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How Much Does an Outdoor Sauna Cost? A Full Breakdown

August 29, 2025

So you’ve explored the benefits, fallen in love with the idea of a garden sauna, and maybe even picked out your dream design. But before you commit, there’s one essential detail left to cover - how much does an outdoor sauna cost for your luxury retreat.

This guide is a natural follow-up to our Outdoor sauna buying guide, designed specifically for those who already know the style and features they’re after. If you're wondering how much is an outdoor sauna and seriously considering bringing one home, we'll walk you through what it really costs - not just the price tag on the sauna itself, but everything from installation to operation and long-term maintenance.

Whether you're eyeing a cozy barrel sauna or a spacious cabin setup, this breakdown will help you budget smarter and feel confident in your next step.

Types of Outdoor Saunas & What They Cost

Let’s get right into it. Below are the most popular types of outdoor saunas people are choosing right now — and at the same time, the ones you’ll find on our website. We’ve broken down what each style typically costs, what makes the price go up or down, and what you can expect when choosing a sauna that fits your lifestyle.

Infrared Saunas

  • Typical cost: $500–$5,000
  • Best for: Compact spaces, quick solo sessions, low-maintenance wellness

Infrared saunas use heating panels to warm the body directly - unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you. Because they don't require stones, wood-burning stoves, or even high-power electrical setups in most cases, they’re often more affordable and easier to install.

That said, infrared saunas are typically designed for indoor or sheltered outdoor use, and they don’t offer quite the same ritualistic feel as a traditional wood-fired sauna. On the upside, they usually plug into a standard outlet and cost less to run - making them ideal if you’re after something simple, low-maintenance, and efficient.

Barrel Saunas

  • Typical cost: $3,000–$10,000
  • Best for: Fast heat-up time, smaller garden spaces, energy efficiency

The rounded design of a barrel sauna isn’t just eye-catching - it’s also highly functional. With less internal air to heat and naturally efficient airflow, they warm up quickly and retain heat well. That makes them both economical to run and super satisfying to use.

Eden Hut’s 4-person Barrel Sauna is a great example of this style, starting at £4,225 (~$5,350). Crafted from thermally treated Nordic spruce, it’s made to handle the elements and last for years with minimal upkeep.

Cabin or Cube-Style Saunas

  • Typical cost: $7,000–$15,000
  • Best for: Larger groups, standing height comfort, cold climates

Cube or cabin-style saunas are shaped more like a small garden room, with flat walls, more headroom, and sometimes space for extras like a porch or changing area. These designs feel more like a natural extension of your home and blend well into a landscaped garden.

Eden Hut’s 8-person Cabin Sauna starts at £7,350 (~$9,300) and gives you generous space inside - perfect if you want to stretch out, enjoy the view through optional windows, or share the heat with friends and family.

Pod & Dome Saunas

  • Typical cost: $5,000–$12,000
  • Best for: Style-forward buyers, modern homes, medium-sized gardens

Pod or dome saunas fall somewhere between a barrel and a cabin. They often feature rounded, aerodynamic shapes that stand out visually while still heating efficiently. Some models come with integrated benches or unique skylights.

While Eden Hut occasionally offers pod-style saunas in limited runs, availability may vary - but keep an eye on our collections if you’re after something a bit different.

Custom or Modular Builds

  • Typical cost: $15,000–$35,000+
  • Best for: High-end properties, wellness retreats, multi-room layouts

If you’re dreaming of a luxury spa experience with a panoramic window, dual-zone heating, and a porch for cooling off with a drink — this is the category for you. Custom saunas are tailored to your preferences, space, and budget. But as you’d expect, the price increases with size, finishes, and professional installation.

interior of outdoor sauna

Explore our complete range of outdoor saunas

What Impacts the Price of an Outdoor Sauna

1. Materials & Construction

Not all wood - or craftsmanship - is created equal.

  • Timber type matters: Cheaper saunas might use basic pine, which can warp or crack outdoors. We use thermally treated Nordic spruce - it’s naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and heat. That means less maintenance and a longer lifespan.
  • Framing & joints: Precision-cut, interlocking joints last longer and handle seasonal expansion better. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference.
  • Insulation & finishing touches: Well-insulated walls hold heat better, which saves energy. Interior touches like smooth benchwork or LED lighting can nudge the price up — but also elevate the experience.

2. Heater Type

The heart of your sauna - and one of the biggest cost influencers.

  • Electric heaters$300–$1,500: Clean, easy, and reliable. Brands like Harvia are popular for a reason: they heat fast and last long.
  • Wood-fired heaters$250–$800 + chimney setup: If you're after that authentic crackle and woodsmoke ritual, this is it. You'll also need a chimney or flue kit — budget another $200–$500.
  • Infrared panels$100–$700 each: Great for compact saunas or those prioritizing health benefits over high heat.

3. Site Prep & Foundation

Estimated cost: $300–$3,000

What you put underneath your sauna matters just as much as what’s inside it.

  • Leveling the ground – A flat, stable base is a must - expect extra work if your garden is sloped.
  • Foundation types: Gravel is simple and budget-friendly. Concrete pads offer a cleaner look and stronger base (ideal for heavier units).
  • Electrical conduit or drainage: If you’re running power or expecting rain runoff, a little planning here saves hassle later.

4. Installation & Labor

Estimated cost: $500–$5,000

Who’s putting it all together - you, or the pros?

  • DIY builds save money: Most Eden Hut saunas are designed for self-assembly in 1–2 days with basic tools and two people.
  • Electrical work or wood stove chimney installs often need licensed professionals — especially if you want to stay up to code.
  • Premium builds or custom modifications may need a contractor, particularly for complex foundations or integration with landscaping.

5. Permits & Legal Costs

Estimated cost: $100–$1,000 (varies by location)

Yes, sometimes your dream sauna needs a bit of paperwork.

  • Electric connections or wood-burning stoves often require permits for safety and compliance.
  • Larger sauna cabins or structures might count as “outbuildings” depending on your local council, which could trigger zoning rules.
  • Not sure? Your local authority or installer should be able to clarify quickly.

Ongoing Costs: Operating & Maintenance

Once your sauna is installed, there are a few recurring costs to consider - but the good news is, most of them are manageable with a little planning.

If you’re using an electric heater, expect to spend around $10–$50 per month on electricity, depending on how often you use it and your local energy rates. Wood-fired saunas are generally more economical over time, especially if you source your own wood — but even if you're buying kiln-dried logs, most homeowners spend around $150–$300 per year on fuel.

Then there’s maintenance, which helps your sauna last longer and perform at its best. Set aside $150–$500 annually for things like reapplying wood treatment oils, replacing sauna stones, and servicing your heater if needed. Regular cleaning and ventilation go a long way, but a bit of seasonal upkeep ensures your retreat stays looking beautiful and working perfectly year after year.

DIY vs. Turnkey Builds

This is often the final piece of the puzzle: do you want a ready-made sauna kit you can assemble yourself, or are you leaning toward something custom-built and fully installed? The difference in cost - and effort - can be significant. A DIY build is typically more budget-friendly and gives you a great sense of ownership, while a turnkey solution adds convenience and customization, but at a higher price point. It all depends on your timeline, budget, and how hands-on you want to be.

Assembly, Delivery & What’s Included in Your Eden Hut Sauna

At Eden Hut, all of our saunas come as ready-to-assemble kits, complete with everything you need: pre-cut timber panels, benches, fixings, and clear step-by-step instructions. Most models can be built in 1–2 days with two people and some basic tools (think screwdriver, level, wrench — nothing fancy). You don’t need to be a builder to get it done — just handy enough to follow along. We also offer nationwide delivery, and your sauna will arrive securely packed, with flat-packed parts for easy transport and unloading. Need help with the heavy lifting or assembly? We can connect you with trusted installers in select areas to make the process even smoother.

Cost Overview (By Type)

table of sauna cost

Conclusion

We hope this guide gave you the answers you were looking for - and a clearer picture of what goes into the cost of an outdoor sauna. Take your time, do the math, and think long-term. When you plan well and invest in quality, your sauna won’t just be a purchase - it’ll be a lasting part of your lifestyle.

And if you're ready to take the next step, head over to our website. You might just find the perfect sauna waiting for you.

August 29, 2025

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