Should You Rent or Lease a Space for Your Med Spa?

Choosing a Space? Here's What Med Spa Owners Need to Know
Before you can welcome your first client, you have a big decision to make: where will your med spa actually be located?

Finding the correct location is essential—but knowing how to secure that location is just as crucial. Should you rent a treatment room inside an existing space? Lease a suite? Build out a custom spa? Each option has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your specific goals, timeline, and budget.

Let’s break it down.

Option 1: Renting a Room in an Existing Business

This is a great entry point for injectors, estheticians, or nurses just starting out. You’re essentially a tenant inside another business, like a salon or wellness center.

What to Know:

  • Startup Cost: Low

  • Commitment: Month-to-month or short-term

  • Control: Limited (you may not get to brand the space or set your hours)

  • Ideal For: Testing your market, side-hustling, or starting lean

Option 2: Leasing a Suite in a Commercial Building

Leasing your own space gives you full control over branding, services, and scheduling. It’s more of a commitment but allows for long-term growth.

What to Know:

  • Startup Cost: Moderate to high (buildout, insurance, furnishing)

  • Commitment: 3–5 year lease typical

  • Control: Full branding, layout, hours, staffing

  • Ideal For: Business owners ready to establish their own brand identity

Option 3: Purchasing or Building a Space

This option offers the most equity potential, but also comes with the biggest up-front costs. Some med spa owners build their dream facilities or purchase commercial condos as a long-term investment.

What to Know:

  • Startup Cost: Very high

  • Commitment: Long-term investment

  • Control: Total freedom to design, expand, and customize

  • Ideal For: Experienced owners planning a flagship or multi-service facility

🔗 Curious about your financing options? Let’s talk strategy.

Things to Consider Before You Sign Anything

✅ Zoning & Licensing

Not every office space is zoned for a medical business. Check with your city’s zoning department before signing a lease.

✅ Utility Requirements

Does your device require dedicated circuits, plumbing, or ventilation? Ensure the space can accommodate your technology.

✅ Noise + Privacy

Is the suite next to a loud salon? Does it have proper soundproofing for client comfort? These details matter more than you’d think.

✅ Branding Restrictions

Some buildings restrict the use of signage or specific paint colors. Ensure you understand what you’re allowed to change.

Final Thought 

Whether you’re looking to dip a toe in or build a full-scale spa, the right space sets the tone for everything, from how clients feel to how fast you grow.

Still unsure what’s right for you? 🔗 Book a consultation with our team, and we’ll walk you through it.

Alexis Ufland

Alexis has spent over 25 years shaping the global spa, beauty, and wellness industry, helping launch some of the most successful spa concepts across Europe, Asia, and the U.S. She’s the founder of LEXI DESIGN and SPA SOCIAL, where she combines strategic expertise with creative vision to help brands innovate, grow, and deliver exceptional client experiences.

https://www.lexidesign.com/
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