Do Hot Tubs Increase Airbnb Bookings? What Hosts Need to Know About Cost and Longevity

Adding amenities to an Airbnb can feel like a constant balancing act between upfront cost and long-term payoff. Hosts want features that stand out in listings, justify higher nightly rates, and attract repeat guests, but not upgrades that turn into maintenance nightmares. One amenity that consistently sparks debate is the hot tub. Is it a luxury splurge, or a smart investment that actually drives more bookings? Let’s take a grounded look at how hot tubs affect Airbnb performance, how long they last, and why so many property owners continue to install them.

Why Hot Tubs Can Boost Airbnb Demand

In a crowded short-term rental market, guests often choose listings based on standout features rather than square footage alone. A hot tub photographs well, signals relaxation, and helps a property feel more “vacation-worthy,” even if it’s close to home. For guests browsing dozens of similar listings, that visual and emotional appeal can be the deciding factor.

Data backs this up. Market research shows that Airbnb listings with hot tubs see a noticeable jump in demand, with booking rates increasing by 13% after adding one. That bump can translate into higher occupancy, fewer vacant nights, and the ability to stay competitive without racing to the bottom on pricing. For hosts in seasonal markets, a hot tub can also extend the booking window by making cooler months more attractive.

Hot Tubs Are More Common Than You Might Think

Some hosts worry that adding a hot tub won’t move the needle because “everyone already has one.” While it’s true that hot tubs are popular, their prevalence actually reinforces their appeal. According to industry data, there are more than 7.3 million hot tubs currently in use across the United States. That level of adoption suggests that homeowners and property owners alike continue to see value in them, despite installation and upkeep costs.

For Airbnb hosts, this popularity cuts both ways. In highly competitive vacation markets, a hot tub may be an expectation rather than a novelty. In suburban or rural areas, it can be a differentiator that helps a listing punch above its weight. Either way, the sheer number of hot tubs in operation shows they’re not a passing trend—they’re a well-established feature guests recognize and seek out.

How Long a Hot Tub Actually Lasts

One of the biggest concerns for hosts is longevity. A hot tub isn’t a throwaway purchase, and replacing one too soon can wipe out any booking gains. The good news is that lifespan varies widely based on choices the owner controls. This Old House notes that hot tubs can last anywhere from five to twenty years, depending on build quality, how well they’re maintained, and how often they’re used.

For Airbnb hosts, this means the initial decision matters. A cheaper model might save money upfront, but wear out faster under frequent guest use. On the other hand, investing in a higher-quality tub, keeping up with water chemistry, and setting clear guest rules can push lifespan closer to the upper end of that range. Spread over a decade or more, the cost becomes far easier to justify.

Costs, Maintenance, and Guest Expectations

Beyond lifespan, hosts should think about ongoing responsibilities. Hot tubs require regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and occasional repairs. Electricity costs can also rise, especially in colder climates. However, many hosts offset these expenses by charging slightly higher nightly rates or positioning their property as a premium stay.

Clear communication helps reduce issues. Listing house rules, limiting party use, and scheduling routine inspections can prevent misuse that shortens a hot tub’s life. For hands-on owners, basic maintenance is manageable and often cheaper than outsourcing everything to a service.

Is a Hot Tub Worth It for Your Airbnb?

Ultimately, whether a hot tub increases Airbnb bookings depends on your market, your target guest, and your willingness to maintain it properly. The numbers show that hot tubs can drive higher booking rates, they’re widely embraced across the country, and they can last many years when cared for correctly. Before taking the plunge, run the math, consider your guest demographic, and be honest about maintenance commitment. Done right, a hot tub can turn an ordinary listing into one guests actively seek out and book.