How Much Does It Cost to Install a Hot Tub?

There's nothing better than sinking into hot water at the end of a long day, unless, of course, there are jets involved. Installing a hot tub means you can unwind, relax and recover anytime you want, but it's important to be aware of the different options and price points involved.

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On average, hot tub installation costs $4,000 to $15,000 (CAD 5,458 to CAD 20,467) for the hot tub itself plus the installation, but this can vary greatly depending on the type of hot tub you want and whether your property is already equipped with the necessary utilities. This guide covers all of the costs involved in adding a hot tub and answers common questions about the process.

How Much Does a Hot Tub Installation Cost on Average?

When talking about hot tub installation costs, we're usually including the total price. This includes the hot tub itself, the labor and any costs associated with prep, such as adding in electrical or pouring a concrete pad. On average, the total cost for a hot tub and installation is around $4,000 to $15,000 (CAD 5,458 to CAD 20,467).

The hot tub itself can range from $3,000 to $10,000 (CAD 4,094 to CAD 13,645), depending on size and features. A concrete pad or base can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500 (CAD 683 to CAD 3,412). Delivery, placement and general labor runs between $350 and $1,000 (CAD 478 to CAD 1,365), and if your city requires permits and inspections, you can expect to add on another $100 to $250 (CAD 137 to CAD 342).

These prices are for above-ground hot tubs. In-ground hot tubs require considerably more labor, materials and prep, which can increase the price to $8,000 to $25,000 (CAD 10,916 to CAD 34,112). In-ground hot tubs generally also need to be attached to a pool. If you don't already have one, putting in an in-ground pool can cost $25,000 to $100,000 (CAD 34,112 to CAD 136,445).

Hot Tub Installation Costs — By Type

All hot tubs are not created equal, and the type you choose can affect your overall price point.

Above-Ground Hot Tub

Above-ground hot tubs are the most common choice. These are sometimes called outdoor jacuzzi tubs, but Jacuzzi is actually a specific brand of hot tub. Above-ground hot tubs cost an average of $3,000 to $10,000 (CAD 4,094 to CAD 13,645). Portable options that are lightweight and easier to move run a bit cheaper at $2,000 to $6,000 (CAD 2,729 to CAD 8,187), while salt water models cost more at around $6,500 to $18,000 (CAD 8,869 to CAD 24,561).

In-Ground Hot Tub

If you want a backyard hot tub that adds to your home's aesthetic appeal, an in-ground model can be a luxe option. In-ground hot tubs cost an average of $8,000 to $20,000 (CAD 10,916 to CAD 27,289), but they generally need to be attached to an in-ground pool.

Indoor Hot Tub

Indoor hot tubs are around the same price for the actual tub itself as outdoor above-ground models, but there are additional expenses to consider for the installation. Warm, moist air spells trouble for indoor spaces, so you'll need to add a dedicated ventilation system to avoid mold and mildew problems. Depending on the space, you may also need to reinforce the floor to ensure it can support the weight of the tub and water when filled.

Inflatable Hot Tub

Inflatable hot tubs are the cheapest option, costing just $400 to $1,500 (CAD 546 to CAD 2,047) on average. These models don't require any permanent installation and can generally be plugged into a standard outlet. They have to be drained and refilled every few days, and they may not hold heat as well as traditional models.

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Hot Tub Features — by Price Point

The wide variety in price points for hot tubs largely comes down to the size and features. At the lower end, hot tubs may only have basic jets with no customization features. They may only have enough room for one or two people, and they aren't as durable as pricier models. Lower-end hot tubs also tend to have the least insulation, which can make them more difficult to maintain their temperature, especially in colder climates.

In the middle of the price range, you can expect to get more jets and customization features, such as timers. Models at this price point can seat anywhere between two and five people, and you're more likely to need to add a dedicated outlet or breaker.

At the high end of the price range, you can expect larger hot tubs and more luxury features. These models often include advanced hydrotherapy jets and smart controls, so you can change the water temperature or jet settings from an app. They may also come equipped with lighting and audio.

Do You Need an Electrician to Install a Hot Tub?

Most above-ground hot tubs require a dedicated 220-240V circuit, which means you'll likely need to hire an electrician to install a dedicated outlet and/or breaker. The outlet also needs to be a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) since it will be in an area that may come into contact with water. The exception to this is plug-and-play models, which can generally go into a standard 120V outlet. However, this should still be a GFCI due to the moisture concerns.

How Much Does an Electrician Charge to Install a Hot Tub?

The average cost to hire an electrician is $50 to $130 (CAD 69 to CAD 178) per hour, but there is also often a higher service call cost of $100 to $200 (CAD 137 to CAD 273) that covers the first hour. If you need to install a dedicated circuit and outlet, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1,600 (CAD 1,092 to CAD 2,184) total. If you already have existing wiring or are just replacing an outlet, the cost can go down to $150 to $600 (CAD 205 to CAD 819).

Do You Need a Plumber to Install a Hot Tub?

Most standard above-ground hot tubs are self-contained, which means you don't need to hire a plumber for the installation. If you are putting in an indoor hot tub or you need custom drain or fill lines, this could require a plumber. If you do need a plumber, you can expect to pay anywhere between $45 and $150 (CAD 62 to CAD 205) per hour.

Do Hot Tubs Add Value to Your Home?

Hot tubs don't generally add much resale value to your home. While prospective buyers may like the idea of having one, a hot tub generally isn't enough of a feature to warrant a higher price point. Large inground hot tubs with connecting pools may boost resale value a bit if the buyer is looking for outdoor amenities, which is more common in the luxury home market. In some cases, the buyer may not want a hot tub at all because they can be expensive to maintain.

How Much Does It Cost to Heat a Hot Tub Per Month?

How much you can expect to spend on water and electricity for a hot tub depends on your climate and how much you use it. On average, you can expect to add $20 to $30 (CAD 28 to CAD 41) to your monthly electric bill. Filling up a hot tub can cost anywhere from $5 to $10 (CAD 6.82 to CAD 14) on average, and you may only need to fill up the hot tub every few months.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.