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How Much Does Installing a Steam Room Cost? [2025 Data]
Normal Range: $2,800 - $11,000
Dek: Installing a steam room costs an average of $5,000, with a range averaging between $2,800 to $11,000. Main cost factors include size, materials, labor, and custom features.
How we get this data
Photo: Mint Images / Mint Images RF / Getty Images
Photo: Mint Images / Mint Images RF / Getty Images
Cost Insights
Steam room costs vary based on the type of steam room, size, customization, and labor rates.
Professional steam room installation labor ranges between $3,000 and $10,000 per project.
Additional features, including lighting, sound, and aromatherapy, range from $500 to $4,000.
Demolition or prep work ranges between $500 and $2,000, depending on the amount of work needed.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
The installation of a steam room costs between $2,800 to $11,000, with an average of $5,000 for most homeowners. Smaller prefabricated steam rooms may cost as little as $2,300, while custom-built options can exceed $14,000. Expect to pay $70 to $150 per square foot, depending on materials and complexity.
A steam room is a valued upgrade for comfort and health. This guide explains steam room cost, what affects pricing, and how you can make smart choices for your budget and home.
Steam Room Cost Factors
Let’s take a closer look at the main components that make up the cost of a steam room. Materials, labor, and installation are the primary expenses, with costs varying significantly between prefabricated and custom options. Prefab steam rooms are generally more affordable, while custom builds allow for unique layouts and luxury features.
A typical steam room includes a steam generator, enclosure, waterproofing, and ventilation. Labor costs cover installation, plumbing, and electrical work. Additional expenses may include delivery, site preparation, and post-construction cleanup.
| Component | Description | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Steam generator, enclosure, tile, doors, benches | $2,000–$12,000 |
| Labor | Installation, plumbing, electrical, finishing | $1,500–$7,000 |
| Steam generator | Equipment for producing steam | $900–$3,500 |
| Enclosure | Glass walls, doors, framing, waterproofing | $1,000–$7,500 |
| Ventilation | Fans, ductwork, humidity control | $400–$2,000 |
| Additional features | Lighting, sound, aromatherapy, controls | $500–$4,000 |
| Site prep/cleanup | Demolition, prep work, debris removal | $500–$2,500 |
Prefab steam rooms can start as low as $2,500, while custom builds with premium features can easily exceed $30,000.
Size
The size of your steam room plays a major role in determining total cost. Home steam rooms usually range from compact 3 feet by 3 feet designs to spacious custom builds. Larger rooms require more materials, higher-capacity steam generators, and longer installation time, all adding to the final price.
Cost per square foot for steam room installation ranges from $70 to $150, depending on finish quality and features. Here’s how costs break down by size:
| Size (Sq. Ft.) | Description | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 9–12 | Small (3'x3' to 3'x4') | $2,500–$6,000 |
| 24–35 | Medium (4'x6' to 5'x7') | $7,000–$13,000 |
| 50+ | Large/Custom | $14,000–$30,000+ |
A small steam room fits one or two people and is ideal for tight spaces. Medium steam rooms suit most families. Large or custom steam rooms offer the most flexibility and luxury, but also the highest cost.
Labor
Hiring experienced professionals is essential for a safe, long-lasting steam room. Several types of pros may be involved, each with their own rates and expertise.
A steam room installer or general contractor manages the project, coordinates trades, and oversees the build. The cost for hiring a contractor ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 per project, depending on experience, location, and complexity. Highly skilled contractors or those in high-cost regions often charge more.
A licensed plumber connects the steam generator, water supply, and drainage, ensuring everything meets local codes. Plumbing work can cost $75 to $200 per hour, or $500 to $2,500 per project. Relocating or upgrading plumbing may increase costs.
An electrician wires the steam generator, lighting, controls, and ventilation. Expect to pay $80 to $200 per hour, or $500 to $2,000 per project. Adding dedicated circuits or upgrading your home’s electrical panel can add $1,000 to $3,000.
Depending on your vision and space, you may need other experts for a steam room project:
Interior designer: $50 to $200 per hour for layout and material selection
Tile installer: $10 to $40 per square foot for specialty tile work
HVAC specialist: $75 to $150 per hour for ventilation or humidity control
Waterproofing specialist: $500 to $2,000 for advanced waterproofing systems
Structural engineer: $100 to $250 per hour if structural modifications are required
Each of these pros can help ensure your steam room is beautiful, functional, and safe.
Location
Where you live has a direct impact on steam room cost. Urban areas and regions with higher living costs usually see higher rates for labor and materials. Building codes and permit fees may also vary by state or city.
For example, steam room installation in cities like New York or San Francisco tends to cost more than in suburban or rural areas, due to both demand and higher labor rates.
| Region/State | Description | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| West Coast | High labor/materials, strict codes | $10,000–$18,000 |
| Midwest | Moderate costs, fewer restrictions | $6,000–$12,000 |
| South | Lower labor/materials, mild codes | $5,000–$11,000 |
| Northeast | High costs, older homes | $9,000–$17,000 |
Always check local requirements and get multiple quotes to understand what’s typical in your area.
Add-Ons
When planning for a steam room cost, keep in mind there are extra expenses that may arise. Taxes and insurance for the installation, as well as warranty options for equipment, can add to your budget. Special features like aromatherapy, chromotherapy (color lighting), or sound systems can each add $300 to $2,000.
If you want your steam room to be accessible for those with mobility challenges, ADA-compliant benches, wider doors, and grab bars will add to the cost. Where you install the steam room also matters—basement installations or converting an existing bathroom can be more complex and expensive.
Repairs or post-construction cleaning, especially if demolition was involved, may cost an additional $500 to $2,500.
Demolition and Prep
If you’re converting an existing bathroom or shower, demolition and prep work can add significantly to your steam room cost. Removing old fixtures, tile, or walls costs $500 to $2,000. Site preparation, including leveling, waterproofing, and debris removal, adds another $500 to $1,500. If mold or water damage is found, remediation will raise costs further.
Permits
Permits are required for most steam room installations, covering plumbing, electrical, and sometimes structural work. Your contractor often handles permit applications, but homeowners should verify this before work begins.
Permit fees vary by location, ranging from $200 to $1,000 in total. Some municipalities require multiple inspections, each with its own fee. Failing to secure permits can result in fines or trouble when selling your home.
DIY Steam Room Cost vs. Hiring a Pro
Some homeowners consider installing a steam room themselves to save on labor. DIY steam room cost usually includes materials, tool rentals, and your own time. Materials for a small DIY steam room can total $2,000 to $6,000, with equipment rental and tools adding $200 to $800.
While you can save thousands in labor, DIY steam room installation has risks. Improper waterproofing, faulty wiring, or plumbing mistakes can lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. You need strong skills in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, as well as a solid understanding of building codes.
DIY installation often takes several weekends or more. If mistakes occur, you risk voiding warranties or reducing home value. For most homeowners, hiring a pro ensures safety, compliance, and long-term reliability.
Steam Room Remodel vs. Renovation
Understanding the difference between remodeling and renovating a steam room will help you budget wisely. Remodeling means changing the layout, expanding the room, or adding new systems and features. This is the most expensive option, often costing $10,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the scope.
Renovating involves refreshing finishes—like replacing tile or upgrading controls—without changing the basic structure. Renovations cost $2,500 to $8,000. Your choice depends on the age and condition of your existing steam room, desired features, and available budget.
Remodeling often takes longer, requires more permits, and adds to steam room cost. Renovation is faster and less disruptive but offers fewer customization options.
Does a Steam Room Increase Home Value?
A well-designed steam room can boost home value and buyer appeal, especially in higher-end markets. While the return on investment for steam rooms is lower than for kitchen or bath remodels, the added luxury and wellness benefits can set your property apart.
ROI for steam room installations often ranges from 30% to 60%, depending on installation quality, location in the home, and local market demand. Steam rooms also offer ongoing benefits for health, relaxation, and energy efficiency, especially when paired with universal design features for accessibility.
A professionally installed steam room reflects quality craftsmanship, contributing to both personal enjoyment and long-term value.
Tips to Reduce Cost While Installing a Steam Room
There are several ways to keep your steam room cost wallet-friendly without sacrificing quality. Taking these steps can help you save money and get the features you want:
Obtain multiple quotes from general contractors to compare pricing and services.
Choose budget-friendly materials with proven durability for your personal needs.
Bundle your steam room installation with other projects, such as a bathroom remodel, to take advantage of package discounts.
Consider phased upgrades for luxury features to spread out overall project costs.
Prepare the site area, such as removing furniture or cleaning the installation area to reduce overall project costs.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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