Cost to run a hot tub / spa
Big loads · typical wattage 1,500 W (1,000 W-6,000 W)
A hot tub / spa draws about 1,000 W-6,000 W (typically 1,500 W). At typical usage it uses about 2,500 kWh/year, which costs roughly $38.67/month and $464/year at the US average residential rate of 18.56¢/kWh (March 2026). At a high-rate state like California (33.35¢) it costs more; at a low-rate state like Washington (14.40¢) it costs less.
Source: U.S. DOE — Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use. Data as of June 2026.
Hot tub / spa at a glance
| Figure | Hot tub / spa |
|---|---|
| Typical running wattage | 1,500 W (1,000 W-6,000 W) |
| Assumed usage | 2,500 kWh/yr typical |
| Energy used | 2,500 kWh per year |
| Cost per month @ 18.56¢ | $38.67 |
| Cost per year @ 18.56¢ | $464 |
Source: U.S. DOE — Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use; ENERGY STAR product specifications. Data as of June 2026.
Cost at light, typical and heavy use
How the monthly and yearly cost changes with how long you run it, at the US average 18.56¢/kWh:
| Usage | Cost / month | Cost / year |
|---|---|---|
| Light use (3 h/day) | $25.06 | $305 |
| Typical use (6 h/day) | $50.11 | $610 |
| Heavy use (9 h/day) | $75.17 | $915 |
Cost at different state rates
The same hot tub / spa at typical usage, priced at a few representative state rates:
| Rate | Cost / month | Cost / year |
|---|---|---|
| US average (18.56¢) | $38.67 | $464 |
| Washington (14.40¢) | $30.00 | $360 |
| Texas (16.39¢) | $34.15 | $410 |
| California (33.35¢) | $69.48 | $834 |
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential) (March 2026). Data as of June 2026.
Use the calculator to price it at your exact rate, or see all 51 states.
Wattage source & how to save
A hot tub's heater (1,000–6,000 W) and circulation pump cycle to hold temperature; year-round energy is often 2,000–3,500 kWh.
Tip to cut the cost: Use a tight-fitting insulated cover and lower the setpoint when away.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a hot tub / spa?
At the US average residential rate of 18.56¢/kWh, a hot tub / spa (about 1,000 W-6,000 W, typically 1,500 W) used at typical levels costs roughly $38.67 per month and $464 per year. Your cost depends on your exact wattage, usage and local rate. Use the calculator for an exact figure.
How many watts does a hot tub / spa use?
A hot tub's heater (1,000–6,000 W) and circulation pump cycle to hold temperature; year-round energy is often 2,000–3,500 kWh.
How much electricity does a hot tub / spa use per year?
About 2,500 kWh per year at typical usage. This is expressed as annual kWh because the device cycles rather than running at a fixed wattage.
How can I cut the running cost of a hot tub / spa?
Use a tight-fitting insulated cover and lower the setpoint when away.
Keep exploring
Sources & accuracy
Wattage: U.S. DOE — Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use and ENERGY STAR-grade references (typical figures; ranges shown where relevant). Electricity rate: EIA Electric Power Monthly (March 2026). All public domain. Costs are a transparent calculation (see methodology) and are estimates only — your appliance's actual wattage, your usage and your utility rate may differ. Check the appliance label and your bill before relying on these figures.
Last updated: 2026-06-20