How much for piano tuning
How Much Does Piano Tuning Cost in the US? (2025 Update)
If you own a piano—whether it’s an old upright tucked in the corner or a grand piano that takes up half your living room—you’ll eventually need to get it tuned. But how much does that actually cost? And is it even worth it if you’re not playing it every day?
In the United States, the average piano tuning in 2025 runs between $100 and $200 for standard service. However, costs can vary depending on a few things like the condition of your piano, where you live, and who you hire. Some jobs can go as high as $300 or more, especially if it’s been a while since your last tune-up.
So What’s the Typical Price?
Most people end up paying around $125 to $175 for basic tuning. If your piano hasn’t been tuned in years, your technician might recommend a pitch raise to bring it back to proper pitch, which could cost closer to $250 or even $300.
Concert-level tunings, or work on older grand pianos, can sometimes go beyond that. If you’re hiring a high-end technician who tunes for recording studios or performances, you’re looking at $300 to $500+, depending on complexity.
Factors That Affect the Price
- Piano Type – Grand pianos typically take longer to tune than uprights, so expect to pay a bit more.
- Time Since Last Tuning – A piano that’s been neglected for years might need extra time and adjustments.
- Your Location – Prices are higher in major cities. If you’re in NYC, L.A., or San Francisco, you may be charged on the upper end.
- The Technician’s Experience – More experienced and certified tuners usually cost more, but the quality often matches the price.
Want a solid overview of what maintenance a piano needs? Here’s a great resource from Yamaha: Piano Care Tips – Yamaha.
How Often Should You Tune?
Most tuners suggest twice a year, especially if your home goes through major temperature or humidity swings. But if your piano isn’t played much, tuning it at least once a year is a good habit.
Skipping years might not seem like a big deal, but it makes the next tuning harder and pricier. Also, if you’ve recently moved, had major weather changes, or bought a new piano, it’s smart to schedule a tuning sooner rather than later.
What’s Included in a Tuning?
A typical tuning session lasts about 1–2 hours. Your tuner will carefully adjust the tension of each string—there are over 200 of them—to bring everything back to standard pitch. They may also check the condition of the pins, hammers, and pedals.
Some techs offer light internal cleaning or minor fixes during the session. If they notice issues like sticky keys, buzzing sounds, or action problems, they’ll usually point them out and give you repair options. Here’s a helpful guide on that: Piano Tuner FAQs – PTG.
Can You Tune It Yourself?
There are DIY kits and YouTube videos, sure. But tuning a piano without training is risky. It’s not like tuning a guitar—you’re dealing with hundreds of strings and delicate parts under high tension. One mistake can cost more than the original tuning.
Final Thoughts
Piano tuning isn’t just for perfectionists or pros. It keeps your instrument sounding great and prevents bigger problems down the road. Even if you don’t play often, getting a tuning once or twice a year is a smart investment.
Need help finding a tuner near you? Check this directory: Find a Piano Technician – PTG.
Don’t wait until your piano sounds like it came from a haunted house. Keep it tuned and keep the music alive 🎵
