You probably know the feeling.
You walk onto the court and your shots feel flat, or your strings move around more than usual.
Eventually, every player faces the need to restring their racket.
Restringing is key for consistent performance and can make a bigger difference in your game than most upgrades.
Most players in the US pay somewhere between $20 and $75 to restring their tennis racket, with the average cost landing around $40.
If you’re curious why prices vary or how you can save, this guide will break down the real costs and help you understand where your money goes when you get your strings replaced.
Restringing Cost Breakdown
When you string a tennis racket, you pay for two things: the strings themselves and the labor to install them.
String prices are usually between $8 and $40 depending on the material and brand, while labor ranges from $15 to $35 per racket.
The total you pay is simply the sum of these two costs.
For example, if you choose a polyester string like Zero at $14 per set and your local stringer charges $20 for labor, you will pay $34 in total.
Let’s dive into what affects string and labor cost in more detail.
What Affects String Cost
Not all tennis strings are priced the same.
The cost depends on the type of material you choose.
Synthetic gut or nylon strings are the most affordable and run between $8 and $12 per set.
Polyester strings, like Zero, Sync, and Vivo, sit around $10 to $20 and are popular for their control, spin and tension holding.
Multifilament strings cost a bit more, usually between $10 and $25, and may offer a bit extra comfort and power.
Natural gut is the most expensive option and can cost $40 or more for a set, but few players outside the pro ranks use this.
Polyester strings stand out as a smart choice for most players because they balance playability with durability. This means fewer restring jobs over time and more value for your money.
What Affects Labor Cost
Labor cost changes based on where you live and who does the stringing.
In large cities and high-demand areas, you will usually pay more than you would in smaller towns. Some shops and clubs charge a premium for certified stringers or rush service.
You may find lower rates if you know an independent stringer or have a friend with stringing experience.
In the US, the average labor charge falls between $15 and $35 per racket.
For example, ReString co-founder Juan, who lives in Washington DC, gets his racket done for $35.
The main thing to know is that location, speed, and stringer reputation are what drive labor cost.
When to Restring Your Racket
Your strings don’t last forever.
You might notice your string bed feels dull or your shots seem to lack their normal pop. Loss of tension, less snapback, visible notching or general drop in performance are all signs you need fresh strings.
How often you should restring depends on how much you play and your level.
Professionals change strings after every session because performance matters most. Competitive players might restring every few weeks. If you’re an intermediate player, it may only be a few times a year. Beginners can go even longer, but if you feel your game slipping, it’s definitely time.
If you’re unsure, use this rule of thumb:
Restring as many times per year as you play per week.
For example, if you play three times per week, string your racket three times a year. It’s not perfect, but it works for many recreational players who may not notice worn out strings.
String Less with ReString
ReString strings are built to last longer, so you don’t have to change them as often.
You get better tension maintenance and more consistent performance compared to other poly strings. This means you can focus on your tennis and not worry about frequent visits to the stringer.
When you pick a string, think about cost per play, not only the price on the pack. If your string holds up for more hours, you spend less money and time over the year, even if it costs a bit more upfront.
Strings like Zero, Sync, and Vivo are made to stretch your budget and your performance further.
Conclusion
Restringing your tennis racket keeps your game sharp.
The cost depends mostly on your choice of strings and the labor rate in your area, with most players in the US spending between $20 and $75 each time, with $40 being average.
Polyester strings offer a blend of value and performance for most players. If you play often, it’s worth thinking in terms of cost per play and quality, not just the sticker price.
For strings that last longer and help you get more from every session, check out Zero, Sync, or Vivo.