How Much Does a Swim Spa Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $20,000 - $40,000
Swim spa costs typically range from $20,000 to $40,000, with the average homeowner spending around $22,500 depending on the model.
On average, a swim spa costs $22,500 excluding installation—but costs are often much lower or higher depending on the specific build. They can range anywhere from $7,000 for a basic model to $70,000 for a high-end model. This luxury product is a type of spool pool that combines the best parts of a lap pool and hot tub.
You’ll be able to use a continuous current to get your swim on (think of it as a treadmill for swimming) and have a post-workout relaxation session (cue the warm water and jets). Get a full breakdown of swim spa prices below.
- Average
- $22,500
- Low end
- $7,000
- high end
- $70,000
Swim Spa Cost by Quality
Though most swim spa prices fall somewhere in the $10,000 to $35,000 range, different brands and manufacturers offer different levels of quality. You can get a basic, low-end swim spa for as little as $7,000. Mid-range swim spas (which are what most homeowners choose) typically cost $15,000 to $25,000, while high-end models loaded with extra features can cost upwards of $70,000.
| Swim Spa Quality | Features | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Basic features, lacks energy efficiency | $7,000–$15,000 |
| Midrange | High-quality jets, pumps, and current diverters | $15,000–$25,000 |
| High-end | Larger than basic models, top-of-the-line features like hydrotherapy | $25,000–$50,000+ |
Swim Spa Size
Most swim spas are a minimum of 8 feet wide, with a length between 10 to 21 feet. In other words, it’s larger than a hot tub but smaller than a traditional pool. You’ll pay more for larger models and less for compact models, but they won’t be able to fit as many people.
Pool Contractor Cost
In addition to the cost of the swim spa, you’ll need to budget for installation. A pool contractor costs $50 to $150 per hour. Installation costs are similar to the cost of installing a large hot tub and include electrical work to wire the heating and jets, as well as plumbing work. You may also need to install a concrete pad and decking.
Installation costs vary based on whether you install an in-ground vs. aboveground model. You could spend as little as $300 to install a simple aboveground swim spa or as much as $7,000 to install a larger in-ground model.
Additional Costs to Consider
Once you decide on a model, there are some additional costs that come with your swim spa. Things like added features, site prep, and landscaping can significantly impact your budget.
Additional Features
Most swim spas come with jets that help create a current. This lets you swim in place, but that’s just the base level. Additional features come at a cost. High-end features can tip the total price of your spa into the $30,000 to $50,000 range.
Additional features can include:
Hydrotherapy jets
Saltwater system
Wi-Fi or remote phone control
Infinity edge
Lighting
Dual temperature options
Site Prep
Aboveground swim spas must rest on a solid, level surface. If you plan to install an in-ground swim spa, you’ll also need to excavate. The cost of excavation is typically $100 per hour for a small job, but costs can rise in hard-to-reach spaces or challenging terrain.
| Site Prep for a Swim Spa | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Leveling your yard | $3–$6 per square foot |
| Pouring a concrete base | $2–$6 per square foot |
| Excavating | $100 per hour for a small job (increases for hard-to-reach or challenging spaces) |
Delivery
Depending on your backyard, you might need a crane to deliver your swim spa. This type of delivery costs $800 to $1,500 or more.
Permits
Depending on your local regulations, you might need a permit to install your swim spa—especially if it’s an in-ground pool. Permits cost $200 to $1,000.
Landscaping and Hardscaping
Many homeowners install hardscaping around their spa pool for safety, such as a non-slip deck around an aboveground unit or concrete and pavers around an in-ground unit. On top of that, you’ll need to re-landscape excavated areas.
| Landscaping and Hardscaping for a Swim Spa | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Concrete slab installation costs | $2–$6 per square foot |
| Pool decking costs | $3,000–$12,000 |
| Landscaping costs | $4–$10 per square foot |
Ongoing Expenses
When you plan your swim spa installation, you should also budget for add-ons and long-term costs. You’ll need to maintain the pool, and that doesn’t come free. Here are some things that could add to your total swim spa price.
Electricity Use
Whether you want to heat your swim spa like a hot tub or use features like a current generator or hydrotherapy jets, you’ll need to budget for electricity use. On the low end, expect to spend $20 to $50 per month for a small swim spa (akin to the cost of running a hot tub).
Water Use
When you install a swim spa, you’ll also notice a slight increase in your water bill. The cost to fill your pool depends on the price of water in your local area, but it’s typically around $0.004 per gallon if you use municipal water. Water delivery is more expensive. Most swim spas take 1,500 to 2,500 gallons, and you’ll need to refill your swim spa around four times a year.
Saltwater
If you want to use saltwater in your swim spa, you’ll need to install a saltwater system. This includes a specific type of filter that can handle salt. On average, the extra equipment costs $200 to $700, but it can cost as much as $1,500. Saltwater spas also cost more to maintain than chlorine spas.
Maintenance and Repairs
On average, prices range from $110 to $350 for simple maintenance and repairs. Pool services charge anywhere from $25 to $100 per hour, so the quicker the job, the less you’ll pay (as long as it’s not below the minimum charge for a service).
You can save some money by maintaining your pool yourself, but you’ll need to regularly test the chemicals, change the filters, and keep your pool clean using a spa vacuum.
Cost to Install a Swim Spa Yourself
Some aboveground swim spas are similar to hot tubs and have simple installation. In this case, you may be able to do the job yourself and pay for little more than the swim spa and delivery, but there are a lot of conditions. To install a swim spa, your home needs to be able to accommodate a 220V/240V appliance. You’ll also need a solid, level surface large enough to fit the spa. A mistake could lead to costly repairs or an actual hazard.
At the very least, hire a local electrician to make sure your swim spa is wired correctly—and if you’re going with an in-ground model, skip the DIY altogether. You’ll need a permit, and you typically can’t get a permit unless a licensed contractor is on board.
Cost to Install It Yourself vs. Hiring a Contractor
Pro installation will cost $300 to $7,000, but you’ll avoid costly repairs, hazards, and potentially voiding your warranty. In most cases, it’s best to leave it to a local swimming pool installation company or hot tub installer near you. DIYs start to get risky when you involve electrical wiring, water, or significant renovations like excavation or deck-building.
Ways to Save Money on Installing a Swim Spa
Though swim spas aren’t exactly the most budget-friendly home renovation, there are ways to tighten your budget. The best way to save is by choosing an aboveground option. These often cost thousands of dollars less than in-ground swim spas—and you’ll save on everything from labor to excavation and landscaping costs.
Here are some other money-saving tips:
Pick the smallest size suitable for your needs.
Skip add-on features and go with a basic model.
Save on future repairs by not skimping on quality. You can avoid high-end models but still choose the highest-quality model in an affordable price range.
Does Swim Spa Installation Increase Home Value?
If you install a swim spa, it’s unlikely that you’ll get your full investment back, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad upgrade. According to a 2023 report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), pools have some of the lowest ROIs of outdoor remodels but some of the highest levels of satisfaction. A basic swim spa can be a much smaller investment than a fiberglass or concrete pool and carries many of the same benefits.
To get the highest return, incorporate your swim spa into your landscape design. Per the report, landscape upgrades typically have a 100% ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your priorities. Many homeowners enjoy the health benefits of a swim spa. The heated water boasts the benefits of a hot tub, which some people find helps relieve pain, increase circulation, and aid in stress relief. You’ll also be able to use it for exercise like you would a lap pool. It’s a two-in-one product.
Similar to a hot tub, swim spas last anywhere from five to 20 years, depending on quality and your attention to maintenance. The best way to increase the life span of your swim spa is to carefully maintain it—including draining it around every six months to deep clean the parts.
How often you change the water in your swim spa depends on how often you use it. Most manufacturers recommend changing the water every three to six months. If you use your swim spa throughout the seasons, it’s a good idea to set up a quarterly deep cleaning schedule. The ideal instructions should be in the owner’s manual.
Swim spas are like hybrid hot tubs and pools. They have the heating and jets of a hot tub, but they’re slightly longer because they’re made for swimming and exercise. A jet provides a continuous current that acts like a water treadmill. You can swim the length of a full-size pool without going anywhere.