If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, high-margin business model, owning an ATM might be your next smart move. With minimal overhead, steady cash flow, and easy scalability, ATM machines have become a favorite side hustle for entrepreneurs.
But before diving in, you’re likely asking: What is the ROI on ATM machines? Let’s break it down—how much you can earn, what costs to expect, and how long it takes to get your money back.
What Does ROI on ATM Machines Mean?
ROI (Return on Investment) is a percentage that tells you how profitable an investment is compared to its cost. When applied to ATM machines, ROI measures how much profit you earn from the machine relative to what you spent to buy and operate it.
ROI Formula:
ROI = (Net Profit ÷ Total Investment) × 100
Example: If you spend $3,000 on an ATM and make $3,600 in profit over 12 months, your ROI is 120%.
Average ROI on ATM Machines in 2025
Business Type | Avg. Monthly Transactions | Avg. Monthly Profit | Annual ROI (%) |
Gas Station | 500–800 | $1,000–$1,600 | 300–500% |
Convenience Store | 200–400 | $400–$800 | 100–200% |
Bar or Nightclub | 300–500 | $600–$1,000 | 150–300% |
Salon, Shop, Small Biz | 100–200 | $150–$400 | 60–120% |
Event/Vending Location | Seasonal | Varies | High (short-term) |
On average, an ATM owner can expect a 100–250% annual ROI, depending on location and traffic.
What Factors Affect ROI on ATM Machines?
Location, Location, Location
- High foot traffic = higher ROI
- Best spots: gas stations, retail stores, cannabis dispensaries, nightlife venues
Surcharge Fee
- Most owners charge $2.50–$3.50 per transaction
- Higher surcharge = more profit per use
- Must remain competitive with other nearby ATMs
Monthly Volume
- More transactions = faster ROI
- Even 5–10 uses per day can generate $300–$1,000/month
Cost of the ATM
- New machines: $2,500–$4,000
- Refurbished machines: $1,200–$2,000
- Lower initial cost = faster break-even
Cash Loading
- Self-loading = 100% surcharge profit
- Third-party cash loaders = lower margins, but less hassle
How Long Does It Take to Get ROI on an ATM?
ATM Cost | Monthly Profit | Estimated Break-Even Time |
$2,000 | $400/month | 5 months |
$3,000 | $500/month | 6 months |
$4,000 | $700/month | 5.5–6 months |
Many ATM investors break even within 4–8 months and enjoy profit for years afterward.
Monthly and Yearly Profit Potential
Example ROI Scenario:
- ATM Cost: $3,000
- Surcharge Fee: $3.00
- Monthly Transactions: 400
- Monthly Revenue: 400 × $3 = $1,200
- Expenses (minimal): ~$50
- Net Profit: $1,150/month
- Annual Profit: $13,800
- Annual ROI: (13,800 ÷ 3,000) × 100 = 460%
Additional Revenue Streams
Some ATM operators increase ROI with:
- Advertising on ATM screens
- Selling ad space on the machine
- Affiliate commissions from nearby businesses
- Cryptocurrency-enabled ATMs for higher surcharge potential
Costs That Impact ROI
Expense Type | Estimated Monthly Cost |
Phone line or internet | $10–$30 |
Processing service fees | 3%–5% of transactions |
Vault cash (refundable) | $2,000–$5,000 |
Maintenance/repairs | Varies (rare) |
ROI is highest when you own the machine, self-load cash, and minimize recurring costs.
How to Maximize ROI on Your ATM Investment
- Pick a high-traffic location (negotiating revenue splits if needed)
- Charge competitive surcharge fees
- Monitor performance with ATM software
- Avoid leasing—own the machine outright
- Scale by placing multiple ATMs
- Choose machines with low maintenance needs
Conclusion
Absolutely. ATM machines offer one of the fastest ROIs in small-scale investing, especially when placed in the right location. With potential returns of 100% to 400% per year, low startup costs, and passive income, ATMs are a solid choice for entrepreneurs seeking steady cash flow with low overhead.
Want predictable income from a physical asset? ATM ownership might just be your next smart move.
FAQs
1. How many transactions per month make an ATM profitable?
Typically, 150–200+ transactions per month is the break-even threshold.
2. What’s a good ROI for an ATM machine?
A good ROI is anything over 100%. Most ATM owners see 200%+ annual ROI with a well-placed machine.
3. Can I own multiple ATMs to scale ROI?
Yes! Many investors build ATM routes with 5–20+ machines for consistent monthly profit.
4. Is the ROI better on owned or leased ATMs?
Owned ATMs provide higher ROI because you avoid monthly lease fees and keep full control.
5. How do I calculate ROI on my ATM machine?
Use:
ROI = (Annual Profit ÷ Initial Investment) × 100
Example: $5,000 profit ÷ $2,500 cost = 200% ROI
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