According to industry reports, it costs around $2,000,000 to $15,000,000 to build a rollercoaster in the United States. Amusement parks or even attractions are known to include rides and equipment that guarantee an enjoyable experience for customers.
Note that this equipment, especially a rollercoaster does not come cheap. Howbeit, the exact cost for rides such as a rollercoaster for an amusement park varies and will most often depend on the type of equipment, the number of units, as well as the designer.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Building a Rollercoaster
There are indeed numerous factors that influence the exact cost of building a rollercoaster in the United States. Some of those factors include;
1. Size and Complexity
Keep in mind that the size and complexity of the Rollercoaster you intend to build remain major determinants. Bigger and more intricate rollercoasters that feature numerous loops, inversions, and unique features will cost more than smaller structures or projects.
2. Design and Theme
These attractions are known to come with varying designs and concepts to align with the general aesthetics of the location where they will be mounted. As such, their design and themes will factor when determining the exact cost of the construction.
Keep in mind that custom-designed rollercoasters and themed attractions will demand higher costs. Also note that special theming, such as a jungle or space theme, can also add to the cost.
3. Materials
Aside from the size and design, keep in mind that the type of materials utilized in construction will also determine how much you pay for the rollercoaster.
Steel rollercoasters are known to be costlier especially when compared to wooden ones owing to their durability as well as the engineering requirements.
4. Engineering and Design Cost
You will want to note that this equipment tends to necessitate extensive engineering and design work. Truth be told, the intricacies of the design, the need for specialized engineering, as well as the safety considerations to ensure that the rollercoaster is safe and efficient for use will most definitely impact how much it costs to build.
5. Location and Terrain
Also note that the place the rollercoaster is mounted within a theme park or amusement park, coupled with the terrain of the site, can more or less factor when determining the cost of achieving the construction.
Ideally, preparing the site, which would most often encompass the clearing of land and dealing with natural obstacles, will most definitely mean more expenses.
6. Manufacturers and Suppliers
Note that the manufacturer or supplier you choose to work with will impact the amount you pay to get the rollercoaster constructed. In fact, you need to work with well-experienced manufacturers and suppliers and this will most definitely cost more.
7. Regulatory Requirements
You will more or less be expected to stay in line with safety regulations, permitting, and inspections. Note that conforming with all safety standards can lead to extra costs for design modifications and inspections.
8. Labor Cost
Without a doubt, there are labor costs that come with constructing a rollercoaster. Note that labor costs for construction workers, engineers, and project managers will indeed vary depending on things such as location and expertise. Nevertheless, note that skilled labor will indeed come at a steep price.
9. Infrastructure and Utilities
Often overlooked or not considered, keep in mind that building a rollercoaster will more or less necessitate additional infrastructure, such as access roads, utilities (electricity, water, etc.), and support buildings. You have to understand that all these will add to your expenses and increase your construction costs.
10. Duration of Construction
Note that the time it takes to build the rollercoaster will have an impact on the exact amount you pay. Simply put, longer construction periods will lead to higher labor as well as equipment rental expenses.
11. Contingency and Unforeseen Cost
When evaluating how much it will cost to build your rollercoaster; you need to inculcate a contingency budget for unexpected expenses or design modifications that might come up during construction.
12. Technology and Special Effects
If you intend to incorporate special effects, such as sound, lighting, and virtual reality, then it is important you know that it will increase your costs and expenses.
13. Currency Exchange Rates
This is another important factor to take into account especially if the rollercoaster is being constructed in a foreign country. You need to take this into consideration as exchange rates are known to impact costs, even in a situation where the materials or components are imported.