Your own salsa bar and dance floor

Dancers, couples, groups of friends and people celebrating birthdays or private events. Local dance schools and community groups may also rent the space.

Drink sales are the main income, plus cover charges, dance lessons, private hires and sometimes food or snacks.

• Running a bar or hospitality business
• Managing staff, budgets and stock
• Building a community around music and dance
• Marketing and event planning

• Liquor licenses can be costly and slow, and rules and availability differ a lot by state and city, so check early
• Zoning, noise, entertainment or dance permits and occupancy limits may apply, so check with your city or county
• General liability, liquor liability and workers' compensation insurance once you hire
• Music licensing for public performance, so check what you need
• Late hours, thin margins and high fixed costs such as rent and staff
• Health department permit if you serve any food

Startup costs are typically around $80,000 to $350,000, depending on premises, fit-out, the dance floor and sound system, and your liquor license. Costs vary widely by city and state, so get local quotes early.

Monthly revenue is typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on how many nights you open, drink sales, entry fees and private events. These are estimates only, and revenue is not the same as profit.

Check liquor license rules early, as cost and availability vary by state and city. Also look at zoning, noise, entertainment or dance permits and occupancy limits, music licensing, insurance including liquor liability, and a health permit if you serve food.