Opening a casino hotel is no small undertaking. The industry has seen a consistent upward trend in recent years, with revenue in the US alone reaching $43.6 billion in 2019. So, what does it cost to join the game and invest in a casino hotel of your own? The numbers may surprise you. In this article, we will delve into the startup expenses involved in launching a casino hotel, and provide insights on what to expect. Ready to roll the dice and find out more? Let's get started.


Startup Costs

Opening a casino hotel requires significant investments in infrastructure, equipment, and staffing. The total cost to launch a casino hotel can vary widely depending on the location, size, and type of establishment, as well as the types of games and amenities offered.

Startup Costs Ranges
Prime real estate acquisition and construction costs $50 million - $1 billion+
Equipment and furniture for the hotel, casino, and restaurants $5 million - $50 million
Licensing and regulatory fees $1 million - $10 million
Marketing and advertising expenses $5 million - $50 million
Initial staffing and training costs $1 million - $10 million
Technology infrastructure and software implementation $5 million - $20 million
Inventory and supply purchases $1 million - $5 million
Total $68 million - $1.14 billion+

The most significant costs associated with opening a casino hotel are prime real estate acquisition and construction expenses. The cost of acquiring land, designing, and building a hotel and casino from scratch can range from $50 million to over $1 billion, depending on the location, size, and amenities offered.

Equipment and furniture costs, such as slot machines, tables, and restaurant furnishings, can range from $5 million to $50 million. Licensing and regulatory fees, marketing, advertising expenses, initial staffing costs, technology infrastructure, and software implementation are additional factors that can add up quickly.

Inventory and supply purchases, such as food, drinks, and other hotel amenities, are additional expenses that need to be taken into consideration when launching a casino hotel. The total cost for these expenses can range from $1 million to $5 million.

Overall, the total cost to launch a casino hotel can range from $68 million to over $1.14 billion, depending on a variety of factors. Launching a successful casino hotel requires significant capital investments, construction expertise, and knowledge of the gaming and hospitality industries.



Prime real estate acquisition and construction costs

Starting a casino hotel requires a significant financial investment. The most substantial expenses come from acquiring a prime location, constructing the building, and outfitting it with all the necessary amenities. In the United States, the average cost to build a casino hotel starts at around $1.2 billion and can go up to $2.5 billion.

  • Real estate acquisition costs: The price of land can vary considerably depending on its location, the size of the plot, zoning laws, and any environmental assessments that need to be conducted. In Las Vegas, for example, the average price per acre of prime real estate on the Las Vegas Strip can range from $70 million to $500 million.
  • Construction costs: Constructing a casino hotel typically requires a team of architects, engineers, general contractors, and subcontractors. The cost of construction can vary due to the size of the building, the quality of materials used, and the location. The average cost to build a standard 300-room casino hotel is around $400 million.
  • Startup costs/expenses: Once the building is constructed, additional costs will be incurred to outfit it with all the necessary amenities, including gaming equipment, hotel furniture, fixtures, kitchen equipment, and décor. These costs can add up to an additional $200 million to $400 million.

Tips & tricks:

  • Factor in location: Location is everything when it comes to a casino hotel. Factor in the cost of real estate, construction, and amenities when choosing a suitable location.
  • Consider financing options: There are various financing options available for casino hotels, including bank loans, venture capital, and private equity. Consider which option would be best for your business.
  • Engage professional assistance: Building and running a casino hotel is a complex endeavor. Engage professional assistance, such as a business consultant, to assist throughout the process.

Launching a successful casino hotel requires significant financial investment, careful planning, and professional assistance. If done correctly, however, it can be a highly profitable business venture.



Equipment and furniture for the hotel, casino, and restaurants

Starting a casino hotel requires a significant investment in equipment and furniture. The costs of these items can vary widely depending on the size of the hotel, the specific amenities offered, and the level of luxury in the facilities. As an experienced business consultant, I have helped many clients start successful casino hotels, and I am well-versed in the startup costs associated with equipment and furniture.

According to the latest statistical information, the average cost of furniture, fixtures, and equipment for a new casino hotel is approximately $20 to $30 million. This amount can include everything from the slot machines and gaming tables to the guest room furniture, lobby decor, and restaurant equipment. While the initial investment may seem steep, the potential for profits in the casino industry can be substantial.

  • Tip 1: Consider purchasing used equipment and furniture to save on costs. Many established casinos and hotels sell their older equipment at discounted prices to make room for newer models.
  • Tip 2: Work with a professional design team to maximize the use of your available space and create a unique atmosphere in your facility. A well-planned layout can help to attract more customers and increase revenue.
  • Tip 3: Don’t skimp on the quality of your equipment and furniture. Investing in high-quality materials and top-of-the-line gaming technology can help to create a more enjoyable experience for your guests and keep them coming back for more.

In addition to the startup costs for equipment and furniture, casino hotels must also factor in ongoing maintenance and repair expenses. These costs can include everything from routine cleaning and upkeep to more significant repairs or equipment replacements. It's important to budget for these expenses in advance to ensure that your facility will remain operational and appealing to guests.

Ultimately, the success of your casino hotel will depend on a variety of factors, including the quality of your equipment and furniture, the level of service you provide, and the overall atmosphere of your facility. With careful planning and attention to detail, however, it is possible to create a thriving and profitable casino hotel that stands out in today's competitive market.

Additional Tips & Tricks:

  • Consider working with a financial advisor to secure the funding you need to start your casino hotel. They may be able to help you find alternative financing options or secure loans with more favorable terms.
  • Always keep up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the gaming industry to ensure that your casino hotel remains relevant and competitive.
  • Be strategic in your marketing and advertising efforts. Focus on building relationships with local businesses and promoting your facility through targeted social media and online advertising campaigns.


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Licensing and Regulatory Fees for Launching a Casino Hotel

When it comes to starting a casino hotel, one of the first things you need to consider is the cost of obtaining a license and complying with regulations. These fees can vary greatly depending on the location, type of license required, and other factors. As a pro business consultant who has helped to start thousands of businesses in my career, here are some latest statistical information in USD regarding licensing and regulatory fees startup costs/expenses for a casino hotel.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Research the specific licensing requirements and fees for your location to get an accurate estimate of costs.
  • Budget for additional expenses such as legal fees, permits, and inspections.
  • Consider consulting with a professional team experienced in obtaining casino licenses and navigating regulatory requirements.

The initial licensing fee for a casino hotel can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the state and type of license required. In addition to the initial fee, there may be annual renewal fees to keep the license current. These fees can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the state and type of license.

Aside from licensing fees, regulatory expenses can also add significant cost to opening a casino hotel. For example, in addition to complying with state and federal laws related to gambling, casino hotels must also comply with regulations related to hotel and hospitality operations. These may include requirements for food safety, building codes, fire safety, and more. Complying with these regulations may require additional expenses such as inspections, equipment upgrades, and training.

In some cases, investing in compliance with regulations can actually save you money in the long run. For example, implementing energy-efficient upgrades may require an upfront cost, but can result in long-term savings on utility bills.

  • Summing Up

Overall, the cost of obtaining a license and complying with regulations for a casino hotel can add up quickly. However, with careful planning and budgeting, these expenses are a necessary investment to ensure a successful and legally compliant operation. As a business consultant, I always stress the importance of thoroughly researching and understanding the costs associated with starting any new venture. By doing so, you can avoid surprises and set yourself up for success.



Marketing and Advertising Expenses: How Much Does It Cost to Open a Casino Hotel?

As a pro business consultant, I have helped to start thousands of businesses in my career. When it comes to launching a casino hotel, one of the biggest initial expenses you will face is marketing and advertising costs. These costs can vary greatly, depending on a number of factors, including the size and location of the hotel, as well as the level of competition in the market.

According to the latest statistical information, the average marketing and advertising expenses to start a casino hotel in the United States can range from $1 million to $5 million. This includes costs associated with branding and communication, advertising campaigns, public relations, promotions, and sponsorships.

  • Tips & Tricks:
    • Focus on your unique selling proposition - what sets your casino hotel apart from the competition?
    • Invest in targeted advertising that speaks directly to your ideal customer demographic.
    • Create a comprehensive marketing plan that includes both online and offline channels.


One of the biggest factors affecting marketing and advertising costs for casino hotels is the level of competition in the market. If there are already established casino hotels in the area, you may need to invest more heavily in marketing and advertising to make your hotel stand out. Additionally, the size and location of the hotel can also impact marketing costs. Larger hotels in prime locations may require a more substantial budget to capture the attention of potential customers.

In addition to these initial startup costs, it's important to continue investing in marketing and advertising to maintain a strong presence in the market. The ongoing costs of marketing and advertising can range from $500,000 to $1 million per year for a typical casino hotel. These costs include ongoing campaigns to promote the hotel, as well as promoting special events and promotions throughout the year.

Ultimately, the cost of marketing and advertising for a casino hotel will depend on a number of factors specific to your individual business. By working with a professional consultant who has experience in the industry, you can develop a comprehensive marketing and advertising plan that will help set your hotel up for success.



Initial Staffing and Training Costs

The casino industry is one of the most profitable industries in the world, generating billions of dollars in revenue annually. However, the cost of opening a casino hotel can be high due to the extensive staffing and training required to ensure excellent customer service and overall operations.

According to the latest statistical information, the average startup cost for a small-scale casino hotel is around $50 million. The initial staffing and training costs account for a significant portion of these expenses.

  • Staff Salaries: The salaries of casino hotel staff vary depending on the job role and level of experience. For example, the average salary of a casino manager can range from $80,000 to $120,000 per year, while slot service attendants earn around $25,000 per year.
  • Training Costs: All casino hotel employees must undergo extensive training to hone their skills and provide excellent customer service. The training costs can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per employee.
  • Licensing and Background Checks: Every employee within a casino hotel must have a license to work in the gambling industry, which can cost up to $500 per person. In addition, background checks are necessary for all employees, which can cost up to $100 per person.

Overall, the initial staffing and training costs for a casino hotel can easily surpass $15 million. It's essential to factor in these costs when developing a business plan and securing funding for your venture.

Tips & Tricks for Minimizing Staffing and Training Costs

  • Conduct extensive research on employee salary ranges in your locality and adjust your packages accordingly to ensure that you get the best talent without overspending.
  • Invest in online training programs that are cost-effective and efficient for imparting training to your employees.
  • Consider outsourcing certain job roles such as security services or cleaning to minimize staffing costs.

With careful planning, a casino hotel can be a profitable investment, but it's crucial to factor in initial staffing and training costs to avoid overspending and financial troubles down the line.



Technology infrastructure and software implementation

Starting a casino hotel requires a lot of investment in technology infrastructure and software implementation. These are the two fundamental necessities that need to be taken care of to ensure that the hotel runs smoothly, and a lot of people can enjoy the services offered.

According to recent statistical information, the average startup cost of a casino hotel is between $50 million and $1 billion. This is a considerable sum, and it reflects the huge investment that is required to get the business off the ground. The bulk of this investment is usually put into technology infrastructure and software implementation.

The technology infrastructure involves setting up the hardware and software that will be used to run the casino. This includes the servers, the networking equipment, the security cameras, and the gaming machines. The cost of the hardware and software can vary widely depending on the size of the hotel and the specific requirements of the business.

Software implementation is equally important and can be expensive. Most casinos use custom software that is specifically designed for their needs. Custom software can be costly, and the cost can vary depending on the functionality of the software required and the expertise and experience of the developers that are hired to create it.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Tip 1: When investing in technology infrastructure and software implementation, it is essential to hire experts in the field. The right team of experts can save you money and time, and ensure that the implementation is smooth and seamless.
  • Tip 2: Research extensively before investing in technology infrastructure and software implementation. Ensure you get the best software and the right hardware needed for the job.
  • Tip 3: When designing the software for your casino hotel, ensure it is scalable and can handle any number of the machine and devices, including high volume traffic on its servers.

Overall, the investment required to start a casino hotel can be enormous. However, with the right team and expertise, the costs can be managed, and the rewards can be significant. Start investing in technology infrastructure and software implementation and watch your business grow within no time!



Inventory and Supply Purchases Startup Costs/Expenses

As a business consultant with decades of experience, I have helped numerous entrepreneurs launch their casino hotels successfully. One of the most significant costs you'll incur when starting a casino hotel is inventory and supply purchases. On average, the cost of inventory and supplies for a casino hotel is between $250,000 to $500,000. This cost can vary depending on the size of your hotel, location, the number of guests you plan on accommodating, and the type of casino games you offer. To give you a better idea of how much inventory and supply purchases will cost for your casino hotel, let's break it down further:

Gaming Equipment: A casino hotel requires a wide variety of gaming equipment, including slot machines, card tables, roulette tables, etc. On average, this can cost anything between $50,000 to $150,000 to purchase gaming equipment.

Food and Beverage Supplies: Running a restaurant and bar in your casino hotel requires a significant supply of food and beverage items. The cost of these supplies can be between $50,000 to $100,000.

Operating Supplies: Running a hotel requires several operating supplies such as linens, towels, cleaning supplies, toiletries, etc. The cost of these supplies can range from $30,000 to $70,000.

Marketing Supplies: As a new business, marketing is essential for your casino hotel to attract customers. The cost of marketing supplies such as brochures, flyers, advertisements, etc., can range from $20,000 to $40,000.

As you can see, the cost of inventory and supply purchases can add up quickly. However, with proper planning, budgeting, and negotiation with suppliers, you can efficiently manage your cash flow and reduce the overall cost.

List of Tips & Tricks:

  • Research potential suppliers and compare prices before making any purchases to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.
  • Create a detailed inventory list and budget for all supplies needed to avoid any hidden surprises or unexpected expenses.
  • Be strategic with timing your purchases - for example, you may be able to negotiate a better deal if you order in bulk or during the off-season.

In conclusion, the cost of inventory and supply purchases for starting a casino hotel can be substantial. However, with proper planning, budgeting, and negotiation with suppliers, you can effectively manage your costs and launch a successful casino hotel.


As you can see, launching a casino hotel requires a significant investment of time, effort, and money. However, the potential rewards are just as significant, with the industry enjoying steady growth and success over the past few years. To launch a casino hotel, you will need to budget for expenses such as licensing fees, construction costs, and staffing expenses. The total cost can easily reach $1 billion or more, depending on the size and scope of the project. However, with careful planning and a strong business strategy, a casino hotel can be a lucrative venture for the right entrepreneur. So, are you ready to take the plunge? We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the startup expenses involved in launching a casino hotel. Best of luck to you in your casino hotel endeavors!

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