How Much Do Ski Resort Owners Make?

By Robert Palmer

Ski resorts are a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With the increasing popularity of skiing and snowboarding, many people wonder how much ski resort owners make. The truth is that the income of ski resort owners can vary greatly depending on a number of factors.

Factors Affecting Ski Resort Owner Income

  • Location: The location of the ski resort can have a huge impact on its profitability. Ski resorts in popular destinations such as Aspen, Colorado or Whistler, British Columbia often charge higher prices and therefore generate more revenue than smaller resorts in less popular locations.
  • Size: The size of the resort is another important factor.

    Larger resorts with more runs and amenities will typically generate more revenue than smaller resorts with fewer offerings.

  • Season Duration: The length of the ski season can also impact the profitability of a ski resort. Resorts that are able to stay open for longer periods of time will generate more revenue than those with shorter seasons.
  • Amenities: The types and quality of amenities offered by a ski resort can also impact its profitability. Resorts with high-end lodging options, restaurants, and other attractions tend to generate more revenue than those without these amenities.

The Average Income of Ski Resort Owners

The income of ski resort owners can vary greatly depending on these factors. According to data from Payscale.com, the average salary for a ski resort owner is around $60,000 per year. However, this figure does not take into account other sources of income that may be generated by a ski resort owner.

Sources of Income for Ski Resort Owners

In addition to their salaries, ski resort owners may also generate income through the following sources:

  • Lift Ticket Sales: Lift ticket sales are a major source of revenue for ski resorts. Depending on the size and popularity of the resort, lift ticket prices can range from $30 to $200 per day.
  • Ski Lessons: Many ski resorts offer ski lessons to visitors. These lessons can range in price from $50 to $200 per lesson, depending on the length and type of lesson offered.
  • Lodging: Ski resorts often have lodging options available for visitors.

    These can range from basic cabins to luxury hotels. The price of lodging varies depending on the type of accommodations offered.

  • Food and Beverage Sales: Ski resorts often have restaurants and cafes on site where visitors can purchase food and drinks. The price of these items varies depending on the quality and type of food offered.

The Bottom Line

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much ski resort owners make, it is clear that owning a ski resort can be a profitable venture under the right circumstances. Owners who invest in larger, more popular resorts with high-end amenities have the potential to generate significant income through lift ticket sales, ski lessons, lodging, and food and beverage sales.

If you’re considering investing in a ski resort, it’s important to carefully evaluate all of these factors before making a decision. With careful planning and investment, owning a ski resort can be a rewarding and profitable venture.