UPDATE: Home saunas are rapidly becoming the latest status symbol among affluent homeowners, reflecting a significant shift towards “wellness design.” This trend emphasizes the importance of health and luxury at home, with an increasing number of Americans prioritizing personal wellness.
Just announced, home saunas are not only a luxurious addition but also a powerful statement of one’s ability to invest in health without leaving the comfort of home. Brian and Kristi Culhane, residents of Scottsdale, Arizona, exemplify this trend. They have transformed their sprawling 10,000-square-foot residence into a wellness haven, spending hundreds of thousands on amenities, including a sauna valued at approximately $100,000 from Spa Steam and Sauna, known for servicing luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton.
“Having one at home saves us hours a day,” Brian, a former president of eXp Realty, told Business Insider. “We’re not even working out as much.” The Culhane’s sauna serves as a multifunctional space for yoga, breathwork, and aromatherapy, offering unparalleled privacy compared to public facilities.
The surge in home sauna installations aligns with a broader consumer focus on wellness. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost for installing a sauna ranges from $2,500 to $7,000, with most homeowners spending about $3,100. Entry-level models can start at $1,000, while high-end custom installations can exceed $10,000. For those in the luxury market, sauna prices can escalate significantly, especially as clients seek to create spa-like experiences in their homes.
Wes McMahon, owner of Sun Valley Saunas, indicated that many of his clients in affluent areas like Idaho, Washington, and California are transforming traditional saunas into lavish spa suites. “We do a lot of the bigger outdoor traditional saunas,” he explained, noting features like WiFi controls and changing rooms.
This trend isn’t just resonating with older affluent buyers; younger demographics are also eager to embrace wellness amenities. Ivan Chorney, a luxury real estate specialist in Southeast Florida, highlighted that many of his clients are focused on longevity and fitness. “We’re all so hyper-focused on longevity, because we want to be around for our kids and our grandkids,” he said.
In urban centers like New York and Miami, developers are leveraging wellness amenities to attract buyers. Lisa Simonsen, a luxury broker in New York City, noted that saunas and cold plunges are now “hot commodities” in luxury developments. Many buyers are unwilling to compromise on wellness amenities, indicating a shift in expectations for modern living.
Chorney recently purchased a condo at The Well in Coconut Grove, Miami, a project designed around holistic wellness. With move-ins expected in 2028 and prices starting at $1.5 million, the development promises a range of wellness features including a communal bathhouse with a sauna, cold plunge, and more.
As the demand for wellness-focused living continues to rise, industry experts are predicting a significant boom in wellness and longevity-themed real estate. “We’re just at the beginning of what’s going to be a real longevity and wellness boom in real estate,” Chorney stated.
As the trend accelerates, homeowners are expected to continue investing in personal wellness amenities, reinforcing the message that health and luxury can coexist within the home. The message is clear: investing in a home sauna is not just about relaxation; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that values health, privacy, and comfort.