How Much Does It Cost To Play Snooker?

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Snooker might be synonymous with wealth and privilege, but you don’t have to be a millionaire to have fun playing it. Mainly because you can enjoy a few games with your friends for less than the price of a cheap burger if you know what the going rate is.

Playing snooker can cost in the region of $1.50 with coin or credit card-operated snooker tables and up to $16 per hour in some places. And, hourly or per-person fees are far more expensive than playing on coin/credit-card-operated snooker tables with no time or player limits.

Although, it’s true that snooker games can cost an “arm and a leg” in some upscale places. You don’t have to pay those ridiculous billiard hall prices, especially if you consider setting up your own snooker table at home. And your hobby could turn into a profession if you read on!

The Average Cost Of Playing Snooker

Even though prices vary significantly, depending on the location, snooker players are typically charged per hour, per player, or all-day rate specials.

Snooker game prices can range from as little as $1.50 for snooker tables that are equipped with coin-operated or credit card facilities up to a whopping $16 per hour for each player.

Therefore, you could pay up to $100 if you are playing a few snooker games and enjoying a couple of beers with a bunch of friends if you opt for a more high-end venue.

So, it’s no wonder that some devoted snooker players equate snooker with playing golf or a “rich man’s game,” as it can be an expensive night out for some.

However, you can save a lot of cash by looking for billiards halls that offer all-day specials for roughly $15. Unfortunately, some venues charge cue stick rentals, so instead, bring your own if you want to avoid that added cost.

Most importantly, opt for cash/credit card operated snooker tables as you will not lose out when you pop out to take a call or go to the restroom, compared to paying expensive hourly or per-player rates.

The Cost Of A Fully Kitted-Out Professional Snooker Table

There’s no doubt that you can save a lot of money in the long run if you buy your own snooker table and accessories.

While the initial upfront costs of buying and setting up a professional snooker table at home are not cheap. It offers endless hours of fun, and if you calculate how much you spend on average in billiard halls, with all the added costs of food and drinks, it offers a great return on investment.

Durable and professional snooker tables cost in the region of $3000, although the more high-end versions range between $7,000 and $10,000.

While snooker tables that cost more than $10,000 do not offer a better playing surface than cheaper versions, they are more aesthetically pleasing, with superior hardware.

Although, when you are budgeting for a new snooker table, it’s essential to factor in the added delivery costs.

Furthermore, you will need to add set-up costs as assembling a snooker table is not a DIY job, and it requires a professional that typically charges several hundred dollars.

Once your table is set up, you will need to invest in quality accessories like snooker table cleaning materials, which is essential if you want to keep it in prime condition.

Other essential accessories include a durable snooker ball set, cues, cue stick holder, chalk, scoreboards, and racking triangles.

While the added costs of paying for quality snooker accessories can be expensive, they are durable. They could last for several years if well-maintained. And, besides, life is too short not to have a little fun!

How Much Are Professional Snooker Players Paid?

Even though most people consider playing snooker a relaxing pastime, or a fun activity, some players have, believe it or not, managed to turn their hobby into a financially sustainable profession.

So, if you have wondered whether making a decent living as a professional snooker player is possible.

The answer is a wholehearted yes, albeit with a few important caveats, as climbing to the top world rankings requires a significant initial investment, outstanding skill, and a certain amount of luck.

Most career snooker players generate an income by competing in international tournaments or snooker competitions which can be risky for new or mid-level players as they need to cover their own travel costs, including tournament entry fees.

Although, snooker players can generate a decent income if they win several high-stakes tournaments and improve their overall world rankings by winning back-to-back World Championships.

Professional snooker players who have won several international tournaments are also not required to pay entry fees when they compete, enjoy several financial perks, and are generally treated like rock stars in countries where snooker is incredibly popular.

Mid-level snooker players can generate an average income of $50,000 per year. And supplement their income with side hustles like teaching students, winning bets, or through endorsements when they become more successful.

In stark contrast, premier snooker players who consistently win prestigious international championships can generate millions of dollars during their professional careers.

To illustrate this point, here is the average income of the two most successful snooker players who are currently in the top world rankings:

  • Steve Davis: generated $32 million thus by winning 28 ranking titles, six UK Championships, and six World Championships.
  • Stephen Hendry: won $30 million in prize money with six master’s titles and five UK Championships, including seven World Championships. Henry was ranked first in the world for more than eight years.

Conclusion

Even though it is true that playing snooker can be expensive, costs range on average between $1,50 per game to expensive hourly rates of $16.00 per person, depending on your location.

So, suppose you are a regular snooker player. In that case, it might be worth investing in your own quality snooker table and accessories in the long run.

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