Are Hot Tubs Worth It? Pros and Cons Explained

Hot tubs offer lots of relaxation and health benefits, but they also come at a cost and require regular maintenance. It is normal to wonder, “Are hot tubs worth it?” This is a highly subjective decision, and while a hot tub may be a worthwhile investment for one person, it may not be for another. 

That is where we come in. We will walk you through a number of the pros and cons of installing a hot tub, maintenance requirements, and whether or not it is a good investment. So, turn up the bubbles and let’s get started.

Hot Tub Pros

Hot tubs offer many benefits for homeowners looking to enhance their backyard, increase relaxation, and include a gathering space for friends and family.

Health Benefits

If you have done any research on hot tubs, it is likely that you have already read about their benefits for both physical and mental health. The heated water and massaging jets can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. They can reduce stress, relieve pain, and improve sleep. 

A Place to Gather

Hot tubs typically seat between four and seven people and provide a relaxing place for people to gather and talk. This social connection can facilitate stronger bonds with family and friends, which can also have a positive impact on mental health. Different types of hot tubs lend themselves to more people, while others offer a cozy spot for two.

More Outside Time

There are lots of benefits that come with getting more fresh air. Getting out in nature can improve your health by reducing cortisol levels and helping you think more clearly. Because most hot tubs are located outside, it is a good way to spend more time outside, enjoying the breeze or a view of the stars. It may even draw you and your family away from digital devices, which has lots of benefits in and of itself.

Hot Tub Cons

For all their benefits, hot tubs also come with some cons that homeowners should consider before going all in.

Hot Tub Cost

While any home improvement or wellness installation is going to come at a cost, a hot tub may be out of some homeowners’ budgets.

At the very low end of the cost spectrum, an inflatable hot tub can cost less than $1,000, but they are not very durable, lack accessories, and the jets are not as powerful as with more permanent models. On the high end, hot tubs, especially luxury in-ground hot tubs and swim-spa combos with all the bells and whistles (lights, custom seating, cover lifts, headrests, water features, and more), can cost more than $35,000.

So, the actual hot tub cost will depend on the specific model (there is a model that can fit into most budgets), and whether you can work that cost into the budget. You should also take ongoing maintenance costs into account as they can add up, too.

Maintenance Requirements

Hot tub maintenance typically costs between $240 and $900 per year. The most basic cost is heating the hot tub, which totals between $20 and $30 per month. Other costs include replacement filters, chemicals to balance the water, and any hot tub repair costs if something breaks or malfunctions.

It is also important to take into account how long hot tubs last—usually between 10 and 20 years. Committing to installing a hot tub will mean ongoing maintenance costs for the entire life of the hot tub.

Will Not Increase Property Value

Spending money on a hot tub is more of an investment in personal enjoyment than a financial investment. That is because it really does not have an impact on property value. Above-ground hot tubs are considered personal property, so they do not affect a home’s assessed value. Even in-ground hot tubs will not add much in the way of property value. This is fine, as long as you know what you are getting into when you spend the money and do not expect to recoup much, if any, of the cost if you decide to sell.    

Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing and Installing a Hot Tub

If you decide to purchase a hot tub, make sure to avoid these mistakes while buying and installing it:

• Not considering the cost and labor related to ongoing maintenance

• Not factoring in the installation cost and cost to prepare the site, if necessary

• Not taking the number of users into account 

• Not purchasing a hot tub cover

• Not doing enough research to understand hot tub maintenance needs

Are Hot Tubs Worth It?

While we would love to answer that question for you, the answer comes down to your needs. If you have the space and the money, a hot tub can give you a place to relax and gather with friends and family while reaping the benefits of heat and massage. If you are worried about the ongoing maintenance and how much it will cost, then you may want to stick to an inflatable hot tub or consider installing a whirlpool tub in the bathroom or buying a sauna.