How much is recording studio time?
Across 299 studios with posted rates, hourly prices range from $13 to $600. The median starting rate is $55/hr.
Studio Record Directory
How much does a recording studio cost?
Compare hourly recording studio rates from 299 studios: $13–$600/hr, with a median starting rate of $55/hr.
- National median starting rate
- $55/hr
- Published range
- $13–$600/hr
- Studios with rates
- 299
Hourly rate distribution
Each studio is counted once, using its starting hourly rate.
| Starting hourly rate | Studios |
|---|---|
| <$40 | 95 |
| $40–74 | 115 |
| $75–124 | 62 |
| $125–199 | 16 |
| $200+ | 11 |
Rates by city
Cities appear here when at least five studios publish hourly rates.
| City | Median starting rate | Hourly range | Priced studios |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis, IN | $15 | $15–$120 | 5 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $40 | $25–$250 | 7 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $40 | $13–$600 | 42 |
| New York, NY | $43.5 | $13–$250 | 40 |
| Atlanta, GA | $60 | $25–$325 | 17 |
| Philadelphia, PA | $60 | $20–$250 | 8 |
| Houston, TX | $60 | $15–$400 | 17 |
| Minneapolis, MN | $65 | $30–$150 | 7 |
| Nashville, TN | $65 | $20–$300 | 10 |
| Austin, TX | $65 | $18–$475 | 15 |
| Miami, FL | $75 | $30–$150 | 7 |
| Chicago, IL | $75 | $25–$300 | 24 |
What's included in studio time?
Check which room, microphones, instruments and recording equipment the rate covers. Ask about setup time, file delivery and any additional charges.
Engineer vs self-session
An engineer can handle recording setup and the session workflow. A self-session may require you to operate the equipment. Confirm staffing, experience requirements and engineer charges before booking.
Block rates
Ask about half-day, full-day or multi-session packages. Compare the total cost, minimum booking time and cancellation terms alongside the hourly rate.
Mixing and mastering costs
Request a separate quote when mixing or mastering is outside the recording session. Specify the number of songs, revisions, stems and delivery deadline so you can compare offers.
Frequently asked questions
Is an engineer included in studio time?
It depends on the studio and session package. Check the listing's engineer information and confirm the total price before booking.
Can I book a block of studio time?
Ask the studio about half-day, full-day or multi-session packages, minimum booking lengths and cancellation terms.
Does the hourly rate include mixing and mastering?
Studios may quote mixing and mastering separately per track or project. Ask about revisions, deliverables and turnaround before agreeing to a package.