Fred Astaire Dance Studios Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is a renowned chain of ballroom dance studios co-founded in 1947 by the legendary dancer Fred Astaire, along with Charles and Chester Casanave. The company is headquartered in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Astaire divested his interest in the chain in 1966, while agreeing to the continued use of his name by the franchise.
The studios offer a comprehensive range of dance instruction, including ballroom, Latin, swing, and various dance fitness classes, catering to students of all ages and skill levels.
What sets Fred Astaire Dance Studios apart is their exclusive curriculum, developed by Fred Astaire himself, ensuring that his distinctive techniques and teaching methods are preserved and passed on to students.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise? It costs on average between $301,000 – $670,000 to start a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchised center.
This includes costs for studio construction, dance floor installation, equipment, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the size and location of the studio, lease or property purchase decisions, and the specific services and programs offered.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $55,000 |
| Initial Training Fee | $0 – $5,000 |
| Travel Expenses to Training | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| Security Deposits for Leasehold and/or Utilities | $8,500 – $25,500 |
| Rent for 3 Months | $25,500 – $76,500 |
| Construction Management | $0 – $15,000 |
| Construction Due Diligence | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Design, Architecture, Engineering | $7,000 – $25,000 |
| Construction Permits and Permit Management | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Net Leasehold Improvements | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Studio Management and Technology System Components | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Signage and Graphics | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Supplies and Accessories | $4,000 – $14,000 |
| Supplies and Marketing Materials | $1,000 – $1,000 |
| Business Licenses | $500 – $2,500 |
| Technology Fee for 3 Months | $600 – $600 |
| Professional Fees | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Insurance | $3,000 – $5,500 |
| Captive Market Insurance | $25,600 – $25,600 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Budget | $5,000 – $5,000 |
| Working Capital for 3 Months | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| TOTAL | $301,200 – $669,700 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise? A Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchised location makes on average $588,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Fred Astaire Dance Studios Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Fred Astaire Dance Studioss investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure. See SharpSheets financial model hub for guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Fred Astaire Dance Studios franchise investment?
Payback periods typically run 3-7 years depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Fred Astaire Dance Studios?
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is owned by FADS USA, Inc., a private company headquartered in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The organization is led by President and CEO Luann Pulliam. Each Fred Astaire Dance Studio operates as an independently owned and operated franchise under the umbrella of FADS USA, Inc.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: July 2026
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