So you’re ready to bring the arcade magic home and start your search for a pinball machine for sale—but what does it really cost to own one?
Beyond the upfront price tag, pinball ownership comes with ongoing expenses like maintenance, repairs, and replacement parts. While it’s absolutely worth it for many collectors and home players, being informed is key to avoiding surprise costs.
In this guide from House of Pinball, we’ll break down the true cost of owning a pinball machine—so you can make a smart, confident decision before you buy.
💰 Upfront Cost: New vs. Used Pinball Machines
Before we dive into maintenance, let’s quickly talk about the initial investment.
| Type | Price Range (2024-2025) |
|---|---|
| New (Stern Pro) | $6,999 – $7,999 |
| New (Premium/LE) | $9,999 – $15,000+ |
| Used Machines | $3,500 – $7,000 (depending on title/condition) |
💡 Tip: Buying used? Always ask about recent repairs or restoration history.
🧰 Maintenance Costs: What to Expect
Pinball machines are mechanical marvels—and like any machine with moving parts, they need regular attention.
🗓️ Monthly/Quarterly Maintenance Tasks
- Playfield cleaning: $5/month (DIY or $50–$100 if pro serviced)
- Flipper adjustments: $0 if DIY, or ~$75/service call
- Rubber ring replacement: $20–$50/year
- Light bulb/LED replacements: $10–$30/year
🔧 Annual Maintenance
- Full playfield deep clean & wax: ~$100 (DIY) or $150–$250 (pro)
- Flipper rebuild kit: ~$30 per flipper (DIY)
- Coil sleeves & switches: $5–$20 each
🛠️ Unexpected Repairs
- Board or wiring issues: $100–$300
- LCD/Display replacement (for modern pins): $300–$600
- Servo motors or mechanical toys: $50–$400 depending on model
🎯 Annual Estimated Cost:
- DIY Owner: ~$100–$300/year
- Professional Service: ~$300–$800/year
🛒 Replacement Parts: What Wears Out Most Often?
Even with proper care, some parts will naturally wear over time—especially if you’re a frequent player.
| Part | Estimated Cost | Replacement Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Flipper coils/sleeves | $5–$30 | Every 2–3 years |
| Rubber ring kits | $20–$50 | Every 12–18 months |
| Playfield plastics | $20–$100 | As needed |
| Light bulbs/LEDs | $0.50–$2 each | Every few years |
| Balls (steel) | $2–$4 each | Every 6–12 months |
| Slingshot switches | $10–$20 | As needed |
🛍️ At House of Pinball, we stock all essential spare parts and upgrade kits for popular Stern, Jersey Jack, and classic Bally/Williams machines.
🏠 Home vs. Arcade Use: Who Pays More?
Home-use pinball machines tend to last longer with fewer maintenance needs, since they’re not played as heavily or exposed to wear like they are in public arcades.
| Environment | Wear Rate | Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Home Use | Low to Moderate | Lower |
| Arcade Use | High | Higher |
🎯 If you’re buying for home use, you can expect significantly lower yearly expenses—especially if you’re handy with tools.
🧠 DIY vs. Hiring a Technician
Many pinball owners learn to do basic repairs themselves, saving hundreds of dollars over the years. YouTube tutorials and pinball forums make it easier than ever.
However, some repairs—like board-level electronics or major mech issues—are best left to professionals.
💡 Tip: If you’re not comfortable soldering or troubleshooting electrical boards, plan for at least 1–2 service calls per year.
🧾 The Bottom Line: Total Cost of Ownership
| Category | DIY Owner | Serviced Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Purchase | $3,500–$15,000 | $3,500–$15,000 |
| Annual Maintenance | $100–$300 | $300–$800 |
| Replacement Parts (avg.) | $50–$200/year | $100–$250/year |
| Service Calls | $0 (DIY) | $150–$300/call |
✅ 5-Year Total Cost (est.):
- DIY Owner: ~$500–$1,500 (plus machine price)
- Serviced Owner: ~$2,000–$4,000 (plus machine price)
🏆 Why Buy from House of Pinball?
When you buy from House of Pinball, you’re not just buying a game—you’re gaining a support team.
What We Offer:
- ✔️ Expert help choosing the right machine
- ✔️ Transparent advice on maintenance costs
- ✔️ Replacement parts in stock
- ✔️ Access to certified pinball technicians
- ✔️ Free setup guides and maintenance checklists
🎯 Whether you’re looking for a brand-new Stern or a refurbished Bally classic, we help you understand everything about ownership—before you buy.
🛒 Browse Our Pinball Machines for Sale →
🔚 Final Thoughts
Owning a pinball machine is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can invest in—but it’s not entirely “set it and forget it.”
With the right expectations, a bit of maintenance, and a trusted seller by your side, your machine will bring joy for years or even decades to come.
Before you buy, ask yourself:
- Will I do basic maintenance myself?
- Do I have a reliable place for spare parts?
- Am I buying from a trustworthy seller?
🎯 At House of Pinball, we’re here to help you answer YES to all of the above.