Riding lesson program at a leased barn

Parents of kids learning to ride, adult beginners and riders who want regular coaching.

Fees per private or group lesson, monthly lesson packages, and extras such as summer camps or birthday party rides.

• Riding and teaching ability
• Safety awareness around horses and beginners
• Patience with children and nervous adults
• Scheduling and communication with parents

• Liability insurance for instructors and lessons; many barns require you to carry your own
• Equine activity liability laws and waiver requirements, which differ by state, so check yours
• Optional instructor certifications can help with trust and insurance, so check what insurers ask for
• Your lease terms and the barn owner's rules, since your business depends on the space
• Horse injury or illness can pause lessons and add vet costs

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how many school horses you keep and your arrangement with the barn. Horse injury or illness can add vet costs, so keep a cushion.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many students you teach and how often. Horse injury or illness can pause lessons, which can affect income in a given month.

Check liability insurance for instructors and lessons, since many barns require you to carry your own. Also check your state's equine activity liability laws and waiver rules, any instructor certifications insurers ask for, and your lease terms.