Hot tubs are a simple luxury that can make your home feel like a spa. But with many models costing $5,000 or more, you may want to consider your financing options to help spread out the cost.
How much does a hot tub cost?
Hot tubs cost anywhere from $3,000 for a basic hot tub to $10,000 or more for a luxury model — it depends on the quality of the brand you choose, the hot tub’s features and any additional accessories.
In the table below, we outline a few standard hot tub costs and interest rates you can expect for a 4-year loan term. For more detailed price comparisons, you can also use our calculator to estimate the exact cost of financing your hot tub.
Hot tub installation costs an average of $150 to $500, according to HomeAdvisor. Prices vary widely depending on the product. Wooden and acrylic tubs, and built-in tubs, may have installation costs of $4,000 to $20,000.
Above-ground hot tubs. Inflatable hot tubs can be delivered and installed for less than $500. Wooden and acrylic hot tubs are more costly, ranging from $4,000 to $16,000.
Built-in hot tubs. The cost of a built-in is typically between $15,000 and $20,000. Because installation requires more work, you’ll want to ensure you find a good contractor with a team that has experience with the excavation and installation process.
How can I finance a hot tub?
Depending on the hot tub, home spa or jacuzzi you’re looking at, you can finance it one of three ways.
Store financing. Most hot tub dealers offer financing to customers through a bank or online lender. The exact terms and rates will vary.
Personal loan. You can finance a hot tub, as well as delivery and installation expenses with a personal loan. Most top personal loan home improvement lenders allow you to borrow up to $50,000 or more, but you’ll need good to excellent credit to qualify for the lowest rates.
Credit card. You could potentially finance all or a portion of your jacuzzi with your credit card. Just keep in mind that a balance of more than 30% of your credit limit can hurt your credit score. And credit cards tend to come with higher interest rates than personal loans — unless you’re able to take advantage of a card with a 0% introductory rate.
Many hot tub dealers don’t list exact prices online. Instead, the final cost depends on several factors, including:
Size and seating. The amount of water your hot tub can hold — as well as the number of people it can fit — will influence the price you pay. The bigger the tub, the higher the cost.
Included features. Some features, like massage jets or touchscreen controls, may increase the price of your hot tub. Luxury and convenience will make a hot tub more expensive.
Quality. The quality of materials plays a role as well. An inflatable tub will cost far less to buy and install than a similarly sized in-ground model.
Manufacturer. Like most luxury items, the brand and model you choose could influence the price. Be sure to compare similar hot tub manufacturers before making a final decision.
Delivery costs. The type of tub you buy and where you live will impact how much it costs to get delivered. In general, the heavier the tub or the more remote your home, the more you’ll have to spend on delivery.
Optional accessories. Hot tub covers, drink holders and lighting will all add to your costs. The more bare-bones your hot tub, the less you’ll have to pay.
Should I pay for an extended warranty on my hot tub?
It depends on the standard warranty your manufacturer offers, how much your hot tub costs and how you plan on using it. For infrequent use and more inexpensive tubs, sticking with the standard warranty — and avoiding the additional cost of an extended warranty — may be worth it. But if you want a warranty that covers parts and work that the manufacturer’s limited warranty doesn’t, consider investing in an extended warranty.
However, keep in mind that extended warranties mean extra cost. If you finance your warranty, you’ll be paying extra interest on something you may not use. Like an extended warranty on a car, the cost to have the extended warranty may not actually save you money. Look up the average cost to repair your model. If it’s less than the extended warranty, consider building up your savings instead.
Bottom line
Take your time exploring hot tubs, features and accessories to get the best price. And before you sign up for store financing, compare your personal loan options to see if you can score a lower APR.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to maintain a hot tub?
The maintenance cost for a hot tub varies widely by area and use. Between heating the water, draining and refilling the tub, cleaning and repairs, you may need to pay $100 or more every month. Your dealer should have more information about how much you can expect to pay for a specific model in your area.
Can I finance a hot tub if I have bad credit?
Yes, but you probably won’t get a competitive interest rate. You might want to take the time to improve your credit score before making the purchase.
Should I finance a hot tub through a rent-to-own program?
Using rent-to-own programs may not be the best financial decision. While the weekly payments appear inexpensive, interest and fees on your purchase can quickly add up — often costing double or triple the actual value of the item. Since a hot tub isn’t a necessity, you may want to build your savings and purchase it outright if you aren’t able to qualify for dealer financing.
Kellye Guinan is a freelance editor and writer, specializing in consumer lending. Her writing and analysis has been featured on Bankrate, MSN and MediaFeed. She holds degrees in anthropology and German language and literature from Middle Tennessee State University.
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