The Most Inexpensive Sports for Kids

Written by
Sara Lindberg |
Kids are born to move. From the moment they learn how to work their feet, they're off and running..and jumping, sliding, tossing and catching. It's no wonder they often gravitate toward sports from a very early age. Not to mention, multiple studies have shown a positive correlation between playing sports and a child's health, school performance and overall wellbeing.

No doubt about it, sports are great for kids. The problem? They can cost an arm and a leg! What's a parent to do?

The following youth sports are among the least expensive, from fees to uniforms to shoes. With a little help from this list, your kids can keep playing the sports they love without emptying your wallet.
Soccer
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Contrary to what you might think, soccer can be a low-cost starter sport for kids. Coach Renee Lopez, author of the upcoming book, "Looking for a Full Ride? An Insider's Recruiting Guide," says kids from three to eight years old typically need only the following items to start playing:
  • Soccer Cleats: $20-50
    • Used cleats are a good option, as kids grow out of them so quickly. Lopez also says that basic tennis shoes will do for beginners.
  • Socks: $5-10
  • Shin Guards: $10-20
  • Basic Soccer Ball: $10-25

    • Registration fees for entry-level recreational soccer leagues range from $100-150 per season. Uniforms or team T-shirts are often included.
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    Cross Country
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    Cross country is another relatively inexpensive sport for youth athletes. All it takes is a quality pair of running shoes. Jason Davis, cross country and track and field coach at Marietta College, says the costs for this sport vary, but they can include:
  • Running Shoes: $30-20
  • Racing Spikes (for older, more advanced athletes): $50-130

    • Cross country uniforms are usually supplied by the school at no cost, though there may be a participation fee for all school sports.
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    Track and Field
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    As with cross country, the equipment requirements for track and field are relatively affordable. If your child is participating in a youth track and field program, costs will likely include:
  • Running Shoes: $30-20
  • Racing Spikes (for older, more advanced athletes): $50-130
  • Clothes: Cost will vary depending on the weather and team requirements.

    • Track and field registration or club fees range from $100-200. Costs may increase if your child decides to explore additional events, such as pole vault.
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    Swimming
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    If you have access to a swimming pool, signing up for weekly lessons or joining a swim team can be an affordable option. Costs associated with swimming include:
  • Lessons: $40-60 per week
  • Swimsuit & Goggles: from $30

    • Team or club registration fees start around $100 for an entry-level recreational swimming league. Additional fees may apply if the pool is part of a health club or larger fitness facility.
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    Baseball or Softball
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    Younger kids often start out in T-ball and then progress to baseball or softball. Costs to get started include:
  • Baseball Glove: $15-50
  • Cleats: $20-50
    Look for used cleats to minimize cost, as kids grow out of them so quickly
  • Helmet (optional): $15-50
  • Baseball Bat (optional): $20 and up

    • Registration fees for entry-level recreational leagues range from $100-150 per season, and uniforms are usually included.
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    Basketball
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    Another sport available to kids at a young age that doesn't require a lot of buy-in is basketball. Starting basketball costs include:
  • Shoes: $30-100
  • Basic Basketball (optional): $8-30

    • Registration fees for entry-level recreational basketball leagues range from $100-150 per season, and uniforms are usually included.
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    About the Author

    Sara Lindberg | ACTIVE.com Contributor
    Sara Lindberg is a freelance writer focusing on health, wellness, and fitness. She holds a bachelor's degree in exercise science and a master's degree in counseling. Her work has been featured in SELF, Healthline, Active.com, Verywell, LIVESTRONG, Headspace, Health, INSIDER, Men's Health, Runner's World, Bicycling Magazine, SheKnows, and Everyday Health among others.