Hockey is becoming increasingly inaccessible to many Canadian families as the costs of playing continues to rise with increases in registration fees, equipment prices and ice-time rates.
What was once a neighbourhood pastime played on frozen ponds has transformed into a billion-dollar industry with competitive youth leagues, specialized coaching, and elite training programs creating new barriers for entry.
According to a 2023 survey by Hockey Canada, the average annual cost to play minor hockey at the competitive level surpassed $5,000 per player, with some families paying upwards of $10,000.
House league participation costs are lower, but they’ve also crept upward, averaging between $800 and $1,200 per season not including travel and gear.
“I’ve seen a big difference over the past decade,” said Lindsay Cote, a mother of two boys playing minor hockey in the Greater Toronto Area. “When my eldest started, it was pricey, but manageable. Now with tournaments, extra ice time, and new equipment every year, it’s honestly overwhelming.”
Much of the rising cost is attributed to the growing privatization of the game. Many players now take part in offseason development camps, private skills sessions, and spring leagues that promise higher performance and improved chances of being scouted at a premium price.
Ice time itself has also become a major financial hurdle. Municipalities across the country are charging more to rent rinks, while older arenas are being shut down due to lack of funding, reducing access in some communities.
Hockey gear is another growing expense. A new set of mid-range equipment can easily run between $600 and $1,000. For fast-growing children, that often means replacing skates, pads, and sticks nearly every year.
Some organizations are working to make the sport more affordable. The NHL and NHLPA’s “First Shift” program offers introductory hockey packages, including gear and instruction, for $299.
Other local initiatives like used equipment drives and subsidy programs aim to lower entry barriers.
The Average Cost of Hockey Equipment from 1950 to 2025
Cost of Each Piece of Equipment from 1990 to 2025 (Red)
Travel has become one of the most unpredictable and costly aspects of the game. Weekend tournaments often require hotel stays, gas, and meals for entire families, with some elite teams flying out of province or even internationally for showcases. In some cases, annual travel-related expenses alone can run into the thousands, especially for families with multiple children in the sport.
Still, many worry the sport is becoming increasingly elitist.
Hockey gear is another growing concern. A full set of mid-range equipment including skates, helmet, shoulder pads, gloves, pants, and sticks can easily exceed $1,000.
“We’re seeing more parents come in with sticker shock,” said Mike Tran, assistant manager at a Toronto-based hockey supply store. “A good pair of junior skates can cost $300 to $600 now. And with how fast kids grow, they might need a new pair next season.”
At Pro Edge Sports in Mississauga, owner Sarah Dupuis says customers are becoming more cautious.
“People are asking more questions, looking for used gear, or sticking to last year’s models. We used to sell top-of-the-line sticks to 10-year-olds now, people are second-guessing that,” Dupuis said. “It’s not just about performance anymore. It’s about making the season financially possible.”
“The dream of playing hockey should be for everyone,” said Cote. “But for more and more families, it’s just not realistic anymore.”
As the cost of hockey continues to climb, parents, retailers, and advocates are calling for change whether through greater funding for community programs, affordable gear.
Many agree on one thing: If the sport is to remain accessible at all levels, the price of playing needs to come down.