Top 10 Gyms in the USA (2025)
Looking to kickstart your fitness journey or upgrade your gym experience? Here's a detailed list of the top 10 gyms in the United States, known for their facilities, community, affordability, and results.
1. Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is one of the most recognized gym chains in America, especially for beginners. It promotes a “Judgement Free Zone,” making it welcoming for all body types and fitness levels. With over 2,300 locations nationwide and membership fees starting at just $10/month, it's incredibly accessible. Most locations offer 24/7 access, tons of cardio machines, light free weights, and basic strength training equipment. Premium memberships also grant access to tanning, massage chairs, and multiple locations.
2. Equinox
Equinox is a premium, luxury gym chain that combines fitness with an upscale lifestyle. Members enjoy state-of-the-art equipment, luxury locker rooms, spa-quality amenities, eucalyptus towels, and elite group classes like barre, cycling, yoga, and boxing. Equinox locations are typically found in large metro areas, including New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Memberships start at $200+/month but offer an unmatched boutique experience.
3. Life Time Fitness
Life Time goes beyond traditional fitness centers by offering a resort-style experience. These massive facilities often include indoor/outdoor pools, basketball courts, full-service spas, cafes, coworking spaces, and even kids' academies. Their group classes and training programs are top-notch. Although memberships can range from $90–$250/month, it’s worth the price for families or professionals looking for a lifestyle-focused fitness club.
4. LA Fitness
LA Fitness is a strong mid-range option with over 700 locations. It provides spacious gyms, full sets of machines and weights, pools, saunas, basketball courts, and fitness classes including Zumba and cycling. Memberships typically cost $30–$40/month and include multi-club access in many states. LA Fitness is a solid choice for general fitness enthusiasts who want value for money.
5. 24 Hour Fitness
As the name suggests, many 24 Hour Fitness locations operate around the clock, catering to early risers and night owls. These gyms are known for offering a wide range of equipment, HIIT zones, group classes, personal training, and basketball courts. With various membership levels and frequent promotional deals, it appeals to a broad spectrum of users. It's particularly popular on the West Coast.
6. Gold’s Gym
Gold's Gym started in Venice Beach, California in 1965 and became the mecca for bodybuilders, including Arnold Schwarzenegger. Today, it’s a global brand with over 700 locations worldwide. It continues to attract serious lifters but has evolved to include modern equipment, functional training zones, and group fitness classes. Memberships usually range from $30–$50/month depending on location.
7. Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness is one of the most accessible gym chains globally, with more than 5,000 locations in over 30 countries. Members get a key fob that provides 24/7 access to any location worldwide. These gyms tend to be smaller but well-equipped with essential cardio, weights, and functional training tools. Monthly costs vary by location, typically between $30–$50/month.
8. Crunch Fitness
Crunch Fitness combines affordability with creativity. Known for its fun and unique classes like twerk fitness, hip-hop yoga, and aerial fitness, Crunch attracts a younger, more diverse crowd. Their facilities are colorful, welcoming, and offer a full gym experience including strength training, cardio, and functional fitness areas. Memberships range from $10–$100/month depending on the package.
9. Orangetheory Fitness / F45 Training
Both Orangetheory and F45 are boutique fitness studios offering time-efficient, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. Orangetheory focuses on heart rate-based training with real-time data tracking, while F45 offers team-based functional workouts that change daily. These are ideal for busy professionals looking for a quick 45–60 minute calorie-torching class. Pricing typically ranges from $130–$180/month for unlimited classes.
10. Blink Fitness / Retro Fitness
Blink and Retro Fitness are budget-friendly options that provide excellent value. Blink promotes a “Mood Above Muscle” mindset, focusing on mental well-being through clean, bright gym spaces. Retro Fitness often includes unique perks like smoothie bars and cinema cardio rooms. Both offer memberships under $25/month, making fitness accessible to everyone, especially in urban areas.
Final Thoughts: Whether you’re looking for luxury, affordability, convenience, or group motivation—there’s a gym on this list to match your lifestyle and fitness goals. Visit a location near you and request a free trial to see which fits best!