Public vs. Private: The Real Cost of Chasing Tennis Dreams in LA

Every Saturday in Los Angeles, the city's love for tennis is on display—sun-drenched courts buzz with energy from Griffith Park to Cheviot Hills, while those aiming for luxury pull up to private clubs only a lucky few can access. Behind the baseline rallies, however, lies a sharp divide: what does it truly cost to play tennis in LA, and what do you get for your money?

"At Griffith Park, I learned the game for less than the price of lunch, but at my club in Brentwood, access costs thousands each year. Both have their charm, but the gap in cost and community is huge." – LA tennis player, West LA

Comparing the Essentials: Cost, Booking, and Amenities

Tennis Resource	Location	Fee/Access	Booking	Amenities
Echo Park Tennis Courts	Echo Park	Free	First-come	Lights, no restrooms, street parking
Griffith Park Tennis Courts	Los Feliz	$8–$12/hr	Reservation/Walk-up	12 lighted courts, scenic views, pro shop
Westwood Recreation Center	West LA	Free before 5pm, $12/hr after	Call to reserve	8 courts, lessons, free weekday access
Poinsettia Recreation Center	West Hollywood	$8/hr	Online (PlayByPoint)	Well-maintained courts, lively community
Private Club (e.g., Brentwood Country Club)	Brentwood	$20,000+ initiation, $500+/mo	Priority member booking	Indoor/outdoor courts, clubhouse, valet, social events

The Affordability Advantage: LA’s Public Tennis Courts

Public facilities form the backbone of tennis in Los Angeles—providing affordable access, especially for newcomers or those who just want to hit without breaking the bank. In neighborhoods like Echo Park, public courts are completely free, with nighttime lighting and walk-on play stretching from sunrise to 10 p.m. But be prepared: finding open courts on weekends can mean a long wait, and amenities are basic. The community-driven spirit, though, is priceless.

• Free or low-cost hourly rates (as low as $8)
• Most offer walk-up access, though some (like Westwood) require phone reservations
• Minimal amenities—often lacking restrooms, with limited parking
• Beautiful settings, from city parks to hillside vistas
• Beginner clinics and affordable group lessons

Private Clubs: Luxury, Exclusivity—and a Hefty Price Tag

If you crave pristine courts, locker rooms with saunas, valet parking, and the chance to brush shoulders with celebrities, LA’s private clubs deliver. Clubs like the Brentwood Country Club and the Los Angeles Tennis Club (L.A.T.C.) boast top-tier facilities and near-guaranteed court time, but that luxury comes at a price: reported initiation fees of $20,000 or more, plus monthly dues easily exceeding $500. For that price, you get access to tournament-level courts, year-round clinics, elite pros, and a tightly-knit tennis community.

• High upfront and ongoing membership fees
• Priority court booking and little wait time
• Premium amenities: pro shops, lounges, fitness facilities
• Structured leagues, exclusive tournaments, and social mixers
• Strong tradition, but selective membership (often by referral)

The LA Tennis Dilemma: Access vs. Experience

Los Angeles tennis lovers often grapple with two familiar struggles: finding open courts during peak hours and matching up with partners who play at the right skill level. Sure, the weather is nearly perfect year-round—rainouts are rare, but weekend surges at public courts can leave you pacing the fence. Meanwhile, private clubs promise a stress-free experience, but the price locks out most hopefuls.

Community Connection: PlayTennisLA Levels the Playing Field

For players seeking connection and convenience without the private club price tag, PlayTennisLA stands out. Finding consistent tennis partners in Los Angeles can be challenging with busy schedules and traffic. PlayTennisLA solves this by connecting you with players at your skill level in your neighborhood, completely free. Sign up today to find your next match.

Whether you choose the sun-soaked spirit of LA’s public courts or the country club lifestyle, the perfect match awaits—from Echo Park’s asphalt to Brentwood’s grass. One thing is clear: tennis in Los Angeles is all about community, no matter what you pay to play. Ready to hit? Join PlayTennisLA and let your next game find you.