How to Calculate the Cost of a Hot Tub Installation, According to Experts
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Alfresco soaks in a hot tub are a year-round treat, whether you're warming up on a winter day or stargazing on a summer night. It's a sought-after amenity that makes a dream outdoor space really come together. But if you’re thinking about adding this resort-like feature to your own backyard, you’re probably curious: How much does it cost to install a hot tub in 2025?
Hot tub prices in 2025 can range from $800 to $45,000, depending on the model—from budget-friendly inflatables to high-end luxury options—and the complexity of installation.
Ahead, we’ll break down the cost of a hot tub installation project, with variables that include the type of hot tub you’re purchasing, extra features you plan to add to it, whether it's an in-ground installation or above-ground, as well as other factors.
Can You Install a Hot Tub Yourself?
You may be wondering if you can save some money by installing a hot tub yourself. Unless you’re going the inflatable hot tub route, professionals do not advise that you try to install a hot tub yourself.
The reason why hot tub installations aren’t suitable DIY jobs is because empty tubs are extremely heavy (they can weigh up to 500 pounds) and the job requires extensive electrical work, says John Uhle, founder and product expert at Discount Salt Pool who has more than a decade of experience working with thousands of pool and hot tub owners. Installing a hot tub on your own would come with serious safety risks and you also risk voiding the warranty of your newly purchased hot tub should anything go wrong.
How Much Do Hot Tubs Cost?
One of the biggest determinants of your hot tub project budget will be the hot tub itself. Hot tubs can range from about $500 for an inflatable tub to more than $25,000 for a premium luxury hot tub, and the cost of each model depends on various factors like the size to the materials used to make it.
The average price of a hot tub is $6,000, according to Angi, a home services company. But extra bells and whistles like customizable seating, advanced filtration, lighting, waterfall features, and spa-like hydrotherapy massage jets designed to relieve achy muscles can all drive up the cost of a hot tub to the $20,000 and above price point.
Here's a thorough breakdown of the features that contribute to the total cost of a hot tub.
Hot Tub Materials
Vinyl and rotomolded plastic (i.e., plastic that’s heated up and poured into a mold) are the most budget-friendly options for hot tub materials, but the downside is they don’t hold heat as well as other materials.
Acrylic is a popular material for hot tubs—it retains heat well and is less expensive than other finishes.
“Smaller, portable models with basic acrylic shells are on the lower end of the cost scale, while larger in-ground units with premium finishes like stainless steel or natural stone drive up the cost,” says Jason Farr, owner and founder of Aviara Pavers, an outdoor living and design company based in San Diego, California.
Some homeowners favor wood hot tubs because they look good in outdoor settings and retain heat well, but they do require more maintenance.
Here’s a breakdown of how much hot tubs cost based on popular materials, and according to Consumer Affairs.
Vinyl-lined: $2,000–$8,000
Rotomolded plastic: $2,500–$8,500
Acrylic: $2,499–$19,000
Wood: $4,829–$23,995
Hot Tub Size
Generally speaking, the price tag on hot tubs goes up with size as larger hot tubs require more materials and more powerful jets. Here’s Angi’s cost estimate based on the hot tub size.
2–3 people: $2,000–$7,000
4–5 people: $2,000–$12,000
6–7 people: $3,000–$15,000
10 people: $5,000–$20,000+
Saltwater Systems
Some hot tub owners choose to go with a saltwater system instead of chlorine because it has fewer chemicals, is gentler on the skin, and some people find them easier to maintain. However, saltwater systems do have a higher upfront cost and tack on about $500 to $2,500 to the cost of a hot tub, Uhle says.
Wi-Fi Controls
Wi-Fi control–enabled spas are convenient because you can get your hot tub set up before you head outside for a soak. Adding Wi-Fi controls so you can use an app to control the temperature, pumps, heats, and lights adds an extra $300 to $800 to the total, according to Uhle.
LED Lighting
Color-changing LED lighting installed in hot tubs can enhance the experience, and, Uhle says, adds an extra $200 to $700 to the cost of hot tubs. But, as an affordable alternative if you want to add colored lights down the line, you can also find submersible waterproof LED lights on Amazon for just about $10 for two packs.
Hydrotherapy Jets
Hot tub devotees who want the therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy jets will pay between $1,000 to $3,000 for these types of spa-like massage jets, Uhle says. Splurging on a hot tub that has between 25 to 30 jets allows for full-body hydrotherapy massages.
Integrated Speakers
Built-in speakers so that you can play music or listen to your favorite podcast while soaking in the hot tub can add about $100 to $150 to your hot tub cost, though many high-end hot tubs already have Bluetooth capability and stereo systems.
Hot Tub Installation Costs
In addition to the cost of your hot tub, installing it in your backyard or on your deck can tack on thousands of dollars of expenses.
Above-Ground vs. In-Ground Hot Tubs
Above-ground hot tubs typically cost $500–$2,500 to install, depending on site prep and electrical work, Farr says.
In-ground hot tubs, which require excavation, concrete, and custom plumbing, can cost between $5,000 and $15,000 or more, he says.
These are the common factors that increase installation costs, according to Farr:
Site Preparation: Leveling, drainage, or concrete pads can cost $500–$3,000.
Electrical Work: Wiring a hot tub to a 220V outlet typically adds $1,000–$2,000.
Custom Decking: Surrounding your hot tub with a custom deck may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on materials and design. If you plan to add your hot tub to an existing deck, you'll want to have a structural engineer come out to make sure your deck can bear the load of your hot tub.
Permits
Most cities require permits for hot tubs, particularly in-ground models, since they involve electrical and structural modifications, Farr says. Costs vary but you should budget between $100 to $500, depending on your location.
If you belong to a homeowner’s association, check in with your association’s rules before you buy your hot tub or start a backyard project as that may add an extra layer of review or require that you place your hot tub in a certain area.
How Much Does Hot Tub Maintenance Cost?
Ongoing maintenance costs, including chemicals, filters, and increased energy usage, typically run $500–$1,500 annually, Farr says. If you’re in an area with freezing temperatures, winterizing your hot tub may also add to seasonal costs.
Do Hot Tubs Raise Property Value?
Curious if you’ll get a good return on your hot tub investment when you go to sell your home?
"Hot tubs can definitely add value to a home, but how much really depends on a few things—location, buyer preferences, and how the hot tub fits into the overall property,” says Joy Aumann, a San Diego, California-based licensed realtor, interior designer, and founder of Luxury So Cal Realty.
In markets where outdoor living is a big part of the lifestyle, she’s seen a well-designed hot tub setup add anywhere from 4 percent to 7 percent to a home's value.
But it’s not just about having one; it’s about how it’s incorporated into the space. Built-in hot tubs that are part of a larger outdoor area with custom decking, landscaping, and privacy features tend to offer the biggest return, Aumann says, while above-ground hot tubs don’t usually add much value.
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