A tennis restring usually costs $20 to $55 per racket once you add the string and the shop’s labor. The string itself may cost as little as $5 for synthetic gut or more than $20 for a premium set of multifilament or polyester; labor commonly adds another $15 to $30.
Your actual tennis string cost per racket depends on the string type, whether you buy a set or a reel, and the price your local stringer charges. Here’s how to estimate the total, compare popular strings, and avoid paying for a setup that doesn’t suit your game.
What does it cost to string one tennis racket?
Most adult rackets use about 40 feet of string, though the exact amount varies with the racket’s head size and string pattern. A packaged set is generally sold in a length intended for one racket. A reel can cost less per job, but you pay more upfront and need to string several rackets to get the full savings.
For a typical shop restring, add the string price to the labor charge. Ask whether the quoted labor includes a basic synthetic gut or whether you must bring or buy string separately.
| Cost item | Common range per racket | What affects the price |
|---|---|---|
| Budget synthetic gut | $5–$10 | Brand, gauge, and set versus reel |
| Polyester or multifilament string | $10–$25 | String model, material, and package price |
| Stringing labor | $15–$30 | Shop, location, machine, and turnaround |
| Typical total | $20–$55 | String choice plus labor |
These are approximate U.S. prices, not fixed rates. Shops may charge extra for same-day service, removing old string, or installing a hybrid setup. A hybrid uses one string in the mains and another in the crosses, so it can cost more if you need to buy two sets.
Five popular strings and their estimated cost per racket
The prices below are broad estimates for the string material alone. Buying a reel usually lowers the cost per racket, but reel prices and availability change. Labor is not included.
| String | Type | Estimated string cost | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prince Synthetic Gut with Duraflex | Synthetic gut | $5–$9 | Beginners and budget-conscious players |
| Solinco Hyper-G | Polyester | $8–$16 | Players who hit with spin and use full swings |
| Luxilon ALU Power | Polyester | $16–$23 | Experienced players wanting a firm, controlled response |
| Head Velocity MLT | Multifilament | $10–$17 | Comfort and a softer feel |
| Wilson NXT | Multifilament | $18–$26 | Players who want a plush feel and arm comfort |
Prince Synthetic Gut with Duraflex
This is a sensible low-cost starting point. It offers a familiar, fairly comfortable feel and works for many newer or recreational players. It may not last as long as tougher polyester for someone who breaks strings often, but its low price makes it easy to restring regularly. Expect roughly $20–$39 total with labor.
Solinco Hyper-G
Hyper-G is a shaped polyester string commonly chosen by players who hit with pace and topspin. It can give a firm, controlled response, but it is not automatically the right choice for every player. Polyester can feel harsh, especially at high tension or for a player with arm discomfort. The string might cost about $8–$16 per racket from a reel or set; with labor, budget around $23–$46.
Luxilon ALU Power
ALU Power is a premium polyester with a crisp, direct feel. It suits experienced hitters who value control and are comfortable restringing often. It costs more than many other polys, and its playing response can change as it loses tension. Plan on roughly $31–$53 total, depending on the shop and whether you buy a set or use a reel.
Head Velocity MLT
Velocity MLT is a multifilament option that gives many players a softer feel than polyester. It can be a useful choice if you want comfort without moving to a very expensive string. It may fray or break sooner than a durable poly for heavy string breakers. A typical installed job could land around $25–$47.
Wilson NXT
NXT is a premium multifilament known for its comfortable, lively response. It’s worth considering if arm comfort matters more than maximum durability or if a firm polyester setup feels unpleasant. The higher set price puts an installed restring around $33–$56 in many cases.
How to lower your tennis string cost
- Compare set and reel pricing. Divide a reel’s price by the number of jobs it can reasonably provide. A 660-foot reel works out to about 16 full 40-foot jobs, though some rackets need more string and trimming creates waste.
- Ask about labor before choosing a string. Some shops offer a lower installed price with selected strings. Others charge the same labor no matter what you bring.
- Choose a string that lasts for your playing style. The cheapest string per job may not be the cheapest over a season if it breaks quickly. On the other hand, a durable string is not a bargain if it feels uncomfortable and leads you to stop playing.
- Consider a hybrid. A multifilament or synthetic-gut cross with polyester mains can balance feel and control. Ask the stringer about the added cost and suitable tensions.
String life matters, too. A frequent player who breaks strings every few weeks may spend far more in a year than someone who plays once a week. Polyester is often chosen by strong, frequent hitters, but players should generally restring it when it goes dead or uncomfortable rather than waiting for it to snap. If you have arm pain, ask a qualified stringer or coach about a softer setup and avoid copying a pro’s tension without considering your own racket and swing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to restring a tennis racket at a shop?
Most players should expect about $20–$55 for string and labor together. A basic synthetic-gut job may be near the lower end, while premium strings or higher labor rates can push the total upward.
Is buying a reel of tennis string cheaper?
Usually, the per-racket string cost is lower with a reel than with individual sets. It makes the most sense if you use the same string regularly or share the reel with other players. Check the reel length and compare its price with the number of jobs you’ll actually get.
How much string does one tennis racket need?
Many adult rackets take around 40 feet, but requirements vary by racket size and pattern. Your stringer can confirm the right amount for your model and avoid running short.
Does a more expensive string make you play better?
Not by itself. The best choice depends on your comfort, playing style, durability needs, and racket. A suitable lower-cost string can work better for you than a premium string that feels too stiff or loses its feel quickly.
Final Thoughts
For most players, a realistic tennis string cost per racket is $20–$55 installed. Synthetic gut is often the least expensive route, while premium multifilament and polyester setups cost more. Before booking, ask the shop for the string price, labor charge, and total installed cost. Then choose based on how the string feels and how long it lasts for your game—not price alone.
