How Much Does an In-Ground Hot Tub Cost? [2026 Data]

While you can’t put a price on relaxation, you can put a price on an in-ground hot tub. Most homeowners spend between $5,000 to $25,000 installing an in-ground hot tub, but costs can exceed $35,000, depending on the model, features, and complexity of the installation.

In-Ground Hot Tub Cost Factors

How much does an in-ground hot tub cost? It’s all about the size, features, and installation. This can dramatically vary, but the average homeowner spends around $15,000. Here are some factors that will impact the price.

Size

The larger your hot tub is, the more you have to pay for it. Homeowners typically spend between $3,500 to $15,000 for an in-ground hot tub that holds four to six people. This does not include installation costs. You can find space-saving hot tubs that fit up to three people for as little as $3,000, while a 10-person model could cost more than $20,000. 

Prefab vs. Custom

Prefabricated models are far more budget-friendly than custom builds—and often include plumbing and delivery wrapped right into the price (hello, installation savings). Expect to spend at least $2,000 to $3,000 less on a prefab tub, but keep in mind that custom tubs are typically much larger. 

Basic vs. Luxury

In-ground tubs come in different tiers—from basic to mid-range to luxury. A basic hot tub costs as little as $3,000, while a luxury in-ground spa costs upwards of $35,000. The difference? Quality and features. 

Mid-range hot tubs, which generally have a couple of additional jets or waterfall spouts, are typically the biggest bang for your buck.

Site Prep

The reason in-ground hot tubs are so much more expensive than above-ground models is because they require a significant amount of site prep. 

You’ll need to budget for the cost of excavation, which could fall between $400 to $2,500, depending on the size of your hot tub and the area that needs to be leveled. 

Other common costs include: 

• Cost to install concrete patio pavers: $8–$15 per sq. ft.

• Cost to install a concrete slab: $4–$8 per sq. ft.

• Cost to reinforce indoor flooring (for indoor tubs): $40–$60 per sq. ft.

• Cost of ventilation fan (for indoor tubs): $200–$600

Remember: hot tubs can weigh up to six tons when they’re filled. They need to stay level, so odds are your contractor will have to pour a concrete base or, if you’re building a hot tub indoors, reinforce the floor.

Electricity

In order for your hot tub to work properly, you’ll need some electrical work. The cost of electrical wiring for a hot tub typically runs between $600 to $2,200. Most in-ground hot tubs run on 240V electrical service. If your existing electrical panel cannot handle increased amperage, expect to spend $400 to $1,800 on a new subpanel.

Plumbing and Heating

New plumbing pipes typically cost $350 to $2,000 to install. Prefab hot tubs may come with the plumbing ready to rock, while custom models require a custom solution. The main change is that—even if you already have an in-ground pool—you’ll need a separate heating system for your hot tub. 

Your heating system can run on electricity, natural gas, or propane. You’ll find the cost of electricity and gas reflected in your utility bill. A propane system, on the other hand, costs around $1,000 upfront, plus ongoing costs to refill the propane tanks. 

Delivery

Delivery is often included in the cost of a prefab hot tub. If not, you’ll spend anywhere from $200 to $500 for a typical delivery. On the odd chance that your backyard is not accessible, the hot tub will be delivered by a crane. This costs $800 to $1,500 or more.

Permits

You’ll need a permit to install an in-ground hot tub. This will add $100 to $250 to the cost of installation. 

Other In-Ground Hot Tub Costs to Consider

Not every cost will be reflected in the initial quote for your hot tub installation. You may want your contractor to take on additional jobs. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of ongoing use. Here are some additional costs to consider.

Electricity Use

Since hot tubs use a lot of power, they will add to your electric bill. Expect to spend around $30 per month on electricity for your in-ground hot tub.

Water Use

Water costs really depend on the size of your tub, the cost of water in your area, and how often you need to fill your hot tub. In general, you’ll need to drain your hot tub three to four times a year to properly clean it. Factor this into overall costs.

Saltwater

You’ll need to install a saltwater generator if you want a hot tub that uses saltwater. This is an increasingly popular option because it allows for much lower levels of chlorine. The extra equipment costs $200 to $700 on average, but it can cost as much as $1,500. 

Since saltwater is corrosive, make sure your jets can handle it before you buy. Not every hot tub is compatible, though most are.

Maintenance and Repairs

Hot tubs are often considered high-maintenance appliances. You’ll need to keep your hot tub clean, regularly test the water, and make repairs to preserve its life span. Expect to spend:

• $500–$1,000 per year on yearly maintenance

• $160–$500 on the cost of each hot tub repair

Though you may be able to make small DIY repairs on your own, hire a local hot tub repair pro for the larger stuff. 

Add-Ons

While you’re installing your hot tub, you may want to do some extra work. Often, homeowners install landscaping or lighting around their hot tub. 

Consider adding the following to your budget:

• Lighting costs: $2,000–$3,000

• Landscaping costs: $4–$12 per sq. ft. 

• Deck installation costs: $4,100–$11,300

• Hot tub cover costs: $300–$500

Brand Name

Generally, an in-ground Jacuzzi costs a little bit more than your average hot tub. Though the prices don’t drastically differ, you do pay for the brand name. For example, you can find a budget-friendly mid-level hot tub for as little as $5,000 versus a mid-level Jacuzzi that typically costs $8,000 to $10,000.

In-Ground Hot Tub vs. Above-Ground Hot Tub Cost

Above-ground hot tubs tend to be less expensive than in-ground options because they are much simpler to install. The cost will vary depending on how luxurious you want your tub to be, but an above-ground hot tub model costs $6,000 on average, compared to $15,000 for an in-ground tub.

Why You Should Hire an In-Ground Hot Tub Installer

Installing an in-ground hot tub requires complex tasks, including excavation, electrical work, plumbing connections, and ensuring proper structural support to prevent damage to your tub and potential flooding. You should always hire a hot tub company near you to help prevent serious injury and costly damage. Labor costs $1,000 to $6,000 in addition to the cost of your hot tub unit, but professionals have the tools and expertise to do the job right.

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire an in-ground hot tub installation pro

Whenever you’re dealing with a project that requires electrical and plumbing work, like installing an in-ground hot tub, it’s best to hire a pro. Here’s why:

• Hot tubs require electrical work with high-voltage wiring, which poses a serious risk of injury or fire (mainly because the area is exposed to water and moisture). 

• Hot tub installation requires heavy lifting or the use of heavy machinery, which can be dangerous if you don’t have the proper training.

• DIY excavation is hazardous and can cause injury, cave-ins, structural damage, and damage to underground utilities, among other safety issues.

• Improper installation can lead to costly or hazardous issues, such as tub collapse, electrical hazards, or flooding.

• Pros have the training to handle specialized jobs, such as soil and land assessment.

• A pro can obtain a permit and make sure your hot tub meets local requirements.

If you want to DIY a hot tub installation

If you want to DIY a hot tub, it’s best to stick with an aboveground unit or take a hybrid approach, where a pro handles the majority of the work (such as excavation, plumbing, and electrical) and you focus on the smaller tasks. Consider the following tips:

• Choose a “plug and play” aboveground model that plugs into a standard 120V outlet.

• Opt for a temporary inflatable model made for DIY installation.

• Assist with minor tasks, such as clearing debris and installing basic landscaping, and leave the more complex tasks to a professional.

DIY vs. Hiring a Contractor

You’ll need to hire a hot tub company near you to install an in-ground hot tub. Professional installation costs an average of $1,000 to $6,000 on top of the price of your hot tub and any add-on jobs like landscaping.

How to Save Money Installing a Hot Tub

In-ground hot tubs are much pricier than above-ground options, but there are still ways to save. Avoid luxury, custom models and go for a prefabricated, mid-range option. If you’re planning to build an in-ground pool, don’t wait to put in a hot tub. 

The typical in-ground hot tub costs $8,000 to $25,000 when built from scratch, but is only $6,000 to $15,000 when built in conjunction with new pool excavation.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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