Operating a Hot Tub in a Short-Term Rental: Cost Breakdown and Regional Analysis

Hot tub on a deck overlooking a calm lake at sunset, surrounded by trees and wooden railings

Introduction

Operating a hot tub year-round in a short-term rental (STR) property can enhance guest experience and boost occupancy, but it also incurs significant ongoing costs. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of hot tub operating expenses for a typical 2–4 person spa (either a rotationally molded unit or a mid-tier acrylic model) and compares annual costs across major U.S. regions. We cover all key cost components – from electricity and water care to maintenance, labor, and insurance – and identify which regions tend to have higher or lower operational costs. Practical insights are included to help STR operators and investors decide if a hot tub is a worthwhile amenity for their property.

Key Operating Cost Components

Electricity (Heating and Circulation): Keeping a hot tub heated to around 100°F and filtering the water continuously is usually the largest ongoing expense. Modern hot tubs are often designed to be energy-efficient, advertised to cost roughly $1 per day (up to ~$50 per month) in electricity under average conditions. In practice, monthly energy costs typically range from about $30 on the low end (in warm climates or with light use) to as much as $100 in colder climates or high usage periods. The hot tub’s heater (1.5 kW for a 120V system, or up to 6 kW for 240V) and pumps (often ~1.5 kW) draw power whenever maintaining temperature or running filtration. Even when not in use by guests, the heater will cycle on to offset heat loss, especially in cold weather. Climate is a major factor: a well-insulated spa in a mild climate might only add ~$20–$30 to the monthly electric bill, whereas the same tub in a harsh winter climate can easily double that. Local electricity rates also heavily influence cost – for example, states like Alabama or Georgia average around $0.14–$0.16 per kWh, while New England states like Maine or Massachusetts pay $0.28–$0.30 per kWh. In practical terms, an average-size hot tub might consume on the order of 2,000–3,000 kWh per year, so a host in a high-cost electricity market could spend $600+ annually on power versus perhaps half that in a low-cost area. Using a well-fitted insulated cover and thermal blanket when the tub is not in use is essential to minimize heat loss and electricity waste.

Water Care (Chemicals, Water, and Filters): Maintaining clean and balanced water is another ongoing cost. This includes sanitizing chemicals (chlorine or bromine, plus shock oxidizers), pH balancers, test strips, and other treatment products. Fortunately, these chemical costs are relatively modest – often on the order of $100–$300 per year for a small hot tub. Even with heavy guest use, chlorine or bromine tablets/granules and periodic shock treatments typically amount to only $10–$25 per month in supplies. Filters need to be cleaned regularly and replaced periodically – a standard cartridge filter may cost $30–$60 and is often replaced about 1–2 times per year in an STR setting (more if usage is extremely high). Industry recommendations for water replacement (draining and refilling the tub) range from 1 to 6 times per year depending on usage. STR operators often lean toward the higher frequency end to ensure hygiene for guests. Each drain/refill incurs a small cost for water (on the order of 300–400 gallons per fill) and the electricity to reheat fresh water. For example, heating a 400-gallon hot tub from 50°F to 100°F uses roughly 49 kWh, which might cost about $5–$10 in electricity depending on the rate. In total, water care (chemicals, periodic water replacement, and filter upkeep) is a manageable but non-negligible operating cost – roughly $15–$25 per month on average for a well-used rental tub.

Routine Cleaning and Labor: A hot tub in a short-term rental requires regular checking and cleaning, often more frequently than a private residential tub. Between guest stays, the tub should be tested, sanitized, and sometimes partially drained or thoroughly cleaned if misuse occurred. Hosts who handle this labor themselves incur a time cost, whereas those who hire services will see it reflected as a labor expense. The cost varies widely by region and service level. Some STR owners contract professional hot tub maintenance services; for example, one rural Northeast rental owner pays about $135 per week for a service that includes chemicals and any needed drain/refill, while another host in the Midwest reported spending approximately $40 per week on hot tub upkeep (using self-service with chlorine tablets in a floater and regular cleanings). In general, expect to invest at least an hour or two of maintenance work per week on testing water, adjusting chemicals, cleaning the tub surface, and ensuring the mechanical components are in order. If outsourcing this task, it could range from ~$150 to $500+ per month depending on local labor rates and the frequency of service visits. Many STR operators fold minor hot tub maintenance into the duties of their cleaning crew for each turnover, perhaps adding an extra $10–$20 per turnover to the cleaning fee for the time and supplies needed. Over a year, these routine labor costs can add up to several hundred dollars in the lowest case (owner-managed) to well over $1,000 if using professional weekly services.

Maintenance and Replacement Reserves: Beyond day-to-day upkeep, a hot tub has mechanical components and accessories that wear out over time. It is prudent for STR owners to budget for maintenance and part replacements as part of the operating costs. Key items include the hot tub cover, jets, pumps, and heaters. A high-quality insulated cover typically lasts around 4–5 years in harsh climates before becoming waterlogged or torn; replacement covers cost about $300–$500 for a standard sized tub. Components like pumps and heaters can last many years but may need servicing or replacement in the tub’s lifetime – a new circulation pump or heater element can cost a few hundred dollars (plus labor for installation). Minor component failures (jets, seals, control panel issues) also occur occasionally. While these costs are not annual per se, setting aside a maintenance reserve of perhaps $200–$300 per year is a wise practice to cover unexpected repairs or eventual replacements. Typical hot tub repair bills average around $175–$550 when they do arise, though major fixes (e.g. replacing a motor or fixing leak damage) can exceed $1,000. By allocating a small portion of rental income to a reserve, STR operators can ensure funds are available for a new cover every few years or an emergency pump replacement without impacting cash flow. Proactive maintenance – such as winterizing the tub if not in use, tightening fittings, and replacing filter cartridges – can also reduce the likelihood of expensive repairs.

Insurance Premium Impact: One often overlooked cost of adding a hot tub to a rental property is the impact on insurance. Liability risks increase with water amenities, and many insurers treat hot tubs similar to pools in terms of coverage needs. Short-term rental insurance policies typically cost around $600 to $2,000 per year for comprehensive coverage, depending on the property and location. Amenities like pools or hot tubs tend to push premiums toward the higher end of that spectrum because they are considered additional risk factors. In other words, a property that might have been $900/year to insure could see a noticeable bump (sometimes a few hundred dollars more annually) if a hot tub is added, due to increased liability coverage requirements. Some insurance providers may require an umbrella liability policy or specific safety measures (locked spa covers, signage, etc.) as conditions for coverage. It’s important for STR operators to discuss these details with their insurer – failure to disclose a hot tub to the insurance company could even result in denied claims. In dollar terms, plan for at least $100–$300 extra on insurance premiums per year attributable to the hot tub. This cost can vary by region as well (for example, an STR in a jurisdiction with high litigation or accident rates may incur higher liability premiums than one in a more benign area). While insurance costs don’t directly scale with usage, they are a fixed cost of offering a hot tub amenity that needs to be factored into the annual operating budget.

Regional Variations in Hot Tub Operating Costs

Operating costs for a hot tub in an STR are significantly influenced by the property’s geographic location. Climate differences affect heating needs, and regional variations in energy prices, labor rates, and insurance costs all play a role. Below we compare how annual hot tub operating expenses tend to differ across major U.S. regions – Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Mountain West, and Pacific Coast – assuming year-round operation of a 2–4 person tub. The table at the end of this section summarizes the approximate annual OPEX (operating expense) ranges by region.

• Northeast: The Northeast is generally a high-cost region for hot tub operation. Cold winters (often with temperatures well below freezing) mean the heater works hardest here, and electricity rates are among the highest in the country. For example, residential electricity in New England states can be 50–100% more expensive per kWh than the national average, amplifying the cost of every hour the heater runs. A well-insulated 2–4 person spa in the Northeast might still incur $600–$800 per year in electricity costs alone to maintain temperature, with peak monthly costs in winter. Additionally, labor and service costs in many Northeastern states (e.g. New York, Massachusetts) tend to be high. If using professional maintenance services, a host might pay top dollar – as noted earlier, $100+ per week is not unheard of in rural resort areas. Insurance premiums in the Northeast can also be above-average, reflecting higher base housing costs and liability exposure. All in, a Northeast STR owner could be looking at roughly $1,500 to $2,500 per year in total hot tub operating expenses. The Northeast thus falls on the high end of the cost spectrum. Energy-saving measures (like insulating the tub’s cabinet and piping, using a thermal cover, and perhaps turning down the thermostat slightly in off-peak times) are especially valuable here to rein in costs.

• Southeast: In contrast, the Southeast U.S. is generally a lower-cost region for hot tub operation. The climate is warm and humid for much of the year – mild winters in places like Florida or coastal Georgia drastically reduce heating requirements compared to northern regions. A hot tub in the Southeast might only need heavy heating during a short winter span (if at all), and for the rest of the year the temperature delta is small (e.g. maintaining 100°F water when ambient is 80°F). Electricity rates in many Southeastern states are at or below the national average (often in the mid-teens cents per kWh or less), thanks in part to abundant local power generation resources. As a result, annual electricity costs can be as low as $300–$500 for keeping a small hot tub running year-round in this region. Water care costs remain similar to elsewhere (climate doesn’t change chemical usage much, though warmer water can require vigilance to prevent algae). Labor and service costs in the Southeast also tend to be lower than in the Northeast or West Coast. Many hosts either self-maintain or find local pool/spa services at moderate rates. Insurance in the Southeast might increase if the property is in a litigious state or an area with high accident claims, but generally premiums for STRs here are around the national average unless other risk factors (like hurricanes) dominate. In total, a Southeastern STR owner might spend on the order of $800 to $1,300 per year on hot tub OPEX. This low relative cost is one reason hot tubs are popular amenities in places like the Smoky Mountains cabins or Florida rentals – the operational burden is comparatively manageable while the marketing appeal to guests is high.

• Midwest: The Midwest offers a mixed picture. Parts of the Midwest have very cold winters (e.g. Minnesota, Illinois) similar to the Northeast, but electricity prices in many Midwestern states are moderate (somewhere around the national average or slightly below). This means heating a hot tub in January in the upper Midwest will certainly spike energy usage, but each kWh might cost only $0.12–$0.15 instead of $0.20+. For example, a Midwestern owner noted roughly a $40 increase in winter monthly electricity for their tub, with little noticeable change in summer. On an annual basis, electric costs of ~$500–$700 are common for a mid-sized, well-insulated tub in Midwest climates. The region’s labor costs tend to be lower than the coasts; indeed one Midwest STR host managed weekly hot tub maintenance for about $40/week by handling chemicals in-house. However, cold climates mean more diligence: water might need to be drained or antifreeze added if the property is left unoccupied in sub-freezing weather, and components face greater strain during deep freezes. Insurance costs in the Midwest are generally not as high as in coastal areas, though liability considerations remain if a hot tub is present. On balance, total annual hot tub operating costs in the Midwest typically fall in the mid-range (approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per year). Southern Midwest areas (e.g. Kansas, Missouri) with milder winters could be on the lower end, whereas northern locales (upper Great Lakes region) might be toward the higher end due to winter heating needs.

• Mountain West: The Mountain West region (e.g. Colorado, Utah, Montana, Idaho) poses some unique cost dynamics. Climate-wise, many areas at elevation have very cold, long winters (with heavy snow and frequent sub-freezing temperatures), rivaling or exceeding the Northeast in heating demand. At the same time, some Mountain states enjoy relatively low-cost electricity (for instance, Idaho and Utah often have residential rates near the lowest in the nation). This combination means that the electricity cost for a hot tub can vary: a cabin in Montana might burn a lot of kWh in January, but if each kWh is cheap, the monthly dollar cost might be moderate. Still, overall energy usage in Mountain winters is high, so expect electricity expenses roughly on par with the Northeast (in the $600–$800 per year range for a 2–4 person tub). Another consideration is that many STRs in the Mountain West are ski-area properties or remote cabins, where professional spa maintenance services may be scarce or costly. Hosts often either learn to do all maintenance themselves or pay a premium for specialized service calls to mountain resorts. Labor costs can therefore vary: in some Utah/Colorado ski towns, skilled service techs charge high fees (similar to big-city rates), whereas in other rural spots owners handle everything. Insurance premiums might be somewhat elevated if, for example, the property is a high-end ski chalet with multiple amenities, but generally Mountain states are not as litigious as the Northeast. A reasonable estimate for Mountain West hot tub OPEX is around $1,400 to $2,000 annually, making it a high- to mid-high cost region. Mountain hosts should pay special attention to winterizing procedures (using insulated skirting, ensuring the tub never loses power in a freeze, etc.) to avoid catastrophic damage that could blow out the maintenance budget.

• Pacific Coast: The Pacific Coast region (primarily California, Oregon, Washington) tends to have a mild climate but higher utility costs. Coastal areas from Seattle to San Diego have relatively temperate winters – rarely dropping as cold as the interior or Northeast – which reduces the heating load on hot tubs. However, especially in California, electricity prices are steep (California’s average residential rate is around $0.30/kWh, among the highest in the U.S.). This means a hot tub in coastal California might not need to run the heater as often, but each hour it does run costs double or triple what it would in, say, the Midwest. In northern Pacific Coast areas (coastal Washington/Oregon), electricity is cheaper (often hydro-powered at ~$0.10–$0.12/kWh), so costs there can be quite low for operation – similar to the Southeast in some cases. On balance, a West Coast STR hot tub likely incurs electric costs in the middle range (perhaps $400–$600 per year), with California being the high end and Pacific Northwest the low end of that range. Labor and service costs on the Pacific Coast are relatively high (especially in California’s tourism markets). A professional cleaning service for hot tubs in a California vacation rental could easily charge a premium, so owners often either increase cleaning fees or perform tasks themselves. Insurance in this region can also be pricey due to generally higher property values and liability environment (California in particular). All factors combined, Pacific Coast hot tub owners might see annual operating costs on the order of $1,100 to $1,600. This is a bit higher than the national average, though not as extreme as the cold Northeast, thanks to the forgiving climate moderating the energy usage. Pacific Coast STR operators should be mindful of water restrictions as well – in drought-prone areas, draining and refilling a hot tub must be done sparingly and could incur higher water utility fees.

The following table summarizes the estimated annual operating expense (OPEX) range for a 2–4 person STR hot tub in each region, assuming year-round use and a moderate maintenance approach. These ranges encompass variations in energy, maintenance, and insurance costs as discussed:

Region	Approx. Annual OPEX Range
Northeast	$1,500 – $2,500 (highest)
Mountain West	$1,400 – $2,000 (high)
Midwest	$1,200 – $1,600 (mid-range)
Pacific Coast	$1,100 – $1,600 (mid-range)
Southeast	$800 – $1,300 (lowest)

Table: Typical yearly operating cost ranges for a 2–4 person hot tub in STR usage, by U.S. region. Actual costs depend on specific local factors (energy rates, climate severity, service choices).

As the table shows, the Northeast generally incurs the highest costs to run a hot tub (cold climate + high utilities), closely followed by the Mountain West. The Southeast has the most cost-advantageous conditions, while the Midwest and Pacific Coast fall in between.

Practical Insights for STR Owners and Investors

Installing a hot tub in a short-term rental can be a double-edged sword: it boosts guest appeal and revenue potential, but it also introduces ongoing expenses and management responsibilities. Here are a few strategic insights to consider:

• Weigh Cost vs. Revenue Uplift: In many markets, a hot tub allows you to charge higher nightly rates or achieve higher occupancy. Estimates suggest a well-advertised hot tub amenity can justify a 15–25% increase in nightly rental price in vacation markets. For an STR operator, this additional income can far exceed the $1,000–$2,000 in annual operating costs. In essence, a hot tub often pays for itself in increased booking revenue – provided you are in a location where guests value the amenity (e.g. ski cabins, romantic getaways, urban penthouses with a view). Before investing, research your local STR market to gauge if a hot tub will significantly boost your competitive positioning.

• Plan for Maintenance Logistics: The biggest “hassle factor” cited by STR hosts with hot tubs is maintaining water quality between guests. If you live nearby or have a reliable team, it’s manageable with standard procedures (testing, adding chemicals, periodic draining). Some owners opt for a service contract with weekly professional maintenance – this adds cost but can ensure the tub is always in top condition for guests. Remember that an unusable or dirty hot tub can lead to bad reviews, so consistency is key. Automating sanitization (e.g. using floating chlorinators, ozonators, or saltwater systems) can reduce daily maintenance needs, but nothing replaces a human check at regular intervals. Incorporate the maintenance routine into your turnover schedule and budget (many operators include a small “hot tub fee” in the cleaning charge to recoup this labor cost).

• Mitigate Risks and Liability: With any water amenity, safety must be a priority. Reduce your liability exposure (and keep insurance manageable) by implementing sensible precautions: post clearly visible spa rules and safety guidelines for guests, use a lockable cover to secure the tub when not in use (especially important for STRs that might sit idle or have children present), and ensure the area around the tub is slip-resistant and well-lit. Some hosts require guests to sign a simple waiver or acknowledgement of hot tub rules as part of check-in. While not foolproof, these steps can prevent accidents and show insurers that you’re a responsible operator. It’s also wise to have an umbrella liability policy if you have a hot tub, even if not explicitly required – it adds an extra layer of protection beyond the standard STR insurance.

• Optimize Energy Efficiency: Over a year, small efficiency improvements make a difference in operating cost. Upgrade insulation on older or rotationally molded tubs if possible (many mid-tier acrylic models already have good insulation). Use a high-quality cover and replace it when it becomes heavy or loses its insulating ability. Consider lowering the thermostat by a few degrees during vacancy periods or using an energy-saving mode if the hot tub has one – for example, keeping it at 98°F instead of 104°F when not in use can noticeably cut heat loss without greatly diminishing guest experience (they can still crank it up on arrival). In colder regions, windbreaks or enclosures around the hot tub can shield it from wind chill and reduce heat loss. Also, ensure the filtration pump cycles are optimized – enough to keep water clean but not running 24/7 on high speed unnecessarily. Many newer spas let you program filtering times to avoid peak electricity rate hours, which can save on utility bills if you’re in an area with time-of-use pricing.

• Budget for the Unexpected: Finally, treat the hot tub like the mini-pool that it is – eventually you’ll have surprise expenses (a pump motor burns out on New Year’s Eve, or a guest breaks the cover lifter). By setting aside a small portion of rental earnings as a repair/replacement reserve, you won’t be caught off-guard. Manufacturers often recommend certain components be replaced on a schedule (gaskets, UV bulbs, etc.), so follow those guidelines. Keeping spares of inexpensive items (extra filters, chemical kits) on hand can avoid downtime. Well-maintained hot tubs can last 10+ years, delivering many years of guest enjoyment and rental income, but only if you proactively care for them.

Conclusion

For short-term rental owners, a hot tub represents a significant operating commitment with costs that vary by location. A small 2–4 person hot tub typically incurs on the order of $1,000–$2,000 per year in combined electricity, water care, maintenance, labor, and insurance expenses under year-round use. Cold climates and high utility rates (e.g. the Northeast and Mountain West) push these costs to the upper end, whereas warm regions with cheap power (Southeast) see much lower expenses. The Northeast tends to be the most expensive region to operate a hot tub for an STR, while the Southeast is the least expensive, with the Midwest, Pacific Coast, and Mountain states falling in between. By understanding the breakdown of costs – from keeping the water heated and clean to scheduling regular upkeep and covering liability – rental operators can budget appropriately and implement strategies to control expenses.

When managed effectively, the hot tub can remain an attractive, revenue-enhancing feature of the property that justifies its costs. The key is to approach it like a business decision: invest in efficiency, keep up with maintenance, and charge rates that account for the value and expense of the amenity. With smart planning, an STR hot tub can delight your guests and deliver relaxation – both to them during their stay, and to you in the form of a well-earned return on investment.

Sources:

1. Loveland, Mariel. “How Much Does It Cost to Run a Hot Tub? [2025 Data].” Angi, Feb 14, 2024. – Average annual costs and breakdown of electricity vs. maintenance for hot tubs

2. Direct Energy. “How much does it cost to heat a hot tub?” Direct Energy Learning Center, Aug 17, 2023. – Energy usage of hot tub heaters and impact of climate on electricity cost

3. Lumley, Graham. “How Much Does It Cost to Run a Hot Tub?” BKV Energy Blog, July 2025. – Monthly electricity cost range ($30–$100) and factors like climate and tub insulation

4. Epic Hot Tubs. “How Much Does it Cost to Run a Hot Tub in the Winter?” Epic Hot Tubs Blog (NC), 2023. – Example calculation of heating 400 gal tub, monthly winter heating cost in NC, and maintenance tips

5. Reddit r/airbnb_hosts. “Hot tub maintenance cost,” 2021. – Real-world STR host reports on weekly maintenance service costs in Northeast ($135) vs. Midwest ($40)

6. Autohost. “Short Term Rental Insurance Cost: A Detailed Breakdown,” 2025. – Overview of STR insurance premiums and note that pools/hot tubs raise insurance costs

7. Choose Energy. “Electricity Rates by State – July 2025.” , 2025. – U.S. average electricity prices by state, highlighting regional price disparities (e.g. New England vs. Southeast)

8. The Cover Guy. “What Is The Price Of A Good Hot Tub Cover?”  – Typical cost ($300–$400) for a standard hot tub cover and expected lifespan