Replacing Your Hot Tub or Swim Spa — Above Ground, In Ground or Deck?

Upgrading your hot tub or swim spa, but can’t decide on an in-ground, above-ground or in-deck replacement? Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each.

In-Ground

In-ground swim spas and hot tubs take a long time and a lot of money to build. Installation requires excavation, plumbing, electrical and even gas hookups. An in-ground hot tub will generally run you at least $10,000-$15,000, and could easily cost $25,000.  

But …

They should last as long as your home. Really. They’re that durable. They are incredibly customizable and can be designed individually. They’re easy to use and are compatible with all kinds of jet configurations and add-ons, like lights and waterfalls. Finally, they are truly beautiful and designed to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding decor and landscaping.

Above Ground

Above-ground tubs and swim spas cost far less, generally between $3,000 and $12,000. They are also cheaper to run, usually less than $30 per month. They have individual, ergonomic seats, as opposed to the communal benches common in in-ground tubs. They require less maintenance and their parts are warrantied for longer. They don’t need to be preheated and they work with lift covers. Finally, they are portable, which is especially important in multi-season or colder climates.

The tradeoff? They can run the risk of looking like a big box of water in your backyard.

Built Into a Deck

Before building a swim spa or hot tub into a deck, you’ll have to consider the foundation and make sure it is strong enough to hold the weight of the tub plus water and people. Also, even on a small deck there has to be sufficient room for the cover lift to operate. That said, deck-in tubs and swim spas can be a more affordable, less permanent alternative to in-ground spas, but that look just as elegant. Building a deck, of course, requires a larger investment than an above ground spa or hot tub, and you will lose the benefits of portability.