Jetted Tub Guide: Types, Cost, and More

Whether you have sore muscles, want to improve your skin’s complexion, or simply love a luxurious bath, a jetted tub could be an incredible addition to your bathroom. But how do you know it’s right for your space? In this article, we’ll talk about what a jetted tub is, types of jetted bathtubs, styles of tubs that can come with jets, how much they cost, and the various dimensions you can find them in. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know whether this is the type of tub you want to purchase.

What Is a Jetted Bathtub?

Jetted tubs go by many names. Some call this a whirlpool bath. Some call it a massage tub. Others refer to it as a jacuzzi tub (though be aware, Jacuzzi is a specific brand that makes jetted tubs and has become ubiquitous with this tub type). But they all refer to the same thing: a bathtub with jets.

The main difference between each of these terms comes from what kinds of jets the tub uses.

A tub with water jets can be called:

1. A whirlpool bath.
2. A jacuzzi tub.

Tubs with air jets are called:

1. Air jet tubs.
2. Air tubs.

Both types can be referred to as a massage tub, a spa bathtub, or simply a jetted bathtub.

Jetted tubs can be freestanding, fit into a corner, be soaking tub-depth – really, they can be added to almost any kind of tub you want. Think of them as a tub feature instead of a specific size, shape, or style of tub.

What Types of Spa Bathtubs Are There?

As we noted above, there are two main kinds of bathtubs with jets: those that use water jets and those that use air jets. Let’s look at their pros and cons.

Jacuzzi Tubs

The first underwater jet for a bathtub was made by Jacuzzi. Today, many people still use the word “jacuzzi tub” to refer to tubs with water jets. Since it is also a brand name, you may encounter some confusion when you’re doing research on this tub type. If so, we recommend searching with a different or more generic term.

Water jets are stronger than air jets, making them a good choice for anyone with sore muscles or other body aches. If you have ever used a hydrotherapy tub with a physical therapist or other medical professional, chances are they had water jets for the deeper massage they provide.

There are two downsides to be aware of, though. First, whirlpool tubs can be significantly harder to keep clean; the jets can build up bacteria and mold. Second, they are more expensive than their air tub counterparts.

Air Jet Tubs

Air tubs use many more jets than whirlpool tubs to create thousands and thousands of tiny bubbles. This effect allows for gentle massage, helps improve circulation, and helps clean your skin. Air jet tubs are self-cleaning, so there is far less cleaning and maintenance needed than with water jet tubs. They also tend to be quieter and less expensive.

However, if what you really want from a spa tub is relief for a sore back or aching calf muscles, then air jets will likely not suit you.

Are There Tubs with Both Water and Air Jets?

Yes, these are called combination tubs, and they provide all the benefits listed above. If you want the best of both worlds and have a larger budget, then this is the way to go!

What Does a Jetted Tub Installation Cost?

Air Tub Cost

You can expect most air tubs to cost somewhere between $1,000 and $5,000. However, luxury models with advanced features such as LED lights, automated cleaning systems, and customizable jet settings can exceed $5,000, especially for top-end brands or custom designs.

Jacuzzi Tub Cost

Whirlpool tubs typically cost between $1,000 to $6,000, but prices can go as high as $16,000 depending on which features you include. The number of jets, multiple jet settings, in-line heater, and tub size can all contribute to the overall cost.

Final Cost

Including the cost of the tub as well as labor costs and plumbing work, the national average jetted tub installation cost ranges from $5,500 to $7,500.

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Can Any Kind of Bathtub Have Jets?

Not only can you find many bathtub styles with jets, but some manufacturers even offer a conversion kit to turn your regular tub into a jetted one. Here are some of the most popular jetted tub options.

Jetted Tub Shower Combo

Just as the name suggests, this is a jetted bathtub with a shower installed over it. It can be more difficult to find a one piece solution (meaning a shower and tub with built-in surround), but just about any showerhead fixture can be added above your jetted tub. One caveat here: a jetted tub shower combo needs to be against at least one wall. This will not work with a freestanding tub.

Freestanding Jetted Tub

You can find both freestanding whirlpool tubs and freestanding tubs with air jets. The options on the market tend to be modern in appearance. Keep in mind that in addition to the price of the tub, you will also need to factor in the cost of any extra plumbing work a freestanding tub may require in your bathroom, like installing a faucet or moving water lines.

Corner Jetted Tub

Great for small and big bathrooms alike, these fit neatly into the corner. Some are standalone units, and others are designed to be dropped into an existing platform.

Two Person Jacuzzi Tub

These extra-large tubs can be installed in an alcove, a corner, or be freestanding. As the name says, they are intended for two bathers at once.

Walk-in Tub with Jets

Water and/or air jets are a popular feature to include in walk-in tubs. They have numerous wellness benefits for anyone who may have sore muscles or limited mobility. You can check out our walk-in tub buying guide for more information.

Massage Tub Sizes

Bathtubs with jets come in a variety of sizes. Here’s a look at typical dimensions for an average tub, a small one, and a large one.

Average Dimensions

Most jetted tubs are designed to accommodate at least one adult comfortably. The average size tends to be around 60 inches long (5 feet), 30 to 32 inches wide (about 2.5 feet), and 19 to 21 inches deep. However, these dimensions can vary significantly based on the design, whether it’s a drop-in, corner, or freestanding model.

Small Jetted Tub

For compact spaces, smaller jetted tubs can be as small as 48 inches long (4 feet) and 28 inches wide. The depth is usually not compromised, remaining around 19 inches, to ensure a comfortable soaking depth.

Large Jetted Bathtub

On the larger end, a big jacuzzi tub or air tub can be over 72 inches long (6 feet), 40 inches wide, and 24 inches deep or more. Some luxury models can even exceed these dimensions.

You can read our guide to standard bathtub sizes to learn more.

What Are Next Steps?

Now that you know the types of jetted tubs available, what they cost, and the styles and sizes they come in, here’s what you can do next.

1. Explore the various brands of whirlpool tubs available.
2. Read our guide to bathtub remodeling to get a sense of all the other elements involved in your project.
3. Check out the other types of tubs available to ensure a massage tub is the best fit for you.
4. Use our contractor directory to browse through pros in your area as you prepare to get quotes. We recommend getting three or four quotes to find the best price for your project.

If you’d rather have Modernize do the research for you, simply click below and answer a few questions about your project, and we will match you with up to four of our top contractors.

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