How much does a steam room cost?
How much does a steam room cost?
$2,800 – $7,000 average installed cost (prefab)
$4,000 – $14,000+ average installed cost (custom)
Average steam room price
A steam room costs $2,800 to $7,000 with installation for prefabricated kits or $4,000 to $14,000+ on average for custom-built steam rooms. The price of a steam room depends on the size, material quality, and whether you decide to add other elements like a shower, seating, or an aromatherapy system.
| Steam room type | Average installed cost (prefab) |
Average installed cost (custom) |
|---|---|---|
| Steam room | $2,800 – $7,000 | $4,000 – $14,000+ |
| Steam shower | $2,900 – $6,800 | $4,000 – $16,500 |
Steam room
A prefabricated steam room system costs $2,800 to $7,000 with installation, while a custom-built steam room costs $4,000 to $14,000+ total. High-end, luxury steam rooms with extensive features can exceed $20,000 to $30,000.
Steam shower
A hybrid steam room or steam shower costs $2,900 to $6,800 for a prefabricated system or $2,300 to $11,700 to convert an existing shower into a steam shower. Custom options range from $4,000 to $16,500.
As the name suggests, a steam shower is a steam room with a built-in shower and is often created by sealing a walk-in shower space and adding steam equipment. This type of steam room combines the convenience and cleanliness of a regular shower with the therapeutic benefits of a steam room. Steam showers are space-efficient and easy to integrate into existing bathrooms.
What is a steam room?
A steam room is an enclosed space that uses steam to create a hot, humid environment. Builders use waterproof materials such as tile or glass to prevent moisture damage. The room maintains temperatures between 110°F to 120°F with nearly 100% humidity.
People use steam rooms to relax muscles, improve circulation, and promote detoxification through sweating. You can find steam rooms in gyms, spas, and luxury homes, where they provide a soothing, spa-like experience that supports both physical and mental wellness.
Steam room installation cost factors
The actual cost for a steam room depends mostly on material and labor costs. Add-ons like aromatherapy pumps, seating, sound systems, and custom lighting can increase the total cost.
| Component | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Steam generator | $500 – $2,500 |
| Waterproofing & tiling | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Steam room door | $500 – $2,000 |
| Installation & labor | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Plumbing & electrical | $500 – $2,000 |
| Ventilation system | $200 – $1,000 |
| Control panel & accessories | $300 – $1,500 |
| Additional features (optional) | $500 – $2,000+ |
Several other factors influence the cost of a steam room:
Size: Small, one-person steam rooms cost less than larger ones, which require more materials, a bigger steam generator, and longer installation times.
Materials used: High-end tiles, specialty glass, and premium fixtures raise the overall cost. Waterproofing and insulation materials are essential for durability and safety. A glass shower enclosure costs $800 to $3,600 with installation.
Steam generator quality: The size and quality of the steam generator directly affect both the upfront and long-term maintenance costs. More powerful, efficient units are pricier but necessary for larger spaces.
Labor: Professional plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour, depending on their experience, local rates, and the complexity of the installation. Projects requiring significant plumbing, electrical work, or structural changes will cost more.
Location and accessibility: Installation in hard-to-reach or upper-floor bathrooms may require additional work, impacting both time and budget.
Maintenance and utilities: Consider the long-term costs of increased water and electricity usage, as well as regular maintenance to keep the steam room running efficiently. The average utility bill is $40 to $60 per month for water and more for electricity or natural gas.
Additional options
If you choose to include optional add-ons in your steam room, they will also affect the total cost. Some common add-ons include:
| Add-on | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Aromatherapy pump | $500 – $1,000 |
| Sound system | $500 – $2,000 |
| Custom lighting | $100 – $3,000 |
| Seating | $100 – $900 |
| Rain shower system | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Sauna vs. steam room
A sauna costs $2,300 to $14,500 installed for prefab or $4,300 to $34,000 for custom. Both steam rooms and saunas offer significant benefits, but they use different methods to deliver heat: Saunas use dry heat by warming rocks or other materials, reaching 150°F to 190°F or higher.
Below is a side-by-side comparison to help you determine which option best fits your needs and budget:
| Factor | Steam room | Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Cost with installation | $2,800 – $30,000 | $2,300 – $34,000 |
| Lifespan | 10 – 20 years | 15 – 30 years |
| Installation timeline | 1 – 2 weeks | Several days to 2 weeks |
| Temperature | 100°F – 120°F | 150°F – 190°F |
| Style options | Modern, sleek, tiled designs or traditional wood | Traditional wood, modern, infrared |
| Maintenance | Regular cleaning, generator care | Cleaning, heater and wood upkeep |
Keep in mind that the higher temperatures in saunas may be uncomfortable or even unsafe for individuals with certain health conditions. Inadequate hydration before and after sauna use can also increase the risk of dehydration.
Steam room FAQs
Are steam rooms good for you?
Steam rooms offer several health benefits. They improve circulation by dilating blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure and support heart health. Steam helps clear congestion by loosening mucus, easing breathing during colds or allergies.
The moist heat also relaxes muscles, reduces joint stiffness, promotes skin cleansing by opening pores, and aids workout recovery. Additionally, steam rooms help reduce stress by triggering endorphin release, enhancing overall relaxation and well-being.
How long should you stay in a steam room?
Experts recommend staying in a steam room for about 10 to 15 minutes per session, or 5 to 10 minutes for beginners. Prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration or overheating, especially if you do not hydrate properly. Listen to your body and exit immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncomfortable.
Is a sauna or steam room better for weight loss?
Neither a sauna nor a steam room directly causes significant weight loss, but both increase heart rate and induce sweating, which burns some calories. Saunas use dry heat at higher temperatures, potentially raising calorie burn slightly more than steam rooms.
However, any weight loss mainly results from water loss, which returns after rehydration. Regular use can support metabolism and cardiovascular health but should complement a healthy diet and exercise for effective weight loss.
Is a steam room good for a cold?
Yes, steam rooms can help relieve cold symptoms by loosening mucus and opening nasal passages, making breathing easier. The warm, moist air soothes irritated respiratory tissues and can reduce congestion. However, steam rooms cannot cure infections. People with severe respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before using steam therapy.
Getting estimates from steam room installers
Follow these tips to get estimates from qualified bathroom plumbers near you to install a steam room:
Contact several contractors to compare quotes, services, and pricing.
Share detailed project information to get accurate estimates.
Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google to assess reliability and work quality.
Ask about the contractor's experience with shower inserts and request references or photos of similar jobs.
Find out if the plumber charges a flat fee or hourly rate, and ask about possible extra costs, such as service fees or materials, to avoid surprises.
Questions to ask pros about steam rooms
An experienced plumber or steam room installer should be able to answer these questions before starting:
How many steam rooms have you installed?
Can you provide references or photos from recent projects?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for steam room installations?
Will you handle all necessary building permits and inspections for this project?
What materials do you recommend for steam rooms, and why?
How will you ensure the room is properly waterproofed and ventilated?
What is your estimated timeline for completing the installation?
Who will be my main point of contact during the project?
Do you offer warranties or guarantees on your work and the materials used?
What are the ongoing maintenance requirements for the steam room you will install?
Can you provide a detailed, written estimate that includes all costs?
How will you address any potential issues with electrical or plumbing connections?
What safety features and emergency shutoffs will you include?
Will you provide instructions or guidance on using and maintaining the steam room?
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.