How Big Is a Hot Tub?-All You Need to Know Before Buying

“How big is a hot tub?”- it’s a commonly asked question of first-time buyers or even many spa owners.

Well, let’s find the answers.

There is a wide range of hot tub sizes out there. Whether you’re searching for a large or small home spa or one somewhere in the middle, you have a plethora of size options to choose from. Unfortunately, when it comes to standard sizes or dimensions of spas, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all. Spas manufacturers typically group them into three common categories- small, medium, and large.

In this informational guide, I would like to introduce you to different sizes and dimensions of this product. 

Spending a few minutes reading this guide will give you a clear idea of spa sizes so that you can get the perfect one to fit your space and lifestyle.

So, without further ado, let’s find out more about hot tub dimensions.

How Big Is A Hot Tub?-Comparing Popular and Standard Dimensions

To get a rough idea of “how large is a hot tub?” let’s find its standard or average sizes and dimensions.

Standard Hot Tub Dimensions and Sizes

As mentioned above, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all regarding standard hot tub sizes or dimensions.

Hot tub manufacturers and retailers just categorize them into small, medium, and large groups considering how many people the vessel can hold at a time. Spa tubs come in different lengths, widths, and heights within these groups.

Take a look at the chart below:

So, how big is a standard hot tub?

Home spas typically come with 5 to 9 feet in width and 29 to 38 inches in height.

The most popular size of a hot tub is from 7 feet square to 8 feet square. You’ll also find spa tubs as big as 9 feet wide, 9 feet long, and 3 feet in height or even larger.

Average Hot Tub Dimensions and Sizes

Average spa dimensions are as follows:

• Small Hot Tub Average Sizes 

A compact or small variation measures:

In feet: 7ft (length) by 5ft (width) by 2ft 7in (height)

In meter: 2.13m (length) by 1.52m (width) by 0.79m (height)

However, these dimension may be slightly smaller or larger depending on the brand and spa shape. 

If you have tight size requirements or limited space for hot tub installation, a compact 2-3 Person Spa is the right option for you.

A compact-size hot tub is perfect for two people if they sit face to face.  

• Medium Hot Tub Average Sizes

These are the bestselling sizes. In general, an average medium hot tub measures:

In feet:  7ft (length) by 7ft (width) by 3ft (height)

In meter: 2.13m (length) by 2.13m (width) by 0.91m (height) 

This category can accommodate 4 to 6 people. It’s nice to add that a medium-sized hot tub allows users more room for stretching out than a compact-sized model.

• Large Hot Tub Average Sizes

If you have space to install a large spa, this giant vessel can be an excellent option to soak with your family or friends.

Typically, an average large-sized spa measures:

In feet: 8ft (length) by 9ft (width) by 3ft 2in (depth)

In meter: 2.44m (length) by 2.74m (width) by 0.97m (height)

This size can accommodate 8 to 10+ people.  

Average Hot Tub Dimensions

However, these measurements are only meant as guidelines. The dimensions may vary immensely between models due to spa shape, seating options, and configurations.

Also, remember that dimensions may vary based on whether it is a portable or in-ground spa.

How Big is a Hot Tub?- Based on Seating Options 

The number of included seats and seating configuration are the most significant factors in determining a spa’s overall size or dimensions. Even hot tubs of different shapes with the same number of seats can vary in size.

Here are the most popular spa sizes and dimensions based on seating options.

• Two Person Hot Tub Dimensions 

2-person spas are some of the most popular choices on the market. Generally, this variation is designed to accommodate two adults comfortably. 

Due to their compact size, 2-person spas are perfect for people with limited space. Conveniently, they offer several placement options. They are also less expensive than their larger counterparts. 

If you like to use your hot tub alone or with your partner, a 2-person spa can be a practical choice. However, it’s wise to purchase a 2-person spa with a bit more legroom for sitting face-to-face or side-by-side.

For a 2-3 person spa, you can opt for round-, square-, or triangular (corner) shaped models.

Hot Tub Dimensions 2 Person: The smallest model I’ve found measures 6 feet in length, 3 feet in width, and 2 feet in height. 

Empava EMPV-JTX367 is a classic and timeless two-person home spa model. With its generous 72 in. length, 48 in. width and 24 in. height, it offers plenty of room to stretch and relax for two persons. Moreover, this model can be a good choice for you and your sweetheart to relax comfortably in privacy.

A triangular hot tub is the best way to go if you want a private spa. This variation is compact and perfect for snugly tucked into any corner of your shower space or yard. 

• 3-4 Person Hot Tub Dimensions

This variation is nearly as popular as two-person models.

Although 4- person hot tubs are larger than 2-person spas, they are still co mparatively compact to fit into your backyards.

You can opt for a square, rectangular, round, clover, or diamond shape for a 4-person spa.

Hot Tub Dimensions 4 Person: The average dimension of a square-shaped four-person spa is 6 feet 2 inches in length and width and 2 feet 10 inches in height. In most cases, this size can accommodate three to four users simultaneously.

The Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable hot tub (model: 1054124USX20) is a fantastic example of this variation. With its 71″ width and 26″ height, this round AirJet spa provides a soothing massage experience for up to 4 people.

• 5 Person Hot Tub Dimensions

If you plan to enjoy soaking with your friends or have a medium to large family, a home spa model with at least five seating options is a must-have.

This variation also benefits taller people to soak individually or with their sweethearts who wish to practice hot tub yoga.

In the negatives, spas for five or more users take longer time to heat up and cost slightly more to run than smaller models. 

So, how big is a 5 person hot tub?

5-person hot tub dimensions: A square-shaped five-person model might be 7 feet 1 inch in length and width and 3 feet in height. A round-shaped model might measure 6 feet in diameter and 2 feet 9 inches in height.

Bestway SaluSpa Helsinki is a prime example of the 5-person portable inflatable hot tub . It measures 71″L by 71″W by 26″H, making it perfect for backward with plenty of free space. This model comes equipped with 180 bubble jets.

• 6-Person Hot Tub Dimensions 

A 6-person spa is considered a large variety. Although the size may vary depending on the shapes and models, a 6-person spa, in particular, measures 7 feet 8 inches in length, 8 feet 4 inches in width, and 2 feet 10 inches in height. I have found that this type of large-size tub tends to be rectangular rather than square.

Intex 28451EP PureSpa Inflatable Spa measures 94″L by 94″W by 28″H, meaning it can comfortably fit six persons simultaneously.

• 7- Person Hot Tub Dimensions 

This variation is considered a larger hot tub. 

Generally, a seven-seater hot tub’s length tends to be 213cm and below. The width is somewhere between 213cm to 223cm, and the height is 91cm to 93cm.

During my research, I found one popular square-shaped seven-seat hot tub with a height of 3 feet, width, and length of 7 feet 10 inches. Notably, it includes two lounger seats.

• 8-Person Hot Tub Dimensions 

This variation is classified as extra-large. Notably, the spa shapes determine the seating arrangement of the hot tub for 5-person or more. In general, the seats in a large spa are located around the spa, side-by-side. The users sit with their backs to the spa wall and legs in the middle.

Some models of large spas include one or two lounger-style seats. Definitely, it is an excellent option to relax.

So, how big is an 8-person hot tub?

Large spas typically measure 11 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 3 feet tall. In general, 8-person hot tubs come in rectangular shapes rather than square.

How to Choose the Right Size Spa

There are several factors to consider when it comes to picking the right size spa.

However, if you ask me, “What Size Hot Tub Should I Buy?” I suggest considering your needs and what size works best for you.

Here are some questions to ask yourself to make the right sized purchase:

Let me explain these points.

1. Where do I plan to install my hot tub?

If you plan to add a hot tub to your home, decide where to install it. Depending on your available space, you’ll need to select the tub size and shape. 

If you have space only to install a four-person model, there is no reason to buy an eight-person unit. The spot should be large enough to accommodate your hot tub and its foundation.

2. How much room do I like to keep around the outside of the tub?

Before choosing a model, take measurements of the available space where you plan to install it. Ensure the area around the hot tub is enough to accommodate your spa cover lifter, as this accessory needs a small amount of additional clearance. 

If your space is round, it’s better to look for a round-shaped hot tub rather than a square-shaped one.

You should have enough space around the tub to perform any future maintenance.

Wondering how much space a hot tub needs for clearance?

Well, you’ll need to have a space that is larger than your selected spa dimensions.

A good rule of thumb is to keep 12 to 18 inches of clearance all around the unit. This extra room will allow easy access to the spa and allow you to perform maintenance tasks comfortably (if required). 

For example, for a spa with a 5 ft 4 inches width, you need a space to install it that measures 7 ft 4 inches.

During my research, I’ve found that most spa cover lifters require about a foot of extra room behind the tub and a few inches on the right and left side for the cover lifter arm to lift the cover.

However, if you have a lot of space to install any size hot tub, you can easily create and relax in the comfort of your paradise.

3. How many people will likely use the spa at once?

Hot Tub Sizes Vs. Number of Users

How many people you plan to put in a hot tub is also an essential factor to consider while choosing a spa model.

A small or two-person unit will suit you if you like to use it for personal use. The two-person lounger is best for couples.

If you have a large family with more than eight members or like to invite friends, relatives, or neighbors to enjoy the spa, you’ll go for something that can hold up to eight or more people. Some brands also offer a 12-person hot tub.

You can consider a giant party vessel such as Essential Hot Tubs 20-Jets 2021 Arbor.

Remember, like spa sizes, people vary in size. So, a unit may feel more spacious depending on the body size of the people in it.

Another important consideration is the vessel depth. Hot tubs are available in different depths, which impact the step-over height while you enter or exit the tub.

The depth of seats also varies depending on the model. The deepest hot tub I’ve found stands five feet tall.

Hot tub seat depths provide for a shallower or deeper water level. So, consider how much depth is the most comfortable for you. It should not be too deep for you. 

The water level in the tub should be just above your shoulder when you’re relaxing in the spa seat or lounger. However, a hot tub booster seat is a good option for shorter people or kids to stop floating in the hot tub or to raise your sitting height to a comfortable position.

Also, think about who will be using the hot tub most often.

A model with added depth and room in the feet may be more comfortable for taller people. Added depth may affect the buoyancy of the water in the hot tub. Some models let the seat slide forward to keep the water at your desired level.

4. Do I like to lay back while enjoying the spa?

If yes, a hot tub with a lounger seat can be your best option. 

A spa with a lounger seat is an excellent option if you like to enjoy soaking in a reclining position. A lounger seat allows you to stretch out. Lounger seats that slide forwards are convenient for taller people.

Unfortunately, a hot tub with lounger seats takes up more space than a regular upright seat.

So, you have to decide if you prefer to have various seating options or want to maximize the number of seats in your tub. Two-person lounger hot tubs are perfect for couples.

5. What am I going to use the hot tub for?

Besides relaxing, a hot tub offers you many other options to use for different benefits. You can use it for hydrotherapy, entertainment, recreation, exercise, or a mixture of these. 

Individual spa needs help the user to choose the right design and seating configuration for the hot tub. Additionally, your purpose of spa uses help you to decide between the upright seat and lounge, jet systems, conventional chlorine sanitization system, and saltwater hot tub system.

Hot Tub Sizes Vs. Prices

Let’s face it, investing in a spa is not very cost-effective.

Spa sizes have an impact on their prices. Generally, a large hot tub will cost more than a smaller one. But different spa models within a series may impact costs. 

For example, a small spa model with different add-ons may cost more than a large basic spa.

Hence, it’s essential to consider your budget and the number of people likely to enjoy the home spa at once.

A small-sized unit is one of the most affordable options available. 

Medium-sized units are more price-conscious models, allowing more users at once than a compact model. The price tag of a medium hot tub falls in the middle range. 

Spa Sizes Vs. Prices

Hot Tub Sizes Vs. Shapes

Spa shapes and styles have a significant impact on its sizing. Besides sizing, spa shape also determines seating configurations and the number of seats it can accommodate.

A spa with almost the same dimensions but different shapes may accommodate different numbers of people. For example, a rectangular, square-shaped spa typically holds 4 to 8 people at once. On the other hand, a typical corner or triangular spa can hold 2 to 3 people at a time. 

How Big is a Hot Tub?- My Parting Shots

That’s all about hot tub sizes and how to choose the best size spa.

I hope this guide was helpful to you to make things easier.

So, which size hot tub is the best option for you?

To sum it up: If you’re looking for a spa tub for your small space, a compact model would probably be best for you.

Medium-size models are best for large families with up to 7 members.

Large-size units would be your best option if you have a big backyard or patio and like to invite your relatives or friends to enjoy spa time together.

However, at the end of the day, the right-sized hot tub is the one that meets your needs comfortably.

So, why are you waiting to create your at-home oasis?

Get the right size and make your home spa dream a reality!

How Big is a Hot Tub?- Related FAQs

I’ve compiled more FAQs below to help answer some of your queries about hot tub sizing.

Patrick Martinez

Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Specialist (CMS)

Patrick Martinez is a pool and hot tub professional. He is a Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Specialist (CMS). He has a strong understanding of patio, spa, pool safety, maintenance, and water chemistry. (See Full Bio)