Should You Add a Hot Tub to Your Vacation Rental? A Step-by-Step Guide and Key Benefits
Adding a hot tub to your vacation rental can elevate the guest experience and significantly boost your revenue. If you dont believe me, check out our other blog post about what amenities to add to boost revenue at your short-term rental here. But what’s the process of installing one, and is it worth the investment? We’ve compiled everything you need to know about installing a hot tub and the benefits to help you decide.
The Process of Adding a Hot Tub
The Process of Adding a Hot Tub
Research Local Regulations
Before you begin, it’s essential to research the local regulations for hot tubs in your township and HOA. Some communities and townships have specific requirements, such as:Hot tub covers with physical clips or locks.
Fences, gates, or other safety enclosures.
Unique power safety cutoffs.
Start by checking your township regulations, then review your HOA bylaws to ensure compliance. Clarifying these requirements early on will save you time and prevent costly adjustments later. To help you get to the right place, we wrote out more detailed instructions for permitting if your home is in Coulbaugh Township or East Stroudsburg.
Choose the Location and Plan the Wiring
The first step after you’re confident you can add one is selecting the ideal spot for your hot tub. Once decided, hire a licensed electrician to complete the necessary wiring. The cost for this typically ranges between $2,000–$4,000, depending on the distance from your breaker box and the complexity of the job. While this may seem pricey, hiring a licensed professional ensures the work is done safely and correctly and to code. Preventing costly re-inspections and electrical issues that can be a headache to troubleshoot. We typically recommend a company like Pro-Tech Electric.Prepare the Base for the Hot Tub
You have two main options for creating the base:Pour a Concrete Pad: Costs around $1,500–$2,000.
Install an EZ Pad: A more affordable option at approximately $600. This involves laying down gravel and placing the EZ Pad on top, making it a simpler and township-approved alternative. We typically recommend the EZ Pad for its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.
Initial Township Inspection
Before proceeding, the township will conduct an initial inspection to ensure the electrical setup and base meet regulations.Select and Install the Hot Tub
When choosing a hot tub, simplicity is key. Models with fewer features tend to have fewer maintenance issues. We recommend the Costco spas or options from Aqua Living, such as their Lifestyle or Tranquility lines. Features to prioritize include insulation, a thick spa cover, a lift-assist bar, and spa steps. When getting a hot tub for use in an STR we typically recommend going with less bells and whistles and sticking to the basics. Not only is there less stuff to worry about breaking, but often the more basic hot tubs are simpler for guests to use.Once ordered, the company will schedule delivery. After the hot tub is in place, the electricians will return to make the final electrical connections and fill the tub with water.
Final Inspection
Once installed, the township and typically the HOA will conduct a final inspection to ensure compliance with local regulations.
What can you expect to pay?
1. Hot Tub Purchase
Cost: $4,000–$10,000
Budget models start around $4,000.
Mid-range options are $5,000–$7,000.
High-end models with advanced features can exceed $10,000.
2. Electrical Work
Cost: $2,000–$4,000
Includes running wiring from the breaker box to the hot tub location.
A licensed electrician is required for safety and code compliance.
3. Base Installation
Concrete Pad: $1,000–$1,500
EZ Pad: ~$600
Concrete is more durable but costs more.
EZ Pads are cost-effective and simpler to install.
4. Permits
Zoning Permit: $35–$125
Depending on size and township rules.
Building Permit: $100-$200
State Fee: $4.50 per permit.
Total Permits: ~$200–$300 (depending on size and cost of the project).
5. Delivery and Installation
Delivery Fee: $300–$600
Many hot tub retailers include delivery; confirm before purchase.
Installation Labor: $500–$1,000
Includes placement, connecting wiring, and initial setup.
6. Accessories and Extras
Spa Cover and Lift Bar: $200–$500
Steps: $50–$200
Privacy Fence (Optional): $1,000–$3,000 (if desired).
Noise Monitor (Optional): ~$150 per device.
7. Ongoing Costs
Electricity: $20–$50/month (varies by usage).
Chemicals and Maintenance Supplies: ~$300/year.
Estimated Total Costs
Low-End Installation: $7,500–$9,000
Mid-Range Installation: $10,000–$15,000
High-End Installation: $15,000+