One Person Hot Tubs: Compact Options & Prices
Key Takeaways
- One person hot tubs deliver full-size hydrotherapy in a compact, energy-efficient footprint, making them ideal for solo relaxation, post-workout recovery, or soothing sore muscles after a long day.
- Quality one person hot tubs typically range from about $3,000 to $15,000 in the U.S. in 2026, depending on brand, features, and insulation quality.
- Sundance® Spas offers compact models with advanced jets, SmartTub® app control, and strong warranties, positioning them as a leading choice for premium one person hot tubs.
- These smaller spas are cheaper to run than larger models, often adding only $10–$20 per month in electricity when well insulated and paired with a quality cover.
- When choosing a compact spa, focus on jet quality, ergonomics, and after-sales service rather than pump horsepower alone—these factors determine your long-term satisfaction.
What Is a One Person Hot Tub?
A one person hot tub is a compact spa designed specifically for a single bather, typically measuring under 72 inches (183 cm) in length and optimized for a complete full-body soak. Unlike larger family models that prioritize multiple seating positions, these intimate units focus every feature on delivering the perfect size experience for one.
These models usually feature one dedicated lounger or deep seat with integrated jets strategically placed for the back, legs, and feet. Rather than spreading hydrotherapy across multiple positions, a one person hot tub concentrates its power where you need it most—creating an incredibly targeted massage experience that larger spas simply cannot match for a solo user.
Understanding the difference between a true one person hot tub and a small 2–3 person spa matters when you’re shopping. A dedicated solo unit like the popular Solo model measures approximately 71” x 42” x 32”, while a compact 2–3 person spa typically starts around 78” x 78”. That difference of over three feet in width translates to significant space savings on your patio, deck, or balcony.
Common installation locations for one person hot tubs include:
- Small patios or townhome backyards with limited room
- Balconies rated for spa weight (typically 1,800–2,000 pounds when filled)
- Indoor spa rooms or wellness spaces
- Compact deck areas beside a pool or great sauna setup
Why Choose a One Person Hot Tub?
One person hot tubs combine personal luxury, genuine hydrotherapy, and small-space practicality—a combination that’s increasingly valuable as more people discover the benefits of downsized living without compromising their lifestyle.
Personal Hydrotherapy
A solo lounger allows precise jet placement targeting your neck, shoulders, lumbar area, and calves. This focused approach is ideal for hot tub owners dealing with chronic back pain or anyone seeking recovery after a workout. With 17–20 jets dedicated entirely to your body, the therapeutic value rivals or exceeds what you’d experience in a much larger unit.
Space Savings
Many one person hot tubs need as little as a 6’ x 4’ area of level space—compared with a standard 7’ x 7’ family spa. This makes them perfect for apartment balconies, narrow side yards, or that awkward corner of your backyard that seemed unusable. You might be surprised how easily a compact spa fits into spaces you’d written off.
Lower Running Costs
With modern full-foam insulation and efficient titanium heaters, monthly electricity costs in 2025 often sit in the $10–$20 range across most North American markets. The smaller water volume heats faster and loses less heat, making these units remarkably efficient to operate daily.
Easier Maintenance
Smaller water volumes—typically 150–220 gallons—mean fewer chemicals, quicker heating, and faster drain-and-refill cycles. Where a large spa might take an hour or more to drain and clean, a one person unit makes the process a breeze. Your ongoing cost for sanitizers and pH adjusters drops proportionally too.
Privacy and Routine
A dedicated solo spa makes it easier to build a nightly 15–20 minute relaxation ritual for stress relief and better sleep. There’s no coordinating schedules with family or friends—when you want to soak, you simply step in. This consistency helps many people finally establish the wellness routine they’ve always intended.
Key Features to Look for in a One Person Hot Tub
Not all compact spas are created equal. Smart buyers compare jets, insulation, controls, and comfort rather than focusing solely on size and price. Here’s what should be top priority when evaluating your options:
Hydrotherapy Jets
Look for adjustable, varied-type jets—rotational, acupressure, and wide-stream—targeting your neck, mid-back, lower back, hips, and feet. Jet placement matters more than raw jet count. A well-designed system with 17 precisely positioned jets often outperforms a cheaper unit boasting 30 poorly placed ones. The flow and pressure should be adjustable so you can customize the massage intensity.
Energy-Efficient Insulation
Full-foam insulation, high-density covers, and well-sealed cabinets significantly reduce operating costs. This becomes especially important if you live in colder climates like Minnesota or Alberta, where an uninsulated spa would constantly fight to maintain temperature. Quality insulation pays for itself remarkably quickly.
Controls and Smart Features
Modern digital control panels offer thermostatic temperature regulation, programmable filtration cycles, and mobile-app connectivity. Systems like the Sundance® SmartTub® allow remote monitoring and pre-heating—incredibly helpful when you want your spa warm and ready immediately after walking in from work.
Durability and Materials
Prioritize UV-resistant cabinets (synthetic wood-look skirts that won’t fade or rot), acrylic shells reinforced with fiberglass, and corrosion-resistant frames. These markers of great quality ensure your investment delivers value for 10–15 years rather than becoming a maintenance headache.
Seating Ergonomics
Contoured loungers, non-slip surfaces, and appropriate water depth matter tremendously. The best one person hot tubs comfortably submerge shoulders for users ranging from about 5’3” to 6’2”. If you’re outside this range, a wet test becomes even more important before you purchase.
Noise and Placement
When your spa will sit near bedrooms or in a townhome with close neighbors, quieter pumps and insulated equipment bays make a real difference. Nobody wants their relaxing evening soak accompanied by industrial-sounding machinery. Premium manufacturer options typically address this with whisper-quiet systems.
Compact One Person Hot Tub Options from Sundance® Spas
While Sundance® Spas is known for beautifully crafted multi-seat models, their compact designs and signature technologies—like SmartTub® and Fluidix® jets—translate exceptionally well to one person use.
Splash® Series for Solo Soaking
Certain Splash® Series models from recent collection years are effectively optimized for 1–2 users, offering a primary lounger with powerful hydrotherapy in a remarkably small footprint. These approachable entry points into the Sundance® lineup deliver all the features you’d expect from a premium brand without requiring a massive backyard.
Premium Hydrotherapy
Sundance® spas feature tension-melting neck jets, air-only bubble features, and customizable jet zones. For a solo user, this means you can target specific muscle groups with precision—adjusting the experience based on whether you need gentle relaxation or deep tissue work on sore muscles.
SmartTub® Convenience
The SmartTub® system lets you start heating, set reminders, and monitor energy use via app. This proves particularly valuable when you want your new spa ready the moment you arrive home. No more waiting an hour for the water to reach temperature—just walk out and step in.
Series Overview for Solo Users
Different Sundance® series serve different priorities with the 980™ Series ideal for design focused small patios thanks to its premium aesthetics and advanced features the 880™ Series built for maximum massage sophistication with the most powerful hydrotherapy options the 780™ Series delivering reliable daily performance through simple controls and proven dependability and the Splash® Series offering approachable pricing with a complete family friendly experience that is equally great for solo soaking
Design and Aesthetic Choices
Sundance® offers multiple cabinet and shell color combinations, helping compact spas blend with existing decks or condo terraces. A well-chosen finish can make your spa feel like a natural extension of your outdoor living room rather than an afterthought sitting awkwardly in the corner.
Prices & Operating Costs for One Person Hot Tubs
Up-front pricing varies widely by brand and feature level. Smart buyers factor in both purchase price and lifetime operating costs when making their decision.
Typical Purchase Price Ranges (2025)
- Budget plug-and-play models: $3,000–$4,500 for basic 1–2 seat spas with standard features
- Mid-range insulated acrylic models: $4,500–$6,500 with better jets, insulation, and controls
- Premium feature-rich compact spas: $6,500–$8,000+ including Sundance® options, depending on dealer promotions
What Affects Price
Jet technology, advanced controls (like SmartTub®), insulation type, brand reputation, and included accessories all influence the final number. A complete package with a cover, steps, and cover lifter often represents better value than purchasing accessories separately from a different store.
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Monthly Running Costs
In typical North American conditions, efficient one person hot tubs generally cost around $10–$20 per month in electricity when kept at 100–104°F and used several times weekly. Expect higher costs in very cold regions or if your unit lacks proper insulation. The warm water stays warm with quality covers—your heater shouldn’t run constantly.
Installation and Electrical
Many compact spas require a 240V / 50 amp circuit, similar to models with 5.5 kW heaters. Some smaller units are 120V plug-and-play, making them easier for renters or those avoiding electrical work. Budget several hundred to around $1,500 for professional electrical service if you need a new dedicated circuit.
Long-Term Value
Better insulation and durable components reduce repair and energy costs over 5–10 years. A premium spa costing $10,000 that runs efficiently for 12 years often proves cheaper to own than a $4,000 unit requiring frequent repairs and costing $40/month in electricity. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront delivers amazing long-term value.
Installation, Maintenance & Warranty
Even a small one person hot tub needs proper site prep, electrical planning, and a maintenance routine to deliver years of reliable performance.
Site Preparation
Use a level concrete pad, pavers, or a structurally rated deck section measuring at least the spa footprint plus service access. For example, a 71” x 42” unit typically needs a 6’ x 6’ clear area. The site must support approximately 1,800–2,000 pounds when the spa is filled and occupied.
Electrical Setup
Most higher-performance one person hot tubs require a dedicated 240V / 50 amp GFCI-protected circuit. Always hire a licensed electrician for this work. Even plug-and-play models should use properly rated outdoor outlets—never extension cords or shared circuits.
Water Care Routine
A simple 3-step approach keeps your water sparkling:
- Test water 2–3 times per week using test strips
- Adjust sanitizer and pH based on readings
- Clean or replace filters on the manufacturer’s recommended schedule (typically rinse weekly, replace every 12–18 months)
Seasonal Care
In colder climates, keep your spa running continuously during winter. Maintain proper water level, use your insulated cover whenever not sitting in the spa, and have a plan for power outages to prevent freezing. Many hot tub owners in cold regions actually use their spas more in winter—there’s nothing quite like soaking under falling snow.
Warranty Coverage
Premium brands including Sundance® dealers typically provide multi-year warranties covering shell structure, surface, equipment, and cabinetry. Examples include 5–10 years on the shell and several years on pumps and heaters. Always review warranty details before finalizing your purchase.
Dealer Support
Prioritize brands with strong local dealer networks. Access to wet tests, professional installation assistance, and responsive after-sales service makes the ownership experience dramatically better. A good dealer becomes your partner for the life of your spa.
How to Choose the Right One Person Hot Tub for You
The best one person hot tub depends on your available space, budget, and how you plan to use it—whether for pure relaxation, pain relief, post-workout recovery, or all three.
Measure Your Space
Walk through your intended location with a tape measure. Check available footprint, gate and door widths for delivery access, and consider privacy and noise proximity to neighbors. A spa that doesn’t fit through your gate creates expensive problems.
Define Your Primary Goal
- Deep hydrotherapy: Prioritize advanced jets and powerful pumps
- Quiet relaxation: Focus on gentle massage, ambient LED lighting
- Multi-purpose use: Balance therapeutic jets with relaxing features
Choose jet layouts that match your primary intention.
Set a Realistic Budget
Your total project budget should include the spa, cover, steps, electrical work, and any deck or slab preparation. For many buyers, this means:
- Entry-level complete setup: $5,000–$6,500
- Mid-range complete setup: $7,000–$9,000
- Premium complete setup: $9,000–$18,000+
Test Before You Buy
Schedule a wet test with a dealer—such as a Sundance® showroom—to actually sit in compact models. Check comfort for your height and body type, experience jet pressure firsthand, and expect the staff to answer all your questions. This step alone prevents countless disappointments.
Evaluate Technology and Ease of Use
Intuitive controls, readable displays, and remote-control options like SmartTub® make daily use more enjoyable. If adjusting the temperature feels frustrating during a visit to the store, imagine dealing with that for years.
Compare Warranties and Reviews
Review warranty details carefully. Seek out real customer feedback and photo galleries to gauge long-term satisfaction. The industry has many excellent options—and some to avoid. Research now saves headaches in the future.
Contact your local Sundance® dealer to discover personalized recommendations based on your specific situation. Their expertise can help you navigate options and find the spa that fits your life.
FAQ: One Person Hot Tubs
Can a one person hot tub be used outdoors year-round in cold climates?
Yes. With proper full-foam insulation, a quality cover, and continuous operation, most premium compact spas perform beautifully year-round—even in regions with freezing winters. Installing your spa near the house and shielded from wind helps further. Many hot tub owners in cold climates consider winter soaking their favorite season.
Are plug-and-play (120V) one person hot tubs powerful enough for real hydrotherapy?
Plug-and-play models offer gentle massage and work well for renters or those avoiding electrical work. However, 240V systems typically deliver stronger jet performance and faster heating that many users prefer for deep tissue relief. If therapeutic hydrotherapy is your goal, the 240V upgrade usually proves worthwhile.
How often should I change the water in a one person hot tub?
For a solo user soaking several times per week, changing water every 3–4 months is common practice. Smaller volumes and heavier use may require more frequent changes. Always follow your manufacturer’s and dealer’s recommendations—water quality directly impacts both your experience and equipment longevity.
Can I move a one person hot tub if I change homes?
Compact spas are significantly easier to relocate than large family models, but they still require proper planning. You’ll need to drain completely, use safe lifting techniques (typically 2–4 people for a 350-pound dry weight), arrange appropriate transport, and prepare a new site with proper electrical connection. Many dealers offer relocation assistance as part of their service offerings.
Is a one person hot tub a good option for people with arthritis or chronic pain?
Many people with arthritis, chronic back pain, or joint issues report significant benefits from warm water therapy and targeted jets. A dedicated solo lounger makes it easier to position jets precisely on problem areas. Of course, consult your healthcare professional for personalized guidance—but hydrotherapy has a long, well-documented history of helping people find relief.
