When buyers assess a good pool table, the cost is driven by slate quality, table size, cloth, and cabinet construction. Typical prices reflect a mix of entry-level and premium features, plus installation and delivery considerations. This guide presents cost ranges in USD to help set budgeting expectations and identify price drivers.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pool Table (7–8 ft, standard slate) | $1,200 | $2,800 | $5,000 | Mid-range builds use 3/4″ slate; entry models may use resin cores. |
| Table Size (9–10 ft, competition) | $2,000 | $4,000 | $7,500 | Size impacts room requirements and delivery. |
| Slate Type | $800 | $2,000 | $4,000 | 3/4″ slate common; two- or three-piece sets on higher end. |
| Play Surface Cloth | $200 | $600 | $1,200 | Worsted/nap quality affects durability and feel. |
| Cabinet & Frame | $400 | $1,400 | $3,000 | Solid hardwoods add cost; veneers save money. |
| Delivery & Installation | $150 | $500 | $1,000 | Includes leveling and setup; stairs or tight spaces raise cost. |
| Accessories (rails, cues, balls) | $100 | $350 | $800 | Basic starter kit vs pro-spec bundles. |
| Tax & Permits | $0 | $100 | $500 | Sales tax varies by state; permits rarely apply for installation. |
| Warranty & Aftercare | $0 | $150 | $400 | Limited vs extended warranties available. |
| Contingency | $0 | $200 | $600 | Budget cushion for adjustments. |
Overview Of Costs
How much does a good pool table cost? In general, buyers can expect a range from around $1,200 on the low end to $7,500+ for large, premium sets with top-tier slate and cabinetry. Typical mid-range purchases land between $2,800 and $5,000, including standard 3/4″ slate and solid-wood cabinets.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours. The figures reflect 7–9 ft tables common in home game rooms, installed by professional teams. Per-unit benchmarks include $/sq ft for cabinet value and $/piece for accessories when applicable.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2,000 | $4,000 | $7,000 | Slate + cloth + frame | 3/4″ slate, Worsted cloth, hardwood veneer |
| Labor | $600 | $1,800 | $3,000 | Assembly, leveling, calibration | Two-person crew, standard room |
| Equipment | $150 | $450 | $900 | Rails, pockets, hardware | Standard rail systems |
| Delivery/Disposal | $150 | $500 | $1,000 | Transport and setup | Stair access or tight corridor adds cost |
| Taxes | $0 | $100 | $500 | Sales tax by state | State variance |
| Warranty | $0 | $150 | $400 | Coverage level varies | Default manufacturer terms |
Pricing Variables
Key drivers include slate thickness and type, table size, and cabinet materials. A 9 ft table with three-piece slate and premium cloth commands higher prices than a 7 ft model with an economy slate. Premium finishes and custom inlays also push costs upward.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Ways To Save
Plan early and compare quotes to reduce surprises. Some savings come from purchasing a standard size (7–8 ft) and opting for mid-range cloth and a solid-wood veneer rather than full hardwood, plus coordinating delivery with a local installer who can handle setup efficiently.
Consider reusing existing room elements to minimize remodeling, which can otherwise add hidden costs. Ask about bundled packages that combine table, cues, balls, and chalk.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to shipping, taxes, and installer availability. In the Northeast, expect slightly higher delivery and tax charges, while the Midwest may offer more competitive labor rates. The Southeast often sees moderate pricing with occasional promotions from retailers.
- Urban areas: higher delivery fees and showroom premiums (+5% to +12%).
- Suburban: balanced pricing, often best value for delivery and setup.
- Rural: potential savings on select models but higher transport distances may add charges.
Regional deltas: typical +/- 10–20% from national averages depending on model and installer availability.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Installation time ranges from 2 to 6 hours depending on room size, access, and leveling needs. Labor rates commonly run $60–$120 per hour, with higher-end installers charging more for precise leveling and cueing.
Assumptions: two-person crew, standard room, no structural work.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes.
Basic: 7 ft, resin core slate, standard cloth — Specs: 7 ft; 0.75″ slate; medium-pile cloth; basic rails. Labor: 3 hours; Materials: $1,600; Labor: $900; Delivery: $200; Total: about $2,700.
Mid-Range: 8 ft, 3/4″ slate, Worsted cloth, hardwood veneer — Specs: 8 ft; premium cloth; mid-grade cabinet. Labor: 4.5 hours; Materials: $3,300; Labor: $1,400; Delivery: $350; Total: about $5,100.
Premium: 9 ft, three-piece slate, premium cloth, solid hardwood — Specs: 9 ft; top slate; high-end cabinet. Labor: 6 hours; Materials: $5,000; Labor: $2,000; Delivery: $600; Total: about $7,600.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
After purchase, ongoing costs include cloth replacement every 3–7 years and occasional slate resurfacing or leveling. A well-maintained table can hold value longer, reducing depreciation. Typical annual maintenance budgets range from $50 to $200 for cloth cleaning and minor adjustments.
Maintenance can influence long-term cost of ownership, especially for high-traffic rooms.