Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $6,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,300 |
| Maximum Cost | $24,500 |
| Average Range | $3,000 to $10,000 |
| Sauna Types | Indoor, Outdoor, Custom, Portable |
| Influence Of Dimensions | Cost varies by size and capacity |
| Wood And Heaters | Various types affect final cost |
| Installation | Labor and requirements to consider |
Home Sauna Cost
A home sauna can provide a luxurious and health-boosting retreat within the comfort of your own residence. The cost to install a home sauna typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000; however, prices can be as low as $1,300 or reach as high as $24,500, depending on various factors.
| Home Sauna Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $6,000 |
| Minimum cost | $1,300 |
| Maximum cost | $24,500 |
| Average range | $3,000 to $10,000 |
Cost To Build A Sauna
The type of sauna you choose—whether indoor, outdoor, prefab, or custom—affects the overall cost. Below is an overview:
| Sauna Type | Average Cost* |
|---|---|
| Indoor prefab sauna room | $2,300 – $10,500 |
| Outdoor prefab sauna | $5,500 – $14,500 |
| Custom pre-cut sauna kit | $4,300 – $11,500 |
| Fully custom sauna | $8,000 – $34,000 |
Indoor Sauna Room Cost
Indoor saunas can be purchased in various configurations and prices. Here’s a detailed look:
| Kit Type | Average Cost (Kit Only) | Average Cost (With Installation) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-cut | $4,000 – $10,000 | $4,300 – $11,500 | – Includes sauna interior materials – Requires exterior wall framing and insulation |
| Prefab | $2,000 – $9,000 | $2,300 – $10,500 | – Includes all materials to build a freestanding sauna room – Available for indoor and outdoor |
| Fully custom | — | $8,000 – $20,000 | – Ideal for odd-shaped spaces and personalization |
Cost To Build An Outdoor Sauna
Building an outdoor sauna typically costs more than indoor options due to additional materials and potential weatherproofing needs.
| Outdoor Sauna Type | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| Prefab sauna | $5,500 – $14,500 |
| Custom-built sauna | $12,000 – $34,000 |
Portable / Personal Sauna Cost
Portable saunas offer an affordable and flexible option for personal use. Prices vary based on type and features.
| Portable Sauna Type | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Infrared blanket | $200 – $500 |
| Infrared dome | $800 – $2,600 |
| Tent-style (steam or infrared) | $200 – $1,000 |
Modular / Prefab Sauna Prices
Modular and prefab saunas provide convenience and cost-effectiveness. Below are some popular brands:
| Brand | Price* | Types | Traditional | Infrared | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Almost Heaven | $3,450 – $7,000 | Prefab, indoor, outdoor, barrel, cabin | ✓ | ✓ | Limited Lifetime |
| Cedarbrook | $4,500 – $10,000 | Pre-cut, prefab, indoor, outdoor | ✓ | ✓ | 1 year |
| Clearlight | $4,500 – $8,000 | Prefab indoor, outdoor | – | ✓ | Limited Lifetime |
| Dundalk | $6,500 – $13,000 | Prefab, indoor, outdoor, barrel | ✓ | – | 5 years |
| Finlandia | $5,500 – $12,000 | Pre-cut, indoor, outdoor | ✓ | – | 1 year |
Custom Sauna Construction Cost
Fully custom saunas provide the ultimate flexibility, allowing for personalized design and unique configurations.
| Custom Sauna Type | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Custom pre-cut | $4,300 – $11,500 |
| Fully custom | $8,000 – $34,000 |
Cost To Build A Dry Sauna Vs. Wood Burning
Infrared Sauna Cost
When comparing infrared saunas to traditional ones, the operating mechanics, temperature, and costs differ significantly.
| Infrared Saunas | Traditional Saunas | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature (F) | 120° – 140° | 150° – 195° |
| Preheat Time | No preheat required | 30 – 40 minutes |
| Heating Method | Heats the body directly | Heats the air to heat the body |
| Control | Temperature control only | Temperature and humidity control |
| Ventilation | Not required | Ventilation required |
| Electrical Connection | Typically uses a standard outlet | Typically requires a 220V circuit |
Sauna Installation Cost Factors
Several factors can influence the final cost of installing a sauna, such as the size, type of wood, heaters, and additional features.
Sauna Costs By Dimensions And Sizes
The cost to install a sauna can also vary based on its dimensions and capacity.
| Size | Average Cost* | Dimensions | Square Footage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,500 – $4,600 | – 3’ x 4’ – 3’ x 5’ | 12 – 15 |
| 2-4 person | $2,800 – $7,700 | – 4’ x 4’ – 4’ x 6’ – 5’ x 6’ – 5’ x 7’ – 6’ x 6’ | 16 – 36 |
| 5-7 person | $5,000 – $13,000 | – 6’ x 8’ – 8’ x 8’ | 48 – 64 |
| 8-10 person | $7,000 – $15,000 | – 8’ x 10’ – 8’ x 12’ – 10’ x 10’ – 10’ x 12’ | 80 – 96 |
Labor Cost To Install Residential Sauna Kits
Home Sauna Wood Types And Prices
The type of wood used can significantly affect both the aesthetic and function of the sauna.
| Wood Type | Material Cost per Square Foot | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Red Cedar | $2 – $15 | – Bold color – Resists decay and distortion – Repels insects – Lightly scented |
| Hemlock | $1 – $5 | – Good for sensitive skin – Less expensive but not as strong as cedar – Knot-free |
| Nordic White Spruce | $5 – $30 | – Lightest color – Darkens slightly over time – Preferred for exterior walls |
| Pine | $1 – $5 | – Large knots – More likely to splint – Suitable for framing, not for interior |
| Redwood | $3 – $5 | – Similar to cedar – Discolors over time from oil and sweat |
| Basswood | $1 – $3 | – Affordable – Resists distortion – No odor |
Electrical Costs To Make A Home Sauna
Requirements And Locations To Put A Sauna
Proper planning is essential when deciding where to install your sauna.
| Basic Requirements | Locations |
|---|---|
| – Waterproof floor | – Bathroom |
| – Proper Insulation | – Basement |
| – Incoming and outgoing ventilation | – Cabana |
| – Plumbing access (for steam saunas with a drain) | – Closet |
| – Deck | |
| – Garage | |
| – Home gym | |
| – Pool house | |
| – Porch | |
| – Shed | |
| – Under a staircase |
Sauna Heater Cost
Different types of heaters come with various costs and benefits.
| Heater Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Infrared | $200 – $600 |
| Electric | $700 – $3,800 |
| Wood-burning | $800 – $3,000 |
| Gas | $800 – $4,600 |
Sauna Features And Accessories Prices
Adding features and accessories can enhance your sauna experience.
| Accessory | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Backrest | $45 – $175 |
| Bench | $100 – $200 |
| Brushes | $10 – $35 |
| Control panel | $250 – $800 |
| Door | $700 – $1,200 |
| Floor mat | $20 – $100 |
| Fog-free mirror | $25 – $450 |
| Fragrances / aromatherapy | $25 – $70 |
| Headrest | $30 – $80 |
| Hygrometer | $30 – $60 |
| Lights / chromatherapy | $50 – $300 |
| Oxygen ionizer | $45 – $200 |
| Robe hook | $20 – $30 |
| Sauna rocks | $40 – $90 |
| Sand timer | $40 – $60 |
| Seat cushion | $80 – $400 |
| Soaps | $5 – $10 |
| Speakers / sound system | $150 – $900 |
| Thermometer | $20 – $80 |
| Water bucket and ladle | $65 – $125 |
| Thermometer / hygrometer combo | $40 – $100 |
| Window | $250 – $900 |
Home Sauna Vs. Steam Shower Room Cost
When choosing between a home sauna and a steam shower, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Sauna | Steam Room/Shower |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000 – $10,000 | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Temperature (F) | 120° – 195° | 100° – 120° |
| Humidity | Below 10% | Near 100% |
| Pros | – Stress reduction and relaxation – Alleviates muscle and joint pain – Increases circulation – Good for the skin – Decreases exercise recovery time – Best for arthritis – May improve sleep quality | – Stress reduction and relaxation – Alleviates muscle and joint pain – Increases circulation – Good for the skin – Decreases exercise recovery time – Best for allergies and congestion – May use less space than a sauna |
| Cons | – Prolonged use leads to dry skin – Not recommended for people with heart conditions – Potential reproductive issues in men | – Prolonged use leads to dehydration – High risk of bacteria growth – May worsen arthritis pain |
Home Sauna FAQs
Where And How To Buy A Sauna
How Much Does A Sauna Cost To Run?
| Sauna Type | 20-Minute Session Cost |
|---|---|
| Electric | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Wood-burning | $4 – $8 |
Does An At-Home Sauna Increase Home Value?
How Much Does It Cost To Build A Salt Room?
How Long Does It Take To Build A Sauna?
| Type | Hours To Build |
|---|---|
| Prefab (indoor) | 2 – 4 |
| Prefab (outdoor) | 15 – 20 |
| Pre-cut | 14 – 20 |
How Much Does It Cost To Maintain Or Repair A Sauna?
How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Sauna?
Finding Sauna Installation Contractors Near You
Questions To Ask
When hiring a contractor for sauna installation, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you get a quality job. Some essential questions to consider include:
- What experience do you have with sauna installations?
- Can you provide examples of past projects or references?
- What is the estimated timeline for installation?
- What are the specific costs involved, including labor and materials?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your work?
By carefully considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision on installing a home sauna that fits your needs and budget.
