Planet Fitness
Fitness · Fitness Centers
Description
What is Planet Fitness?
Planet Fitness, founded in 1992, is a leading fitness franchise known for its affordable, non-intimidating gym environment, famously branded as the "Judgement Free Zone®." With over 2,600 locations and 19.7 million members across five countries, it has become one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers globally.
The franchise caters to a broad demographic, particularly the approximately 80% of the population over age 14 who do not belong to a gym, offering a welcoming space for first-time and casual gym users. In 2024, Planet Fitness implemented strategic changes, including increasing its basic membership fee from $10 to $15 for new customers, contributing to a 5% growth in systemwide same-club sales. The company also adjusted its franchise and equipment policies to enhance franchisee appeal, focusing on strength equipment to meet evolving customer preferences. Under the leadership of CEO Colleen Keating, appointed in June 2024, Planet Fitness continues to expand, aiming to grow from its current 2,722 clubs to 5,000 in the U.S. alone. The company's franchise model ensures high margins and robust cash flow, facilitating ongoing growth and market presence. For entrepreneurs interested in joining the Planet Fitness franchise, the initial investment ranges from approximately $1.5 million to $5.16 million, with a franchise fee of $20,000. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, marketing support, and a business model that has demonstrated resilience and profitability in the competitive fitness industry.
- 2,455+ established locations nationwide
- 30+ years of proven franchise system stability since 1992
- Judgment Free Zone® brand differentiation and trademark
- $15/month accessible membership pricing model
- 4x higher revenue performance vs fitness franchise average
- Comprehensive PF App with digital workout integration
Location Analysis
Where Planet Fitness wins
The franchise's concentration in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets leverages high population density and health-conscious demographics, while maintaining significant presence in the Southeast and Midwest. This geographic distribution indicates successful adaptation to diverse market conditions and demographics. Expansion opportunities exist particularly in the Western states, where market penetration is currently lower.
Successful locations typically feature proximity to residential areas, strong visibility from major thoroughfares, and adequate parking. Ideal sites are typically 15,000-20,000 square feet in middle-income areas with high daily traffic counts. The brand's value-pricing model performs particularly well in suburban locations with a mix of residential and retail development.
For prospective franchisees, untapped markets in growing suburban areas and secondary cities present significant opportunities, especially in regions with lower unit density but strong fitness industry growth rates.
Loading map...
Is your territory available?
Let's find out.
We'll take you through a few quick questions, then Planet Fitness confirms availability directly.
Financial Analysis
The numbers behind Planet Fitness
Established in 1992 with 2,455 active units, Planet Fitness demonstrates three decades of proven system stability and operational excellence. The brand's extensive footprint indicates robust franchisor infrastructure and mature business systems, though high unit density may limit greenfield opportunities in prime markets.
The investment structure demands significant liquid capital requirements, typically requiring investors with substantial net worth and access to commercial financing. Multi-unit development agreements may offer territorial protection and economies of scale for qualified investors.
Ideal investors should possess $2M+ liquid capital, retail or hospitality management experience, and access to prime commercial real estate. The brand suits investors seeking established systems with strong consumer recognition and superior financial performance in the growing wellness market.
Financing partners
Vetted partners, tailored to franchisees
Your Franzy advisor can connect you with these partners later in the process — competitive rates, specialized in franchise financing.
FranFund
CRF USA
Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.
First Bank of the Lake
Pension Pros
FDD Item 7
Initial investment range
Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $1,504,600 to $5,158,500. The midpoint $3,331,550 is what most franchisees report at signing — financing typically reduces cash-at-close by 80–90%. Knowing the investment range helps you plan confidently and ensure you're fully prepared to make the leap.
FDD Item 19
Average gross sales
According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, Planet Fitness has an average gross revenue of $2M. (Note: This information is based on the latest FDD in our records. Please review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and confirm this information directly with the brand. We make no claims of accuracy for the information presented.)
Growth over time
Franchise footprint
2024 Franchise Disclosure
FDD documents
Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for Planet Fitness's 2024 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.
Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.
Buyer FAQs
Frequently asked questions
The initial investment for a Planet Fitness franchise typically ranges between $1,504,600.00 and $5,158,500.00. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, real estate, and other startup costs. To get a detailed breakdown and better understand the financial requirements, we recommend scheduling a call with the Franzy team. We'll walk you through the specifics and answer any questions you might have. For more detailed information, refer to the financial sections of the FDD.
Disclaimer. The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2024. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.
Franchises for you
Brands worth comparing
Other brands in the same vertical and investment band — recommendations based on what you've explored.
