How much should you pay for a good pool table?

How much you should pay for a good pool table really depends on who will be using the table, how important the furniture look factors in, and how long you expect the pool table to last in your home.   Virtually all pool tables available in 2024 fall into two categories:  Slate or Non-Slate designs.   For a new slate top pool table you should expect to pay $2,500 to $4,000  for an entry level design and $4,000 to $8,000 for a more designer look mid range pool table.   Professional style pool tables and very nice designer wood home tables are going to be in the $8,000 and up range.  Non slate tables are typically under $2,000 and are not appropriate for adult players who expect the balls to roll straight or the table itself to last more than a few years.

If the primary pool table users are going to be young kids or unsupervised teens then a non slate table in the $500 to $1,500 range may be the best option.   Players like this are not expecting the balls to roll straight or the rebounds to be consistent and will most likely be abusive at times to the equipment.   At this stage a "disposable" table like virtually all non-slate designs will be a sacrificial offering if you can't trust or protect a better quality table in the space where you want to add billiards for entertainment.  Just be aware that parts and repairs will be unavailable on these types of tables (typically sold online) so when it does get damaged you will need to toss it and get another one or upgrade to something more durable.

Slate pool tables are the most popular home option for families that want a table both to entertain the kids but also for adult use.   A three piece 1" slate top pool table is the industry standard and should last for decades if well maintained.   Starting around $2,500, slate pool tables imported from Asia are what you will typically find at lower price points with USA made tables constructed from better wood and higher quality fit & finish coming at more of a price premium.   Many customers opt to get a used table that was originally USA made and live with a more dated look or cosmetic issues since they are so well built and may just need a new billiard cloth.  

If having a designer look is just as important as the playability of the table then mid price tables in the $4,000 to $8,000 range will offer the largest selection of styles , finish options, and specific looks like traditional, mid century modern, farmhouse style, or contemporary transitional.   If you partner with a major pool table manufacturer who has been in business for decades and a local company that will not only guarantee the installation of the table but also honor the factory warranty then you will have a virtually worry free ownership experience.   Speaking with a local expert is the best way to sort out these options and educate yourself on the different tables and manufacture's products available.

If you are looking for a more professional grade pool table and cost and/or looks are secondary to 9' size options, ultra fast cushions, and tight pockets then you are going to need to look for the types of tables featured in pool halls and pro tournaments.   While many home table manufactures claim to offer these features , the reality is you need VERY wide solid hardwood rails and a massive frame along with pedigreed cushion rubbers and hopefully a track record of years in the business of building pro style tables.    Legendary tables like the Olhausen Grand Champion, Brunswick Gold Crown, Diamond Pro, Rasson Victory, and Predator Apex will all be over $8,000 before you factor in the cost of professional grade worsted "speed" cloth, playing accessories, and installation fees.   This type of table is overkill for most recreational players but some people want the best and looks and budget will need to be secondary considerations like with any luxury purchase.

The absolute upper range of pool tables available is occupied by hand built and one-off custom tables from boutique manufacturers and restored antique tables over 100 years of age.   The point of these tables is the timeless allure of extremely fine furniture along with a mix of exclusivity and rarity.   While these types of tables seldom play better than tables in lower price ranges that is not the point and expect to spend at least $10,000 to enter this stratus of fine furniture.   Ultra modern and mixed media tables featuring lacquer wood, welded steel, acrylic, exotic hardwoods, and granite built to spec will also fall into this category.   Paint to sample, RAL match to an automotive finish, hand built to theme, anything is possible if you have the budget!