Whether you’re looking to ease sore muscles, improve sleep, or simply create a peaceful wellness space at home, a sauna can offer big health benefits. But before you order one for your basement or backyard, it’s smart to ask the key question: how much is a sauna?
From compact infrared cabins to luxurious outdoor retreats, the cost of a sauna depends on several factors, including type and size, materials, installation, and ongoing maintenance.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: the sauna price by type, what installation and maintenance will cost you, and whether saunas are expensive to operate long-term.
What Impacts the Price of a Home Sauna?
Let’s start with the basics. How much does a sauna cost? Well, that depends on a few key factors:
- Type of sauna (infrared, traditional, steam)
- Indoor vs. outdoor installation
- DIY kit vs. custom build
- Size and capacity
- Materials used (like cedar, hemlock, or poplar)
- Ongoing maintenance and electricity use
As a baseline, the cost of a home sauna typically ranges from $3,000 to $15,000. Now, let’s break that down.
4 Types of Saunas & Their Price
Every homeowner’s needs are different—so are the saunas that suit them. Here’s a breakdown of four sauna types to help you weigh the features, costs, and installation requirements before you commit.
- Infrared Saunas: Efficient and Budget-Friendly
Infrared saunas are a great option if you’re looking for something low-maintenance and energy-efficient. They use infrared light to heat your body directly rather than warming the air.
- Home infrared sauna cost: Starting around $6,000, depending on the model. For accurate pricing and available options, visit Qontrast’s Infrared Saunas page.
- Installation: Most models are plug-and-play with no special electrical work
- Upkeep: Minimal—clean the panels and wipe down surfaces occasionally
- Running costs: Less than $15/month in electricity
So, if you’re wondering how much a home sauna is that’s easy to install and inexpensive to run—this is it. These infrared models also make for an ideal in-house sauna cost option if you’re tight on space.
- Freestanding Saunas: A Popular Middle Ground
A freestanding sauna is one of the most flexible options. It works well for indoor or garage spaces, doesn’t require major renovations, and delivers a traditional sauna experience.
- Sauna price: Also starting around $6,000, depending on features and size. For the latest details, see Qontrast’s Freestanding Saunas
- Installation: Easier than built-ins, but may require a 240V connection
- Maintenance: Moderate—keep the heater clean, check for moisture issues
- Power use: Around 6kW/hour, depending on the heater model
The cost of sauna in-house installations like these is often lower than full custom builds, but can be higher than infrared setups (although there are freestanding options that feature infrared technology), striking a good balance for many homeowners.
- Built-In Saunas: High-End Wellness Experience
Looking for a true spa-at-home feel? A built-in sauna gives you seamless design integration and top-tier materials. But it comes with a higher price tag.
- Built-in sauna cost: The cost typically starts around $15,000 and can go up, depending on customization. For up-to-date pricing, visit Qontrast’s Built-In Saunas page.
- Installation: Requires construction, electrical work, and planning
- The price of a home sauna is highest in this category, especially if custom
- Ongoing costs: Moderate, depending on heater efficiency
This is typically the answer to how much does a home sauna cost when you’re aiming for a fully customized experience.
- Outdoor Saunas: Bring the Spa Outside
Adding an outdoor sauna instantly elevates your backyard and creates a relaxing retreat. However, the cost of outdoor sauna installations can be higher due to the need for weatherproofing, solid foundations, and long-lasting materials.
- How much is an outdoor sauna? Prices often begin around $13,000, but vary based on features and materials. For the most current options, visit Outdoor Saunas at Qontrast.
- Materials: Cedar or thermowood preferred for weather resistance
- Installation: May require a pad or deck, plus weather-sealing
- The cost of a sauna at home outdoors tends to be higher due to added exposure to the elements and the need for durable, weather-resistant construction.
Other Key Costs: Heaters, Parts, and Upgrades
Beyond the structure, your in-home or outdoor sauna cost includes heaters, timers, control panels, and upgrades.
- Electric sauna heaters: $700–$1,500+
- Wood-burning options: $1,000–$2,500+ (plus installation)
- Extras: Mood lighting, chromotherapy, ergonomic benches, bluetooth sound systems, etc.
Explore Qontrast’s Heaters and Parts for prices on essential components. The cost of a sauna can vary significantly based on these optional upgrades.
Cost to Maintain and Run a Sauna
We’ve talked about purchase prices, but what about long-term ownership? You’ll need to consider electricity use and maintenance needs for ongoing sauna usage.
Electricity Use For the 2 Primary Types of Saunas:
- Infrared saunas (1.5–3.5 kW): ~$0.17–$0.42/hour
- Traditional saunas (4–8 kW): ~$0.48–$0.96/hour
If you use your sauna 3–4 times per week, expect monthly bills of $6 to $40, depending on the type and usage.
So, do saunas use a lot of electricity? Not really. Especially in low-cost energy states like Utah, running a sauna stays budget-friendly.
Maintenance Needs and Costs:
- Clean wood and benches monthly ($5–$10 for basic supplies)
- Inspect heaters yearly (professional checks can cost $100–$200)
- Replace lightbulbs or glass if needed ($10–$50 every couple of years or so, depending on parts)
These simple tasks help keep the cost of in-house or outdoor sauna ownership manageable over time.
Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Value
Beyond upfront cost, another key concern for homeowners is long-term value. Fortunately, today’s saunas are more energy-efficient than ever. Many models now include smart timers, insulated walls, and zoning controls that help minimize waste.
And if you’re concerned about whether saunas are expensive to run, rest assured. Infrared saunas, in particular, are incredibly efficient. The answer for those wondering how much sauna usage can increase your utility bill is: not by much. Especially when compared to hot tubs or other luxury amenities.
Plus, saunas can add value to your property and support your health for years. When comparing the cost of a sauna in-house or outdoors versus gym memberships or spa visits, home saunas can pay for themselves in the long run.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
One of the biggest factors in how much a sauna costs is whether you go DIY or hire the professionals.
DIY Kits:
- Save $1,000–$3,000 in labor
- Good for handy homeowners
- Ideal for those trying to reduce the cost of a home sauna overall
Pro Installation:
- Safer wiring and venting
- Ideal for built-ins or complex setups
- Worth the cost if peace of mind matters to you
Refer to our article on Sauna Plans to plan your build the right way.
Summary: How Much Do Saunas Cost?
If you’ve been Googling things like “How much is a sauna at home?” or “How much does a sauna cost?” here’s your quick-glance breakdown*:
| Starting Price | Installation | Running Costs | Maintenance Costs | Best For | |
| Infrared | $6k | Plug-in, Medium DIY, or Professional | $6-15/mo | $10-$20/mo | Small homes, apartments, most homes |
| Freestanding | $6k | Medium DIY or Professional | $10-$30/mo | $15-$25/mo | Garage, rec room |
| Built-In | $15k+ | Professional | $15-$40/mo | $20-$40/mo | Custom luxury in-home or commercial setup |
| Outdoor | $13k+ | Professional | $15-$30/mo | $20-$35/mo | Backyard retreats |
*Estimates are based on the general product range; for the most accurate pricing, visit the relevant Qontrast sauna category pages linked throughout this guide.
The price of a home sauna depends on how much space you have, your heating preferences, and whether you’re going prefab or fully custom.
Final Thoughts: Is a Home Sauna Worth It?
So, how much is a sauna when you count all the real-life costs? Likely less than you think.
And the benefits—stress relief, detox, better sleep, muscle recovery—are tough to put a price on. With options for every budget and style, there’s never been a better time to invest in your health.
Still unsure which sauna is right for your space and lifestyle? Our team is here to help guide your decision with personalized recommendations. Whether you’re curious about installation, pricing, or long-term upkeep, we’re happy to walk you through it all. Take the next step and explore the complete Qontrast sauna collection.Contact us today and start building your dream wellness space at home.
