Understanding how much revenue a laundromat can generate is essential for anyone looking to enter or expand in the self-service laundry business. While income can vary widely depending on size, location, and services offered, laundromats have a reputation for stable, predictable cash flow. In this article, we’ll explore typical revenue ranges, the factors that influence earnings, and how to increase revenue over time.
National Averages for Laundromat Revenue
Across the United States, the average laundromat generates between $15,000 and $30,000 per month in gross revenue. This translates to annual revenue between $180,000 and $360,000 for a single location. High-performing laundromats in busy urban areas or those offering additional services like wash-and-fold or delivery may exceed $500,000 in yearly revenue.
- Average monthly revenue: $15,000–$30,000
- Annual revenue range: $180,000–$360,000
- Top-tier urban locations: $400,000–$600,000+ annually
- Smaller or rural stores: $5,000–$12,000 per month
Key Factors That Influence Revenue
Laundromat revenue isn’t fixed—it’s driven by a combination of business decisions and external conditions. Understanding what affects revenue helps owners identify opportunities for improvement and avoid costly mistakes. Variables such as customer volume, pricing, equipment efficiency, and real estate costs all play a role.
- Location: Urban areas with high renter populations tend to bring in more revenue
- Machine Count and Mix: More machines and high-capacity units allow for greater daily volume
- Hours of Operation: 24-hour access often leads to higher utilization rates
- Services Offered: Drop-off, pickup and delivery, and vending increase ticket size
- Pricing Structure: Revenue is directly tied to how much you charge per wash/dry cycle
- Seasonal Trends: Revenue often rises in colder months when people use larger machines for blankets and bedding
Revenue Per Machine as a Benchmark
Many owners calculate revenue by looking at earnings per machine. On average, a well-placed and well-maintained machine generates between $300 and $1,000 per month, depending on its size and usage. This helps guide equipment investment and expansion planning.
- Small washers (20–30 lbs): $300–$500/month
- Large washers (60+ lbs): $700–$1,200/month
- Dryers: $300–$800/month, depending on cycle time and pricing
- Premium machines with app-based or contactless payment options may earn more
Breakdown of Revenue Sources
While most laundromat revenue comes from self-service washing and drying, offering additional amenities can significantly boost your monthly totals. Add-on services create higher average tickets per visit and diversify income streams beyond machine cycles.
- Self-Service Laundry: 70%–90% of core revenue
- Wash-and-Fold Service: $1.50–$2.50 per pound, high-margin offering
- Pickup and Delivery: Can generate $5,000–$20,000+ monthly in busy markets
- Vending Machines: Snacks, drinks, soap—adds $200–$1,000/month
- ATM Surcharges: $100–$300/month
- Arcade or Game Machines: Optional revenue for family-focused laundromats
Examples by Laundromat Size and Type
Let’s examine a few common laundromat business models and their potential revenue based on size, service mix, and location.
Small Neighborhood Laundromat (Unattended)
- 12 washers, 10 dryers
- Monthly revenue: $8,000–$12,000
- Mostly self-service, no attendants
- Target customers: local renters and small families
Medium Laundromat (Part-Time Attended)
- 25 washers, 20 dryers
- Monthly revenue: $20,000–$30,000
- Offers soap vending, loyalty cards, basic wash-and-fold
- Serves a mix of residential and small commercial clients
Large Full-Service Laundromat
- 40+ washers, 30+ dryers
- Monthly revenue: $40,000–$70,000+
- Includes wash-and-fold, pickup & delivery, and commercial accounts
- Located in a high-density urban area with strong marketing
How to Increase Laundromat Revenue
Growing revenue doesn’t always mean adding more machines. Improving service offerings, optimizing pricing, and expanding customer convenience can boost sales while improving customer satisfaction. Smart marketing, clean facilities, and technology integration also play a key role.
- Upgrade to high-capacity, energy-efficient machines
- Add wash-and-fold or pickup/delivery to reach busy professionals
- Introduce loyalty programs or app-based payments
- Offer free Wi-Fi, TVs, or comfortable seating to increase stay time
- Cross-promote with nearby businesses or apartment buildings
Conclusion
The average laundromat earns between $180,000 and $360,000 per year in gross revenue, with many variables influencing performance. With the right location, equipment mix, and service strategy, owners can steadily grow income over time. Whether you’re launching a new store or improving an existing one, understanding your revenue potential is the foundation of long-term profitability.
