Outdoor Sauna Demand Surges 34% Year-Over-Year in North America

Outdoor sauna installations in North America grew 34% year-over-year in 2025, according to data compiled from manufacturer reports, dealer surveys, and building permit records analyzed by SaunaNews. The segment now represents approximately 42% of all residential sauna sales on the continent, up from 28% in 2022.

What's Driving Growth

Several converging factors are fueling the outdoor sauna boom. Post-pandemic outdoor living investments continue to drive home improvement spending, while social media — particularly platforms that showcase backyard lifestyle content — has dramatically increased consumer awareness and aspiration.

Barrel saunas remain the volume leader in the outdoor category, accounting for roughly 55% of units sold. Their relatively accessible price point, ease of installation, and distinctive aesthetic have made them the gateway product for first-time sauna buyers.

Three years ago, outdoor saunas were a niche product. Now they're competing with hot tubs and outdoor kitchens for backyard budget dollars.

Regional Patterns

Growth is strongest in the Pacific Northwest, Upper Midwest, and Mountain West regions, where outdoor sauna culture intersects with existing cold-water immersion and outdoor recreation communities. However, the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions showed the highest percentage growth from a smaller base, suggesting the trend is broadening geographically.

Supply Chain Considerations

Manufacturers report that demand continues to outpace production capacity in several sub-categories, particularly for thermowood and cedar outdoor models. Lead times for custom outdoor builds have extended to 8-14 weeks in many markets.