How much do ice skating lessons cost?
How much do ice skating lessons cost?
$30 – $50 average cost for private lessons (15 – 30 minutes)
$15 – $30 average cost per group class (30 – 45 minutes)
$100 – $350 average cost per group program (6 –12 lessons)
Average cost of ice skating lessons
Ice skating lessons cost $15 to $50+ per session, depending on the lesson type. Private ice skating lessons cost $30 to $50+ per session and provide personalized instruction for fast progress. Group classes cost $15 to $30 per class or $100 to $350 for multi-week packages that can include skate rental and practice ice time.
| Lesson Type | Average Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Private lessons | $30 – $50+ per session | 15 – 30 minutes |
| Group classes | $15 – $30 per class | 30 – 45 minutes |
| Group program | $100 – $350 per series | 6 – 12 lessons |
Private lessons
Private ice skating lessons cost $30 to $50 for 15 to 30 minutes and provide focused instruction, allowing for faster skill development compared to group classes. These one-on-one sessions offer personalized coaching tailored to individual goals.
Skaters usually bring their own equipment, though some rinks offer rentals.
Additional ice time fees range from $10 to $20 per session.
Private hockey lessons cost more than figure skating lessons, because they are longer and require additional equipment compared to figure skating lessons.
Group classes
Group ice skating lessons offer an affordable and structured approach to learning ice skating fundamentals. Priced from $15 to $30 per class, these lessons provide skaters with a supportive, social environment to develop basic skills.
Group classes usually have 4 to 10 students, grouped by age and skill level.
Prices may include skate rental and practice time on the ice before or after class.
Cost of ice skating lessons by program level
Ice skating lessons often come as package deals rather than single sessions. These multi-week programs cost $100 to $350, often including skate rental and ice time. Costs are the cheapest for beginners to attract new students to the sport and increase as students progress and need more practice time and individualized attention.
| Program level | 6 – 8 week program cost* | 10 – 12 week program cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners (Learn to Skate USA) | $100 – $200 | $150 – $300 |
| Intermediate to advanced | $150 – $250 | $200 – $350 |
| Adaptive skating | Varies by location | Varies by location |
*Group lesson rates
Beginner ice skating programs
Beginner skate programs cost $100 to $300 for 6 to 12 weekly classes. Learn to Skate USA is the premier program for ice skating instruction, offering a comprehensive curriculum for beginners.
These programs welcome skaters of all ages, from preschoolers to adults. Lessons usually meet once a week for 30 minutes and often include skate rental and limited ice practice time as part of the program. Lessons focus on skating fundamentals, such as:
Finding a balanced position
Learning small marching steps
Practicing falling safely
Developing gliding techniques
Mastering basic stops
Many ice skating rinks offer free trial lessons for beginners to help new skaters try out the sport without committing to a full program.
Intermediate to advanced skating programs
After learning basic skating skills, skaters can move to more advanced classes. These programs cost $150 to $350 and last 6 to 12 weeks, introducing skaters to more complex elements, such as jumps, spins, and footwork.
Intermediate classes have smaller groups, so students get more individual attention to fix specific skills.
As skaters progress, the focus shifts from basic skills to complex technical elements, artistic performance, and competitive readiness.
Adaptive skating programs
Adaptive skating programs help people with physical or intellectual disabilities learn to ice skate. These programs offer:
Lessons designed for each person's needs and abilities
Teachers trained to work with different disabilities
Special equipment like support frames or sleds
Help with confidence, physical skills, and socializing
Integration with regular skating classes when possible
Many ice rinks partner with inclusive sports organizations like Special Olympics to offer these programs, with costs varying by location.
Hidden costs of figure skating lessons
Ice skating lessons involve hidden expenses beyond just instruction. Other fees apply to use the ice, rent and maintain skates, and purchase insurance. The following table breaks down these often-overlooked costs when budgeting for ice skating lessons.
| Additional fees | Average cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Skate rental | $4 – $6 per session | Temporary skates for beginners or occasional skaters |
| Skate purchase | $100 – $350+ | Personal skates for serious learners; improves technique and comfort |
| Safety equipment | $50 – $150 | Includes helmet, knee pads, wrist guards, and protective padding often used by beginners |
| Blade sharpening | $6 – $20 | Essential maintenance to ensure blade performance and skating safety |
| Ice time fees | $10 – $20 per session | Dedicated practice time to develop skills and technique |
| Club membership | $25 – $225 per year | Access to training programs, coaching, and comprehensive insurance coverage |
| Competition fees (optional) |
$200 – $1,000+ | Varies by level and number of competitions |
Most recreational skaters need blade sharpening service every 20 to 30 hours of use, which translates to every 2 to 3 months, depending on the skating frequency and intensity.
Ice skating lessons cost factors
Several factors affect the cost of ice skating lessons:
Lesson type: Private lessons are more costly, offering one-on-one instruction and faster progress. Group lessons are more affordable with less individualized instruction.
Skill level: Beginner lessons are usually less expensive, with costs increasing as the student progresses to intermediate and advanced levels. Competitive training costs significantly more.
Lesson length: Longer sessions cost more than shorter, introductory-style lessons that typically run for 30 minutes.
Multi-week programs: Booking a multi-week program often provides better pricing compared to individual lesson purchases.
Rink facilities: The rink amenities can impact lesson pricing, with rinks that offer more ice time and better facilities potentially charging premium rates.
Seasonal demand: Peak skating seasons often see higher rates and more competitive pricing.
Additional costs: Fees for freestyle ice time, club membership requirements, and equipment rentals can contribute to the overall expense of skating lessons.
Skating discipline: The specific skating discipline (figure skating, hockey skating, recreational skating) may influence lesson pricing and structure.
Figure skating lesson FAQs
Where can I find ice skating lessons near me?
To find ice skating lessons near you, check nearby ice rinks and recreation centers, or search online platforms like Lessons.com to connect with certified skating instructors. Prices and class structures vary, so it's best to contact instructors directly for specific details about their skating programs.
Are ice skating lessons expensive?
Ice skating lessons can be expensive, especially as you progress and need more individualized coaching. The cost of ice skating lessons can range from several hundred dollars per year for basic recreational lessons to several thousand dollars for competitive coaching.
What do you wear for ice skating lessons?
For ice skating lessons, wear fitted, comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Recommended attire includes leggings or thermal pants and a long-sleeved top or fleece jacket. Avoid bulky clothing and cotton fabrics, as they can restrict movement. Accessories like gloves and a snug hat are also advisable to keep warm while skating.
How long does it take to learn to ice skate?
Most beginners take 7 to 10 hours of lessons and practice to develop basic gliding skills. Mastering advanced techniques can take months to years. Consistent practice and private instruction can speed up your progress.
What to look for in an ice skating instructor
Choosing the right ice skating lessons can make the learning process more enjoyable. Consider these tips:
Opt for recognized curriculums: Look for classes that follow established programs like Learn to Skate USA, which provide a clear pathway for skill development.
Master the basics: Choose programs that emphasize mastering fundamental skills before advancing, with regular feedback on your progress.
Qualified instructors: Select instructors with proper certifications who can adapt their teaching to different learning styles.
Group or private lessons: Group classes can create a fun learning environment, while private lessons may lead to faster progress. Decide what suits you best.
Parental involvement: For younger students, ensure there are options for parents to watch classes without interrupting, allowing them to support their skater.
Flexibility and practice: Check if the program offers makeup sessions for missed lessons and inquire about opportunities to skate outside of class, such as public sessions or club events.
Questions to ask an ice skating instructor
Before committing to any program, be sure to ask the ice skating instructor these important questions:
Are you certified through Learn to Skate USA® or U.S. Figure Skating?
What levels of skating instruction are you qualified to teach?
How do you adapt your instruction for different age groups and skill levels?
Can you describe your approach to teaching skating fundamentals?
Do you offer makeup lessons or additional practice opportunities?
What safety protocols do you implement during lessons?
How do you help students build confidence on the ice?
What equipment do you recommend for new skaters?
Are you available for private or group lessons?
What are your rates and lesson package options?
Can parents observe lessons?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.