Was this guide helpful to you?
Hot Tub Installation Cost
National average
$6,900
(installing a wooden hot tub for 4-8 people, including a locking cover, screen, steps, and ozonator)
Low:
$1,000
(2-person inflatable hot tub, plug-and-play)
High:
$12,000
(8 to 12-person acrylic hot tub, plus cover lifter with ozonator, steps, and extra heater)
Cost to install a hot tub varies greatly by region (and even by zip code).
Get free estimates from hot tub and spa specialists in your city.
The average cost of installing a hot tub is $6,900
In this guide
Average Cost of a Hot Tub by TypeHot Tub Prices by Shape
New Hot Tub Prices by Voltage
Hot Tub Costs by Occupancy
Hot Tub Installation Costs
New Hot Tub Heater Cost by Heating Method
Hot Tub Requirements
Safety Features for Hot Tubes
Pros and Cons of a Hot Tub
Cost to Move a Hot Tub
Sauna vs Hot Tub
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Hot Tub?
A hot tub is a large tub filled with water and used for therapy or relaxation. It can be a great investment for a homeowner. Hot tubs may be associated with health benefits like improving sleep, cardiovascular health, diabetes and weight loss, and eliminating tension and stress. They can also be used to entertain guests or relax in the oasis of your home.
The average cost for a hot tub installation project is approximately $4,000-$8,500, with the average customer paying $6,900 for a wooden hot tub fitting 4-8 people. This includes installation labor fees and the work of an electrician. The lowest cost option is an inflated hot tub for two people at $1,000, while the highest cost option is an acrylic hot tub with a cover lifter for 12 people at $12,000.
Hot Tub Prices
| Hot Tub Installation Costs | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $6,900 |
| Average range | $600-$1,500 |
| Minimum cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum cost | $12,000 |
Average Cost of a Hot Tub by Type
When purchasing a hot tub, there are many varieties to consider. This includes the type of hot tub, how and where it is installed, what it is made of, and the chemical system. There are many different styles to choose from, each with their own costs and attributes:
| Type of Hot Tub | Average Costs (Only Material) |
|---|---|
| Inflatable | $1,000-$4,000 |
| Portable | $1,000 - $9,000 |
| Rotationally Molded | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Saltwater | $2,000 - $20,000 |
| Wooden | $3,000-$9,000 |
| Soft-Sided | $4,000 - $6,000 |
| Custom-Made | $5,000 - $20,000 |
| Indoor | $5,000-$25,000 |
| In-Ground | $15,000-$20,000 |
| Swim Spa Hot Tub Combo | $15,000 - $40,000 |
Inflatable Hot Tub Cost
Inflatable hot tubs are becoming popular and a good choice for those looking for flexibility. Rather than opting for a solid tub, inflatable models can be broken down and moved anywhere in and out of your yard. They cost less to run because they run off a lower electrical volt. Inflatable tubs do not use jets, but rather fans that blow the air around. Materials tend to lose heat much faster than regular hot tub types and need to be heated more often. They range in price from $1,000-$4,000.
Portable Hot Tub Prices
Any type of hot tub that is not built-in or anchored in some way to your home, deck, pool, or the ground is considered a portable hot tub. This includes inflatable tubs, erected anywhere, or soft-sided tubs, molded tubs, and even wooden tubs not built into a deck. If the tub can be drained, unhooked, and moved, it is considered portable. Portable tub costs range from $1,000 to $9,000 on average.
Molded Hot Tub
Rotationally molded, or rotomold, hot tubs are made from polyethylene (HDPE) material, similar to the material used in kayaks and refillable water bottles. They often appear duller and lack the sparkling appearance that acrylic hot tubs offer. Rotomold tubs come in one piece and do not offer the ability to customize the tub with cabinets, shelves, jet upgrades, or TV options. These tubs are available in fewer color options and range in price from $2,000-$5,000.
Saltwater Hot Tub Cost
One of the new crazes for hot tubs is a saltwater system. A saltwater model uses a salt cell to produce a pure chlorine solution, but the salt is not the same type found in the ocean. Saltwater hot tubs are becoming popular due to their ease of use and how it can give skin a softer and silkier feel. Many prefer them over chlorine tubs due to simplified maintenance and longer-lasting water. The initial cost for a saltwater hot tub is higher to purchase and install than one with a traditional system. Over the years, the cost is offset due to the lower costs of the water supply and test kits than those needed for a chlorine tub. Purchasing a saltwater generator system ranges between $600-$1,700, and saltwater generators can be added to many tubs, including soft-sided and molded. They are not recommended for wooden tubs because they can damage them. This results in a total cost range of $2,000 - $20,000, depending on the brand and tub. Built-in hot tubs require more expensive generator systems, while above-ground models are cheaper.
Wooden Hot Tub
Wooden hot tubs can be electric-powered, gas-powered, or wood-fired. Wooden hot tubs sit above the ground and offer bench seating. They are much deeper than acrylic or rotomold tubs and offer a few jets, lights, and controls. Some popular materials include redwood, cedar, cypress, oak, and teak. Electric and gas-powered models are the most popular of the three and are more expensive, yet easier to operate. Wooden hot tubs range in price from $3,000-$9,000, depending on the size, accessories, power type, and wood.
Soft-Sided Hot Tub Prices
Soft-sided hot tubs are a relative newcomer to the field. They are made of high-density foam, so they are lightweight and portable, but highly durable and available in several shapes and colors. The high-density foam holds heat well, so they are more energy-friendly than tubs that lose heat quickly. They offer many of the same benefits other tubs have like jets, lights, and controls, but they have a unique appearance with very thick, rounded sides. They cost between $4,000 and $6,000 on average.
Custom-Made Hot Tub
It is possible to have a hot tub built to your specific needs and ideas. This includes shape, jet positioning, installation location, and sometimes materials. They can be made of wood or molded material and can be installed indoors, outside, or in-ground. They are normally built-in or placed in ground rather than portable, and they have a lead time of several weeks to build, so plan accordingly. Custom-made hot tubs cost between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the size and material.
Indoor Hot Tub Cost
Often, people think of hot tubs as only being located outside, but there is always the option of installing an indoor model. Indoor hot tubs can be of any type and often provide advantages, such as privacy, safety, and climate control. There are requirements to consider before installing them. First, it is important to install an indoor hot tub in a room with proper ventilation to prevent condensation, including fans and a dehumidifier. Walls and doors should have a water-resistant covering to avoid damage. Next, using the correct foundation for your tub is extremely important. Hot tubs are very heavy, and once filled with water, they can weigh a ton, applying high pressure to the surface they are on. They should only be placed on a concrete slab. Flooring around the tub should be anti-slip and provide good drainage for all the water that inevitably spills out of the tub.
With the proper ventilation requirements and foundation, an indoor hot tub can end up costing more than one outdoors. They typically range in price between $5,000-$25,000, depending upon materials, location, heating, and other requirements.
In-ground Hot Tub Cost
In-ground hot tubs can be a major investment that requires professional installation. They add a dramatic effect to your landscape when they are built into the deck or patio for easy access or within a backyard landscape. In-ground hot tubs can take weeks to build and offer fewer features and lower energy efficiency than above-ground hot tub options. They are most commonly made of acrylic or rotomold because these materials are not affected by the soil they are installed in and do not rot like wood. They are expensive, ranging from $15,000-$20,000, due to the high installation costs of plumbing, electrical work, gas hookups, and excavation.
Swim Spa Hot Tub Combo Prices
For those who like to exercise before they relax, swim spa hot tub combos are a great thing to have. This is a small exercise pool that uses jets to provide resistance, so it does not take up the same amount of space as a regular pool. It doubles as a hot tub, either with an adjacent area or by switching the position of the jets and turning on the heater. These tubs tend to be larger, with fewer features like seating, unless they have an adjacent seating section. They are normally made of acrylic or molded and installed freestanding, in-ground, indoors, or outside. They cost $15,000 to $40,000 on average.
Hot Tub Prices by Shape
Hot tubs come in several shapes, including custom. While the shape of the hot tub is not a big driving factor behind the cost, the shape can affect size, occupancy, and even where it can be installed. Since size, occupancy, and location have an impact on cost, it is important to keep the shape in mind when planning this project:
| Tub Shape | Average Cost Range (Only Material) |
|---|---|
| Circular | $1,000 - $20,000 |
| Triangular | $3,000 - $10,000 |
| Rectangular | $3,000 - $20,000 |
| Square | $4,000 - $20,000 |
Circular Hot Tub
Circular hot tubs are generally among the least expensive. They are smaller and usually not as deep as other models. They also fit fewer people, with most being made for two to three people comfortably, and some very oversized models fit four. Circular hot tubs can be inflatable, soft-side, wood, or molded, and they can be installed nearly anywhere. They have a cost range of $1,000 to $20,000, depending on these factors.
Triangular Hot Tub
Triangular hot tubs are a good choice if you are short on space because they easily fit into corners. They are generally small, made for one or two people, and usually molded. It is difficult to find them in other materials or sizes. They have a smaller price range than other tubs, from $3,000 to $10,000 on average.
Rectangular Hot Tub
Rectangular hot tubs are a good choice if you want more legroom in smaller, lower occupancy tubs or want to go much bigger. A two-person rectangular tub lets people stretch out more comfortably, while larger rectangular tubs can hold more people in general, although not as many as a square tub on average. Rectangular tubs come in molded and wood and some smaller inflatables. They cost between $3,000 and $20,000 on average.
Square Hot Tub
Square hot tubs are good if you want to maximize occupancy while having enough legroom for everyone inside. They come in all materials and a wide range of sizes from 4 people up to 12. They can be installed anywhere and cost between $4,000 and $20,000.
New Hot Tub Prices by Voltage
Hot tubs need to be wired to electricity to run the pump circulating water through the jets. Depending on the voltage of the tub, you may need to upgrade your outlet if you intend to plug-in, or you may need to upgrade a circuit. Tubs can be 110v, 120v, or mixed voltage, meaning that they may use four wires - two of each kind to run properly:
| Tub Voltage | Average Cost of Tub (Only Material) |
|---|---|
| 110v | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| 120v | $4,000 - $20,000 |
| Mixed voltage | $8,000 - $20,000 |
110v Hot Tub
If you want a tub that runs on 110v and plugs into an outlet, you need a “plug and play” tub. These tubs are usually smaller, without as many jets or features, but they circulate water well and provide a pleasant experience. These tubs cost $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the material.
240v Hot Tub
If you want a larger tub, with more jets and features, you need a 240v tub. These can have plugs, which need a 240v outlet, but most are hardwired into your home’s electrical supply. Because the tubs are usually bigger and have more features, they tend to be more expensive, with a cost range of $4,000 to $20,000.
Mixed Voltage Hot Tub
Some newer tubs with ozonators, chromatherapy, and other high-end features are wired for mixed voltage, with some features running on 110v and others on 120v. These tubs require a hardwire installation by an electrician to run properly. Because these are high-end tubs with many features, they cost more, between $8,000 and $20,000.
Hot Tub Costs by Occupancy
While things like material and type play a role in hot tub prices, the larger the hot tub, the more it costs. Bigger models have more material and labor costs. The size of the hot tub you install should be determined by how many people you want to accommodate. If you have a family of 6, then make sure your tub fits a minimum of 6 people. If you entertain frequently, you may also want to size up so that guests can use it. Keep in mind that occupancy means the number of people who it is designed to hold. While you may be able to cram more people in, this may not be comfortable, safe, or advisable:
| Hot Tub Occupancy | Average Cost Range (Only Material) |
|---|---|
| 2 people | $1,000 - $4,000 |
| 3 people | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| 4 people | $2,000 - $10,000 |
| 5 people | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| 6 people | $4,000 - $12,000 |
| 7 people | $6,000 - $20,000 |
| 8 people | $10,000 - $20,000 |
2-Person Hot Tub Prices
2-person hot tubs are among the smallest and most economical you can find. They come in a range of materials and shapes, with rectangular and triangular being the most common because they allow users to stretch and relax. This size tub costs $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the material.
3-Person Hot Tub Cost
You are not going to find many 3-person hot tubs, but they exist. Most tubs are made for an even number of people, but some are designed to have one person seated in the center of one side, while two people can occupy the ends of the opposite side, managing to have three people in one tub. They range from $2,000 to $4,000.
4-Person Hot Tub Prices
4-person hot tubs are among the most common, but while they are larger, their costs are not much higher. This line of tub offers the most options for features, materials, and shapes. Expect costs to fall between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the features you opt for.
5-Person Hot Tub Prices
Like 3-person tubs, 5-person tubs are rare and difficult to find, although they do exist. The interior configuration is designed to have people seated across from one another, moving every other person to one side or the other. They are usually rectangular because this best accommodates the interior layout. Expect costs between $4,000 and $8,000 for a tub this size.
6-Person Hot Tub Cost
6-person tubs are also common and popular. They are good for families of 4 that entertain and couples who host guests regularly. They offer space to spread out, and it is common to find many different features for them. They typically cost between $4,000 and $12,000, depending on the features.
7-Person Hot Tub Prices
7-person tubs are also rare, like 3 and 5-person tubs. Those that exist are rectangular and limited in options. If you have specific needs for a 7-person tub, you may be better off having one built or opting for an 8-person tub, which is easier to find. This tub costs between $6,000 and $20,000 on average.
8-Person Hot Tub Prices
8-person tubs are not as common as 6-person tubs but come in various materials and features. These are good tubs for big families or for people who frequently entertain. They are also a good choice for smaller families where people may want to have more room to spread out in the tub. They cost between $10,000 and $20,000 on average.
Hot Tub Installation Costs
There are not many costs for installing a hot tub if you purchase a readymade tub. Most are designed to sit on a patio or concrete pad, and many are designed for the homeowner to set up.
Inflatable tubs can be put up by the homeowner, while plug-and-play tubs with electric heaters can be delivered, filled, plugged in, and used. Custom tubs, built-in tubs, in-ground tubs, and other specialty tubs likely have other associated costs. Most pool professionals also install tubs and handle all of the associated work, except for wiring and running a gas line.
To begin, the delivery and transport costs around $250-$400, depending on how many people and the amount of work, with a $200 additional cost if a crane is required.
If you need a foundation for your tub, expect installation costs for this of around $1,600. Filling the tub is generally done by the homeowner, and all you need is a hose. If you have a professional set it up, meaning it is unboxed, moved, and located for you, and all the working parts tested and assembled onsite for you, expect costs of around $500.
For a custom tub, you may have other costs for installation, but these are usually factored into the tub’s cost since it is being quoted and built specifically for your home.
Hot Tub Electrical Installation Cost
Once the hot tub is set in place, an electrician may need to help with the electrical set up. If there is no outlet around, then an electrician has to install an electrical outlet nearby. An electrician has to set up the hot tub wiring into a control pack and install a GFCI next to the hot tub at least 5 feet away. This is a costly job and averages around $400-$650. If an electrician needs to complete this work, then it is important to check if a permit is required in your town/city.
Once all the electrical work is complete, you can start to fill your tub with water. It is important to add in the proper chemicals after the water is filled, but this should be stated in the tub’s guide. Then, you can adjust your settings and heat it.
Cost to Build an In-Ground Hot Tub
An in-ground hot tub is expensive to install, and the process is longer with days of excavation, shell installation, and finishing work. It involves excavation, during which a hole is dug in the ground, and the soil is removed. This job takes a day or two, depending on how big the hole is and how smoothly the process goes. This process is usually done by people from the hot tub company. Following the excavation is the shell installation, which lowers the hot tub shell into the ground and finishes it off with the necessary cement and gravel to build the foundation around the shell. The ground around the tub is improved by installing either stone, tile, or brick for a beautiful finish. Some people may also decide to use coping to finish off the surrounding perimeter of the hot tub. Depending on the job’s extent, the installation takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
This process has higher costs than standard, above-ground hot tubs for installation. These include the cost of excavation ($2,000), delivering and lowering the tub into the site ($200 - $500), set up of the tub and its features ($500), running the pipe and electrical wiring below ground to the site ($1,800 - $2,000), and the wiring of the tub ($400 - $500). This makes the total installation costs for an in-ground tub around $4,900 - $5,500, along with the tub’s cost ($15,000 - $20,000).
New Hot Tub Heater Cost by Heating Method
Every hot tub needs a heater to get and keep the water warm. Most tubs come with a standard heater, although some lower-cost and custom tubs require you to separately purchase your heater. In addition, if you purchase a tub you love, but it comes with a gas heater and you do not have a gas line, you may want to swap it out for an electric or propane heater. Likewise, if you have a gas line to your yard and want to convert your costly electric heater to a less expensive gas heater, you can do this easily.
Hot tub heaters come in three basic types - gas, propane, and electric. Many gas and propane heaters are interchangeable, and they run on either when set up properly. Keep in mind if you choose gas, you need to have a gas line to your yard or deck to run the heater, which can increase your installation costs:
| Heater Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Electric | $100 - $500 |
| Natural gas | $800 - $1,500 |
| Propane | $800 - $1,500 |
Electric Hot Tub Heater
Electric hot tub heaters are less expensive to purchase and install than gas or propane heaters. They can be hardwired in quickly and provide steady, consistent heat. They take longer to heat your tub than gas or propane, and the farther away from your home the tub is, the longer the wire running to your heater. Their repair costs are usually lower, which can be attractive to some homeowners. They cost between $100 and $500 on average.
Natural Gas Hot Tub Heater
Natural gas hot tub heaters are the most common type. They heat water quickly and are one of the lowest costing heat sources available. Natural gas heaters need a buried gas line, which can be expensive, especially as it gets farther from the house. Most natural gas heaters also run on propane, if natural gas is not available in your area. Always check to see which fuel the heater is designed for. A natural gas heater costs between $800 and $1,500 on average.
Propane Hot Tub Heater
For people who do not have a natural gas line, but like the convenience and fast heating of a gas heater, propane makes an excellent alternative. You can run pipes from your propane tanks right to the heater the same way you run a gas line. In some cases, you can also purchase a small propane tank just for the tub to lower installation costs or if you do not have propane on your property already. These heaters typically use gas as well and have the same costs at $800 to $1,500.
Hot Tub Requirements
One of the most important requirements is having a solid foundation to place the hot tub on. It could be on a concrete slab, patio, prefabricated spa pad, or reinforced deck. The foundation must be level, straight, and bear the weight of the tub, water, and occupants in it. If you do not have a leveled foundation, it can cost around $950 for a 100 sq.ft. job of concrete leveling. If you do not have a foundation, it costs anywhere from $800-$2,000 to install a foundation slab, depending on the size, materials, and installation process.
Another important requirement to keep in mind is the accessibility of the location. The access point into your backyard location should be as wide as your hot tub is tall. If this is not the case, a crane delivery is needed, which costs anywhere from $500-$1,000. This cost varies depending on the crane size, the travel time to the location, requirements like street closures, permits, and barricades, and the on-site time. Companies often charge an hourly rate with a 2-3 hour minimum. A few other requirements related to the location are having the hot tub equipment panel easily accessible and having the hot tub located more than 10 feet away from overhead power lines.
Your final considerations revolve around electricity and water. 120v-240v must be available for a hot tub to run on. If this is not the case, electricians must dig up the spot and provide these electrical components. The cost to hire an electrician is between $40-$120 per hour. Last but not least, nearby water access, such as a garden hose, works to fill the tub and clean it. It is not required to have plumbing for the hot tub.
Hot Tub Cost per Month
Many things impact the cost to run your hot tub per month. This includes the tub’s size, electricity and water costs in your area, and what you use to heat the water. In general, expect costs to fall between $20 and $25 a month. However, you can determine how much electricity your tub uses by determining how many hours a month you use the tub and the number of kilowatts the tub uses. Multiply these together to find the total kilowatts per month, then multiply this by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour in your area. This gives you a good idea of your costs.
Safety Features for Hot Tubes
Hot tubs can be very relaxing and enjoyable, but there are some safety protocols. Many come with some safety features to ensure that people enjoy their time in the tub while avoiding danger:
Automatic Shut-off
An automatic shut-off feature is an important safety feature to prevent any problems. Suppose the water temperature is set to a temperature and the water temperature rises above this temperature. In that case, the shut-off feature automatically stops the circulation pump to prevent the water temperatures from rising to extremes. Once the temperature comes back down, the pump continues to work. This automatic shut-off feature comes with many modern-day hot tubs and cannot be added to an old one.
Locking Cover
Many hot tubs use locking covers for when they are not in use. This cover adds a safety feature to ensure there are no trespassers or incidents when the hot tub should not be in use. Locks often come in the form of straps or clips attached to the cover for easy closing. Expect to spend $15-$30 for a 4-pack of clips or $30-$60 for a 2-pack of straps.
Hot Tub Maintenance Costs
A hot tub is a perfect environment for bacteria to grow, making proper maintenance extremely important. To properly maintain your tub, things need to be done regularly, such as checking the water chemical levels, cleaning the filter, cleaning the inside of the spa, and airing out the cover. The water chemicals should be checked 2-4 times per week. This includes using a tester strip to ensure that the pH, alkalinity, calcium, and sanitizer levels are proper. The spa filter should be cleaned every 2-4 weeks, depending on usage, to remove any dirt or grime that builds up inside. This filter should be replaced every 1-2 years as fibers begin to loosen over time. A full inside cleaning of the spa should be completed every 2 months, where the water is drained. A spa cleaner should be used on the surface, and a vacuum can be used to get in the corners. Any debris can be removed using a skimmer net. Lastly, it is extremely important to remove your hot tub cover at least twice a week. This gives the inside of the cover a chance to air out and dry the moisture inside.
Some companies offer regular maintenance, which ranges in cost between $50-$300 per month.
Pros and Cons of a Hot Tub
A hot tub is a great investment for someone who engages in physical activity. A soak before exercise warms muscles, joints, and ligaments, possibly reducing the risk of injury. After physical activity, a hot tub soak may relieve the body of any tension or soreness. Hot tubs may also help relieve pain from arthritis and muscle tightness and promote restful sleep.
Hot tubs require maintenance and, with any water feature on your property, comes inherent risk. You need to cover it at all times or have it fenced and kept away from small children and animals to minimize risks. Hot tubs may not be a good choice for pregnant women or people with blood pressure problems. Always speak to your doctor or another medical professional before using a hot tub.
Cost to Move a Hot Tub
The cost to move a hot tub depends on several things. Some hot tubs are very light when empty and can be easily moved, with the only additional costs being potentially needing new electrical or gas hookups. Other tubs are very heavy. If this is the case, expect moving costs to be around $200 to $500, depending on the distance.
Sauna vs Hot Tub
Saunas may also provide many of the potential health benefits of a hot tub, including relaxation, better blood circulation, and promoting restful sleep. These are two different features and two different installations. Saunas are typically indoors because these are enclosed rooms that produce steam. Hot tubs can be used indoors or outdoors and have the user sitting in hot, circulating water. A 4-person sauna costs around $4,500 completely installed, while a 4-person hot tub costs close to $7,000 installed with new electrical and gas line hookups.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Screen
If you like having privacy when you are in the tub, a screen or enclosure is a perfect purchase for you. There are many options to choose from, depending on whether you are looking for a temporary screen or something more permanent. When looking for something more temporary and easy to move, then a folding screen or gazebo enclosure is a good option. These range in price from $150-$450. If you prefer a more permanent screen enclosure, then a fence screen or trellis is a good option and ranges from $200-$600. These prices vary depending on the sizing, brand, and company.
Steps
Steps can make entering and exiting the hot tub much safer and easier. They come in different shapes and sizes and offer a non-slip tread. There are many options to choose from, depending on how many steps there are, if you want handrails, the material, and if you prefer steps with a storage area. The most basic steps cost $60 but range up to $400.
Independent Heater
Having an independent heater for your hot tub makes it easier to heat the water. On average, an independent heater raises the temperature by roughly 5-6 degrees per hour. An independent heater may be purchased for $150-$700, depending on the size, manufacturer, and wattage.
Pump
Most modern-day hot tubs come with a built-in drainage system. If this is not the case, then a pump is a great purchase because it makes it much easier to empty the hot tub. A pump costs anywhere between $80-$250, depending on the size and brand.
Cover Lifter
If you want to eliminate the hassle of removing the cover every time you want to go in, then a cover lifter is a necessary purchase. A cover lifter mounts to the top side of the hot tub and keeps the cover in place while in use. There is a choice between a bracket/shelf cover lifter, manual cover lifter, and hydraulic-assisted cover lifter. The bracket/shelf cover lifters are the cheapest of the three kinds and range in price from about $150-$225. The manual cover lifters are of average price between $170-$275, and the hydraulic cover lifters are the most expensive, ranging in price between $250-$400.
Ozonator
To keep the water clean, many hot tub users opt to purchase an ozonator. An ozonator allows fewer chemicals while leaving the water cleaner and eliminating the powerful chemical smell. An ozonator varies in price from $100-$300, depending on the brand and size.
Drink Holder
If you plan on enjoying drinks in your hot tub, then purchasing a drink holder is a great idea. Drink holders come in all shapes and sizes, attaching to the side of your tub. Drink holders are very reasonable in price and range between $25-$60 per set.
Lighting
It can be difficult to enjoy your hot tub after dark if you do not have lighting. There are a few options for lighting when it comes to hot tubs. You can either add lighting outside or inside. In-spa lighting seems to be the most popular and eliminates the need for external lighting. The average cost for a hot tub light is around $30-$60 per light. This depends on the brand, size, type, and color.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- By law, many cities and towns require property owners to obtain a building permit before a hot tub can be installed. A permit application has to be sent into the town/city to get approval for this project. Often a fee of around $50-$75 for the permit application is associated.
- A warranty is a critical aspect of purchasing a hot tub. This is something that should be discussed to understand what is covered if something goes wrong. With most companies and brands, the warranty covers the plumbing, shell, cabinetry, equipment, and controls. The warranty length differs for each one, ranging from 5-10 years. It is very important to read the fine print and inspect the hot tub warranty critically.
- Removing an old hot tub can be difficult, so it is best to have a professional remove it. Removal services range from $250-$400, depending on the tub’s size and any complexities involved in the removal.
- You can complete many DIY tasks on your own when it comes to installing a hot tub. Some of these DIY tasks include maintenance, cleaning, adding the chemicals, and making sure the temperatures/settings are correct. When it comes to installing a hot tub initially, you must have a professional complete this task because it could require very complicated work, including that of an electrician.
- If you are looking for areas to save money when purchasing a hot tub, it is good to buy a smaller-sized model with fewer features because the tub is naturally the most expensive part of the project. You can try to install additional features yourself or hire a professional if it is not feasible.
- It is wonderful to spend time in a hot tub when the outside temperature is cool, and the water of the tub is very warm. If you live in a climate where it is hot year-round, then you should perhaps rethink your choice in getting a hot tub and consider a pool instead. Using a hot tub in warm outside temperatures can be very uncomfortable.
- A well-ventilated space is important, especially indoors. A well-ventilated space is necessary for controlling humidity and condensation. This is an important factor in determining whether installing a hot tub is the right choice for you.
- Although it cannot be seen from the outside, the hot tub’s quality is another factor impacting cost. Since a hot tub is usually left outdoors, it is susceptible to all weather types and must be designed with high quality to withstand the elements over time. The hot tub’s interior features, including the jets, circulation system, and heaters must be of high quality to avoid replacement of expensive parts over the years. Investing in a high-quality model is important and helps avoid issues in the future.
FAQs
- How many years does an outdoor hot tub last?
A hot tub’s lifespan is between 5-20 years. The lifetime depends on the quality of the hot tub materials and how well the hot tub is maintained over the years.
- How much does it cost to remove a hot tub?
This depends on the type of tub, size, and material. Costs can be $50 to $500, depending on these factors.
- How much energy does a hot tub use?
Each tub has kilowatt usage - you can find this information on the tub itself. Multiply this by the number of hours you intend to use it to find the energy usage.
- Do you need a concrete pad for a hot tub?
This depends on the tub and where you put it. For many tubs, yes, you need some type of pad, but gravel can also be an alternative for some, and patios, in-ground use, and poolside are other viable options.
- How much does a 3-person hot tub weigh?
This depends on the tub and what it is made from. 3-person tubs are relatively rare, but they could weigh very little for an inflatable tub or close to 200 pounds.
- Can I put a hot tub in my basement?
You can possibly put a hot tub in your basement. This depends on several factors, including the tub’s type and size, how you intend to get it into the basement, and whether you have a concrete slab as your basement floor.
- How much does a hot tub cost per year?
This depends entirely on the type of tub, size, and how much you use it. A conservative estimate is around $240.
How much does it cost to install a hot tub in my city?
Cost to install a hot tub varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
Labor cost by city and zip code
Compared to national average-14%
+35%
+30%
+22%
-9%
+24%
+13%
+12%
-4%
-46%
+12%
+13%
+6%
+40%
+6%
-21%
+19%
+10%
+24%
-7%
+16%
-1%
-18%
+5%
+18%
+2%
+6%
-2%
0%
+23%
+10%
+24%
-17%
-13%
+4%
+7%
-12%
+10%
+16%
+11%
+13%
+25%
-6%
+21%
-20%
-1%
+9%
-19%
0%
+24%
Labor cost in your zip code
Last modified: See change history
Methodology and sources
