Installing an in-ground hot tub costs an average of $15,000, and most projects fall between $5,000 and $25,000, depending on the size and location.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
You’ll need a permit to install an in-ground hot tub. This will add $100 to $250 to the cost of installation.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Installing an in-ground hot tub isn’t a simple DIY. In most cases, you won’t even be able to obtain a permit if you’re not working with a licensed contractor. Nor will you safely be able to install the plumbing or electricity.
If you want a DIY hot tub, the best route is to install a “plug and play” model that runs on a standard 120V outlet. Typically, this type of above-ground hot tub costs anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000, but you can find inflatable models for as little as $400.
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.
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.
Hot tubs don’t necessarily add value to a home—but they don’t take it away either. It depends on the potential buyer. A well-landscaped in-ground hot tub is attractive to buyers who prioritize relaxation and fun. Others would rather not deal with the maintenance.
In general, you should keep your hot tub a minimum of 5 feet away from any structure, including your house. This prevents damage from potential flooding should your hot tub spring a leak. If you’re building an indoor hot tub, you’ll need to take special precautions to accommodate the increased moisture.
Your contractor will have to excavate for your in-ground hot tub and level the land. They’ll also need to pour concrete to create a solid surface so your hot tub remains level and doesn’t sink. Some homeowners also choose to install hardscaping like a deck or patio pavers.
In general, you can use your hot tub 12 to 24 hours after filling. It takes four to eight hours for a hot tub to completely heat up to the appropriate temperature, but you should leave the water overnight to make sure the chemicals are balanced—especially the chlorine levels.
You should drain your hot tub three to four times a year to give it a thorough cleaning. This should take about an hour, but it depends on the size of your tub.
