You’ve heard about the benefits of cold plunging: faster recovery, reduced inflammation, better sleep, more energy. Maybe you’ve even started using a stock tank or making trips to a wellness studio to get into a cold plunge. But now you’re thinking about leveling up.
And one big question comes to mind: How much does a cold plunge tub cost?
Whether you're comparing options for your home or deciding between DIY and investing in a dedicated setup, understanding the price of a cold tub is about more than just the dollar amount on the website. From materials and craftsmanship to chiller performance and year-round usability, there are real differences in value across models.
Here’s what you need to know.
The real range: Cold plunge tub prices from entry-level to premium
The cost of a cold plunge tub can range anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 — or even higher. The price largely depends on the type of tub, the included chiller, and the quality of materials and design.
Entry-level cold tubs
Inflatable cold tubs with portable chillers offer an accessible, budget-friendly way to start your contrast therapy routine. Chilly GOAT’s GO! Tub with Chiller, for example, costs less than $3,000. It’s compact, portable, and designed for simple setup whether you’re using it in a garage, on a deck, or in the backyard. While you won’t get the solid acrylic shell or integrated features found in higher-end models, you’ll still enjoy reliable cold water and a much more convenient option than constantly hauling bags of ice.
Cost of mid-range cold plunge
In the mid-range category, you’ll find durable, molded tubs like the Matterhorn. Priced around $5,000, it offers a significant upgrade in insulation, filtration, and ease of maintenance. For those who are past the beginner phase and ready to make cold therapy part of a daily routine, this tier offers excellent value without going all-in on aesthetics.
Premium cold tubs for performance and style
If you’re seeking a more elevated experience, expect to see cold plunge tubs priced around $9,000 to $10,000. The Alpine cold tub comes in just under that range. It’s comparable in price to models from brands like Plunge and Renu while offering the added benefit of having a temperature range of 40 degrees to 104 degrees. With its full acrylic design, built-in seating and arm rests, and details like dual jets and LED lighting, this tub is built for people who take recovery seriously.
The ultimate in contrast therapy: performance, precision, and polish
At the highest tier of cold plunge tubs is the Valaris, which is a dual-temp system designed for people who want full control over their recovery. Priced just under $15,000, Valaris offers both hot and cold therapy in a single sleek unit, giving you the flexibility to switch between plunges and soaks depending on your needs.
With premium materials, superior insulation, and a powerful chiller/heater system, the Valaris delivers consistent performance. And while other high-end cold plunges can cost upwards of $20,000 or even $35,000, Valaris stands out for its value, versatility, and spa-grade design.
What about memberships and contrast therapy studio access?
If you're not sure whether investing in a cold plunge tub is worth it, consider how much you're already spending (or could spend) on access to one.
Memberships at recovery or contrast therapy studios can cost $149 a month or more, with some gyms charging $200-plus monthly for wellness amenities like saunas and cold plunges. Even if you go the à la carte route, a single drop-in cold plunge session can run $30 or more.
At 10 sessions a month, that’s $300 per month, or $3,600 a year. In other words, the cost of a high-quality cold tub could pay for itself in just one year, especially if multiple people in your household use it.
And let’s be honest: There’s also the convenience factor. No traffic, no waiting your turn, and no navigating someone else’s temperature settings.
What factors influence cold plunge cost?
It’s tempting to compare cold tubs based only on their price tags, but there’s more going on beneath the surface. The biggest differences in cost often come down to what the tub is made of, how well it performs, and whether it’s truly built for year-round use.
Chiller performance
Some entry-level cold plunges use basic chillers that only cool the water. That might work fine indoors or during summer, but if the air temperature drops below freezing, those chillers can’t heat the water to maintain your preferred temp. More advanced systems, like those in Chilly GOAT’s Alpine and Valaris, are built to keep your water at a consistent temperature no matter the season, cooling or warming as needed.
Insulation and durability
If you're planning to keep your cold tub outdoors, insulation matters — a lot. Without it, your chiller has to work harder (or fails to keep up entirely), especially during extreme weather. Models like the Matterhorn and Alpine are insulated for year-round use, helping reduce energy costs and making cold plunging reliable in any climate.
Materials and construction
A cold tub that’s built with durable, weather-resistant materials won’t just look better. It’ll last longer, resist damage from the elements, and be more comfortable to use day after day. High-quality components include an acrylic shell, composite cabinet, and full foam insulation.
Filtration and maintenance
Tubs with integrated filtration, sanitation, and easy drain systems are easier to keep clean and safe, especially if you're sharing your tub or using it frequently. These features can also help extend the life of your water and cut down on the time you spend maintaining your setup.
Design and usability
Built-in seating, LED lighting, nonslip flooring, and user-friendly controls may not affect the sticker price as much. However, they do affect your daily experience. A tub that’s thoughtfully designed is easier to step into, more comfortable to use, and more enjoyable long-term.
Investing in your recovery, performance, and well-being
When you factor in the long-term costs of studio memberships, travel time, and maintenance, owning a cold plunge tub starts to look less like a luxury and more like a smart investment. You’re getting consistent access, greater control, and the freedom to build your own routine.
Whether you’re just starting your cold plunge journey or looking to upgrade your setup, Chilly GOAT offers a range of tubs that meet you where you are — from the portable GO! to the all-in-one Valaris.
Explore Chilly GOAT’s full lineup of cold tubs to find the right fit for your lifestyle, goals, and budget.
Cold plunge tubs: Choosing the best one for your recovery