How much does a hot tub cost?
How much does a hot tub cost?
Hot tub prices range from $2,000 to $18,000. Above-ground Jacuzzis cost $3,000 to $10,000 on average. In-ground hot tubs cost $8,000 to $25,000 to install. Adding a salt water system to a hot tub costs $500 to $1,700. Hot tub delivery and installation costs $300 to $1,500.
$3,000 – $10,000 Above-ground hot tub prices
$8,000 – $25,000 In-ground hot tub prices
Hot tub prices range from $2,000 to $18,000. Above-ground Jacuzzis cost $3,000 to $10,000 on average. In-ground hot tubs cost $8,000 to $25,000 to install. Adding a salt water system to a hot tub costs $500 to $1,700. Hot tub delivery and installation costs $300 to $1,500.
Hot Tub Cost
A new hot tub costs $3,000 to $10,000 on average for above-ground models. Spa prices depend on the size, quality, features, brand, dealer's overhead, and warranty. Premium or luxury salt water hot tubs cost $6,500 to $18,000. In-ground hot tubs cost $8,000 to $25,000 to install.
| 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
Hot tub prices are negotiable. Dealers mark up hot tubs by 40% to 50%, leaving room to negotiate.
Lasts 5 to 20 years.
Improves range of motion, increases circulation, decreases anxiety and stress, promotes relaxation, and provides better sleep.
Relieves pain from conditions like joint stress, sore muscles, lower back pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Should be cleaned monthly with a complete draining three to four times a year.
An in-ground hot tub adds value to a home.
Hot Tub Prices
Hot tub prices range from $2,000 to $18,000 on average. Hot tub pricing depends on the size, quality, features, brand, dealer's overhead, delivery, installation, and warranty. The following table compares Jacuzzi prices by quality.
| Quality | Price Range | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $2,000 – $6,000 |
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| Value-Priced | $4,000 – $8,000 |
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| Premium | $8,000 – $11,000 |
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| Luxury | $11,000 – $18,000 |
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Above-Ground Hot Tub Cost
Above-ground hot tubs cost $3,000 to $10,000 on average, depending on the size, brand, quality, and shell material. Plastic above-ground hot tubs start at $2,000, while luxury acrylic Jacuzzis cost up to $18,000. Acrylic is the most common above-ground hot tub that lasts for 5 to 20 years.
| 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 |
Inflatable – Inexpensive, but not as durable and only lasts up to 5 years. Uses a standard 120V outlet and can be emptied and moved easily. May be fabric coated and come with jets and mood lights.
Rotomolded Plastic – Made from a plastic mold that creates a dull matte finish. Also called plug and play, these lightweight hot tubs are portable and use a standard 120V outlet. Although cheaper, it's poorly insulated, has fewer jets, and costs more in electricity each month than acrylic models.
Wooden – Wooden hot tubs have fewer features, a round or oval shape, straight seats and benches, and are deep. Choose from electric, gas, or wood-fired options. Often lined with vinyl for added insulation. Requires a concrete or plastic base or chine joists. Higher maintenance, but lasts up to 30 years.
Vinyl-Lined – A vinyl liner is used to cover a cement or wooden hot tub. Although inexpensive, a vinyl hot tub is not durable, fades over time from sunlight, and costs more to keep warm.
Acrylic / Fiberglass – Most common material that's smooth, well-insulated, and energy-efficient. Acrylic hot tubs are high-performance, durable, and comes in a wide variety of designs and features. Requires a 220V outlet but uses less energy than other hot tubs.
In-Ground Hot Tub Cost
In-ground hot tubs cost $8,000 to $25,000 to build new or add to an existing pool. Installing an in-ground hot tub in conjunction with an inground pool costs $6,000 to $15,000 more when built simultaneously. Prices depend on the size, material (concrete, vinyl, or acrylic), and labor.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Build New or Add To Existing Pool | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| Build In Conjunction With Inground Pool | $6,000 – $15,000 |
Built-in or below ground hot tubs add value to a home, but cost $30 to $100 per month operate.
| Factor | Above Ground | In-Ground |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $3,000 – $10,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Design | Hundreds of shapes and designs, smooth surface, ergonomic seats, better insulation. | Custom built to any design, size, and depth. Concrete can be rough, and seats typically not ergonomic. |
| Lifespan | 5 – 20 years | 10 – 50 years |
| Install Time | 6 to 8 hours | 2 to 6 weeks |
| Jets | Multiple and adjustable jet options | Limited jets and typically not adjustable. |
| Maintenance | Easier to maintain with side panel access | Expensive and difficult to repair |
Salt Water Hot Tub Cost
A saltwater hot tub costs $6,500 to $18,000. Adding a saltwater system to an existing hot tub costs $500 to $1,700 and is mostly compatible with premium and luxury spas. A saltwater generator costs less than chlorine or bromine and removes the need to use chemicals.
The electrolysis of salt and water produces chlorine to clean the spa water.
Using salt lowers maintenance and extends the time between drainings up to 12 months.
Saltwater hot tubs require replacing the cell in the saltwater generator every 3 to 6 years for $100 to $500.
Saltwater is softer and kinder to clothes and skin, but may corrode internal metal components over time.
Some manufacturers decline warranty coverage when installing an aftermarket salt system.
Portable Hot Tub Prices
Portable hot tub prices are $400 to $1,500 for inflatable spas and $2,000 to $6,000 for hard-sided spas. Portable, plug and play hot tubs use a standard 110V outlet that can easily be drained and moved. Portable hot tubs last up to 5 years if not well maintained.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Inflatable Hot Tub | $400 – $1,500 |
| Plastic Hard-Sided Hot Tub | $2,000 – $6,000 |
Indoor Jacuzzi vs. Outdoor Spa Prices
Both indoor and outdoor hot tubs cost $3,000 to $10,000 for the spa unit. However, indoor hot tub installations require additional alterations and remodeling to handle the weight, moisture, and heat.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor |
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| Outdoor |
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Jetted Spa Tub Prices
Indoor whirlpool jetted tubs cost $800 to $3,000 on average with high-end bath spas at $7,500 or more. A walk-in tub costs $2,000 to $12,000 with air or hydrotherapy jets. Indoor jetted tubs are cheaper and require less install work than backyard hot tubs, but only fits one or two people.
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Jetted Whirlpool Tub | $800 – $3,000 |
| Jetted Walk-in Tub | $2,000 – $12,000 |
Hot Tub Prices By Size
An average 4-person hot tub costs $2,000 to $8,000, a 6-person hot tub costs $3,000 to $10,000, and an 8 to 10-person hot tub costs $4,000 to $15,000. Hot tub manufacturers offer small, medium, and large size models. Standard hot tub sizes and prices are as follows:
| 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” |
4-Person Hot Tub Prices
A typical 4-person hot tub costs $2,000 to $8,000, while luxury 4-person spas cost up to $12,000. 4-person hot tub dimensions are 5’ x 5’ to 7’ x 7’ with a height of about 30’.
6-Person Hot Tub Prices
Most 6-person hot tub prices are $3,000 to $10,000, while luxury 6-person spas cost up to $15,000. The dimensions of a 6-person hot tub are 6’ x 6’ to 8’ x 8’ with a height of about 35’.
8 To 10-Person Hot Tub Cost
An 8 to 10-person hot tub costs $4,000 to $15,000 on average. Luxury 8-person spas cost up to $20,000. The dimensions of an 8-person hot tub are 7’ x 7’ to 9’ x 9’ with a height of about 37’.
Hot Tub Cost Calculator By Brand
Brands like Arctic Spas start at $2,000, while ThermoSpas cost up to $22,000. The best hot tub brands provide a better warranty, customer support, and easy access to replacement parts and repairs.
| 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
Arctic Spas – Energy-efficient insulation for year-round use. Smartphone app. Also produces all-weather swim spas. Many accessories are available.
Bullfrog Spas – Uses full foam insulation. Excellent warranty. JetPak Systems allows for interchangeable and adjustable jets.
Cal Spas – Offers many sizes, hydrotherapy jets, energy-efficient insulation, and also offers swim spas.
Caldera Spas – Offers entertainment and lighting systems, plus saltwater systems. Large variety of prices and features.
Dimension One Spas – Offers accent jets, therapy pillows, nonchlorine sanitation systems. Energy-efficient full foam insulation.
Hot Springs Spas – Popular brand with multiple jet types, energy-efficient insulation, luxury features, and a saltwater system option.
Jacuzzi Hot Tubs – Popular brand with hydromassage and ergonomic seating and headrests, and excellent customer service.
Marquis Spas – Quality manufacturing in the USA. Offers dozens of models in various shapes. Luxury options include a water management and filtration system, entertainment features, and microsilk cleaning system.
Soft Tub Spas – Portable, plug and play, soft-sided tubs, that are energy efficient.
Sundance Spas – High-end spas with patented jet technology. Energy-efficient full foam insulation. Smartphone app to adjust the temperature.
Swim Spas / Hydropool – Swim and fitness spas extend up to 39' long for training and exercise swimming against a current.
ThermoSpas – Ability to custom design a hot tub. Energy-efficient insulation.
Hot Tub Warranty
Most hot tub manufacturers provide a warranty of 5 to 10 years for leaks, 2 to 7 years for the shell, and 1 to 5 years for the plumbing and equipment.
Leak Warranty – Covers water leakage caused by normal wear and tear or a material defect
Plumbing and Equipment Warranty – Covers damage and replacement of spa equipment such as jets, pumps, and filters
Shell Warranty – Covers the shell's surface against blistering, cracking, or delamination
Delaminating causes structural damage if left unattended.
| 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
Spas cost $3,000 to $10,000 on average, depending on the size, features, quality, materials, warranty, portability, and performance. Hot tub dealers offer four tiers of spas: entry-level, value-priced, premium, and luxury. Each tier has a different level of features and customer support.
| National Average Cost | $6,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $400 |
| Maximum Cost | $35,000 |
| Average Range | $3,000 to $10,000 |
*Above-ground hot tubs without delivery or installation.
Hot Tub Accessories
Consider customizing your hot tub with accessories, add-ons, and features like:
| 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
Hot tubs use high-pressure jets to massage and stimulate circulation. The number of jets and their placement provides therapeutic relief to different areas of the body. Other optional water features include bubblers, a waterfall, a rain wall, or a fountain spout.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Rotary Jets | Move water in a circular pattern |
| Target Therapy Jets | Adjustable to provide targeted relief |
| Pressure Point Jets | Provide an acupressure-like massage |
| Cluster / Ozone Jets | Provide water flow from an open center |
| Shower Jets | Constant yet gentle stream of pressure |
| Foot Jets | Provide a pulsing massage to the bottom of your feet |
| Multimassage Jets | Small holes that generate a series of jet streams |
| Pulsator Jets | Alternating water pressure through two or more holes |
| Directional Jets | Adjustable in any direction |
| Kneading Oscillator Jets | Provide a kneading massage |
Use a combination of hot tub massage jets strategically positioned along the seating to target the body's sore areas.
Hot Tub Insulation
The best hot tub insulation is full foam, multi-density foam, barrier insulation, or FiberCor. Avoid the cheaper spray foam insulation as it becomes waterlogged. Quality insulation preserves heat, keeps the hot tub running efficiently, and extends the lifespan by protecting the major components.
| Hot Tub Quality | Insulation Grade | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inflatable / Entry-Level | D & F | Either no insulation or partial urethane foam and thermal wrap or blanket |
| Value-Priced | C | Full urethane foam insulation which supports the shell |
| Premium | B | FiberCor insulation. Four times denser than foam and easier to work around for repairs |
| Luxury | A | Multi-density and multi-layered full urethane foam. |
Cost To Install A Spa
Hot tub installation costs $150 to $500 for a basic electrical hook-up or $1,000 to $3,000 for delivery, new electrical wiring, installing a concrete pad, and chemicals and accessories like a cover lifter, steps, and spa lighting.
| Factor | Average Cost* |
|---|---|
| Basic Install | $150 – $500 |
| New Electrical Wiring & Install | $800 – $1,600 |
| Concrete Pad or Base | $500 – $2,500 |
| Delivery and Placement | $200 – $500 |
| Permit and Inspection | $100 – $250 |
*Average prices for an above ground hot tub.
Some dealers include installation free, but their 40% overhead and delivery fees offset any savings.
About 5% to 10% of deliveries require a crane costing $300 to $1,500 to move the hot tub over the house.
A DIY spa installation is dangerous and can void the warranty. Improper installation can lead to electrocution, potential fire hazards, or plumbing leaks.
Hot Tub Cost Per Month
The true cost to run a hot tub is $20 to $30 per month for above-ground hot tubs and $30 to $100 per month for in-ground or built-in hot tubs. Above-ground hot tubs require less monthly maintenance than in-ground units.
Hot Tub Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Are Hot Tubs Worth It?
To determine if a hot tub is worth it, consider the upfront installation costs, long-term expenses, how long it will last, increased insurance rates, ongoing maintenance fees, and the monthly cost to run a hot tub.
Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Worth It?
At an average price of $500, inflatable hot tubs are worth it for those who want a spa on a tight budget. Inflatable hot tubs last up to 5 years, with the average at 3 years of use. Most inflatable hot tub warranties provide 12 to 24 months of coverage.
How Long Do Hot Tubs Last?
A hot tub lasts 5 to 20 years on average. The average lifespan of a cheap or low-quality hot tub is up to 5 years if not well maintained. High quality, expensive hot tubs that receive regular maintenance last 20 years or more. A hot tub pump lasts 5 to 10 years on average.
| 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 you can buy is a basic inflatable hot tub for $300 to $1,500.
How Much Does A Good Hot Tub Cost?
A good hot tub costs $4,000 to $10,000 for a mid-tier that holds 4- to 6-people. Premium and luxury hot tubs cost $10,000 to $20,000 on average.
What’s The Difference Between a Hot Tub, Spa, and Whirlpool Tub?
Hot tub and spa are used interchangeably, though wooden designs are typically hot tubs and acrylic units are spas. A whirlpool tub is an indoor bathtub with active jets.
What Is The Most Expensive Hot Tub?
The most expensive hot tubs cost $12,000 to $35,000 for luxury models. Expensive hot tubs come with a sound system, outdoor TV, waterfall, lighting, 60+ jets, and often seat more than 9 people.
How Much Do ThermoSpas Cost?
ThermoSpas hot tubs cost $4,000 to $22,000, depending on the size, features, quality, customizations, and warranty length. A small two-person ThermoSpas hot tub starts at $4,000, while larger, luxury models with customizations cost $10,000+.
ThermoSpas are a specialty hot tub with high-quality filters, water purification, heating systems, and pumps. Customizations include lighting, jet configurations, and seating capacities.
Do I Need To Add Hot Tub To Homeowners Insurance?
A hot tub should be added to your homeowner's insurance to qualify for additional coverage relating to damages and injuries from the hot tub. Call your insurance company to discuss your coverage options.
Can A Hot Tub Be Tax Deductible?
To deduct the cost of a hot tub or swim spa on your tax return, you must establish the hot tub is the primary purpose for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. A hot tub can be claimed as a capital expense for a tax deduction, even though it's a home improvement.
Will Health Insurance Pay For A Hot Tub?
Depending on your insurance provider and plan, health insurance may pay for a new hot tub if your doctor provides a prescription for hydrotherapy to treat medical conditions like arthritis, poor circulation, or joint injuries.
How & Where To Buy A Hot Tub
The best place to buy a hot tub is at hot tub dealers or stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, Costco, Sam's Club, and Walmart. Hot tubs are also available online at Amazon and Wayfair. The best time of year to buy a hot tub is near the end of the year, Memorial Day, or Labor Day.
Most retailers and showrooms carry entry and mid-level spas, while high-end spas are typically sold through hot tub dealers only. Some dealers offer a wet test, a 15 to 30-minute test soak at the dealership at no cost.
Are Hot Tub Prices Negotiable?
Yes, hot tub prices are negotiable. Dealers mark up hot tubs by 40% to 50%, which leaves some room to negotiate.
Look for seasonal sales, discounted add-ons, promotions, and 1% to 2%-off for using cash.
Compare dealers and request quotes, including delivery, installation, and accessories.
How To Get The Best Prices on Hot Tubs
To get the best host tub prices near you, consider the following factors:
Discounts – Shop out of season, during a sale or event, ask about discounted inventory or military discounts, and look for coupons or rebates. You can often negotiate with a dealer, and some offer discounts for using cash.
Dealer Overhead – Local dealers provide a turnkey service with free installation, cheap delivery, and long-term customer support. However, their overhead may increase the overall cost by 40% to 50%. Going through a professional installer instead may save.
Delivery Fees – Long-distance hot tub deliveries add $0.50 to $3.00 per mile to the final cost.
Used Tubs – For good and cheap hot tubs, check used hot tub dealers. Look for hot tubs with a refurbished certificate and a warranty. Another option is checking the classifieds for used models, and hiring a hot tub mover and installer.
Financing – Financing all or a portion of the purchase price allows you to pay a low monthly payment, but you could pay double the original cost depending on the interest rate and loan terms.
Warranty – A full-coverage warranty is critical for long-term savings. Expect warranty coverage to last 5 to 10+ years for top-quality hot tubs.
Medical Condition – Those with a medical condition qualify for a tax deduction, reducing the cost of ownership by 25% to 40%.
Hiring A Hot Tub Installer
Some hot tub dealers include installation free, but their 40% overhead and delivery fees offset any savings. Consider purchasing the unit separately and hiring a professional hot tub installer.
Before hiring a contractor, be sure to:
Get at least three estimates to compare.
Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for 5+ years.
Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Ask for an itemized contract and warranty in writing.
Avoid making large payments upfront. Come up with a payment schedule for the work completed.
Questions To Ask Installers
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Can I see a portfolio of your past installation jobs?
Can you provide a list of references with contact information?
How do you handle damages that happen on the job?
Who's the project manager, and will you use subcontractors?
What hours do you and your crew work?
What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
What does your warranty policy include?
What’s your payment schedule?
Will you remove or dispose of my old hot tub?