court in Malaysia?
Pickleball is quickly becoming a hot trend in Malaysia, with new courts popping up across the country to cater to the growing demand. Loved for its mix of fun, fitness, and accessibility, pickleball is attracting players of all ages and skill levels. This dynamic sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it easy to pick up but also challenging enough to keep enthusiasts coming back for more.
Why Pickleball is a Good Investment Right Now
The growing demand for pickleball courts and facilities presents a strong business opportunity for investors. With the sport gaining popularity at a rapid pace, there is a clear need for more spaces to accommodate eager players. For instance, bookings at the ESM Pickters Club and Pickle Social Club, two of the prominent pickleball venues, are currently fully booked for the next few months—showing just how intense the demand for court time has become. Compared to other sports like tennis or badminton, the cost to set up a pickleball court is relatively low, making it a cost-effective investment for those looking to tap into this trend.
Pickleball’s high participation rate means facilities can attract a steady flow of players through court rentals, memberships, or even organised tournaments. Beyond court bookings, revenue opportunities extend to events, coaching lessons, and leagues, offering you multiple income streams.
What makes this investment particularly promising is that pickleball is not just a passing trend. With its easy-to-learn format, inclusive nature, and low physical strain, pickleball has strong long-term appeal. The sport’s rapid growth, backed by fully booked courts and rising interest, signals that the hype isn’t going to die down anytime soon. Now is the perfect time to capitalise on this expanding market.
Pic Credits: ESM Pickters Club: https://www.esminternationale.com/booking-calendar/court-11-2?category=33abbb8d-4114-494e-83a2-5374e383d3f4&page=&referral=service_list_widget
In this blog, we’ll break down the costs involved in running a pickleball facility, from court construction and equipment, to maintenance and staffing. If you’re considering jumping into this exciting trend, understanding these financial factors is the key to a successful start.
Cost Breakdown of Running a Successful Pickleball Facility
Pic Credits: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/flat-lay-people-playing-paddle-tennis_27314310.htm
In order to calculate a rough estimation of your upfront investment in the pickleball facility, it is important to know the different types of equipment and court space you will be needing first.
Court Construction Costs
The first major expense in running a pickleball facility is court construction, which varies significantly depending on whether you’re converting an existing space or building a new one. Another crucial factor is the type of court you’re planning: outdoor courts typically cost less to construct than indoor facilities, which may require specialised flooring, lighting, and climate control. The estimated cost of building a single pickleball court is approximately 110,000 MYR.
A standard pickleball court setup measures 6.1 metres by 13.4 metres, with the net height set at 0.91 metres at the sidelines and 0.86 metres at the centre. Outdoor pickleball courts often use asphalt or concrete for the base, finished with a 100% acrylic coating. Acrylic coatings are recommended because they provide a durable, non-slip texture, allow for proper pickleball bounce, and minimise wear on pickleballs. The coating also allows for vapour transmission, which helps maintain the integrity of the court, especially outdoors where weather and moisture can be a concern.
As for indoor pickleball courts, the same base materials and acrylic surface coatings can be used. However, many existing facilities such as gymnasiums, already use wood or rubber floorings. While these surfaces can be suitable for play, they often lack texture, making them more slippery and causing the ball to skip, which can reduce overall playability.
Another pricer surface alternative you could consider would be cushioned surfacing. While not as common as traditional hard-surface courts, they are starting to gain popularity as the cushioned courts use layers of shock-absorbing materials beneath the top playing surface, increasing player comfort by minimising the stress on their feet, joints, and body. If your budget allows, cushioned pickleball courts are an amazing option for facilities looking to offer a premium experience and attract a wider range of players, particularly in indoor venues.
Other Considerations
When designing multiple courts, it’s essential to provide adequate spacing between them for safety and player comfort. A minimum distance of 3 metres is advisable, but increasing this space can enhance the experience for both players and spectators.
For those looking to build outdoor pickleball courts, it’s also vital to consider the court’s orientation to reduce sun glare during peak playing hours. Generally, a north-south alignment is recommended to minimise direct sunlight interference. Lighter paint colours are also recommended to absorb less heat from the sun, resulting in a cooler playing surface.
Finally, If you plan to convert existing tennis courts or indoor gymnasiums, it is crucial to pay special attention to the condition of the surface. Existing issues such as cracks or uneven areas can compromise play quality, making resurfacing or repairs necessary before marking the pickleball court lines.
Equipment Costs
The essential items for a pickleball facility would include nets, paddles, and balls.
| Item | Cost (in MYR) | Notes |
| Standard Pickleball Net | 650RM – 999RM each depending on brand and model | https://www.mypickleball.my/collections/netting-system |
| Pickleball Paddles | 158RM – 1200RM each depending on brand and model | https://www.mypickleball.my/collections/all-paddle |
| Pickleball Balls | 10RM – 20RM each depending on brand on model | https://www.mypickleball.my/collections/balls |
While these initial costs may seem manageable, it’s essential to factor in ongoing replacements and upgrades as equipment wears out over time. As highlighted in our previous blog on Pilates equipment, investing in high-quality equipment is not just an option but a key strategy for boosting your business. Quality equipment not only enhances the experience for your clients, but it also ensures durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements. By ensuring that your facility is well-equipped, you can build trust with your clientele, encourage repeat visits, and elevate the reputation of your facility.
Read more about choosing the right pickleball paddles here!
Maintenance Costs
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping a pickleball facility in top condition, which involves upkeep, resurfacing, and repairs. Outdoor courts, in particular, are exposed to the elements, requiring routine inspections and cleaning to prevent debris buildup and ensure safety.
Over time, wear and tear can lead to the need for resurfacing, which involves applying a new layer of coating to restore the court’s integrity and playability. This process can be a significant expense, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the court’s size and condition.
Additionally, addressing minor repairs promptly—such as fixing cracks or replacing worn-out net systems—can help prevent more extensive and costly issues in the future. Budgeting for these maintenance costs is essential to provide players with a high-quality experience and prolong the lifespan of your pickleball facility.
Staffing Costs
Staffing is another critical aspect of running a successful pickleball facility. Coaches play a vital role in fostering a positive environment for players, offering lessons, organising clinics, and overseeing tournaments. Their salaries can vary based on experience and qualifications, typically ranging from 160 MYR to 200 MYR per private session.
Maintenance staff will also be necessary for regular upkeep of the courts and facilities, and administrative staff is essential for managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and promoting the facility.
Additional Expenses
Beyond the primary costs of setting up and running a pickleball facility, there are several additional expenses to consider. Marketing and promotions are essential for attracting players and building awareness of your facility. This can involve online advertising, social media campaigns, hosting events, and print materials, all of which require a dedicated budget.
Additionally, there are ongoing utilities and overheads, such as electricity, water, heating, and other operational expenses that will add to your monthly running costs. Managing these expenses carefully is crucial to maintaining a profitable facility.
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Conclusion
Overall, setting up a pickleball facility comes with many costs and considerations related to court construction, equipment, and ongoing maintenance, but the investment potential is highly promising. With the sport’s rapid growth and increasing demand for courts, there are multiple revenue streams—from rentals and memberships to tournaments and coaching. Now is an opportune time to consider entering the pickleball market, taking advantage of its expanding popularity and long-term appeal.