How Much Does It Cost to Add a Hot Tub to a Pool? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $2,500 - $15,000
Adding a hot tub to a pool costs $13,500 on average. Most homeowners spend between $2,500 and $15,000 depending on whether it’s in-ground or above-ground.
The cost to add a hot tub to a pool is anywhere from $2,000 to $25,000—though the average homeowner spends $13,500. There’s a range of prices because there’s a range of options. In-ground pools cost more than above-ground pools, and you’ll spend less if you install both a pool and hot tub simultaneously.
A hot tub is a perfect addition if you want to use your pool area year-round or simply have a luxurious, relaxing space. Let’s take a closer look at potential costs.
- Average
- $13,500
- Low end
- $2,000
- high end
- $25,000
Cost Factors for Adding a Hot Tub to a Pool
Hot tubs have a few benefits, but relaxation is the most notable. This luxury upgrade helps ease your body and mind—but figuring out your budget can be stressful. It’s important to understand what influences the cost of adding a hot tub to your pool. Here are some things to consider.
In-Ground vs. Above-Ground
An in-ground hot tub costs more on average than an above-ground hot tub, depending on the features, size, and product line. If you’re adding a hot tub to your existing pool area, expect to spend:
$5,000–$25,000 on an in-ground hot tub
$2,000–$18,000 on an above-ground hot tub
Prefab vs. Custom
The cost to add a spillover spa or hot tub depends on the level of customization. Prefab models are generally much more affordable than building a custom hot tub. A basic above-ground tub starts at $2,000, whereas custom hot tubs can start around $10,000 (similar to the cost of a plunge pool).
Remember that even prefab tubs can rise in price if you add custom features, like surrounding your tub in matching pool materials. This is especially common with spillover spas, which are fully integrated into your existing pool.
New vs. Old Construction
You can save a significant amount of money if you build your hot tub at the same time as you build your pool. In this case, the typical in-ground hot tub will only cost $5,000 to $15,000, similar to a high-end above-ground hot tub. Most homeowners save somewhere between $2,000 to $10,000 on this type of hot tub installation.
Size
The cost of a hot tub increases with size. A small tub that holds two or three people can cost as little as $2,000. A large tub that holds 10 people can cost more than $20,000. This price does not include installation—just the materials.
| Hot Tub Size | Typical Cost Range (Hot Tub Only) |
|---|---|
| 2–3 people | $2,000–$7,000 |
| 4–5 people | $2,000–$12,000 |
| 6–7 people | $3,000–$15,000 |
| 8–10 people | $5,000–$20,000+ |
Quality and Brand
Hot tub prices are often tied to the specific brand or product line. For example, you’ll pay more for a Jacuzzi vs. a basic hot tub since Jacuzzi is a luxury brand. Similarly, brands often have different product lines at different price points. If you’re trying to save, avoid high-end or specialty product lines.
| Product Line | Typical Price Range (Hot Tub Only) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Value-Level | $6,000–$8,000 |
| Premium | $8,000–$11,000 |
| Luxury | $11,000–$35,000 |
Materials
For a streamlined look, choose a hot tub material that matches your specific type of pool. For example, if you have a vinyl-lined pool, you may want to choose a vinyl-lined hot tub. If you have a fiberglass pool, you may want to choose a fiberglass hot tub. Rotomolded plastic, one of the most common above-ground hot tub materials, is typically the most affordable.
| Material | Typical Price (Hot Tub Only) |
|---|---|
| Rotomolded plastic | $2,000–$6,000 |
| Wooden | $3,000–$10,000 |
| Vinyl-lined | $4,000–$12,000 |
| Fiberglass | $4,000–$18,000 |
| Acrylic | $4,000–$18,000 |
Land Prep
There’s typically some land prep involved in hot tub installation. In-ground hot tubs require excavation, but even if you install an above-ground tub, you’ll still need to hire someone to level the ground and install a foundation. Land prep costs could include:
Excavation: $400–$1,500
Land leveling: $1–$2 per sq. ft.
Patio paver installation: $8–$15 per sq. ft.
Concrete slab installation: $4–$8 per sq. ft.
Electricity and Plumbing
All hot tubs require electrical installation, but only some require extra plumbing. You will need a separate heater and control panel for your hot tub, even if attached to your swimming pool.
Hot tub wiring costs $1,900 to $4,200 for the typical installation. Plumbing installation costs another $350 to $2,000. Most prefab above-ground hot tubs don’t need plumbing, but an in-ground or custom model might. Typical electrical work includes installing the spa panel, running wires from your hot tub to the breaker, and installing a new GFCI breaker or subpanel.
Permits
You’ll likely need a permit to install your hot tub, especially if you're working on electrical wiring or plumbing. This will cost an additional $100 to $250. If you’re building a pool simultaneously, you’ll need a single building permit for the whole job.
Delivery
Sometimes, hot tub dealers offer free delivery if you purchase a hot tub above a certain price. If delivery isn’t free, it typically costs between $200 and $500. You may spend as much as $800 if it needs to be delivered by crane because you want to install it in an inaccessible area.
Added Features and Accessories
When adding a hot tub to a pool, you may also want to add some other features and upgrades. People commonly add landscaping to help blend their hot tub into the pool area. This could include adding materials from the existing pool deck and installing decorative elements like grasses, shrubs, or stones.
Hot tub cover: $50–$650
Hot tub thermometer: $10–$20
Bluetooth speakers: $40–$125
Landscaping: $1,300–$6,050
Lighting: $450–$900 per light
Deck installation: $4,100–$11,300
Ongoing Hot Tub Expenses
You should factor ongoing expenses into the total cost of adding a hot tub to your pool. A hot tub will slightly increase your maintenance and electricity costs. You’ll also have more potential repairs.
Electricity
The amount you pay for electricity depends on how many gallons are in your pool and hot tub. The average hot tub adds $20 to $50 to your monthly electric bill—or around $240 to $600 annually. Well-insulated above-ground models tend to require less energy than in-ground models.
Maintenance
Hot tubs have similar maintenance to pools. You must add sanitizing chemicals, maintain the pH, and regularly clean your hot tub. It’s generally recommended you drain and deep-clean your tub four times a year, especially if you use it year-round. Typical maintenance costs include:
Cleaning products: A spa vacuum costs $80 to $100, and the cleaning product costs around $15. You can use the same products if your spa uses the same material as your pool.
Professional cleaning: Budget around $300 per clean if you hire a pro.
Chemical testing: Chemical testing costs around $20 per month, but you can buy chlorine and test strips in bulk since you already have a pool. This can help save.
Filters: Like pools, hot tubs also have filters. Filters cost $20 to $60 each, and you’ll need to change them four times a year.
Repairs
Hot tubs can break down. Often, you’ll find issues like jets that don’t work or temperatures that refuse to rise. In general, hot tub repairs cost $175 to $550, but extensive repairs can exceed $1,000. Here are some typical repair costs:
Jet repairs: $75–$300
Heater repairs: $225–$650
Pump repairs: $200–$1,200
Blower repairs: $175–$450
Electrical repairs: $200–$700
Leaks: $25–$1,500
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Adding a hot tub to your pool is typically not an easy DIY project. Many homeowners opt for an in-ground model that melds seamlessly with their existing pool. This type of installation requires a high level of professional knowledge and specialized equipment. It typically involves licensed contractors like pool electricians, plumbers, excavation teams, and even masons or landscapers.
It can be hazardous to DIY a hot tub installation, but there is a workaround. You can add a “plug and play” hot tub to your pool area. These run on standard GFCI-protected, 120-volt outlets. Remember, there are safety requirements regarding how far a hot tub should be from your pool and home. You may want to consult a hot tub installer near you, just in case.
Ways to Save on the Cost of Adding a Hot Tub to a Pool
Installing a hot tub is a significant investment, but you can reduce costs in a few ways. Follow these tips to tighten your budget:
Choose a budget-friendly hot tub: Instead of a luxury one, pick a lower-end model made from affordable materials.
Choose an above-ground hot tub: If you’re adding a hot tub to an existing pool, choose an above-ground model to put in your pool area. This saves you on added excavation costs.
Go prefab: Custom hot tubs can cost thousands more than a prefab hot tub. Choose a prefab tub, even if you’re going with an in-ground model.
Build your pool and hot tub simultaneously: If you build your hot tub at the same time as you build your pool, you could spend thousands less on land prep, excavation, and other labor-related charges.
Skip the extras: Forgo costly add-ons, like additional landscaping, lighting, or water features.
Search for sales and negotiate: Since there’s generally a hefty markup on hot tubs, dealers expect some negotiations. It never hurts to ask and keep an eye out for sales from local retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can add a hot tub to an existing pool, but depending on your pool’s design, it can get complicated. With fiberglass or vinyl-lined pools, adding a separate hot tub to the existing pool deck area is typically more straightforward and more cost-effective. Spillover spas are an excellent middle-ground option with relatively simple construction, but if you want an in-ground model, you’ll need to excavate.
Many homeowners find adding a spa to their pool a worthwhile investment, but it depends on your lifestyle. If both elements share the same water source, it simplifies water maintenance. If they don’t share water, a hot tub is something you can use year-round, even after the typical pool season. Some people just like the wellness benefits of hot tubs.
Certain pools serve as a middle ground between traditional swimming pools and hot tubs. The two main options are plunge pools and swim spas. A plunge pool (or cocktail pool) is smaller, but you can add spa-like elements such as heating and jets. A swim spa is more similar to a hot tub, but it produces a current that allows you to swim in place (similar to how a treadmill lets you run in place).