Key Takeaways
| Topic | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | Ranges from $400 for an inflatable to $25,000 for in-ground hot tubs |
| Hot Tub Types | Inflatable, Portable, Above Ground, Salt Water, In-ground |
| Quality and Performance | Entry-Level, Value-Priced, Premium, Luxury |
| Additionally Considered | Installation, accessories, jets, insulation, monthly costs |
Owning a hot tub can offer both relaxation and health benefits. But before making an investment, it is essential to know the potential costs involved. This guide delves into the various factors that influence hot tub prices, helping you make informed decisions.
$3,000 – $10,000: Above-Ground Hot Tub Prices
Above-ground hot tubs generally range from $3,000 to $10,000. These hot tubs, known for their affordability and ease of installation, offer numerous design options and ergonomic seating.
$8,000 – $25,000: In-Ground Hot Tub Prices
In-ground hot tubs, which range from $8,000 to $25,000, are more customizable and potentially long-lasting but come with higher installation and maintenance costs.
Hot Tub Cost
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Inflatable | $400 – $1,500 |
| Portable | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Above Ground | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Salt Water | $6,500 – $18,000 |
| In-ground | $8,000 – $25,000 |
Quick Facts
- Inflatable hot tubs are the most affordable but have shorter lifespans.
- Salt water hot tubs come with higher upfront costs but lower maintenance expenses.
- Installation costs can greatly vary depending on the type and setup.
Hot Tub Prices
| Quality | Price Range | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $2,000 – $6,000 | Basic features, minimal jets, light-weight, easy to move |
| Value-Priced | $4,000 – $8,000 | Common models, better materials, good insulation |
| Premium | $8,000 – $11,000 | High-quality materials, powerful jets, energy efficient |
| Luxury | $11,000 – $18,000 | Advanced features, customizable, ergonomic seating |
Above-Ground Hot Tub Cost
| Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Inflatable | $400 – $1,500 |
| Rotomolded Plastic | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Wooden | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Vinyl-Lined | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| Acrylic/Fiberglass | $4,000 – $18,000 |
In-Ground Hot Tub Cost
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Build New | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| With Inground Pool | $6,000 – $15,000 |
Comparison: Above Ground vs. In-Ground Hot Tub
| Factor | Above Ground | In-Ground |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000 – $10,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Design | Variety of shapes/designs | Customizable, but rougher surfaces |
| Lifespan | 5 – 20 years | 10 – 50 years |
| Install Time | 6 to 8 hours | 2 to 6 weeks |
| Jets | Adjustable, multiple options | Limited, not adjustable |
| Maintenance | Easier, accessible side panels | Expensive, difficult |
Salt Water Hot Tub Cost
Salt water hot tubs tend to be more expensive initially but are often easier to maintain and come with benefits like reduced chlorine use.
Portable Hot Tub Prices
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Inflatable Hot Tub | $400 – $1,500 |
| Plastic Hard-Sided Hot Tub | $2,000 – $6,000 |
Indoor Jacuzzi vs. Outdoor Spa Prices
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor | More privacy, less maintenance, lasts longer, year-round use | Expensive, structural alterations needed, ventilation required |
| Outdoor | Cheaper, easier to install, natural draining, more space | Exposed to elements, less private, installation costs for electrical work. |
Jetted Spa Tub Prices
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Jetted Whirlpool Tub | $800 – $3,000 |
| Jetted Walk-in Tub | $2,000 – $12,000 |
Hot Tub Prices By Size
| Size | Average Cost | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 – 4 Person | $2,000 – $8,000 | 5’4” – 7’ | 5’4” – 6’8” | 29” – 35” |
| 5 – 6 Person | $3,000 – $15,000 | 6’6” – 7’9” | 6’4” – 7’9” | 33” – 38.5” |
| 7+ Person | $4,000 – $20,000 | 7’ – 9’ | 7’ – 9’2” | 36” – 38” |
Hot Tub Cost Calculator By Brand
| Brand | Price Range |
|---|---|
| American Spas | $4,000 – $5,000 |
| Aquaterra Spas | $2,500 – $3,500 |
| Artic Spas | $2,000 – $16,000 |
| Bullfrog Spas | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Cal Spas | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Caldera Spas | $3,000 – $11,000 |
| Canadian Spas | $3,000 – $30,000 |
| Dimension One Spas | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Divine Hot Tubs | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Evolution Spas | $3,000 – $9,000 |
| Home and Garden Spas | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Hot Springs Spas | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Jacuzzi Hot Tubs | $4,000 – $16,000 |
| LifeSmart Spas | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Marquis Spas | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| Master Spas | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Nordic Hot Tubs | $3,500 – $10,000 |
| QCA Spas | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Softub Spas | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Sundance Spas | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Swim Spa / Hydropool | $10,000 – $40,000 |
| ThermoSpas | $4,000 – $22,000 |
| Viking Spas | $4,000 – $11,000 |
| Whirlpool Jetted Tubs | $1,500 – $10,000 |
Compare Hot Tub Brands
When choosing a hot tub, comparing features, material quality, and warranty is crucial. A higher upfront cost sometimes translates to longer lifespan and better features.
Hot Tub Warranty
| Brand | Leak Warranty | Shell Warranty | Plumbing Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Spas | 5 years | 2 years | 1 year |
| Aquaterra | 5 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Artic | Lifetime | 5 years | 5 years |
| Aston | 5 years | 3 years | 2 years |
| Bullfrog | 10 years | 7 years | 5 years |
| Caldera | 10 years | 7 years | 5 years |
| Canadian | 10 years | 2 years | 1 year |
| Divine | 5 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Evolution | Lifetime | 5 years | 2 years |
| Home and Garden | 5 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Hot Springs | 7 years | 5 years | 5 years |
| Jacuzzi | 10 years | 7 years | 5 years |
| LifeSmart | 5 years | 5 years | 1 year |
| Master | 5 years | 5 years | 2 years |
| Marquis | 10 years | 7 years | 5 years |
| Sundance | 10 years | 5 years | 5 years |
| ThermoSpas | 20 years | 10 years | 10 years |
| QCA Spas | 10 years | 5 years | 3 years |
Spa Cost Factors
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $6,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $400 |
| Maximum Cost | $35,000 |
| Average Range | $3,000 to $10,000 |
Hot Tub Accessories
| Accessory | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Cover | $50 – $700 |
| Cover Lifter | $150 – $400 |
| Cover Lock | $15 – $130 |
| Non-Slip Stairs | $60 – $400 |
| Privacy Screen | $150 – $600 |
| Drink Holders | $25 – $200 |
| Thermometer | $10 – $50 |
| Salt Water System | $500 – $1,700 |
| Ozonator | $100 – $300 |
| Spa Lighting | $25 – $60 per light |
| Chemical Tester | $7 – $100 |
| Headrests | $15 – $100 |
| Drainage Pump | $100 – $400 |
| Independent Water Heater | $150 – $1,500 |
| Audio System | $150 – $500+ |
| Vacuum | $40 – $150 |
Hot Tub Jets
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Rotary Jets | Move water in a circular pattern |
| Target Therapy Jets | Adjustable for targeted relief |
| Pressure Point Jets | Provide acupressure-like massage |
| Cluster/Ozone Jets | Open-center water flow |
| Shower Jets | Gentle, constant stream |
| Foot Jets | Pulsing foot massage |
| Multimassage Jets | Series of jet streams |
| Pulsator Jets | Alternating water pressure |
| Directional Jets | Adjustable in any direction |
| Kneading Oscillator Jets | Kneading massage |
Hot Tub Insulation
| Hot Tub Quality | Insulation Grade | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inflatable/Entry-Level | D & F | No or partial insulation |
| Value-Priced | C | Full urethane foam |
| Premium | B | FiberCor insulation, dense and repairable |
| Luxury | A | Multi-density, layered urethane foam |
Cost To Install A Spa
| Factor | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Install | $150 – $500 |
| New Electrical Wiring | $800 – $1,600 |
| Concrete Pad/Base | $500 – $2,500 |
| Delivery and Placement | $200 – $500 |
| Permit and Inspection | $100 – $250 |
Hot Tub Cost Per Month
The monthly maintenance cost of a hot tub can range from $20 to $30. Costs include electricity, water, and chemicals for keeping the water clean and balanced.
Hot Tub Pros And Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduces blood pressure and stress | High upfront and monthly costs |
| Improves blood circulation | Maintenance like cleaning and pH testing |
| Relieves tension and pain | Additional installation expenses |
| Year-round use | Attracts insects and rodents |
| Adds home value (in-ground) | Increased property taxes (in-ground) |
| Lasts over 20 years with maintenance | Less longevity in cheap, poorly maintained tubs |
Are Hot Tubs Worth It?
Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Worth It?
Inflatable hot tubs are cost-effective and perfect for those who need a temporary or low-cost solution. They offer the least longevity but do provide many of the same relaxation benefits as permanent hot tubs.
How Long Do Hot Tubs Last?
| Quality | Lasts (Years) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | Up to 5 |
| Average | 5 – 20 |
| High-Quality | 20 or more |
What’s The Cheapest Price Hot Tub?
The cheapest hot tub options tend to be inflatable models, starting at around $400.
How Much Does A Good Hot Tub Cost?
A good hot tub, balancing features and quality, will generally cost from $4,000 to $15,000.
What’s The Difference Between A Hot Tub, Spa, And Whirlpool Tub?
- Hot Tub: Generally refers to a wood or plastic tub filled with water used mostly for relaxation.
- Spa: Often an all-encompassing term that includes hot tubs and pools meant for relaxation or hydrotherapy.
- Whirlpool Tub: Typically an indoor jetted bath, often found in bathrooms.
What Is The Most Expensive Hot Tub?
The most expensive hot tubs can reach up to $40,000, often depending on the brand, custom features, and installation costs.
How Much Do ThermoSpas Cost?
ThermoSpas range from $4,000 to $22,000, depending on the model and features.
Do I Need To Add Hot Tub To Homeowners Insurance?
Yes, it’s recommended to add a hot tub to homeowners insurance, especially to cover potential damage, liability, or accidents.
Can A Hot Tub Be Tax Deductible?
Those with medical conditions may qualify for a tax deduction, reducing the cost by 25% to 40%.
Will Health Insurance Pay For A Hot Tub?
Some health insurance plans cover hot tubs as a medical necessity if prescribed by a doctor.
How & Where To Buy A Hot Tub
When buying a hot tub, consider factors such as price range, features, and maintenance requirements. Research multiple brands and get quotes to find the best deal.
Are Hot Tub Prices Negotiable?
Yes, prices can be negotiable. Always ask for discounts or promotions when shopping for a hot tub.
How To Get The Best Prices On Hot Tubs
- Compare multiple options
- Look for promotions and sales
- Consider buying off-season
Hiring A Hot Tub Installer
Ensure the installer is certified and experienced to avoid complications. Checking reviews and ratings helps to determine credibility.
Questions To Ask Installers
- What is included in the installation cost?
- Do you offer a warranty on installation?
- How long will the installation process take?
- Can you provide references or examples of past projects?
With this comprehensive guide, we aim to provide clarity on the costs associated with purchasing and maintaining a hot tub, enabling you to make an informed decision.
