Hot Tub Sizes: How to Choose the Best Size for Your Home
Find the right size for relaxation.
Hot tubs come in a variety of sizes so that you can choose one that best suits your needs. Keep reading to learn how to pick a hot tub that fits your space and accommodates the number of people you want to include.
Tip!
Check out the Hot Tub Buying Guide for an in-depth guide that covers different hot tub types, shapes, materials, and features.
1. Choose an Ideal Hot Tubbing Spot
(Shop this image: round hot tubs, green adirondack chairs, square patio umbrellas, and blue-striped outdoor rugs.)
The first step is to choose the best spot for a hot tub. This spot will determine your measurements and the size of the hot tub you can install. Here are some considerations for choosing a place to put a hot tub.
Placement
Hot tubs need a strong, flat surface with close access to water and electrical supply. We recommend leaving a few feet on each side of the hot tub to make maintenance easier. This provides enough room to drain the hot tub and offers plenty of space to make maintenance repairs.
Consider creating a clear pathway to and from the hot tub. A direct path can help you avoid slippery surfaces, improving your hot tub safety. This idea is also great if you plan on using your hot tub in a cold climate, since having a direct path makes it quicker, easier, and less chilly to walk from the door to the hot tub.
Delivery Clearance
To ensure a smooth delivery and installation, map out the route the hot tub will take on its way to its destination. Measure any entryways or gates that the hot tub could pass through to make sure it will fit.
Weight Capacity
Hot tubs are heavy and require a sturdy foundation. An empty hot tub can range from 500 to 1000 lbs. while a hot tub filled with water can weigh as much as 5500 lbs. A small hot tub filled with water usually weighs 3000 lbs. A medium-sized hot tub can weigh 4500 lbs and a large hot tub is often 5500 lbs. How Much Does a Hot Tub Weigh? goes over weight considerations in more detail.
Tip!
For something lighter in weight and less permanent, inflatable hot tubs are also an option.
2. Map Out & Measure the Area
(Shop this image: gray hot tubs, orange patio rugs, and orange towels.)
Once you've determined the best spot for a hot tub, you can start measuring.
- To calculate the square footage of your patio, deck, or yard, measure both the length and the width. One easy way to do this is by walking the distance and measuring one stride as 3'.
- After recording the length and width, multiply the two measurements to find the square footage of your total outdoor space.
Knowing your space’s square footage will help you understand how much room you have for a hot tub, based on how much of your total space you’re okay with it taking up.
Tip!
Hot tubs need an additional 12" to 15" of space around all sides to allow you to get in and out of the tub with ease, as well as perform any necessary maintenance, so make sure to factor that extra clearance into your measurements. For example, a hot tub that is 5'4" wide would actually need a space that measures 7'4" wide.
3. Determine the Optimal Size for Your Space
(Shop this image: square hot tubs, bar carts, and patio chairs.)
Review each option below to determine which hot tub size works the best. Be sure to use your measurements to compare.
Small
If you have limited space, a small hot tub is a great option for you. The most common dimensions for small hot tub sizes range from 5'4" to 7" long, 5'4" to 6'8" wide, and 33" to 38½" tall. This size provides enough seats for two or three people and fits well in compact outdoor spaces, such as small patios or decks.
Medium
The most popular size, medium hot tub dimensions measure between 6'6" to 7'9" long, 6'4" to 7'9" wide, and 33" to 38½" tall. They comfortably seat four to five people while providing a spa-like feel. This average size is roomy enough to allow you to relax with family and friends without the hot tub dominating your outdoor space. Medium hot tubs are well-suited for backyards or medium-sized decks.
Large & Extra-Large
Large hot tubs typically measure 7' to 9' long, 7' to 9'2" wide, and 33' to 38½" tall. This hot tub sits six to seven people comfortably and is perfect for larger outdoor spaces. Large hot tubs are ideal for spending quality time with friends and family or stretching out with just a few people. If you have a large household or love to entertain, an extra-large hot tub is spacious enough to fit everyone. These can measure up to 11" long and 11" wide. This size is best for expansive outdoor spaces and requires plenty of room for installation.
(Shop this image: square hot tubs, patio chairs, and garden stools.)
In addition to general sizing, you also need to think about how many people on average will want to use the hot tub at the same time. Consider how many people are in your household, as well as the approximate number of guests you’ll want to use it with. This will help you decide which size hot tub will be a good fit.
Tip!
Looking for inspiration to elevate your hot tub? Read Patio & Deck Hot Tub Ideas: Create a Relaxing Backyard Environment to find easy ways to upgrade your outdoor space.
