How Much Does a Steam Shower Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Installing a steam shower costs between $2,800 and $7,100, with the average homeowner spending around $4,300 for a prefabricated 3-by-3-by-7-foot unit, including materials and labor. Steam rooms cost about $44 per square foot, and steam showers cost around $70 per square foot. Although steam rooms cost less per square foot, they require more space, so the overall budget for a steam room is typically higher.

Steam Shower Installation Cost Factors

Several factors, in addition to the steam shower unit, can influence your total project cost. These include lighting, controls, materials, flushing systems, and upgrades like sound systems or seating.

Size

Steam showers cost an average of $70 per square foot to install, so the total cost will depend on the size of your space and how large you wish your steam shower to be. 

Materials

Materials like ceramic and porcelain tiles are cost-effective choices for your steam shower walls. Higher-end options such as granite, marble, and slate will increase your costs but offer a more luxurious finish.

Lighting

Depending on your choices, installing lighting in your steam shower can vary in cost. Hidden LEDs are a budget-friendly option that can be installed in the ceiling or under seating. Recessed lights can create a starry effect or offer color-changing options for a more luxurious experience.

Controls

Manual controls are the most affordable option for your steam shower system, while wireless or smart controls with advanced features will increase the cost.

Flushing

An automatic flushing system for your generator can reduce calcium buildup and maintenance efforts. Manual systems require you to clean the generator every 20 steam baths using a citric acid and water solution.

Electrician Labor Costs

Electricians cost $50 to $100 per hour. You'll need their expertise to install the generator and electrical components safely.

Plumber Labor Costs

A plumber costs $45 to $200 per hour. Hiring a professional plumber ensures your steam shower integrates seamlessly with your home's plumbing system.

Upgrades

You may want to leave extra room in your budget for upgrades. Add-ons such as sound systems, deluxe seating, and aromatherapy oil wells add an ultra-luxurious touch.

Converting a Regular Shower 

Converting a regular shower to a steam shower costs about $4,300, including the unit, steam generator, and labor. The cost to install a regular shower is around $8,200, including labor and materials.

Steam Shower Cost by Type

Your costs will vary depending on whether you install a prefab steam shower model or choose a custom option. Here are the costs associated with each type.

Prefab Steam Shower Cost

Prefab steam showers range from $2,800 to $7,100 for a basic model. Luxury models with features like jetted tubs can cost up to $10,000. The total cost depends on the features and quality of the unit you choose.

Custom Steam Shower Cost

Custom steam showers typically cost between $4,000 and $14,000, but high-end designs with intricate tile work or deluxe tubs can reach $25,000. The final price depends on the complexity of the design and the materials used.

Steam Shower Installation Cost per Component

Steam showers consist of several key components, each with its own price range. Here’s a breakdown of the cost ranges by component. 

Shower Door and Glass Walls

Glass walls cost between $700 and $1,900, and glass shower doors range from $550 to $1,350. Thicker glass, like 1/2-inch, is more expensive than 3/8-inch options. The type of glass also impacts the price—clear glass is typically less expensive, while specialty options like rain glass cost more.

Wall Tiles

Installing shower wall tiles in a 3-by-3-by-7-foot steam shower costs about $2,700 on average, including labor. Non-porous tiles like ceramic and porcelain are ideal choices for steam showers. Hiring a local bathroom tiling contractor ensures that the surfaces are properly sealed and sloped to direct water toward the drain.

Steam Generator

A steam generator costs between $600 and $2,500, depending on its power and capacity. Purchasing a generator as part of a package that includes the control panel, pressure release valves, and steam heads can save you money.

Cost to Build a Steam Room

Building a steam room costs between $22 and $65 per square foot, averaging around $44 per square foot, including materials and labor. Custom steam rooms with high-end features can cost up to $130 per square foot. Converting an existing shower into a steam room costs approximately $2,600, depending on size.

Many factors play into installing your home steam room. These include:

• Installing new tiling: $12 per square foot

• Electrician fee: $50–$100 per hour

• Plumber fee: $45–$200 per hour

DIY vs. Hiring a Steam Shower Pro

If you're a handy homeowner, a DIY steam shower kit might be an appealing option. Prefabricated units with a generator cost around $2,800, but keep in mind you'll likely need a licensed electrician and plumber to handle the electrical and plumbing work, making your costs add up quickly. 

Hiring a professional shower installer is recommended for a safe and efficient installation. Professional installation will also maintain your home’s integrity by sealing your walls from leaks and water damage. 

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.