When planning to build a playground, your first question would be, How much does playground equipment cost? Because equipment is the major thing in the playground. Whether you’re planning a playground for your home backyard, daycare, or park, knowing the cost to build a playground is necessary.
We’ll cover each playground equipment cost. We’ll see how different types of playgrounds cost different. When planning a budget for your project, do not forget to include material, labor, and transport charges. Planning ahead can help move the project smoothly from start to end.
Playground Equipment Cost Breakdown
This table shows the playground equipment cost that is usually included in all types pf playgrounds.
Equipment |
Average Cost |
| Slides | $54 – $180 |
| See-saw | $36 – $72 |
| Peengh | $54 – $108 |
| Climbing wall | $90 – $180 |
| Sand structure | $36 – $90 (excluding sand) |
| Merry-go-round | $72 – $126 |
| Jungle gym | $108 – $216 |
| wooden playset | $180 – $540 |
Average Cost of Building a Playground
On average, a playground cost varies between $4,000 to $60,000. An in-home playground for 10 children costs $4,000 to $20,000 while a playground for up to 30 children costs $20,000 to $60,000 to install. An inclusive playground suitable for children of all abilities costs $150,000 to $500,000.
However, these are all just rough estimates by our experienced contractors. Prices can vary with location, size, structure, and area. To get a more accurate estimate for your project, hire some contractors. Discuss your requirements with them. They will give you an accurate budget after analyzing your requirements and area.
Type Of Playground |
Capacity |
Average Cost |
| Inclusive playground | 50 – 100 | $150,000 – $500,000 |
| School playground | 50 – 100 | $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Daycare center playground | 10 – 30 | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| In-home daycare playground | 2 – 10 | $4,000 – $20,000 |
| Backyard playground | 2 – 10 | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
Types of Playgrounds
There are playgrounds found in different spaces. An in-home playground, daycare playground, school playground, and inclusive playground for special children are some of the major types of playgrounds. It is important to understand each factor before starting your project.
Inclusive Playground
An inclusive playground is designed to be accessible for children of all abilities, including those with physical or developmental disabilities. These playgrounds have features like ramps, sensory play panels, and wheelchair-accessible swings to ensure everyone can play together. The goal is to create an environment where all children can interact and have fun, regardless of their abilities. Inclusive playgrounds focus on safety, comfort, and fun for every child.
While planning an inclusive playground, the following equipment should be installed:
Inclusive swings: Come with high backs and harnesses for added support, and cost around $800 – $2,500 per swing.
Wheel-chair swings: Allow children to enjoy swings with wheelchairs, cost around $2,000 – $5,000.
Sensory elements: Equipment decor with various textures, sounds, and visuals to be felt by every child, costs around $300 – $3,000.
Quit zones: Special areas with no noise for those who need a break, cost around $500 – $3,000.
Ramps: Allows wheelchair to access elevated structures, cost around $2,000 – $10,000.
Transfer stations: Help children to move from mobility devices to playing equipment easily, costs around $1,500 – $5,000.
Inclusive seesaws: Designed with back support and handholds for varying abilities, costs around $800 – $10,000.
Safe surfacing: Surfaces made with soft materials like rubber or foam to reduce injury risks, cost around $2,000 – $6,000.
School Playground
A school playground is an outdoor area at school where children can play during recess or physical education classes. It often includes swings, slides, climbing equipment, and sometimes sports courts or tracks. The primary purpose of a school playground is to encourage physical activity among students.
School playgrounds include:
- Gentle slides
- Sand structures
- Climbing structures
- Normal swings such as merry-go-round, peengh, slides, etc.
- Fitness and sports equipment
Daycare Center Playground
A daycare center playground is usually designed for infants and preschoolers. The equipment is age-appropriate. The equipment is made with soft surfaces and smaller features to avoid injuries. Equipment includes toddler slides, sandboxes, and swings.
These playgrounds focus on developing motor skills, coordination, and socialization. Safety is a top priority, as daycare centers need to meet strict guidelines to protect children while they explore and play.
In-home Daycare Playground
An in-home daycare playground is a small, private play area created in a caregiver’s home for children in their care. The equipment is often more compact but still allows children to play and learn. Features like small swings, playhouses, and climbing structures are common. In-home daycare playgrounds are designed to provide a safe and fun environment for children.
Backyard Playground
A backyard playground is a private play area built in a home’s yard. It’s typically designed for a family’s children. It may include swings, slides, a playhouse, or even a small climbing wall. Backyard playgrounds give children the freedom to play outdoors with family in a secure environment.
They are customizable to fit the available space and the family’s needs. Safety features like soft surfaces and proper maintenance are essential to ensure a safe play experience.
Other Cost Factors
Other cost factors include extra material cost, labor cost, shipment cost, surfacing, and site preparation.
Cost Factor |
COST |
| Equipment | $10,000 to $100,000 |
| Labor | $5,000 to $20,000 |
| Site preparation | $2,000 to $10,000 |
| Safety surfacing | $5,000 to $20,000 |
| Shipping | Varies with distance |
Conclusion
On average, a playground cost varies between $4,000 to $60,000. There are multiple types of playgrounds are built. The total cost of playgrounds depends on the features and equipment included. Such as inclusive playgrounds cost more ($150,000 – $500,000) than a daycare playground ($20,000 – $60,000), because inclusive playgrounds include special features.
It is also important to add the costs of extra materials, labor, and shipment while making a budget. However, if you want a more effective budget for your project, it is recommended to consult experts. Experts can give you an accurate budget after analyzing your specific requirements.
FAQs
Q1. How much does a small playground cost?
A small playground typically costs between $8,000 and $20,000, depending on the size and equipment selected. Additional costs for installation and safety surfacing may apply.
Q2. How much does a commercial playground cost?
A commercial playground usually ranges from $20,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the size, equipment, and customization.
Q3. How much does playground equipment cost per square foot?
Playground equipment generally costs around $10 to $50 per square foot, depending on the materials and type of play structures.
Q4. How much does it cost to build a playground at a school?
Building a playground at a school can cost between $20,000 and $150,000, depending on the equipment, design, and safety requirements.
