What Does a Swim Spa Cost?

If you’re considering investing in a swim spa, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is, “what does a swim spa cost?” After all, swim spas are not exactly cheap, but they do offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for many homeowners.

In this guide, I’ll be breaking down:
✔️ Upfront costs – What you can expect to pay for different swim spa models
✔️ What affects pricing – Size, features, and other key factors
✔️ Ongoing expenses – Energy use, maintenance, and repairs

By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the true cost of owning a swim spa—plus some money-saving tips to make sure you get the best deal.

And here’s the best part: I’ve got an alternative option that could save you thousands—it’s not for everyone, but definitely worth considering!

So if you’re ready to take the plunge and learn more about the cost of a swim spa, keep reading! At the end of this article I am going to give you a money saving alternative – not for everyone of course but certainly worth considering.

 

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What Exactly is a Swim Spas

A swim spa is the perfect blend of a swimming pool and a hot tub, offering both fitness and relaxation in one compact unit. Think of it as a heated pool with powerful jets that create a steady current—allowing you to swim in place, just like in open water.

Unlike traditional pools, swim spas are designed for year-round use and can be used for swimming, exercise, relaxation, and hydrotherapy. They come in a range of sizes, from compact models for small spaces to larger units that fit multiple swimmers at once.

Swim spas offer adjustable jet speeds for a customized swim experience, temperature control for all-season use, and built-in lighting and sound systems for ultimate relaxation.

They are a great alternative to full-sized pools, especially for homeowners who want the benefits of swimming but have limited space. Whether you’re into fitness training, therapy, or just unwinding after a long day, a swim spa brings health, wellness, and fun right to your backyard.

What are the benefits of a swim spa?

Swim spas offer a wide range of benefits, including:

• Improved cardiovascular health: Swimming is a great form of aerobic exercise that can help to improve heart health, reduce cholesterol, and lower blood pressure.

• Increased muscle strength and tone: The resistance created by the swim jets can help to build muscle strength and tone, especially in the legs and core.

• Reduced pain and inflammation: The heat and massage jets can help to reduce pain and inflammation from arthritis, muscle injuries, and other conditions.

• Improved sleep quality: The warm water and relaxation effects of a swim spa can help to promote better sleep.

• Stress relief: Swim spas can provide a great way to relax and de-stress after a long day.

What are the factors that influence swim spa cost?

The price of a swim spa can vary based on several factors, including size, features, brand, and installation.

Larger swim spas generally cost more than smaller models, as they provide more space and often include more powerful jets. Sizes typically range from 5 to 21 feet in length and 5 to 10 feet in width. Advanced features, such as multiple jet settings, built-in sound systems, aromatherapy, and Bluetooth connectivity, can also increase the price.

Brand reputation plays a role, with well-known manufacturers often charging more for their quality, reliability, and innovative designs. Installation costs can vary depending on factors like site preparation, electrical work, and plumbing.

Other factors that may impact cost include material quality, energy efficiency, and warranty coverage. High-quality materials, such as durable acrylic shells and stainless steel components, add to the price but enhance durability. Energy-efficient models may have a higher upfront cost but can save money over time on electricity bills. Extended warranties provide added protection but can also increase the initial investment.

When choosing a swim spa, it’s essential to assess your needs and budget carefully. Prioritizing key features and consulting with experienced dealers can help you find the best option for your investment.

Why Purchase a Swim Spa Over a Pool?

Swim spas offer many of the same benefits as traditional pools but with added advantages that make them a great alternative.

Their compact size makes them ideal for smaller spaces, while their lower upfront and maintenance costs make them a more budget-friendly option. Unlike pools, swim spas can be used year-round thanks to built-in heating and insulation.

Beyond swimming, they offer versatility for aquatic exercise, relaxation, and hydrotherapy. They also provide significant health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and stress relief.

For those seeking a space-saving, cost-effective, and multi-purpose alternative to a pool, a swim spa is a great investment.

What are the ongoing costs for a swim spa?

The ongoing running costs for a swim spa can vary based on several factors, including the type of swim spa, its size, location, frequency of use, energy efficiency features, and local utility rates. Here are the main cost components to consider:

1. Energy Consumption: Heating the water in a swim spa is typically the largest ongoing cost. The more you use the swim spa and the higher you set the water temperature, the more energy it will consume. Energy-efficient swim spas with good insulation and advanced heating systems can help reduce this cost.

2. Water Filtration and Chemicals: Regular maintenance of water quality requires filtration, balancing chemicals (chlorine, bromine, etc.), and water testing. The cost of chemicals and water testing kits can add up over time. Using a good quality water treatment system can help minimize chemical usage.

3. Pump and Motor Maintenance: Swim spas have powerful pumps and motors that drive the swim current and jets. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and potential repairs, should be factored into the running costs.

4. Cover and Insulation: Properly maintaining the swim spa cover and insulation is crucial for energy efficiency. Replacing or repairing covers when needed can impact energy consumption.

5. Electricity Rates: The cost of electricity varies by location and can significantly impact running costs. Check with your local utility company for current rates.

6. Climate: If you live in a colder climate, the swim spa will need to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, potentially increasing energy costs.

7. Water Supply and Disposal: Filling the swim spa initially and occasional water changes will require water supply and disposal, which may have associated costs.

8. Repairs and Maintenance: Like any mechanical system, swim spas may require occasional repairs or maintenance services, which should be budgeted for.

9. Wear and Tear: Over time, components such as filters, jets, and pumps might need replacement due to wear and tear.

While swim spas come with ongoing costs, they also provide benefits like relaxation, exercise, and hydrotherapy. To estimate your specific expenses, consider your location, usage habits, and the energy efficiency of your chosen model.

Swim Spa Purchase Price

The purchase price of a swim spa can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size, features, and brand. In general, swim spas can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000 or more.

Smaller swim spas designed for one or two swimmers typically cost less than larger models that can accommodate multiple users. In addition to the size, the features of the swim spa can also impact the price. Swim spas with more advanced features, such as multiple speed options, LED lighting, and sound systems, will generally cost more than basic models.

The brand of the swim spa can also impact the price, with more well-known and established brands generally commanding a higher price tag. Keep in mind that while purchasing a lower-priced swim spa may save you money in the short term, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of ownership, such as energy usage, maintenance, and repairs.

Swim Spa Delivery Cost?

The delivery cost of a swim spa can vary depending on several factors, such as the distance of the delivery location from the manufacturer, the size and weight of the swim spa, and any additional services required.

Delivery costs can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the above factors. It’s important to keep in mind that swim spas are generally larger and heavier than hot tubs, which can make delivery more complex and expensive.

If you live in a remote area, you may also incur additional delivery costs due to the difficulty of accessing your property. Some manufacturers may offer free delivery within a certain distance from their factory or showroom, so it’s worth checking with them to see if this is an option.

Swim Spa Installation Cost

The installation cost of a swim spa can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the swim spa, the type of foundation required, and the cost of labour in your area.

The cost of a foundation for a swim spa can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic gravel base to several thousand dollars for a reinforced concrete slab. The foundation must be level, sturdy, and able to support the weight of the swim spa, so it’s important to consult with a professional to ensure that the foundation is suitable for your specific swim spa model.

In addition to the foundation, you may also need to hire an electrician to install the necessary electrical wiring for the swim spa.

Swim Spa Cost of Ownership, Maintenance and Repairs

Owning a swim spa involves more than just the initial purchase price and delivery/installation costs. Ongoing expenses for maintenance and repairs are important factors to consider when budgeting for a swim spa.

Maintenance costs will vary depending on the brand, model, and frequency of use. Regular maintenance typically includes chemicals to balance the water, filters to ensure cleanliness, and energy costs to keep the swim spa heated and running.

Expect to spend a few hundred dollars annually on chemicals and filters, with the exact amount depending on the swim spa’s size and usage. Energy costs also fluctuate based on the efficiency of the model and how often it is used.

Repairs can add to the overall cost of ownership. Common repairs might include fixing leaks, replacing worn parts, or addressing issues with the heating or pump systems.

To keep ownership costs manageable, regular maintenance is key. Promptly addressing minor issues before they escalate into larger problems can help prevent expensive repairs. Additionally, investing in a swim spa with a solid warranty or considering an extended warranty can provide peace of mind and help cover unexpected repair costs.

Cheaper Swim Spa Cost – Build your own for half the cost!

Have you ever considered building your own DIY swim spa? It might sound surprising, but creating your own swim spa could save you a significant amount of money—possibly up to half the cost of a pre-built model! Here’s how.

If you’re handy and enjoy a challenge, building a swim spa can be a fun and rewarding project that’s not as difficult as you might think. With a bit of planning and effort, you could complete your own DIY swim spa for under $20K USD.

A swim spa is essentially a small cocktail pool or spool, but with the addition of a swim jet or countercurrent system.

Step 1: Planning and Design

The first step is designing your swim spa to fit your specific needs. Consider the size, depth, and shape, and determine the materials and equipment you’ll need. You’ll also need to plan for the electrical and plumbing systems, including the pump, heater, and filter. This is where I can offer you guidance to ensure everything is set up correctly.

Step 2: Construction

Once your design is ready, it’s time to start building. Begin by creating a sturdy foundation—such as a concrete slab or reinforced deck—to support the spa.

For the walls, I recommend using Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) blocks. They’re quick to install and come with built-in insulation, which helps keep running costs low by improving thermal efficiency.

Step 3 : Plumbing and Electrical

Next, install the plumbing and electrical systems, including the pump, heater, and filter. You’ll also need to set up the swim current generator to create a countercurrent for swimming.

Step 4 : Finishing

Finally, finish with tiles for a sleek look—although painting the surface can save on costs, it might not look as polished.

Conclusion

From understanding the upfront costs to factoring in ongoing expenses for maintenance and energy, you now have the knowledge to make an informed decision that fits your budget and lifestyle. 

If you’re looking to save, building a DIY swim spa could be an option worth exploring, offering a more affordable way to enjoy all the advantages of a swim spa with a bit of personal effort. 

If you’d like to create your own DIY Swim Jet Pool then feel free to get in touch with me!

Can I Help You?

If I can help you in any way I would love to hear from you. You can get in touch using the form below.

Thanks - Andi

 

Hi, Andi here. I own Buildahottub.com and also write all of the articles and info pages on the site. Some years back now, I built my own hot tub but struggled to find the information I needed. So, once my tub was complete, I started this website to help others in their own pursuit of hot tub and plunge pools DIY building information.

Fast forward to 2025, I've helped over 1400+ DIY customers just like you all over the world build hot tubs and pools. Have a good look around the site, there are lots of resources here. Please do get in touch if I can help you. - Cheers, Andi