How Much Does a Carousel Cost?

Last Updated on December 7, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Remember the rush of an amusement park ride on a glittering carousel as a kid while calliope music fills the air? These rotating marvels of lights, hand-carved horses and nostalgia never lose their magical appeal.

If you’ve dreamed about investing in your own carousel, this guide offers must-know ownership factors – from purchase prices to maintenance and insurance. We’ll also explore moneymaking considerations to save on the final bill

Let’s take a spin covering everything that goes into keeping these iconic attractions in top form!

How Much Does a Carousel Cost?

The average cost of a carousel is anywhere between $50,000 and $1 million or more, depending on its size, type, materials it is made from, number of seats, and so on.

You will likely spend:

• Vintage 1920s carousels – $25,000+
• New mid-sized model with 30 animal units – $50,000 to $100,000
• Larger custom luxury ride with 60+ figures – $250,000 to $1 million

With so many variables at play, naming one “average” unit price proves tricky. But expect to pay a minimum mid five-figures for a starter ride even with just a few simple fiberglass animals and bench seats.

The AntiqueCarousels.com website offers antique carousels, with prices between $50,000 and $150,000. The website also offers you the possibility to buy individual horses for your merry go round at prices between $6,900 and $15,900 or more.

If you’re only looking for a small, decorative carousel, the Mr. Christmas website offers a variety of carousels, with prices ranging from $159.99 to $499.99. Some examples include:

• 12″ Animated & Musical Pink Crystal Carousel: $199.99 on sale from $249.99
• 14″ Animated Vintage Carousel: $189.99 on sale from $249.99

But what’s the lifetime investment range?

For a new medium-sized machine with 30 ride animals plus lighting and sound, expect costs from:

That takes the price high pretty fast! But revenue potential is also impressive when well managed. Now let’s examine expense elements closely.

Factors influencing the cost and estimates

When estimating your own carousel figures, factors like size, age, and location impact your budget. Let’s go over the most important elements:

You might also like our articles about the cost of a mechanical bull, dunk tank, or cotton candy.

Carousel Purchase Price – Antique 1920s models sell for $25,000. But new built-to-last machines range from $50,000 to $1 million+ depending on ride size, artistry, and features. Order custom designs or buy pre-built.

Maintenance Costs – From cleaning and lubricating to light bulb replacements and paint touch-ups – all parts need proper care. Budget several thousand a year for upkeep.

Repair Expenses – Mechanical and electrical breakdowns happen despite your efforts to keep it working properly. Have cash aside for worn part swaps, wiring fixes, motor repairs, and more.

Insurance Premiums – Policies cover damage and liability claims. Because spinning amusements have above-average injury risks, high premiums apply. Lock down quotes early.

Transport and Install Fees – Carousels are too big and complex for DIY moving. Hire specialty hauling and on-site assembly. The costs for this part alone hit thousands but ensure safety.

Utility Costs – Lights and sound systems plus motor draw mean high electrical bills. Keep usage optimized, but prepare for $500+ monthly averages.

Now for the fun part – profit-boosting ideas!

Approaches to Generating Carousel Cash

While the overhead costs of operating a carousel surprise first-timers, the profit potential is still considerable in the right venue. Events firms regularly rent machines for festivals and fundraisers. Here are other handy income streams to leverage:

• Birthday Parties – Host special ride times or full site rentals for celebrations.
• Carnival Carousel Rides – Contract your machine out to traveling carnivals adding traditional charm.
• Mom & Me Classes – Offer morning ride play-times with caregiver bonding and coffee onsite.
• Company Events with Amusement Rides – Companies will pay well for employee appreciation ride breaks and customer hospitality.

You can still offset parts of the big costs through:

1. Running weekday “school field trip specials”
2. Pitching engagement photo shoots

With possibilities only limited by imagination, a shrewd owner can offset 80%+ of annual carousel costs through side income streams. That leaves the charming centerpiece attraction paying you in smiles daily too! Clearly, carousels deliver great value despite high upfront and maintenance costs.