If you’ve ever been curious about how much it costs to be a ballroom dancer, then this blog post is for you. This article will explore the cost of being a ballroom dancer from all angles and touch on both financial and time-related topics.
We’ll also discuss how these expenses can affect your overall motivation as a dancer. Let’s get started…
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How Much Does it Cost to be a Ballroom Dancer?
In general, if you intend to become a competing ballroom dancer, be ready to spend about $200/month for classes alone. The cost may go higher or lower depending on your location, the type of classes you take, and the skill level of your instructor.
The Cost of Becoming a Ballroom Dancer
How much it costs to become a ballroom dancer starts when you enroll in a dance studio. You’ll need to pay for this registration fee, which can vary depending on your city and how much your instructor charges per class.
The type of class you enroll in also affects how much you will have to part with per session. If you are taking private lessons, then it’s best to expect that the cost to be a ballroom dancer will go up.
Let’s break it down:
The Cost of Group Ballroom Dance Classes
Group ballroom dance classes cost anything between $3 and $25, depending on your location.
For example, the average cost per class in New York City is $15. On the other hand, most dance studios in Los Angeles charge between $11 to $20 for a group ballroom dance class.
The cost goes up or lower depending on the skill level of the dance instructor. And the number of people in your class.
For instance, if a professional ballroom dance instructor teaches you, you can expect to pay $15-$30 per hour. On the other hand, if you are part of a group with many beginner dancers, expect to pay less.
The lowest rates on group ballroom dance classes can be found in classes taught in colleges or community centers. Here, a one-hour class costs $3-$10.
It is, however, important to mention that the higher rates are worth it because, often, after about 6-10 classes, even a beginner dancer may start performing competitively.
Private ballroom dance lessons
If you want to learn from a professional instructor one-on-one, expect to pay more. Depending on your instructor’s skill level and location, be ready to part with $50-$200 per hour.
If you’re taking private lessons, then it’s best to ask your instructor if they offer any deals or discounts. Many instructors give a discount when the client signs up for several lessons in advance at one time.
In addition, some dance studios may also have their own package deals that can save you money as well. For example, many studios offer discounted rates when you sign up for 12 or more lessons.
DanceSport lessons
DanceSport is an international standard of ballroom dance competition. If you want to compete, then expect to pay more for this type of lesson as the cost is much higher than taking regular private classes or group lessons.
The price per hour can range from $100-$200, depending on your location and the instructor’s skill level. However, it’s important to mention that the higher rates are worth it because you will be able to compete locally and internationally at this level of ballroom dancing.
Other expenses
Once you’ve enrolled in your dance classes, other expenses will add to the cost of being a ballroom dancer.
In particular, one should consider purchasing their own dancing shoes and clothes for practice sessions.
This equipment can be costly, especially if you want to buy high-quality items.
During practice sessions, it’s also important for dancers to stay hydrated and eat something healthy like fruits or nuts.
If this is not possible due to time constraints, keep your own snacks in the dance studio, so you don’t have to spend money on fast food.
Traveling for dance lessons
If your instructor is a professional and travels around teaching classes or workshops, then expect to pay more.
Many of these instructors charge from $40-$150 per hour.
However, you can save a lot of money if you’re willing to travel. In this case, the instructor will probably charge from $20-$50 per hour.
This depends on your location and their commitment to traveling for lessons or workshops.
Ballroom Dance Equipment Costs
Dance shoes
Dance shoes can cost anywhere between $50-$100 per pair, depending on how high-end you want your shoes to be.
For example, the higher-end dancers prefer shoes made out of leather because they last for a very long time.
Dancewear (costumes)
A dress can cost anywhere between $100-$300, depending on how elaborate the design is.
Also, custom-made dresses can be very expensive and cost up to $1000. Remember you will need at least two dresses, especially if you will be competing.
Men’s dancewear (tuxedos)
A ballroom tuxedo can also range anywhere from $100-$300 for single purchase with discounts when you buy in bulk.
If this is not an option, then expect to pay more because renting these outfits will add another additional expense of at least $30-$50 per item.
Other accessories
Other stuff like dance bags, tan sprays, and hair products can add up to $50-$100 more.
Competition Costs
There will also be competition costs involved if you want to be a competing ballroom dancer. You will pay registration fees and travel costs, ranging from $30 to $150.
Registration fees for an amateur competition will cost anywhere between $25-$40. This depends on the location of the competition and whether you are a local or traveling.
Travel costs can be more expensive because it will depend on your location, how many days before the event that you book your flight/train tickets, etc.
There is also going to be money for food and hotel accommodations when traveling for the competition.
Final Thoughts
While ballroom dancing is an awesome hobby, it is not cheap.
On average, to be a ballroom dancer, you may have to spend at least $125 per month for lessons and $750-$1000 annually on equipment, dancewear, competitions, and travel expenses.
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