How much does an in-ground hot tub cost?
How much does an in-ground hot tub cost?
$6,000 – $17,000 total cost (prefab)
$8,000 – $25,000 total cost (custom)
Average in-ground hot tub cost
An in-ground hot tub costs $6,000 to $17,000 installed for a prefabricated model or $8,000 to $25,000 for a custom-built tub. The price of an in-ground hot tub, also called spa or jacuzzi, depends mostly on its size and features. Extras like waterfalls or built-in audio systems cost more.
| National Average Cost | $15,500 |
| Minimum Cost | $5,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $35,000 |
| Average Range | $6,000 to $25,000* |
*Including installation
In-ground hot tub prices by size
In-ground hot tub prices vary depending on the size and capacity of the tub. Larger hot tubs that seat more people cost more than smaller ones.
| Size | Average price (unit only) | Capacity | Dimensions (square feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | $3,000 – $9,000 | 2 – 4 people | 30 – 50 |
| Medium | $4,000 – $15,000 | 5 – 6 people | 40 – 60 |
| Large | $5,000 – $20,000 | 7+ people | 50 – 85 |
In-ground hot tub cost factors
The cost to build an in-ground hot tub depends mostly on size and features. Custom, high-end tubs with upgrades cost more than standard, prefabricated tubs.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $3,000 – $20,000 |
| Labor | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Total cost | $6,000 – $25,000 |
The following factors will influence your final cost:
Standard vs. luxury – A standard hot tub costs less than a luxury in-ground spa. However, luxury hot tubs typically have more jets, higher energy efficiency, waterfall features, built-in steps, or built-in audio systems.
Excavation – Excavation costs $2.50 to $15.00 per cubic yard, depending on your soil type, terrain, and the tub’s size and depth.
Electricity – Electrical work costs $800 to $1,500 for installing hot tub wiring.
Plumbing & heating – New plumbing pipes cost $450 to $1,800, depending on whether the tub is prefabricated or custom. An independent water heating system costs $150 to $1,500. Electric heaters are typically the cheapest and most common, but gas and propane heaters can heat up the water faster.
Delivery – Delivering and placing the hot tub costs $200 to $500 for standard jobs. A crane delivery costs $800 to $1,500+ and may be necessary if the area is inaccessible.
Permit – Permits for installing an in-ground hot tub cost $100 to $250, depending on local regulations.
Labor
The labor to install a hot tub costs $3,000 to $5,000 on average and typically includes necessary electrical work, plumbing, delivery, and permits. In-ground hot tubs cost more to install than above-ground hot tubs because they take more time and effort.
Since hot tubs weigh up to six tons when filled, your contractor may need to pour a concrete base or reinforce the area another way.
Running a hot tub
The cost to run a hot tub is $20 to $60 per month in energy costs, as well as $120 to $370 per year in chemicals and filters to keep the water clean. Chlorine is the most common and inexpensive sanitation chemical, although some choose to use bromine or saltwater instead.
Repairing a hot tub cost $200 to $500, depending on the issue. Common problems include leaks, issues with the heater, jet malfunctions, or damage to the frame.
In-ground hot tub FAQs
Do in-ground hot tubs add value to a house?
In-ground hot tubs can add value to a house, depending on the prospective buyer. A well-maintained hot tub in attractive landscaping is an attractive feature for some, while others would not be interested in the maintenance costs of a hot tub.
In-ground hot tubs are customizable, great for entertaining, and easier to get into than above-ground spas.
How far should an in-ground hot tub be from the house?
Professionals recommend keeping hot tubs at least 5 feet away from your house or any other structure. This will prevent water damage if the hot tub ever leaks.
How soon can you use an in-ground hot tub after installation?
You can use a hot tub 24 to 48 hours after installation. You should leave the filled tub overnight to make sure the chemicals in the water balance out. After that, the water will take 4 to 8 hours to heat up to a comfortable temperature.
Are in-ground hot tubs hard to maintain?
In-ground hot tubs are not hard to maintain, but they require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Some hot tubs have automatic circulation cycles that run the water through filters. Others require turning on the hot tub manually for 15 to 20 minutes to filter the water.
Getting estimates from in-ground hot tub installers
Before hiring hot tub installers near you, make sure to:
Compare 3+ quotes from companies with several years of experience.
Verify that they have a license, bonds, and liability insurance.
Explore reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Request an itemized bid and contract.
Beware of the lowest quotes, which often indicate low-quality work.
Follow a payment plan instead of making a large payment upfront.
Questions to ask hot tub installers
Ask these questions to find an experienced installer:
How long have you been installing in-ground hot tubs?
Can you provide any references?
Do you have a portfolio of past installation jobs?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you give free estimates?
How long will the installation take?
What happens if the hot tub is damaged during the installation?
Do you hire subcontractors?
What type of plumbing and electrical work do I need? Will you be doing that?
Will you get the building permits for this job?
Do you offer any guarantees or warranties?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.