“Convenience” is the currency of the fitness world, and no one spends it better than Anytime Fitness. With over 5,000 locations across all seven continents (yes, even Antarctica), owning that purple key fob is like having a passport to fitness anywhere in the world.
However, Anytime Fitness operates on a franchise model, meaning Anytime Fitness prices can fluctuate wildly depending on whether you are in New York City or a small town in Ohio.
In this updated 2026 guide, we will break down the current membership costs, explain the “bi-weekly” billing confusion, reveal the hidden Key Fob fees, and see how it compares to other 24-hour giants like Snap Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness.
Anytime Fitness Prices 2026: The Complete Breakdown
Unlike budget gyms that have a flat national rate, Anytime Fitness owners have autonomy. However, in 2026, we see a trend towards standardized pricing tiers to simplify the user experience.
Monthly Membership Costs
Most locations offer two main contract lengths:
> Important Note on Billing: Many Anytime Fitness clubs bill Bi-Weekly (every 14 days). This means you make 26 payments a year, not 12. Be sure to calculate the true annual cost.
The “Hidden” Key Fob Fee
This is the most common surprise for new members. To enter the gym 24/7, you need a security key (RFID fob).
Cost: $49 – $69 (One-time fee).
Is it refundable? Rarely. In 2026, some clubs are moving to “Digital Keys” via smartphone apps (Apple Wallet / Android), which may reduce this fee, but most locations still charge an activation fee for the digital credential.
“Join One, Join All”: Global Access Explained
The biggest perk of Anytime Fitness is reciprocity.
The Rule: After 30 days of membership at your home club, your key fob automatically works at any of the 5,000+ Anytime Fitness locations worldwide.
The “51% Rule”: You must visit your “Home Club” (where you signed up) more than any other location. If you move and start using a different Anytime Fitness more than 51% of the time, your membership may automatically transfer to that new club, potentially at their (higher) rate.
Amenities: What’s New in 2026?
Anytime Fitness has historically been a “meat and potatoes” gym—good equipment, clean showers, no fluff. But 2026 brings some upgrades.
AF Training Dashboard: The upgraded app now connects with your gym equipment to track reps and sets automatically.
Purple Turf: Almost all renovated locations now feature a functional training turf area for sled pushes, kettlebells, and TRX.
Private Showers: Unlike the locker room gangs at old-school gyms, Anytime Fitness is known for private, single-occupancy restrooms and showers—a huge plus for privacy.
Comparison: Anytime Fitness vs. Competitors
Anytime Fitness vs. Planet Fitness
Price: Planet Fitness is vastly cheaper ($10 vs $50).
Equipment: Anytime Fitness has Squat Racks and Barbells. Planet Fitness usually does not.
Crowds: Planet Fitness is often packed. Anytime Fitness is usually quieter and less crowded.
Verdict: Choose Anytime if you lift heavy; choose Planet if you want to save money.
(See full comparison: Anytime Fitness vs Planet Fitness)
Anytime Fitness vs. Snap Fitness
Price: Snap Fitness Prices are very similar (~$45/month).
Footprint: Anytime Fitness has roughly 2x-3x more locations than Snap Fitness globally.
Winner: Anytime Fitness purely for the network size. If you travel, AF is the better passport.
Anytime Fitness vs. Workout Anytime
Price: Workout Anytime Prices are generally lower ($19 – $29).
Facilities: Workout Anytime is often more basic. Anytime Fitness usually has better showers and more modern aesthetics.
Cancellation: The Elephant in the Room
Anytime Fitness contracts are notoriously difficult to cancel if you don’t follow the rules.
Process: You typically must visit in person or send a certified letter. You cannot cancel over the phone.
Fees: If you cancel mid-contract without a valid reason (like moving >25 miles away or medical disability), you may have to pay out 50% to 100% of the remaining contract value.
Read our detailed guide: How to Cancel Anytime Fitness Membership to avoid getting stuck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does Anytime Fitness have a student discount? Yes, many independently owned locations offer discounts for students, seniors, and military. You must ask the manager directly.
2. Can I bring a guest? Not automatically. Unlike the Planet Fitness Black Card, Anytime Fitness memberships are for you only. Bringing a guest during unstaffed hours (tailgating) can get you fined or your membership revoked. Guests usually must come during staffed hours and pay a fee.
3. Why is my Anytime Fitness more expensive than the one in the next town? Because they are franchises. Owners set rates based on their specific rent and operating costs. A club in downtown Chicago will cost more than one in rural Iowa.
Conclusion
In 2026, Anytime Fitness is rarely the cheapest option, but it is the most reliable. For $45 – $55 a month, you aren’t just paying for weights; you are paying for the security of knowing that wherever you go, there is a clean, safe, private place to work out waiting for you.
If you are a frequent traveler, a shift worker, or someone who hates the “gym bro” crowds at commercial gyms, Anytime Fitness is worth every penny.
