How Much Does a Steam Shower Cost in 2024?

All spa-goers know how beneficial a steam shower is – it provides stress relief, muscle relaxation, and detoxification. With all these boons in mind, many homeowners consider upgrading their average bathroom into a soothing oasis. That’s when they delve into the project’s intricacies to discover the steam shower cost, as its installation suggests incorporating a steam generator. The latter heats water to a boiling point, creating steam that is then dispersed into the shower enclosure through steam heads. The steam can be controlled with a timer or temperature control panel, allowing you to customize your steam session to your liking.

How much does it cost to install a steam shower? For a prefabricated unit, you can pay from $2,750 to $7,200, with most American homeowners spending $4,350. Those who fancy custom-made options should be ready to fork out up to $25,000. Keep reading to discover the vital cost-shaping factors. 

The price of installing a steam shower

Prefabricated Steam Shower Cost

A prefab steam shower comes with all the necessary materials and components in one package. You can pay $2,200 to $5,500 for a basic unit + generator combo. More high-end models with additional features like built-in seating, multiple showerheads, aromatherapy options, and digital controls can cost from $5,500 upward. Steam shower installation can set you back $400 to 650, depending on plumbing and electrical requirements.

Willing to get bespoke quotes for your shower upgrade project? MyHomeQuote is here to help. Submit the form below, providing key details, and we’ll do the rest. 

The price of installing a prefab steam shower

Custom Steam Shower Cost

If you can’t find a suitable off-the-shelf steam shower, you can go for a custom one. Depending on the design and features, the latter can cost you from $3,900 to $15,000. Bespoke steam shower prices are higher when high-end materials or additional amenities like aromatherapy systems or built-in sound systems are selected. The installation process can be more complex than a standard shower, requiring a steam generator and proper ventilation.

The price of installing a custom steam shower

Steam Shower Installation Cost Breakdown

As there is more to the steam shower installation pricing than meets the eye, it is worth making a breakdown to see the whole picture. Whether you’ve already set your heart on a custom or prefab option, it’s worth examining them all, as you may change your mind down the road.  

The Cost of a Steam Shower by Type

Even though it’s believed that prefab steam showers are more budget-friendly compared to custom ones, the final cost can fluctuate based on the specific model chosen. Basic walk-in steam showers are more affordable than combination models with additional features like jetted showers or saunas. Moreover, the price tag for a steam shower can hinge on the level of customization and enhancements desired. 

Prefabricated Shower Types

Prefabricated showers make for a convenient option to incorporate a steam shower into your home. They are available in various styles and sizes, making them suitable for multiple spaces. The assembly process is fast and straightforward, allowing easy installation with minimal hassle.

The prefab steam shower price by type

Custom Steam Shower Types

Bespoke showers offer the flexibility to tailor every design aspect to your preferences and requirements. They can be personalized in size, layout, materials, and features, allowing for a truly unique and luxurious shower experience. However, custom showers typically come with a longer installation time, let alone the price tag.

The custom steam shower price by type

The Cost to Install a Steam Shower by Size

The shower dimensions play a significant role in determining the overall expenses. Typically, homeowners shell out more for oversized options, requiring more materials and labor. On the contrary, opting for standard-sized showers is usually more cost-effective as you can find prefab models that won’t cost an arm and a leg. In most cases, you should be ready to pay $70+ per sq. ft. for a steam shower installation.

The cost of a steam shower by size

The Cost to Install a Steam Shower by Material

When planning on your steam shower surround, you might be overwhelmed with the choice of materials available. Some options, like acrylic or fiberglass, are more pocket-friendly, while others, like glass tile or solid surface walls, are considered luxurious. It’s important to note that off-the-shelf showers have a restricted selection of materials, whereas custom alternatives offer more flexibility. 

The Cost of a Prefab Steam Shower by Material 

If you’ve set your mind to a bathroom facelift with a prefabricated steam shower, your options for materials are limited to acrylic or fiberglass. They come at varying prices to suit different budgets and needs. 

Want to know how much to install a steam shower made from acrylic or other materials? MyHomeQuote is your go-to for personalized estimates. We have a large roster of licensed contractors across the USA. Fill in the questionnaire to let us know your concerns. 

The price of installing a prefab steam shower by material

The Cost of a Custom Steam Shower by Material 

With custom steam showers, homeowners can unleash their imagination, as there are multiple materials to choose from, including ceramic tiles and porcelain slabs. If neither of the options speaks to you alone, you can make different combinations. The square footage determines the pricing for custom steam shower installation. As the latter is a labor-intensive process, contractors can charge more. 

The price of installing a custom steam shower by material

Steam Shower Installation Cost by Components

Curious about the expenses involved in installing a steam shower in your bathroom? Pay special attention to the components. The main ones are listed below.

Steam Generator 

A steam shower can’t function without its heart – a steam generator unit. It usually ranges from $550 to $2,500. Opting for a package deal encompassing the generator, steam heads, and release valves can be a smart and cost-saving move. Please note the price of the generator increases with its power. 

Door and Walls

Installing glass shower walls can range from $680 to $1,900, while glass shower doors can set you back between $500 and $1,300. Thicker glass options generally incur higher costs, with clear glass being more affordable and rain glass being on the pricier end.

Flushing 

If you go for a manual flushing system, you need to clean the generator every 20 steam baths with a particular medium. With an automatic alternative, you don’t need to worry about calcium buildup in your generator. 

Additional Costs to Consider When Estimating Steam Shower Pricing

Many homeowners strive to accomplish two tasks at once – installing a desired steam shower while removing the odious, balky bathtub. If you are on the same page with them, you need to include any conversions and additional upgrades in your steam shower cost estimate.

Converting an Existing Shower vs. New Steam Shower 

Transforming a current shower into a steam shower involves the installation of the unit and steam generator. The average cost for this conversion typically amounts to $4,500, inclusive of both parts and labor.

Tub-to-Shower Conversion

If you crave a walk-in steam shower instead of the bathtub, anticipate spending approximately $150 to $300 for its removal and disposal. The overall cost is determined by the design of your tub-to-shower conversion.

Labor Cost to Install a Steam Shower

Choosing a prefabricated steam shower can result in significant savings on labor costs. While a custom-made unit can set you back $1,000 to $5,500 for installation, a prefabricated one may range from $500 to $600. 

Experts can guarantee proper plumbing system integration and generator installation. You should be ready to pay $50 to $100 per hour for professional electrician services. Plumbers can charge $100 to $300 per hour. Prefabricated steam showers entail minimal on-site assembly, leading to reduced labor requirements during installation.