Estimated Costs of Yoga Teacher Training Programs

Choosing which yoga teacher training (YTT) program to pursue often seems more difficult than the training itself. You might find yourself asking “do I want to pursue power yoga or restorative?” or “should I receive my training from a local studio or travel to another country?” While you’re looking into all the enjoyable aspects of yoga teacher training, it is also important to consider the costs associated with it, especially since it may end up being a deciding factor.  

Because there are so many programs out there, yoga teacher training costs vary greatly. It may be helpful to ask yourself the following questions as you consider which program to pick: 

What type(s) of yoga do I want to teach?  

Some types of yoga require specific training or authorization to teach (such as Ashtanga and certain styles of hot yoga), while other styles can be taught after a general training. 

What is my preferred learning style? 

Do you learn best in-person, through reading, listening to lectures, or through self-study? This cannot be stressed enough. Finding a YTT in your learning style can make all the difference in your experience. It can also be a good idea to consider a second favorite learning style, in the case that your preferred style is unavailable due to geography, budget constraints, or scheduling. 

Once you have in mind the type of training you’re looking for, you’re ready to start looking at programs. Here, we’ll be breaking down the costs associated with investing in a 200-hour yoga teacher training program. Keep in mind that these are estimates for general programs that focus on providing students breadth, rather than depth when it comes to teaching. 200-hour trainings are a great place for students to learn about different types of yoga and find out what inspires them.  

IN-PERSON 

What is it?  

An in-person YTT is generally offered by a yoga studio or higher education facility (like a university). The instructors are most often advanced teachers at the studio. These programs are completed over the course of a few months to a year. There is usually a weekly time commitment that requires class time and the taking of regular studio classes. Another option for an in-person YTT is an immersive, retreat-style experience, where students are engaged in the course full-time for the duration of the program, usually 3-8 weeks.  

What does an in-person yoga teacher training cost?  

In-person training costs vary greatly, often from $1,000 to $7,000. Most programs fall in the $1,200-$3,000 price range. This cost generally includes the course, study materials, and often a pass to the yoga studio or school during the training. Other costs to consider include transportation costs, the cost of studio yoga classes (if not included in the training price), and potentially the cost of taking time off work if the program and your profession have scheduling conflicts. If you choose an immersive experience, the cost of the course is often less, ranging from $500-$3,000. However, this generally does not include housing, meals, or transportation during the program. 

HYBRID 

What is it?  

Hybrid yoga teacher training combines online and in-person elements to give students the best of both types of programs. Part of the course is offered online (either in live or self-paced formats), and then students travel to a physical location for the other part of the course. Sometimes this is a one-time visit, while other courses have more frequent in-person sections.  

What does a hybrid yoga teacher training cost?  

The price of these programs range from $1,000-$5,000; with the average being about $2,000. They generally include course materials for both the in-person and self-study sections. They may or may not include food and accommodations during the in-person stay, so you will want to verify this before signing up for a program. Travel costs are not covered, so you will need to anticipate expenses for traveling to and from the physical site as well. 

LIVE ONLINE 

What is it?  

Live online yoga teacher training programs offer their courses entirely online, but in real-time sessions. The class generally meets at a designated time, with the course taught over video conferencing. It may be immersive, meaning that the entire training is completed in a short period of time, so students may be online 8 hours a day for a few weeks. It can also follow an extended timeline, where class times are spread out over a few months. 

What does a live online yoga teacher training cost?  

Online yoga teacher trainings cost approximately $500-$2,500, with most about $1,500. Since there is no travel associated with these programs, the total investment in your YTT is much easier to estimate, since the only costs are the course itself and an internet connection. Keep in mind that you will want to have consistent internet access to attend the required classes. Since there is no physical location, if you want to continue taking courses from other teachers (which is highly recommended), you may have the cost of a yoga studio or gym membership. 

SELF-PACED 

What is it?  

Self-paced yoga teacher trainings are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They allow students to complete the course on their own schedule, moving through material as fast or as slow as needed.  

What does a self-paced yoga teacher training cost?  

Self-paced yoga teacher training generally costs $200-3,000. The average program is around $500. Online programs provide all or almost all of their content online, so if you want a physical copy of training materials, be prepared for the cost of having them printed. Many programs offer free lifetime access to their content, but not all do, so be sure to find out if content stays free or if you will need to purchase access or a membership to retain the materials for later reference. As with live online programs, consider the cost for a consistent internet connection and physical studio for continuing practice as needed.  

Whichever type of program you choose, be sure that it is one that fits both your budget and your lifestyle. This will help you focus more on learning and less on payments and logistics. If the cost of a program seems overwhelming, look at other options or consider a payment plan, which most programs now offer. Remember that not only are you investing in more education, but also in yourself.