If you're shopping for a home sauna, you're probably looking at prices anywhere between £3,000 and £20,000 for a decent setup. Most people end up spending around £6,000 for a quality two-person unit that'll actually last, though you can definitely go cheaper or way more expensive depending on what you're after. The thing is, that price range covers a lot of ground; you've got infrared models, traditional Finnish-style saunas, outdoor barrel units, and everything in between.

However, what you'll pay really comes down to the heating technology you want, how big you need it to be, what materials you're comfortable with, and whether you're installing it indoors or outdoors. 

This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay for when you buy a sauna, compares the real costs across different types, and gives you specific recommendations based on what you can actually afford to spend. Whether you're eyeing a basic portable unit or dreaming about a premium outdoor setup, you'll walk away knowing exactly what to expect when you're ready to pull the trigger.

How Much Does a Sauna Cost in 2025?

You can grab entry-level infrared saunas for around £3,500 if you're looking at those single-person portable units, while basic two-person cabins range from £4,000 to £6,000 (or more). These are solid options if you're just dipping your toes into the sauna world and don't want to make a huge commitment upfront.  

The Jaquar Artize Aura Infrared Sauna

Now, if you're going premium with outdoor saunas that feature proper cedar construction, quality ventilation, and space for more people, you're looking at £25,000 - £30,000 or more. Custom-built saunas that blend seamlessly into your home's existing layout can push past £30,000 when you factor in construction, electrical upgrades, and high-end finishes.  

What Drives Sauna Cost?

Four main things determine what you'll actually pay for a home sauna, and each one impacts both what you spend upfront and what kind of value you're getting long-term. Once you understand how these pieces fit together, you can make smarter decisions about where to spend your money and where you can safely cut corners.

1. Type of Sauna

The type of sauna you choose determines how the sauna works and how much you'd pay. For instance, infrared saunas use ceramic, carbon, or full-spectrum heaters that emit radiant heat directly into your skin, so they only need to reach 120-150°F instead of the super-high temps traditional saunas hit. These models cost less to buy. You can find a solid two-person infrared sauna starting at around £4,000 because they have simpler construction, require less insulation, and use lower-powered heating elements. 

Jaquar Kaya Infrared Sauna costs £3798

Traditional saunas, on the other hand, crank the air temperature up to 170-190°F using electric heaters, wood stoves, or gas (although rare) to give the intense dry heat that Finnish sauna culture is built around. A comparable two-person traditional sauna starts at around $4,500 for the basic pre-cut kit.

Camila Mini Traditional Outdoor Sauna at £3,799

2. Size and Capacity

The physical dimensions determine how much material you need, how powerful your heater has to be, and the complexity of the construction. Technically, single-person units start roughly at £3500, and they work great if you're the only one using it and space is tight. But most people go for two-person saunas because they're comfortable for single use or couples without eating up the entire basement or patio. These run from £3,800 to £5,000, depending on the type and quality.  

Camilla XL Traditional outdoor sauna costs £5,499

Larger saunas for three to four people cost more because they come with thicker walls, sturdier benches, and higher-wattage heaters to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the space. These models are ideal for families or groups seeking a more spacious, comfortable sauna experience.

3. Heater Type

The heater is the heart of your sauna, and its quality makes a difference in how well it performs and how long it lasts. There are three main types of heaters, each with a different price point. Let's go through them quickly: 

Electric heaters: 

Electric heaters are most commonly used at home because they're convenient and provide consistent results. Basically, 4.5 kW - 6 kW units cost £400 - £800 and work well for smaller saunas, while 8-9 kW heaters for larger spaces cost £1,400 or more. For installation, you'll need a 240V circuit, which requires a licensed electrician to safely wire and connect the sauna. This will also add to the sauna's total cost.  

Wood burning heaters: 

Wood-burning heaters are best for those who want the traditional experience or are building somewhere off-grid where electricity isn't practical. Quality wood stoves run £1,000 - £2,000 or more, depending on the size you pick. Although you eliminate electricity costs, you still need firewood for every session and regular maintenance to keep everything safe.  

Infrared sauna heaters: 

Infrared heaters are usually embedded in the sauna, so you don't need to purchase a separate heater.  

Home Sauna Cost by Type of Sauna

Here are the major types of sauna and their costs:  

1. Infrared Sauna Cost

Infrared saunas are the cheapest and offer easy entry into home sauna ownership. For starters, you'll find portable single-person units starting around £3,500. These basic models have fabric exteriors, carbon-fiber heaters, and fold-down designs that require no installation. You literally just plug them into a regular outlet, and you're using it within 15 minutes.

Insignia Hybrid Infrared and Traditional 4-person outdoor sauna at £5,995

Premium infrared saunas over £8,000 feature full-spectrum heaters, thick Cedar walls, glass doors, and smart controls you can manage from your phone. Some of these blend infrared heaters with traditional sauna elements, such as backrests and full-length benches. 

2. Traditional Sauna Cost

Traditional saunas cost more because they require on-site construction and separate components rather than coming as a single plug-and-play unit. The sauna room itself must be properly insulated, lined with heat-resistant wood, and ventilated, while the heater, control panel, wiring, and stones are all purchased and installed separately. This usually means hiring an electrician and, in some cases, a builder, which adds to both material and labor costs. 

The result is a more authentic, high-heat sauna experience, but with higher upfront costs and a longer installation time than infrared options.

Camilla's traditional outdoor sauna 

Entry-level traditional saunas start around £5,000 – £7,000 for compact, one- to two-person indoor models. These usually use electric heaters, thinner wood panels (often Spruce or Hemlock), and basic analog controls. 

Mid-range traditional saunas, on the flip side, fall within the £8,000 – £12,000 bracket and offer better build quality. Expect thicker walls, higher-grade thermo-aspen or cedar interiors, better insulation, and more reliable heaters with digital controls. These ranges of saunas heat faster, hold temperature more evenly, and feel much closer to what you'd experience in a commercial spa. Installation costs remain a factor, especially if ventilation or electrical upgrades are needed.

Leil Patio S Plus 4-person outdoor sauna

High-end traditional saunas can easily run £25,000 and up, especially for custom-built or outdoor models. At this level, you're getting premium Canadian Cedar or Thermowood, powerful heaters with stone baskets, custom bench layouts, glass fronts, and precise climate controls. 

For instance, the Saunum AirCube Double Outdoor Sauna costs £31,999 and includes a built-in changing room and an air-blending system with Himalayan salt ions for ultimate relaxation. 

Outdoor traditional saunas may also require groundwork, roofing, and weatherproofing, which further increases the total investment. Let's discuss it in detail: 

3. Outdoor Sauna Cost

Outdoor saunas range from affordable barrel designs all the way up to elaborate custom structures that look like small buildings. Barrel saunas are the most popular outdoor option because they look cool and the round shape holds heat efficiently. You'll find basic 2 - 3 person barrel saunas at £4,000 - £5,000. 

Camila Barrel Outdoor sauna complete kit

Traditional cabin-style outdoor saunas vary in cost based on size and the way they're built. For example, basic 2-4 sauna kits cost £4,000-£12,000, including roofing, doors, windows, and a heater. Professional construction will increase the cost, depending on the site prep you need and how nice you want the finish to be.

You can also decide to go for custom-made saunas to match your existing home, although this can push your budget to £30,000 or more.  

Should you build a Home Sauna or buy a Sauna Kit?  

Well … it depends. Each option offers distinct advantages depending on your available space, your budget flexibility, and the level of customization you need.

Custom sauna construction from raw materials costs 30-50% more than comparable pre-cut kits, but you get full control over the design. You can choose the exact wood species, wall thickness, bench layout, ceiling height, heater placement, and ventilation strategy. This route makes the most sense if you're fitting the sauna into an unusual space, want a high-end finish, or are aiming for a truly bespoke indoor or outdoor build. The downside is a longer build time, higher labor costs, and the need for skilled tradespeople, especially for electrical work and insulation, which can make mistakes costly.

Sauna kits, on the other hand, are designed to reduce complexity and cost. Most kits come with pre-cut, pre-finished panels, benches, and hardware, with clear assembly instructions. Prices are lower and more predictable, and installation is much faster, as you can complete them in a day or two.  

In practical terms, if you want speed, cost control, and minimal hassle, a sauna kit is the smarter option. If you're chasing a specific aesthetic, working with a tricky layout, or building a long-term "forever" sauna, custom construction delivers flexibility at a premium.  

Choosing the Right Sauna for Your Budget

Matching sauna type and features to what you can afford prevents overspending on stuff you don't need and under-buying into something that'll disappoint you. Here are different options you can work with based on your budget:  

Best Sauna for Small Budgets

If you've got £4,000 or less to work with, focus on quality two-person infrared cabins or traditional saunas. You'll find options in this category with a good ventilation system and thermo-wood for thermal conductivity. At this price point, avoid oversized cabins or luxury add-ons as comfort, safety, and consistent heat matter more. The Camilla Barrel Sauna 2-3 person sauna or the Jaquar Kaya infrared sauna fits this category. 

Best Mid-Range Home Sauna

The $4,000-8,000 range is the sweet spot where you get quality sauna without paying for diminishing returns. This range includes premium infrared cabins with full-spectrum heaters, as well as well-insulated traditional saunas with digital controls and higher-capacity electric heaters. You'll also get thicker wood, better temperature stability, improved bench design, and features like interior lighting, glass doors, and more precise controls.  

The Modus outdoor sauna, 3 -4 person, and the Liel Black Cube Classic 4 Person outdoor sauna kit fall into this range. 

Premium Sauna Options

Once you're spending over $8,000, you're entering territory where quality and experience reach their peak. You can also factor in custom layouts, changing rooms, panoramic glass, and advanced airflow systems for spa-level comfort. At this point, the focus shifts from affordability to longevity, aesthetics, and a truly immersive sauna experience. 

You're paying for architectural integration, premium materials throughout, sophisticated systems, and professional craftsmanship.  

Haljas Hele Double Outdoor Sauna 7 seater sauna

Home Sauna Buying Checklist (Before You Buy)

Run through this checklist before you commit to prevent expensive mistakes and ensure you're actually getting what you need.

1. Space & Placement

Measure the location where you want to place the sauna before making any decisions. If you're putting it indoors, check your ceiling heights. You need at least 6' - 8' for proper bench placement. 

Also, make sure those big panels fit through your doorways and down hallways. Nothing worse than having a sauna arrive that won't fit through your basement door.

2. Bench Layout

Your foot bench needs to sit at or slightly above the heater stones, usually 34-36" high, with your sitting bench another 16-18" up from there.  

3. Ventilation System

You need fresh air coming in (best above the heater) and stale air going out (below the foot bench works great). For best results, look out for saunas with mechanical ventilation systems.  

4. Wood Type

Pick woods that don't turn into branding irons when they heat up. Nordic Spruce and Aspen work great for walls and ceilings. They handle heat well without getting sticky or resinous. For benches where your skin actually touches, go with Alder or Cedar. They stay cooler even when the sauna's cranking, so you're not constantly laying down towels.

5. Ceiling Shape

Your ceiling shape directs where heat and steam flow, so this matters more than you think. Flat or gently curved ceilings work best as they keep the convective loop flowing smoothly down onto bathers. If you're doing a sloped ceiling, make sure it's higher over the benches and lower over the heater, not the other way around, or you'll trap heat in the wrong spots.

6. Heater Placement & Distance

Your heater should sit on the wall opposite your benches with at least 3 feet of clear space between it and where you're sitting.  

Pre-Purchase Questions to Ask Sellers

Before you commit to buying any sauna, get clear answers to these critical questions. Vague or evasive responses should raise red flags about the seller or product.

Q: What exactly is included in the listed price?

Clarify whether heaters, lighting, controls, benches, and installation hardware are included or sold separately. Many advertised prices represent partial systems that require £500-£1,500 in additional purchases to function. Get complete pricing, including everything needed to function straight out of the box.

Q: What's the actual sled/unit weight and required electrical service?

You need specific amperage requirements and voltage (120V or 240V) to verify your home can support the sauna without electrical upgrades. Request technical specification sheets with exact numbers.

Q: What warranty coverage is provided, and what does it actually cover?

Standard warranties should cover heaters for 5-10 years, wood for 3-5 years, and other components for 1-2 years minimum. Determine whether the warranties cover the sauna and, if so, what the exact coverage is.   

Q: What are the wall and bench thickness measurements?

Traditional saunas should have 1" minimum wall thickness, while benches should be at least 1.5" thick for durability and comfort.

Q: How long does shipping take, and what does delivery include?

Standard delivery timelines range from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the level of customization and the manufacturer's location. Understand whether delivery is curbside (you handle moving it inside), threshold (delivered to your door), or white-glove (placed in the room you want). For us, the delivery depends on the type of sauna you want to buy. For example, saunas like the Haljas Hele Double outdoor sauna are delivered fully assembled and free, but you also need to contact us for the terms and conditions. 

Final Verdict  

Start by using commercial saunas for several months if you haven't already. This confirms you'll actually use a home sauna while helping you decide between infrared and traditional technologies. Pay attention to what temperatures you prefer, how long you stay, and whether you value humidity control.

Once you're ready to buy, read customer reviews to learn what others' experiences are like. Look for patterns regarding durability, customer service responsiveness, and actual operating costs. Online sauna communities and social media platforms like Reddit provide valuable, unbiased perspectives from experienced owners.

Finally, prioritize quality and proper sizing over features and aesthetics. A well-built basic sauna that fits your space and usage patterns delivers infinitely better value than an oversized feature-packed unit that's uncomfortable or underutilized. Buy for how you'll actually use it, not how you imagine ideal scenarios.