Installing a sauna in the backyard is like creating your own personal wellness oasis, steps out your door. But can I put a sauna in MY backyard? The answer is probably yes, but we created this backyard sauna guide to help you figure out for sure whether it’s possible or not.
Plus, you’ll discover the best backyard sauna for YOUR property, goals, and budget. Nordica Sauna has the ideal outdoor sauna for sale, no matter what you’re looking for. We’ve curated the top models from the most trusted brands in the industry, and back them with world-class service every step of the way - including price-matching, hassle-free financing, and more!
Get a personalized recommendation today, or take our sauna quiz below.
Quick Look at the Best Backyard Saunas
|
Model |
Starting Price |
Capacity |
Material |
Heat Source |
Key Features |
|
$3,990+ |
2–6 Person |
Thermo-Spruce exterior, Thermo-Aspen benches |
Electric (heater sold separately) |
Full-glass front, Wi-Fi LED lighting, modern Scandinavian design |
|
|
$14,990+ |
2 Person |
Thermo-Aspen interior, Thermo-Spruce exterior (natural or black) |
Electric (heater sold separately) |
Full tempered-glass front, LED backrest lighting, luxury cabin aesthetic |
|
|
$6,945 |
2–6 Person |
Eastern White Cedar with metal shingle roof |
Wood-burning or 8 kW Electric |
Classic Canadian design, wide benches, handcrafted in Canada |
|
|
$4,719 |
4 Person |
Canadian Hemlock, sealed weatherproof cabin |
Infrared (8 rapid ceramic heaters) |
Bluetooth speakers, ozone sterilization, exterior control panel |
|
|
$6,990 |
2–6 Person |
Thermo-Spruce exterior, Thermo-Aspen benches |
Electric (heater sold separately) |
Ergonomic barrel design, dual floor drains, Wi-Fi LED lighting |
Can I Put a Sauna in My Backyard?
We know you’re excited to discover the best backyard sauna for your home. But it’s important to think about whether or not it’s actually feasible or not. So, can I put a sauna in my backyard? The short answer is probably yes. It’s just a matter of how much work it’ll take!
Benefits of a Backyard Sauna
Owning a sauna at home transforms relaxation from an occasional treat into a daily ritual. Regular use supports circulation, helps with recovery after workouts, eases joint tension, and promotes better sleep.
But placing your sauna outdoors takes those benefits further.
Backyard saunas separate your wellness space from the bustle of your home. You get a quiet retreat steps away from your door. There’s no need to give up indoor square footage or deal with ventilation for heat/steam. Plus, you can enjoy a view of your garden, forest line, or evening sky while you unwind.
Outdoor units also tend to offer more flexibility in size and design when you compare the indoor vs outdoor sauna, too. Barrel or cabin-style builds can fit on patios, decks, or concrete pads. OR, you can go with a more modern glass-fronted model for a stylish statement.
There’s a good chance this investment in your health and happiness will also pay off when you go to sell your home one day. As more and more people discover the benefits of sauna therapy, a backyard sauna can impact property value.
Can I put a sauna in my backyard, though?Let’s look at some of the key factors to consider.
Zoning, Permits, and HOA Rules (What to Check Before You Buy)
The first thing you need to do is review local building regulations before ordering a backyard sauna. Most areas allow them, but some municipalities require a simple permit for electrical work or accessory structures above a specific size.
You’ll also need to do your due diligence and confirm local fire codes regarding chimney placement and clearances if you plan on using a wood-burning sauna stove.
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) may have their own restrictions on outbuildings, especially if the sauna will be visible from the street or neighboring properties. Double-check exterior color, height, and roof material rules to avoid surprises.
Site Requirements (Foundation, Utilities, and More)
Once you get the green light as far as regulations go, you’ll need to take a look at the installation site itself. You don’t need a full concrete foundation, although it’s a plus. You do need a flat, stable, and well-drained base. Pavers, deck blocks, or a small poured pad work perfectly.
You’ll also need to plan for utilities. Electric models typically need their own dedicated 220-240V line with a GFCI breaker. Wood-burning saunas need enough space for chimney clearance and safe ventilation.
Access is one detail our customers overlook, so don’t make that mistake. The delivery path from the driveway to the setup site needs to be wide enough for panels or a prebuilt cabin.
Weatherproofing and Longevity Outdoors
Can I put a sauna in my backyard even if I live in an area that gets tons of rain or snow? Definitely!We get asked this question all the time, and you really have little to worry about if you invest in a high-quality backyard sauna build.
Thermo-treated woods like spruce or aspen resist warping, rot, and moisture better than untreated timber. Roof kits with drip edges, proper flashing, and shingle overlays prevent leaks and snow buildup.
It’s worth paying a premium for stainless hardware and UV-protected finishes, especially if you live in a coastal or humid region. You may need to plan on reapplying natural oils or stains annually to preserve color and integrity, too.
How Much is a Backyard Sauna?
You’ve probably noticed prices range all over the map if you’ve already started looking to put a sauna in your backyard. So, how much is a backyard sauna going to cost you?
Typical Prices to Install a Sauna in Backyard
Most homeowners can expect to spend between $4,000 and $15,000 for a quality backyard sauna. We have entry-level models starting around $3,790, and plenty of excellent options under $10,000. But the most expensive luxury sauna rooms can reach $25,000-$50,000+.
It’s worth noting that installation costs can range widely, too. Prefab kits are not only designed for easy DIY assembly, they’re often more affordable as well. Larger custom units involve site prep, wiring, and professional setup - and each step adds cost.
What Influences the Backyard Sauna Cost?
Here are the most important variables to understand when budgeting for the backyard sauna cost:
- Size and Capacity: A 2-person sauna uses fewer materials and smaller heaters than a 6-person model.
- Construction Material: Thermo-treated spruce or aspen costs more than basic hemlock, but you get what you pay for in terms of longevity and weather resistance.
- Design Complexity: Barrel saunas, full-glass fronts, and custom window configurations cost more than simple cabin-style saunas.
- Heat Source: Electric saunas tend to cost less upfront than wood-burning or hybrid infrared systems, but you should think about ongoing costs as well.
- Insulation and Efficiency: Thicker walls, sealed joints, and premium vapor barriers improve energy retention and comfort - but come at a higher price.
- Location and Installation: Outdoor setups might need additional site prep or wiring, while plug-and-play infrared models don’t.
- Accessories and Upgrades: LED lighting, Bluetooth audio, aroma sets, and smart controls enhance the experience but increase total investment.
We make it easy to compare your options side-by-side and find the best value for your budget. From Scandinavian-engineered barrel saunas to contemporary cube cabins, we offer the best backyard sauna selection in every price range.
But how do I choose the right sauna for my backyard?There are three things you can do right now:
- Get in touch with our customer service team for one-on-one support
- Take our sauna quiz (below) for a fast answer
- Continue reading our backyard sauna buying guide!
How Do I Choose the Right Sauna for My Backyard?
There are so many moving pieces to think about in choosing the best backyard sauna, and we know it can get a little overwhelming. These are the most important things to consider as you start shopping:
Start With Space, Siting, and Views
Your backyard layout is the first factor to consider. Think about where the sauna will look and feel most natural - ideally somewhere private, level, and close enough to your home for easy access in winter.
Orientation also matters. Positioning the door or glass front toward a scenic view can completely change your sauna experience, making each session feel like an escape. Consider placing it near a pool, plunge tub, or outdoor shower for added functionality.
Electric vs Wood-Burning vs Infrared
Each heating method brings a distinct experience, and it all depends on your preferences for heat intensity, maintenance, and ritual. We have an option for you regardless:
- Electric Saunas: Most popular and convenient option for modern homes. Fairly quick heating (usually 30-45 minutes), minimal maintenance, and precise temperature control.
- Wood-Burning Saunas: Traditional, authentic experience with soft, radiant heat and the unmistakable aroma of burning wood. No need for electrical hookups, but must have chimney clearance and ventilation. Best for rural properties.
- Infrared Saunas: Radiant panels or ceramic heaters warm the body directly, not just the air. They reach temp faster (10-20 minutes) and are more energy efficient.
Whether you’re looking for the best infrared sauna for home or a traditional barrel sauna for sale, you can find exactly what you want here at Nordica Sauna.
Size, Capacity, and Layout
You can now start to think about how many people you want your sauna to accommodate at any given time. You might just need a 1-2 person unit. Or, if you have a large family and want everyone to indulge in sauna therapy together, you can go with a larger 6-8 person unit:
- 1 person outdoor sauna
- 2 person outdoor sauna
- 3 person outdoor sauna
- 4 person outdoor sauna
- 5 person outdoor sauna
- 6 person outdoor sauna
- 8 person outdoor sauna
Consider not just sauna sizes, but how you like to relax. Do you want enough space to lie down, stretch out, or entertain? We have saunas with tiered benches so you can choose between hotter upper seating or cooler lower levels.
Barrel-style saunas maximize internal volume while keeping the footprint compact, while cube and cabin models offer roomier interiors and more flexibility for seating layouts.
Materials That Stand Up Outside
We touched on this earlier, but the wood you choose determines how your sauna will handle years of exposure to weather and heat. Thermo-treated spruce, aspen, and alder are among the most durable options - they’re well worth the investment in our opinion.
Whatever you do, avoid untreated softwoods. They degrade really quickly in outdoor environments. A well-built backyard sauna should have double-wall construction, stainless steel hardware, and a weather-sealed roof system.
Delivery, Assembly, and Timeline
Most backyard saunas today arrive as prefab kits so you don’t have to stress about learning how to build a backyard sauna. Smaller models can be built in 4-6 hours, while larger cabins may take a full day (maybe even two).
We make the process even easier with white-glove delivery, detailed assembly guides, and expert customer support for every model we carry. Whether you’re choosing your first sauna or upgrading to a luxury build, discover the best backyard sauna today!
The Best Backyard Sauna Awaits at Nordica Sauna
The best outdoor sauna for your backyard is just a click or call away. Get in touch with our team today, and we’ll help you compare options and find the perfect fit for your preferences and budget. In the meantime, here’s a look at some of our most popular options:
SaunaLife Cube-Series
- Capacity: 2-6 people (depending on model)
- Starting Price: $3,990+
- Style: Modern Scandinavian cube design
- Material: Thermo-Spruce exterior, Thermo-Aspen benches
This Northern European design blends clean architectural lines with incredible durability. Its full-glass bronze front brings natural light and outdoor views into each session, while heat-treated wood resists moisture and warping in any climate.
A Wi-Fi LED lighting system lets you customize the mood, and the easy-assembly kit makes installation simple. It’s a perfect choice for homeowners who want to balance timeless style and everyday functionality.
Auroom Mira S Outdoor Cabin Sauna
- Capacity: 2-6 people
- Starting Price: $14,990+
- Style: Luxury cabin with full-glass front
- Material: Thermo-Aspen interior, Thermo-Spruce exterior (natural or black finish)
The Auroom Mira S brings spa-level sophistication outdoors. Its clean, frameless glass wall and satin-smooth thermo-aspen benches create a bright, calming environment that’s spacious and private.
Integrated LED backrest and bench lighting take the ambiance up a notch, while hidden fasteners keep the sauna looking (and feeling) minimalist yet elegant. A solid pick for year-round use if you have a larger budget and want something more refined.
Dundalk CT Georgian Cabin 6 Person Sauna
- Capacity: 2-6 people
- Starting Price: $6,945
- Style: Traditional cabin design
- Material: Eastern White Cedar, metal shingle roof
- Heat Source: Electric or wood-burning
The Dundalk CT Georgian Cabin Sauna pairs rustic charm with superior Canadian craftsmanship. The bronze tempered glass door provides a balance between privacy and natural light that few other models match.
Its aromatic white cedar interior radiates warmth and stands the test of time. Meanwhile, the included metal roof gives you all-season protection from the elements. You can choose from electric or wood-burning heat for a fully personalized sauna experience.
SaunaLife Model E8 Sauna Barrel
- Capacity: 2-6 people
- Starting Price: $6,990
- Style: Ergonomic barrel sauna
- Material: Thermo-Spruce exterior, Thermo-Aspen benches
The SaunaLife Model E8 elevates the classic barrel sauna with a taller, ergonomic design and contoured seating for the utmost comfort. Its Thermo-Spruce staves are heat-treated for extreme longevity. Dual floor drains and a black shingled roof protect your investment further.
A Wi-Fi-enabled LED system puts you in control of the ambiance for a touch of modern luxury. This is one of the best backyard saunas for anyone who wants authentic steam heat with modern flair.
Sunray Cayenne 4-Person Outdoor Sauna
- Capacity: 4 people
- Starting Price: $4,719
- Style: Infrared outdoor sauna
- Material: Canadian Hemlock, weather-sealed cabin
- Heat Source: 8 rapid ceramic heaters
The Sunray Cayenne brings infrared sauna therapy into a sleek, durable package. Eight ceramic heaters quickly reach optimal temperature, providing a gentle, even warmth that’s easy on the body.
Other features include built-in Bluetooth speakers, recessed lighting, and ozone sterilization. The sealed cabin and shingled roof make this a wonderful choice for year-round use in any climate.
Final Words on the Best Backyard Sauna
So, can I put a sauna in my backyard? How do I choose the right sauna for my backyard? Hopefully, this backyard sauna guide has answered all your questions and left you feeling confident in your next steps.
Whether you prefer a modern cube, a rustic cedar cabin, or a compact barrel design, it’s never been easier to bring the benefits of a sauna into your backyard. Every model at Nordica Sauna has been handpicked for performance, longevity, and beauty that lasts through every season.
Explore our curated collection today and find the perfect backyard sauna to transform your outdoor space into your new favorite escape.
