hot tub prices
You want a hot tub (who doesn’t?!) but the main determining factor is:
How much will it cost?
Almost all hot tub manufacturers offer different tiers within their selection which dictate the pricing.
We’re about to review luxury, premium, mid-range, and entry-level hot tubs so that you can decide which is best for you!
How Much Does a Hot Tub Cost?
Most consumers’ main concern when purchasing a new hot tub is the price. The truth is, there is no hard and fast answer, as the price tag will depend on which features you opt for.
The overall cost of a hot tub ranges from around $3,000 to $16,000 on average. As consumers move further up the price range, they will get to enjoy more features and overall longevity. Of course, the initial purchase price of a hot tub model is only one of the things to consider when analyzing the cost.
You also want to factor in the ongoing costs to keep your hot tub running. To get a better idea of these ongoing costs, the amount of use, energy bills, and general maintenance must be taken into consideration.
For monthly maintenance costs, see our how much does it cost to run a hot tub page.
Hot tub manufacturers typically break down their hot tub models into categories or series so that buyers can look at hot tubs in the price range they desire. These series are typically split up into four categories, including entry-level, mid-range, premium, and luxury.
Entry level hot tubs and spas typically come with minimal features, as manufacturers tend to make affordability the priority.
For first-time buyers or homeowners without a ton of real estate to sacrifice, entry-level hot tubs are a great choice.
Most entry level hot tub models are rotationally-molded in design, meaning the manufacturers use a durable plastic material to form the interior and exterior of the spa.
Compared to premium or luxury models, which are usually made with a higher-quality acrylic material, these rotationally-molded spas look quite different.
However, one of the major advantages of having a rotationally-molded spa is that they are very easy to move around thanks to how lightweight the material is.
Many hot tubs in the entry-level realm tend to be plug and play tubs. Plug and play models are quite unique in that they only require a simple 110v outlet to get up and running. There is no need to hire an electrician to come and set up a special connection, meaning the initial cost can be much lower.
Simply fill these tubs with a hose or bucket, plug it in to a 110v outlet, and enjoy.
Along with standard hard-shell spas, the entry-level hot tub model range typically includes inflatable hot tub models as well. These are far more portable than typical spas, making them an excellent choice for consumers with smaller homes.
Although, if you are looking for a hot tub for less money, we recommend seeing our used hot tub prices guide, hot tubs under $1,000 or cheap hot tubs page.
Mid-Range Hot Tubs – $5,000 – $8,000
$5,000 – $8,000 is the typical price range for mid-range or value hot tubs. Hot tub models in this range typically come with higher-quality materials and components, including durable composite cabinets, high-gloss acrylic shells, stainless steel jets, and much more.
Spa manufacturers will usually allow for additional features in this price range as well so that consumers can customize their hot tubs to their liking.
One thing that is very important to note is that compromises can be made in this range.
Manufacturers often focus on marketing features that they know will receive quite a bit of attention, such as a high number of jets or cinematic lighting. To help reduce costs, they might leave out some necessary internal features that aren’t as exciting, such as high-quality plumbing or insulation.
Without great insulation, a consumer might end up paying far more in the long run in terms of energy costs.
It is crucial to do research when looking at the best hot tubs within this price to make sure energy-efficiency, warranties, water care, and performance, are just as strong as the physical attributes.
Spas and hot tubs in the premium hot tub range tend to be best for those seeking out long-term hot tub use.
These kinds of tubs are built for longevity and many of them come with higher-quality water care or salt water systems.
Beyond the fact that they tend to offer consumers more jets, colorful LED lighting, and dramatic water features, they also tend to have cutting-edge features that put them a step above mid-range hot tubs.
Because these hot tubs are far more energy-efficient, for the most part, they help reduce energy costs in the long run.
More often than not, these hot tubs feature advanced controls, better water care options, and far more effective filtration, helping to cut down on maintenance needs. The heaters and pumps that are found in premium hot tubs are usually of higher quality and overall warranty coverage in premium hot tubs is more consumer-friendly.
Those seeking out better energy-efficiency, higher jet counts, better jets, salt water systems, and quality spa interior design, may want to consider premium spas.
Luxury Hot Tubs – $11,000 – $16,000
Luxury hot tubs are for those who want that best of the best. Of course, the upfront price on a luxury hot tub model will be far higher than any other, though the long-term enjoyment balances it out.
The best luxury spas require little to no maintenance, have much lower energy consumption, utilize quality components, and are very simple to operate.
High-end luxury hot tub models can easily last an owner more than 20 years. Typically, consumers can find salt water hot tub models in the high-end price range as well.
Models in this range offer the highest-quality components, robust features, and durable construction. However, many of them have unique features that cannot be found anywhere else, such as cutting-edge hydrotherapy jet systems, comfortable interior mold designs, and beautiful shells to blend in seamlessly with just about any backyard.
Those who purchase the best luxury hot tub models tend to enjoy the cleanest hot tub water thanks to the fact that these filtration systems are top-notch. With top-notch spa water care options, the need for spa water care lessens with these spas and they can be used for many years with superior energy-efficiency.
What Other Factors Can Affect Hot Tub Pricing?
By now, it is easy to see that a hot tub is a pretty decent investment for most consumers. With upgrades and alternative feature options, the price of any particular hot tub model can increase depending on the person.
Some people end up finding that they prefer a minimal style hot tub model after doing tons of research while some like the thought of having access to the industry’s best “bells and whistles.”
Ultimately, educated shoppers must be able to decide what kind of hot tub experience they want. To do this, there are a few things that must be taken into consideration.
- Features
- Size
- Quality
- Design
- Engineering
- Time of Year
Choosing between an in ground hot tub vs portable above ground spa will affect pricing. See our in ground hot tub costs page for further clarification.
Insider knowledge can save you a lot when buying a hot tub. See our page on the best time to buy a hot tub for an explanation of seasonal pricing fluctuations.
Breaking it down into these variables makes it a bit easier to decide on the perfect hot tub.
Of course, a larger or higher-quality hot tub will likely cost more than a smaller or lower-quality hot tub.
Beyond that, however, there are other hot tub cost factors to consider.
Many people don’t expect certain fees, such as installation costs, maintenance costs, and water care.
The initial hot tub pricing for the same hot tub model can change based on dealer location, dealer overhead, dealer services, and more.
Adding on better jets, salt water systems, cutting-edge water care options, control panel options, are just a few examples of things that can increase the overall price level.
Finding the Best New Hot Tub and Seeking Out Hot Tub Price Points
One of the best ways to get price information on various hot tub models, upgrades, features, and more, is by visiting a local dealer. A local dealer can typically be found through the manufacturer website by entering a zip code.
The great thing about speaking to a local dealer is that they will be able to provide in-depth information on price ranges, water features, jet counts, installation costs, water care, and more, all for a particular region.
It is also worth speaking to a dealer about hot tub financing as well. Financing allows consumers to take advantage of higher-quality spas in higher price ranges without having to fork over a large initial price.
Another article you might find helpful regarding price is our “are hot tubs worth it?” page.
A lawyer never retires. So I would just say that I am not as active as I used to be. Now I simply dedicate myself to fishing, my hobby, and my grandchildren. For Business Finance News I write about legal aspects of mortgage policies, mostly regarding the rights of policyholders. I also have articles about personal injuries.
