How to Start a Dance Studio Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
How to Start Your Own Dance Studio Business
Ready to turn your passion for dance into a thriving business? Follow this guide to learn the steps for successfully starting your own dance studio.
Pick a Business Structure
First, decide how you want to structure your business legally and for taxes. The most common options are sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, and corporation. Talk to an accountant about the pros and cons of each. Many studio owners choose an LLC to get liability protection while still having pass-through taxes like a partnership.
Make a Game Plan
You’ll need a solid business plan to map out your strategy and get funding. Outline your offerings, location, equipment needs, hiring plans, marketing ideas, financial projections, and short and long-term goals. Research your competitors to see what works locally. Build your plan step-by-step to start strong.
Need a Dance Studio Business Plan?
Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.
Get the Cash to Launch
Add up start-up costs for things like real estate, dance floors, sound systems, furniture, costumes, etc. Look into small business loans, your own savings, crowdfunding sites, local grants or investors. Good credit and a history of responsibility help in getting approved for loans.
Secure the Perfect Space
Location is key — look for spaces close to your target students with parking, visibility, and access. You’ll need around 1,500–3,000 square feet for a reception area, offices, changing rooms and 2–3 studios. Install proper floors, mirrors, barres, sound systems, HVAC and security systems.
Build Your Dream Team
Find talented, experienced instructors with the right certifications and skills to teach various ages and ability levels. Hire friendly front desk staff. Conduct thorough interviews, check references and run background checks. Get the right insurance to protect the business and employees.
Spread the Word
Start telling people about your studio 1–2 months before opening. Create eye-catching print and online ads showcasing your classes, teachers and facility. Use social media and your website to share updates and get people excited. Collaborate with local groups and schools for cross-promotion.
Set the Schedule
Figure out your class schedule based on demand. Offer the most popular styles and levels first, then expand over time. Schedule 15–30 minutes between classes for changing over rooms and instructor breaks. Post schedules online for easy access.
Price Your Services
Look at competitors’ rates, overhead costs, and income goals to set tuition. Make private or specialized classes higher. Offer family discounts, referral rewards and package pricing. Avoid pricing out your community, especially when starting out.
Get Licensed and Accredited
Register your business legally and get necessary licenses and permits for your city and state. This includes sales permits, food/drink licenses if applicable, and potentially entertainment approvals for performances. Make sure to comply with all local zoning regulations.
Stock Up on Gear
Buy high-quality floors, sound systems, instruments, office supplies, furniture, uniforms, and dance gear like ballet barres. Invest in security like cameras and keycard access. Use booking software, credit card readers, laptops and printers to stay organized.
Celebrate Your Grand Opening
In the weeks before opening, send invites, reach out to media, offer sales or discounts, and host open houses where people can preview classes, meet the team, register early, and get excited about your studio!
Follow your passion, believe in your vision, and work hard at every aspect of your business. Use this guide to make your dance studio dream a huge success. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Need a Dance Studio Business Plan?
Create a custom business plan with financial projections and market research in minutes with ProAI’s business plan generator.
Dance Studio Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of dance should I offer?
Start with the most popular styles like ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, and lyrical. You can add more specialized classes once established. Offer levels from beginner to advanced.
How much space do I need?
Plan on having 1–2 dance rooms per style of dance offered. Each room should be 1,000–1,500 square feet to accommodate up to 20 students with space to move.
What types of floors should I install?
Always opt for sprung hardwood floors to prevent injuries. Avoid concrete or carpeting. Marley flooring is a popular portable option.
What qualifications should dance teachers have?
Extensive dance training/performance experience, certification, CPR/first aid training, and experience teaching students of all skill levels.
How much should I pay instructors?
Independent contractors can be paid per class, usually $25–50/hr depending on experience. Employees often earn $30,000–50,000 annually.
Should I sell dancewear and supplies?
Offering dancewear, shoes, and accessories can boost revenue 20–40%. Mark up retail items 2–3x cost.
What safety measures should I take?
Install security cameras, keycard access doors, ensure proper ventilation/cooling, sanitize studios, check floors for hazards, post safety rules, require waivers.
How much will insurance cost?
Expect to spend 1–3% of gross revenue on proper liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
What is the average tuition per month?
Between $50–150 on average depending on class length, level, and frequency. Offer discounted packages.
How much profit can a studio make?
With good management, studios often see 20–50% profit margins. Target 10% profit in your first year.
