It’s no mystery that buying a hot tub requires significant thought and planning. Hot tubs are an investment, and you’ll want one that meets your relaxation needs while also fitting your budget. But with prices ranging anywhere from $500 to $25,000, this process may seem a bit overwhelming. You’re probably wondering, how much does a hot tub cost? What makes one hot tub more expensive than another? What features come with each type of hot tub?
The answers to these questions, plus insight into hot tub design, budget considerations, and overhead costs, all lie within this article.
Let’s start with the basics — here are the key factors that impact hot tub cost:
- Size: Larger hot tubs can accommodate more people but also cost more to produce. It’s important to consider who will use your hot tub and how many people you want to cater to.
- Materials: High-quality materials and craftsmanship can significantly improve the longevity and durability of your hot tub. But they also come at a price. Think of the ideal lifespan of your hot tub and the aesthetic you are looking for.
- Features: Hot tubs can come equipped with everything from advanced hydrotherapy massage jets to customizable underwater lighting systems. The more amenities your hot tub has, the more it will cost. Consider which functions are most important to you when accounting for price.
- Technology: Higher-end hot tubs prioritize innovation with features like Bluetooth speakers and Wi-Fi connectivity, but are also more expensive. If you’re looking to control your hot tub through your smartphone, be prepared to spend more.
- Installation: Outdoor hot tubs generally cost less than indoor hot tubs because they require less plumbing and electrical work. However, if your outdoor installation requires excavation work or extra materials, the cost will also increase.
- Energy Efficiency: Although inexpensive hot tubs may cost less up front, they can ultimately be more expensive to operate long-term. Higher-cost tubs often include better-insulated shells, energy-efficient pumps, and other systems that minimize energy use.
- Water Care: Cheaper, less-advanced models require more upkeep and chemical treatment, leading to long-term spending. Several Jacuzzi® hot tubs come equipped with the True Water™ System, eliminating the need for complicated chemicals and water care routines by harnessing the power of nanobubbles.
Much like buying a car, most hot tubs are customizable upon purchase. Buyers can choose color, finish, size, additional features, and more. Naturally, basic hot tubs will run cheaper than those with customized layouts. Think of your ideal hot tub — are you looking for functionality, durability, or a combination of different features?
Budgeting
Determining your budget is an essential step in buying a hot tub, and the features you prioritize will ultimately determine the hot tub cost. Before you start looking seriously, ask yourself these questions to help determine your price range:
- Who: Who will be using your hot tub? How many people are you looking to accommodate?
- What: What features are you looking for with your hot tub? What kind of hot tub are you looking to purchase?
- Why: Why are you buying a hot tub? Are there certain health issues you want to alleviate, or are you simply looking for a better way to relax?
- Where: Where will you be installing your hot tub? Will it be indoor or outdoor? Will it require additional excavation or preparations to install?
- When: When will you be using the hot tub? When will it require maintenance?
But just how much does a hot tub cost? Hot tubs can fall into various price ranges based on material, features, size, and technology. Here are some of the characteristics of each tier of hot tub:
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Enjoy basic relaxation and hydrotherapy at an affordable price. Although these tubs tend to be smaller in size, they are designed to fit into smaller spaces, making them a viable option for patios and small backyards. Entry-level hot tubs are typically built from more basic materials like rotomolded plastic or basic acrylic but maintain a lighter profile and are easier to install.
Customization
Lower hot tub cost means more basic features. Entry-level models typically have a limited number of jets and layout options. However, this does mean they offer more straightforward designs and are simpler to use. Seating and cushioning options are typically more uniform, with less consideration for ergonomics and targeted hydrotherapy features.
Durability and Maintenance
Entry-level hot tubs have a shorter lifespan, as they are built with inexpensive materials that require more upkeep. Filtration systems tend to be less advanced, requiring more frequent maintenance. Although initially more affordable, these tubs can require additional spending to maintain over time.
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Blend features and quality without excessive spending. Mid-level tubs can typically accommodate four to six people, and their flexible dimensions allow them to easily fit within medium to large outdoor spaces. Improved materials and enhanced finishes, such as acrylic shells with reinforced fiberglass, provide better durability and appearance.
Customization
Mid-level tubs offer a wider variety of layout options, with more colors, textures, and designs than entry-level tubs. Jets are often placed more strategically, providing a targeted therapeutic experience. Seating layouts begin to prioritize ergonomics and are typically more comfortable than less expensive options, with digital controls allowing users to easily select their preferences.
Durability and Maintenance
Better quality materials, increased attention to detail, and streamlined filtration systems mean less upkeep and easier maintenance. Mid-level tub components are less prone to failure and require fewer repairs while still remaining relatively affordable. These tubs are typically heavier than entry-level ones however, meaning they will be a more permanent installation within your home.
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Advanced features, enhanced comfort, and superior performance, just a step below luxury. Premium hot tubs prioritize experience, typically accommodating six to eight people, with spacious designs, ergonomic seating, and various sizing options. High-quality construction promotes durability, with sophisticated finishes and a variety of color and texture options to level up your outdoor space.
Customization
A range of high-end features and jet layouts allow for increased customization. Premium tubs offer sophisticated designs that can include multi-colored LED lighting, advanced sound systems, and touch-screen interfaces, often with smart features that let users control their hot tubs remotely. Many premium models enable users to set configurations based on their personal preferences, allowing them to tailor their hydrotherapy experience exactly how they would like.
Durability and Maintenance
State-of-the-art materials and low-maintenance designs allow for minimal upkeep. Many models feature advanced filtration and even automated cleaning systems, saving owners the extra work and effort that may come with a lower-cost hot tub. However, due to their size, weight, and advanced features, premium hot tubs require professional installation and are typically a permanent fixture in your home.
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Where cutting-edge design meets state-of-the-art engineering. Luxury hot tubs blend top-of-the-line features, exceptional craftsmanship, and unparalleled technology, accommodating anywhere from six to ten people, and often even more, depending on budget. These models are made using the finest materials on the market, including stainless steel, multi-layer acrylic shells, and exotic finishes, among others. Although costly, luxury tubs are well worth the investment, providing a custom-tailored spa experience with less upkeep and a longer lifespan.
Customization
These tubs provide the highest level of customization, with an array of jets, exclusive features, and aesthetic design layouts that cater to those who want the best of the best. Integrated sound systems, personalized jet configurations, and advanced ergonomics offer users effortless tranquility and maximum comfort. Nearly any feature, material, or jet layout is a possibility when purchasing a luxury hot tub, and while expensive, higher-end models are the ideal way to fit your long-term needs.
Durability and Maintenance
Extravagant finishes. Cutting-edge purification systems. Automated maintenance features. Luxury models are engineered to last decades through the harshest conditions with minimal maintenance. Longevity and performance are paramount with these tubs, which is reflected in their price. However, with custom designs comes custom installation, often requiring consultation with designers or architects. Luxury hot tubs are made to go the distance, but thorough planning and preparation are necessary, typically further increasing their price.
Wherever you may find yourself in the buying process, it’s important to consider your options when it comes to buying a hot tub. Each level of hot tub offers different features, layouts, and amenities, but whatever path you choose, relaxation lies ahead. Whether you’re looking for something more affordable or you’re willing to go the distance on a luxury tub, Jacuzzi is here to help you find the perfect solution to help you take a pause with ease. To learn more about hot tub cost, visit us online at Jacuzzi.com.