Startup cost: $2k - $10k

Automated vending machine ownership is a lucrative side hustle that can be started with costs ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. The low-end estimate covers basic expenses like purchasing a used vending machine and initial inventory. On the high end, costs can increase significantly with new machines, location rental fees, maintenance tools, and marketing expenses. Essential expenses include machine purchase, inventory, and any necessary permits. Optional expenses may include investing in cashless payment systems or vending machine tracking software. Hidden costs might include restocking fees, repair costs, or unexpected taxes. Online discussions suggest that while starting costs can be kept low, they tend to rise once the commitment is made. For a friend looking to take this seriously, budgeting around $5,000 to $7,000 would be a reasonable starting point.