New York homeowners know that extreme weather is simply part of life. Summers bring sticky heat and humidity, while winters deliver bitter cold, heavy snow, and biting wind. That contrast is exactly what makes owning an outdoor sauna so rewarding here. Stepping from a frigid January evening into a 180°F sauna, then cooling down in the crisp night air, is an experience that rivals anything you would find in Finland or Scandinavia. And during milder months, an outdoor sauna becomes the centerpiece of your backyard entertaining space.
Whether you live on Long Island with a sprawling backyard, have a modest patio in Westchester, or own a weekend cabin in the Hudson Valley or Catskills, there is an outdoor sauna that fits your space, budget, and lifestyle. This guide breaks down the best options available, what to consider for New York's unique climate, and how to choose the right sauna for your property.
Why New Yorkers Are Adding Outdoor Saunas to Their Homes
The wellness movement has taken hold across New York State, and outdoor saunas have become one of the most sought-after backyard upgrades. There are several reasons for the surge in popularity.
First, the health benefits are substantial and well-documented. Regular sauna use has been linked to improved cardiovascular function, reduced muscle soreness, better sleep quality, and significant stress relief. For New Yorkers dealing with demanding careers and long winters, a sauna provides a daily escape that supports both physical and mental health. Many sauna owners report it becoming an indispensable part of their routine within the first few weeks.
Second, an outdoor sauna adds genuine value to your property. A well-chosen, well-placed sauna transforms a basic backyard into a wellness retreat. In competitive real estate markets across the Hudson Valley, the Hamptons, and suburban communities around New York City, this kind of upgrade stands out to buyers.
Third, New York's cold winters actually make outdoor sauna use more enjoyable, not less. The practice of contrast therapy, alternating between intense heat and cold exposure, has deep roots in Nordic cultures. Pairing your sauna sessions with a cold plunge during winter months amplifies the health benefits and creates an invigorating experience you simply cannot replicate indoors.
What to Consider When Buying an Outdoor Sauna in New York
New York's climate presents specific challenges that should inform your sauna purchase. Not every outdoor sauna is created equal, and understanding what matters most in this region will help you make a smart investment.
Weather Resistance and Insulation
New York experiences the full range of weather conditions. Temperatures can swing from well below 0°F in the Adirondacks to over 95°F in the summer. Add in rain, snow loads, ice, and humidity, and you need a sauna built to handle it all. Look for saunas constructed from naturally weather-resistant woods like Eastern White Cedar, thermally modified spruce (thermo-spruce), or thermo-pine. These materials resist rot, warping, and insect damage far better than untreated softwoods. Wall thickness matters too. Saunas with walls at least 1.5 inches thick provide substantially better insulation, which means faster heat-up times and more consistent temperatures during cold snaps.
Size and Property Considerations
New York properties vary wildly in size. A 2-person compact sauna may be perfect for a Brooklyn brownstone's small backyard, while a 6 to 8-person cabin sauna makes sense on a larger property in the Hudson Valley or Finger Lakes region. Before purchasing, measure your available space and check local building codes. Many municipalities across New York require setbacks from property lines, and some communities governed by HOAs may have additional rules. A quick call to your local building department can save you headaches later. If you need help choosing the right size and style, Haven of Heat's sauna selector tool can match you with models that fit your specific requirements.
Heating Type
Outdoor saunas are available with several heating options, and each has advantages depending on how and where you plan to use your sauna.
Traditional electric heaters are the most popular choice for New York homeowners. They heat up quickly, maintain consistent temperatures, and allow you to pour water over hot stones for steam (löyly). Most require a dedicated 240V circuit, so plan for an electrician during installation. Browse our full selection of sauna heaters if you want to customize your setup.
Wood-fired stoves are ideal for off-grid properties, rural cabins, or anyone who values the authentic, traditional sauna experience. They produce an unmatched ambiance and do not require any electrical connection. If your weekend property in the Catskills or Adirondacks lacks reliable power, a wood-fired sauna is a perfect fit.
Infrared heaters operate at lower temperatures (typically 120–150°F versus 150–195°F for traditional saunas) and heat the body directly rather than heating the air. They use less energy and can typically run on a standard 120V outlet, making them easier to install. They are a great choice for anyone who prefers a gentler, longer session. Explore outdoor infrared saunas for plug-and-play options.
Hybrid saunas combine a traditional electric heater with infrared panels, giving you the flexibility to use either or both heat sources in a single session. This is an excellent option if different household members prefer different sauna styles. Check out our full range of outdoor hybrid saunas for the best of both worlds.
Electrical Requirements
Most traditional outdoor saunas with electric heaters require a dedicated 240V circuit, typically 40 to 60 amps depending on the heater size. This means you will need a licensed electrician for the hookup. If you are in a region of New York where electrical work requires a permit, factor that into your timeline and budget. Haven of Heat can connect you with qualified sauna installers in your area to handle this step.
Best Outdoor Sauna Styles for New York Homes
Outdoor saunas come in a variety of shapes and designs, each suited to different spaces, aesthetics, and use cases. Here are the most popular styles and the best models we carry for each.
Barrel Saunas
Barrel saunas are one of the most popular outdoor sauna styles in New York for good reason. Their cylindrical design sheds rain and snow naturally, preventing moisture from pooling on the roof. The curved interior also creates efficient air circulation, meaning the sauna heats up faster and uses less energy than a comparably sized rectangular structure. They look fantastic in virtually any backyard setting, from a lakefront property in the Finger Lakes to a landscaped yard on Long Island.
The SaunaLife Ergo-Series Barrel Saunas are among the best-selling barrel saunas we carry. Built from high-quality Nordic spruce with ergonomically designed thermo-aspen benches, these saunas are engineered for comfort and durability. The SaunaLife Model E6 is a compact 2 to 4-person barrel sauna that fits comfortably in smaller spaces, while the SaunaLife G11 is an 8-person hobbit house-style barrel sauna with a built-in changing room, perfect for families or those who love to entertain. All SaunaLife barrels include a shingled roof for extra weather protection, behind-the-bench LED lighting, and Wi-Fi app-based controls.
For a classic cedar barrel option, the Dundalk Leisurecraft Harmony Barrel Sauna is handcrafted from Eastern White Cedar in Ontario, Canada. Cedar's natural oils make it incredibly resistant to rot and decay, which is essential for handling New York's wet springs and snowy winters. Dundalk barrel saunas come as ready-to-assemble kits with clear instructions.
If you want a barrel sauna from a brand known for value and modern features, the Golden Designs Klosters 6-Person Barrel Sauna is crafted from Pacific Premium Cedar and includes a Harvia electric heater. It is a compelling option for New York homeowners who want a spacious barrel sauna at a competitive price point.
Cabin Saunas
Cabin saunas offer a more traditional, room-like experience with flat walls, a conventional roof, and often more flexible interior layouts. They tend to have thicker walls than barrel saunas, which can provide better insulation in extremely cold climates. For properties in Upstate New York, the Adirondacks, or the Catskills where temperatures regularly dip below zero, a cabin sauna is an excellent choice.
The Dundalk Leisurecraft Georgian Cabin Sauna is one of the most popular cabin saunas we carry. This 6-person sauna is handcrafted from Eastern White Cedar with a black steel roof, bronze tempered glass door and windows, and a 2-level L-shaped bench. It is built for all-weather outdoor use and arrives as a ready-to-assemble kit with dovetail corners for straightforward construction. For those who want a dedicated changing area, the Georgian Cabin with Changeroom adds a 48-inch enclosed changing space, so you can towel off and store your belongings without stepping outside.
For a smaller household, the Dundalk Granby Cabin Sauna seats 2 to 3 people and features a compact footprint that works well in tighter spaces. It is built from the same high-quality Eastern White Cedar and includes a 2-tier bench and tempered glass door.
The SaunaLife Model G2 is another strong cabin option, seating 4 people with a light spruce wood exterior and a full glass door for natural light. It works with either an electric heater or wood-fired stove, giving you flexibility in how you power it. For larger gatherings, the SaunaLife Model G4 expands to 6-person capacity with beautiful glass windows, a configurable door placement (front or side), and an angled roof for durability against snow and rain.
Cube Saunas
Cube saunas are a modern, minimalist take on the outdoor sauna. Their clean geometric lines look particularly striking alongside contemporary architecture, making them a popular choice for design-conscious homeowners in Westchester, the Hamptons, and upscale suburbs throughout New York. SaunaLife's Cube-Series includes models ranging from a compact 2-person unit to a spacious 6-person sauna, all crafted with meticulous attention to comfort and weather resistance.
Pod Saunas
Pod saunas feature a distinctive rounded or arched roof design that combines the efficient heating characteristics of a barrel sauna with the flat-floor convenience of a cabin. The Dundalk MiniPOD Sauna is a 7-foot by 7-foot pod that seats 2 to 4 people. Made from Eastern White Cedar with an EPDM membrane roof, it offers a unique look and solid performance in harsh weather. Pod saunas are a great middle ground if you like the aesthetics of a barrel but want a flat walking surface inside.
Modern and Luxury Saunas
For homeowners who want their sauna to be a design statement, Auroom saunas from Estonia are in a class of their own. These premium saunas are engineered and manufactured in Europe with a focus on elegant design, superior materials, and meticulous craftsmanship.
The Auroom Aura is a stunning 2-person outdoor sauna with contoured Finnish bench seating, a full glass front, and an exterior built to withstand any weather conditions. It adds a luxurious, spa-like touch to any backyard. For larger spaces, the Auroom Garda seats 4 to 6 people and arrives pre-assembled for maximum convenience, while the Auroom Terra offers 5 to 6-person capacity in a universally styled design with a thermo-pine exterior available in natural or black finishes.
Hybrid Outdoor Saunas
If you cannot decide between a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna, a hybrid gives you both. Golden Designs offers some of the best hybrid outdoor saunas on the market, combining a Harvia electric heater for traditional steam sauna sessions with full-spectrum infrared panels for lower-temperature, deep-penetrating heat therapy.
The Golden Designs Karlstad is a 6-person hybrid outdoor sauna with a Canadian red cedar interior, full-spectrum infrared heaters, a Harvia traditional electric heater, and even built-in red light therapy panels. It is one of the most feature-rich outdoor saunas available, making it ideal for households where multiple people want different sauna experiences. The Golden Designs Visby offers similar hybrid functionality in a more compact 3-person package, and the Golden Designs Gargellen splits the difference with 5-person capacity.
Traditional Electric Outdoor Saunas
For a straightforward, high-quality traditional sauna experience powered by electricity, Golden Designs also offers a range of pure traditional outdoor saunas. The Golden Designs Narvik is a well-built 2-person cedar outdoor sauna that includes a Harvia electric heater, making it an excellent entry point for couples or individuals. The Golden Designs Kaarina steps up to 6-person capacity with a red cedar construction and a Harvia 8kW heater, ideal for families or frequent entertainers.
Best Outdoor Saunas by Property Type in New York
Choosing the right sauna also depends on where in New York you live and how much space you have to work with. Here is a quick breakdown by property type.
Suburban Homes (Long Island, Westchester, Hudson Valley)
Suburban properties typically have enough yard space for a mid-size to large outdoor sauna. A 4 to 6-person cabin sauna like the Dundalk Georgian or SaunaLife G4 works well for families. Barrel saunas are also a popular suburban choice because they look great on a patio or near a pool. If you want something that doubles as a design feature, an Auroom sauna will be a conversation starter at every gathering.
Rural and Vacation Properties (Catskills, Adirondacks, Finger Lakes)
Rural properties offer the most flexibility. With more space and often a natural setting, larger saunas shine here. Consider a wood-fired sauna if you want an off-grid, traditional experience. The Dundalk Georgian with Porch, True North cabin saunas, and larger SaunaLife barrel models are all popular choices for vacation and rural properties. These saunas pair beautifully with the natural surroundings and can handle the heavy snow loads common in Upstate New York.
Smaller Yards and Urban Patios
If space is limited, compact saunas are your best bet. The Dundalk Granby (2–3 person), Auroom Aura (2 person), SaunaLife E6 barrel (2–4 person), and Golden Designs Narvik (2 person) all have compact footprints that can fit on a small patio, deck, or side yard. Cube saunas from SaunaLife are another space-efficient option with a sleek, modern look.
Installing an Outdoor Sauna in New York: What You Need to Know
Foundation and Placement
Every outdoor sauna needs a level, stable surface. Common foundation options include a poured concrete pad, compacted gravel base, concrete pavers, or an existing deck rated for the weight. Barrel saunas sit on cradle supports and work particularly well on gravel or paver foundations. Cabin and cube saunas need a flat, level surface. Make sure the foundation allows for drainage and keeps the sauna elevated slightly above ground level to prevent moisture issues. For a deep dive on this topic, read our backyard sauna placement guide.
Local Building Codes and Permits
Building codes vary across New York's cities, towns, and villages. Many jurisdictions treat outdoor saunas as accessory structures and require setbacks from property lines (typically 5 to 15 feet). Some areas require a building permit, especially if you are running a new electrical circuit. If your property is in a historic district or governed by an HOA, there may be additional aesthetic or placement restrictions. Always check with your local building department before purchasing.
Electrical and Plumbing
Most electric outdoor saunas require a dedicated 240V circuit. This is not a DIY job. Hire a licensed electrician familiar with your local code requirements. The typical installation involves running wire from your main panel to the sauna location, installing a disconnect box near the sauna, and wiring the heater. If you plan to pair your sauna with an outdoor shower for rinsing off between sessions, you will also want to plan for a water line and drainage.
Assembly Options
Most outdoor saunas ship as DIY assembly kits. Assembly times range from a few hours for smaller barrel saunas to a full weekend for larger cabin models. Two people can handle most kits with basic tools. If you prefer to skip the build entirely, several models are available as pre-assembled saunas that arrive ready to use. Haven of Heat also maintains a directory of local sauna installers who can handle assembly, electrical work, and foundation prep.
Delivery and Shipping to New York
Haven of Heat offers free shipping on all outdoor saunas to New York addresses. Saunas ship directly from the manufacturer's U.S. warehouses, and most orders arrive within 1 to 3 weeks depending on the model and current stock. Delivery is curbside, which means the freight truck will drop the crate at the end of your driveway or as close to your property as the truck can safely access. You will need a plan to move the crate to your installation site, whether that involves a rented forklift, a few strong friends, or a hired moving crew.
Financing Your Outdoor Sauna
Outdoor saunas are an investment, and we want to make that investment accessible. Haven of Heat offers flexible financing through Shop Pay, with plans ranging from 6 to 24 months at 0% APR for qualifying purchases. This means you can start enjoying your sauna now and spread the cost over time without paying interest.
Additionally, many of our saunas qualify for purchase with HSA and FSA funds through our partnership with TrueMed. If your doctor provides a Letter of Medical Necessity, you can use pre-tax health savings dollars to cover the cost of your sauna, potentially saving you up to 40% compared to paying with after-tax income.
Accessorize Your Outdoor Sauna
Once your sauna is set up, the right accessories elevate the experience. A quality bucket and ladle set is essential for creating steam by pouring water over hot stones. A thermometer and hygrometer help you dial in your preferred temperature and humidity level. Backrests and cushions add comfort for longer sessions. And for those who want to take their wellness setup to the next level, pairing your outdoor sauna with a cold plunge tub creates the ultimate contrast therapy experience right in your backyard.
If you are interested in adding therapeutic light to your sauna sessions, explore our red light therapy panels designed for saunas. Red light therapy has gained popularity for its potential benefits in skin health, muscle recovery, and inflammation reduction.
Caring for Your Outdoor Sauna in New York's Climate
Proper maintenance extends the life of your outdoor sauna significantly, especially in a state with weather as variable as New York's. After each use, leave the door cracked open for 15 to 20 minutes to allow moisture to escape and the interior to dry. Periodically wipe down the benches with a mild, sauna-safe cleaner. Inspect the exterior annually for any signs of wear, and apply a UV-protective wood treatment to the outside if your sauna is in direct sunlight for extended periods.
For barrel saunas, check the tension bands periodically and adjust them as the wood naturally expands and contracts with seasonal humidity changes. For cabin saunas, inspect the roof and door seals before winter each year. If your area sees heavy snow, brush accumulation off the roof after major storms to prevent excessive weight. These simple steps will keep your sauna performing beautifully for decades.
Start Your Outdoor Sauna Journey
An outdoor sauna is one of the best investments a New York homeowner can make for their health, property value, and quality of life. Whether you are drawn to the rustic charm of a cedar barrel sauna, the spacious comfort of a cabin model, the sleek lines of a modern cube, or the versatility of a hybrid sauna, Haven of Heat carries the best brands and models available, all backed by free shipping to New York, expert support from our U.S.-based team, and the lowest prices guaranteed.
Browse our complete collection of outdoor saunas, or call and text our sauna experts at (360) 233-2867 for personalized recommendations. Not sure where to start? Try our sauna selector tool to find your perfect match in seconds.
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