Is a Hot Tub Worth It?
Published 5 May, 2025
Is a Hot Tub Really Worth It?
In some ways, this is the ultimate question: Is a hot tub really worth it?
Our answer is yes. But to be fair, we understand they’re not for everyone.
Of course, we’re a little biased—we manufacture hot tubs. But we’ve also spoken with customers who chose not to buy one, and even a few who purchased a hot tub and later regretted it.
So we’ve heard both perspectives many times. We know it’s not a simple yes-or-no decision.
Most of the people who have bought hot tubs from us have been very happy with them. We’ve been in business for 40 years—if they weren’t satisfied, we wouldn’t be around today.
So in this article, we’ll walk through what makes a hot tub worth it—and what reasons might make it not worth it for you.
And by the end? We hope you’ll know if you should remodel your kitchen… or invest in a hot tub (or maybe even do both)!
Is Buying a Hot Tub Worth It? The Pros
If you’re leaning toward yes, here’s why:
You can use it year-round: Unlike a swimming pool, which has to be closed during winter in most areas, a hot tub is accessible in every season. There’s nothing quite like relaxing in warm water while snow falls around you.
They’re more affordable than pools: A good-quality hot tub starts at around $10,000 CAD, with additional costs for setup and electrical work (we’ve broken down costs in detail here). Compared to pools—which often cost at least three times more—it’s a budget-friendly option.
They offer relief and comfort: We’re not doctors and we’re not giving medical advice, but hot tubs provide real benefits. They’re not just water flowing through jets—they can help relieve stress, pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. We’ve sold many to people with such concerns—and they don’t return them.
They’re great for bonding: Want your kids to put down their phones and be present? A hot tub helps. Many parents tell us that they finally have real conversations with their children while soaking together. A hot tub becomes a true escape.
They turn your backyard into a retreat: A hot tub gives your home a resort-like feel. It’s the kind of feature people hope for in a vacation rental—and it’s perfect for entertaining all year long.
A touch of luxury you can afford: How many things in your life truly feel like a reward? A hot tub is one of those rare purchases that delivers a little luxury every day.
They might boost your home’s value: Some real estate agents say it depends. But if a future buyer doesn’t want it, you can usually move it with you.
Kids and hot tubs are a perfect match. If you’re looking for a place where kids actually enjoy being off their phones, a hot tub—like the Hydropool Signature 679—is the spot.
Is a Hot Tub Worth It? The Cons
They do cost money: There’s the initial price and ongoing expenses. Just like owning a pet means buying food, owning a hot tub means budgeting for maintenance and utilities.
They require upkeep: Even the most efficient hot tubs need regular care. You’ll have to stay on top of water quality, cleaning, and maintenance to ensure it’s always ready to use.
They take up space: Got a small yard? A hot tub might take up a big part of it. Got a large one? You’ll still need to think about landscaping it in or it might look out of place. Either way, it takes some planning.
They don’t resell well: If you’re thinking of reselling, don’t expect to make much. Used hot tubs can be hard to sell due to concerns about wear and maintenance. Plus, moving them is no small task.
Shorter sessions: You can lounge in a pool for hours. But in a hot tub—especially with the heat on high—your sessions will likely be shorter.
How Much Does a Hot Tub Cost?
Should You Buy a Hot Tub?
We think yes… but only if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for you.
Owning a hot tub is a lot like having a pet. Sometimes it’s a faithful friend that brings joy, comfort, and connection. And other times… it’s like when your dog chews your favorite shoes. Maybe the water turns green and you have to figure out why (don’t worry, this is rare—most owners become pros within six months).
Our goal here was to give you a balanced view of what makes a hot tub worth it—and what might not. Millions of people love their hot tubs, and millions live happily without one.
The choice is yours.
