Greenhouse ROI & Budget Calculator

Analyze the financial viability of your greenhouse operation. Calculate startup costs, ongoing expenses, revenue projections, and return on investment to make informed business decisions.

Greenhouse Business Analysis

Production Setup
Enter the length of your greenhouse in feet
Enter the width of your greenhouse in feet
Financial Analysis

Startup Costs

Enter the cost of the greenhouse structure in dollars
Enter the cost of greenhouse equipment in dollars
Enter the cost of site preparation in dollars
Enter the cost of utility connections in dollars
Enter the cost of permits and fees in dollars
Enter the cost of initial inventory and supplies in dollars

Annual Operating Costs

Energy:
Labor:
Seeds/Plants:
Fertilizer:
Other Expenses:

Greenhouse Business Financial Planning

Startup Cost Categories

  • Structure & Site: Greenhouse kit, foundation, permits
  • Environmental Systems: Heating, cooling, ventilation
  • Growing Equipment: Benches, irrigation, lighting
  • Utilities & Infrastructure: Electrical, plumbing, access roads
  • Initial Inventory: Seeds, supplies, tools

Operating Expenses

  • Energy Costs: Heating, cooling, lighting (30-50% of expenses)
  • Labor: Growing, harvesting, maintenance
  • Materials: Seeds, fertilizer, pest control
  • Utilities: Water, electricity, insurance
  • Marketing: Sales, distribution, packaging

Revenue Factors by Crop Type

Revenue potential by crop type including annual production cycles and typical market premiums.
Crop TypeRevenue/Sq Ft/YearProduction CyclesMarket Premium
Leafy Greens$15-258-12 per year2-3x field grown
Tomatoes$25-402-3 per year1.5-2x field grown
Herbs$30-506-10 per year3-5x field grown
Flowers$20-353-6 per year2-4x field grown

Market Channels & Pricing

Direct Sales

Farmers markets, CSA, farm stand

Highest Margins

Restaurants

Local chefs, specialty dining

Premium Pricing

Wholesale

Grocery stores, distributors

Volume Sales

Financial Performance Metrics

  • Break-Even Point: When total revenue equals total costs
  • Return on Investment (ROI): Annual profit as % of initial investment
  • Payback Period: Time to recover initial investment
  • Net Present Value (NPV): Present value of future cash flows
  • Cash Flow: Monthly/seasonal cash requirements
  • Profit Margin: Net profit as % of revenue

Success Factors for Profitability

  • Market Research: Understand local demand and pricing
  • Crop Selection: Choose high-value, fast-turning crops
  • Efficient Production: Maximize yield per square foot
  • Energy Management: Control heating and cooling costs
  • Quality Control: Consistent, premium products command higher prices
  • Sales Channels: Diversify revenue streams

💰 Profitability Tips

  • Start with proven, high-demand crops in your area
  • Build relationships with buyers before you start production
  • Consider value-added products (washed, packaged, processed)
  • Plan for seasonal cash flow variations
  • Keep detailed records to track actual vs. projected costs
  • Consider agritourism or educational programs for additional revenue

⚠️ Risk Considerations

  • Market price volatility and competition
  • Weather events affecting heating/cooling costs
  • Equipment failures and maintenance costs
  • Pest and disease outbreaks
  • Labor availability and costs
  • Energy price fluctuations