Introduction: The Rising Demand for Personal Saunas
Did you know that sauna use has grown by 300% in home wellness trends since 2020? With more people prioritizing stress relief, detox, and muscle recovery, a 1 person sauna has become the ultimate luxury for small spaces.
But how much should you really spend? Prices range from
200forabasicportableunitto
200forabasicportableunitto10,000+ for a custom-built cedar cabin. This guide dives deep into:
✔ Real cost breakdowns (with price comparisons)
✔ Infrared vs. steam vs. traditional saunas (which is best?)
✔ Top-rated brands (tested & reviewed)
✔ Hidden costs (installation, maintenance, electricity)
Let’s find your perfect sauna.
1. How Much Is a 1 Person Sauna? (2024 Price Ranges)
Budget Tier:
200–
200–1,000
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
| Portable Steam Sauna (Tent Style) | 200–200–500 | Renters, small apartments |
| Infrared Sauna Blanket | 300–300–700 | Travel-friendly detox |
| Basic Wooden Kit (DIY Assembly) | 800–800–1,000 | First-time buyers |
Pros:
✅ Affordable entry point
✅ No permanent installation
✅ Great for testing sauna benefits
Cons:
❌ Less durable
❌ Limited features
Mid-Tier:
1,000–
1,000–4,000
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
| Infrared Cabin (Low EMF) | 1,500–1,500–3,000 | Health-focused users |
| Pre-Built Cedar Sauna | 2,000–2,000–4,000 | Homeowners |
| Hybrid (Infrared + Steam) | 2,500–2,500–4,000 | Best of both worlds |
Pros:
✅ Better heat efficiency
✅ Longer lifespan
✅ More aesthetic designs
Cons:
❌ Requires more space
❌ Higher upfront cost
Premium Tier:
4,000–
4,000–10,000+
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
| Custom Outdoor Cedar Sauna | 4,000–4,000–7,000 | Backyard wellness oasis |
| Smart Tech Sauna (App-Controlled) | 5,000–5,000–10,000 | Luxury experience |
Pros:
✅ Highest quality materials
✅ Advanced features (chromotherapy, voice control)
✅ Increases home value
Cons:
❌ Expensive
❌ Professional installation needed
2. Key Factors That Affect Price
A. Sauna Type
| Type | Avg. Cost | Heating Time | Maintenance |
| Infrared | 1,000–1,000–4,000 | 10-15 mins | Low |
| Steam (Traditional) | 500–500–3,000 | 30+ mins | High (ventilation needed) |
| Wood-Burning | 3,000–3,000–6,000 | 45+ mins | Very High |
Expert Tip: Infrared is the most energy-efficient (costs ~$5/month in electricity).
B. Materials
- Cedar (most durable, resists mold) → +$1,000 vs. basswood
- Tempered Glass Door (adds luxury) → +$500
C. Size & Space Requirements
- Indoor 1 person sauna → 3’ x 3’ x 6’ (fits in closets or corners)
- Outdoor 1 person sauna → 4’ x 4’ x 7’ (needs waterproofing)
D. Hidden Costs
✔ Installation →
200–
200–1,500 (unless portable)
✔ Electrical Work →
150–
150–500 (for 240V models)
✔ Maintenance → $100/year (wood treatment, heater checks)
3. Best 1 Person Sauna Brands (2024 Rankings)
🏆 Best Overall: Sun Home Luminar ($2,199)
- Why? Low-EMF carbon heaters, 10-min heat-up, 5-year warranty
- Best for: Homeowners wanting medical-grade infrared benefits
💰 Best Budget: SereneLife Portable ($250)
- Why? Folds for storage, includes chair & steam bucket
- Best for: Apartment dwellers
🌲 Best Outdoor: Almost Heaven Bluestone ($4,995)
- Why? Handcrafted cedar, withstands harsh weather
- Best for: Backyard relaxation
4. Infrared vs. Steam: Which is Better?
| Factor | Infrared Sauna | Traditional Steam Sauna |
| Heat Type | Dry, penetrates deeper | Humid, surface-level heat |
| Temp Range | 120°F – 150°F | 150°F – 195°F |
| Session Time | 15-30 mins | 20-40 mins |
| Energy Use | Low ($5/month) | High (15−15−30/month) |
| Health Benefits | Detox, pain relief | Respiratory, circulation |
Verdict:
- Infrared → Best for chronic pain, low energy bills
- Steam → Best for sinus relief, classic sauna feel
5. Where to Buy (Trusted Retailers + Discount Tips)
Online Stores:
- Amazon → Fast shipping, easy returns (best for portable saunas)
- Wayfair → Frequent sales on indoor models
- Costco → Bulk discounts (infrared saunas)
Local Dealers:
- SaunaFin, Almost Heaven → Custom builds, professional installation
Pro Tip: Wait for Black Friday or New Year sales—saunas often drop 15-20%.
6. DIY vs. Pre-Built: Which Saves Money?
| Option | Cost | Time Required |
| DIY Kit | 800–800–2,000 | 8-12 hours |
| Pre-Built | 1,500–1,500–5,000 | 1-2 hours |
Best for DIYers:
- Handy homeowners with tools
- Those wanting ultra-custom designs
Best for Pre-Built:
- Busy professionals
- People who want warranties
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a 1 person sauna every day?
A: Yes! 15-30 minutes daily is safe for most people (consult a doctor if pregnant/have heart conditions).
Q2: Do saunas help with weight loss?
A: They boost circulation and detox, but aren’t a fat-burning solution alone.
Q3: How long do 1 person saunas last?
A: 5-15 years (infrared lasts longer than steam).
Q4: Are cheap saunas safe?
A: Avoid no-name brands—look for ETL/UL certification to prevent fire risks.
Q5: Can I put a sauna on carpet?
A: No! Use tile, concrete, or a waterproof mat to prevent mold.
Final Verdict: Is a 1 Person Sauna Worth It?
✅ Worth it if:
- You want stress relief, better sleep, or muscle recovery
- You have $1,500+ for a quality infrared model
- You prioritize wellness over other luxuries
❌ Not worth it if:
- You expect medical miracles (saunas complement health, but aren’t cures)
- You can’t spare 3’ x 3’ space
Ready to Buy? (Next Steps)
1️⃣ Measure your space (check ceiling height!)
2️⃣ Set a budget (
200–
200–10,000 options exist)
3️⃣ Choose infrared vs. steam (health goals matter)
4️⃣ Compare top brands (see our rankings above)
👉 Click below to check today’s best deals on 1 person saunas!