The True Cost of Buying a Yurt: Uncovering Hidden Costs

It’s the question I get asked most often: “How much does a yurt cost?” And I get it. You see these beautiful, circular structures and imagine a simpler, more connected way of life. But then reality sets in — what does it actually cost to buy a yurt or build one?

The truth is, the sticker price of a yurt is only the beginning. Much like buying a car, the initial cost of a yurt doesn’t reflect the full investment. You still need to factor in the yurt construction cost, utilities, interiors, land, and long-term upkeep.

At The Out Factory, we’ve sold over 150+ yurts worldwide, guiding countless people through this exact journey. So let me walk you through the true cost of owning a yurt — from the yurt kit price to the hidden expenses that first-time buyers often overlook.

Step One: The Yurt Kit Price

This is the “bones” of your home or glamping retreat. Yurt prices vary dramatically depending on size, materials, and features.

Understanding the Price Range

Generally speaking, you can break down the cost of yurts into two main categories:

1. Basic Yurts (16–20 ft): These smaller yurts typically range from $14,000 to $28,000 CAD. They're perfect for a simple guest room, a backyard office, or a cozy weekend escape.
2. Luxury Yurts (24–30 ft and beyond): For those looking at full-time living or high-end glamping experiences, these larger, more robust yurts can cost anywhere from $35,000 to $70,000+ CAD. These come with more space, higher-quality materials, and custom upgrades.

Someone once asked me, "$40,000 for a tent seems like a lot!" And I understand the sentiment. But the reality is, a yurt isn’t a tent. It’s an engineered, durable, semi-permanent structure designed to last for decades.

The Out Factory Yurt Prices: Unbeatable Value Proposition

One of the biggest frustrations I hear from customers is hidden fees. That’s why at The Out Factory, our approach to yurt prices is refreshingly simple: we focus on clear, landed pricing.

Here’s a look at our landed yurt costs (delivered to major ports in Canada):

• TOF20 (20 ft / 314 sq. ft.) → ~$22,500 CAD
• TOF24 (24 ft / 452 sq. ft.) → ~$29,900 CAD
• TOF32 (32 ft / 804 sq. ft.) → ~$39,000 CAD

Unlike other brands, our yurts come feature-rich, with upgrades that competitors charge extra for. This means you’re not just buying a yurt — you’re getting a durable, commercial-grade structure at unmatched value.

For a complete breakdown of everything included in this package, we encourage you to visit our Pricing page here.

Beyond the Kit: The True Yurt Construction Cost

This is where we get into the "true cost." Your yurt kit needs a foundation to sit on and utilities to make it livable. These are not afterthoughts; they are essential parts of the yurt construction cost.

The Foundation: Yurt Platform Costs

A yurt can't be placed directly on the ground. It needs a solid, level platform, which provides stability, insulation from the cold ground, and protection from moisture.

Platform Cost: Expect to spend between $4,000 and $15,000 CAD. Here are some options which will decide how much the platform will cost you.

• DIY Wooden Deck: ~$4,000–$8,000 CAD. If you're handy, you can build a simple wooden deck for the lower end of this range.
• Professionally Built Deck: ~$8,000–$15,000+ CAD. A more robust, professionally installed deck will cost more.
• Concrete Slab: This is the most durable and often most expensive option.

Think of this as the literal foundation of your investment. Cutting corners here can cost more down the road.

Also Read: Selecting the Perfect Yurt Site on Your Property

Utilities (Bringing Your Yurt to Life)

How do you plan to live in your yurt? This will determine your utility costs.

• Electricity, Water & Septic: Drilling a well and installing a septic system in rural areas are major expenses. If you're connecting to the grid and local water, costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000+ CAD or more, depending on the distance to the source and labor costs in your area.
• Heating & Cooling: From wood stoves to modern mini-split systems, your heating and cooling budget can range from $1,000 to $5,000 CAD primarily for a high-quality wood stove and a WETT-certified installation, which is crucial for safety and insurance. A wood stove is a classic, rustic choice, while a mini-split offers efficient, all-in-one heating and air conditioning.

One of our California clients spent around $20,000 USD on their platform and utilities alone — a reminder that this part of the budget is often underestimated.

Interior Finishes (Making it a Home)

Here's where your personality comes in! The inside of the yurt is a blank canvas. This is also a significant part of the cost to build a yurt home.

• Flooring: You can choose anything from simple plywood to elegant hardwood.
• Insulation: While our yurts come with high-quality insulation, you might add more for extreme climates ($2,000 – $5,000 CAD).
• Kitchen & Bathroom: This is the most variable cost. A simple kitchenette might cost a few thousand dollars, while a fully fitted bathroom and kitchen can easily exceed $12,000 CAD.
• Furniture & Décor: Your taste will guide your budget here.

The Hidden Costs of Yurt Ownership

When people ask, “How much do yurts cost?” The biggest oversight is often the hidden expenses. These can significantly affect the true cost of owning a yurt:

• Permits and Regulations: Depending on your county or state, you may need permits, which can cost several hundred dollars or more.
• Delivery & Setup: While our prices include shipping to ports in Canada, you’ll need to factor in transport from the port to your property.
• Insurance: Many insurance providers cover yurts, but premiums vary depending on your location and usage.
• Land Costs: If you don’t already own land, this will likely be the single biggest expense. Prices range widely depending on location.

These hidden costs can surprise new owners, but planning for them ensures your yurt purchase doesn’t go over budget.

How The Out Factory Minimizes Hidden Costs

At The Out Factory, we believe in radical transparency. From the moment you start your project, our team of experts guides you through every step — permits, delivery logistics, foundation planning, and insurance considerations.

By offering clear landed prices and expert advice, we help minimize unexpected costs so you can budget with confidence. If you’re building a yurt anywhere in Canada, our team is here to walk you through the process and make sure your investment delivers maximum value.

The Long Game: Maintenance and Upkeep

A common question we get is about long-term yurt costs. A well-built yurt is incredibly durable, but like any home, it requires some care.

• Canvas Replacement: High-quality yurt canvas can last for years, but eventually, it will need to be replaced. Budget around $3,000–$7,000 CAD every 5–10 years, depending on your climate and yurt size.
• Annual Repairs: Minor repairs for things like the door, windows, or platform might cost $150 – $700 CADannually.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Cleaning, resealing wood decks, and checking insulation.

Compared to traditional homes, these upkeep costs are modest. Still, they should be part of your yurt ownership budget.

Putting It All Together: A Sample Yurt Budget

Here’s a realistic cost breakdown for a professionally built 20 ft yurt:

This example shows that the cost of a yurt goes far beyond the kit price. In fact, the initial yurt kit is often less than a third of the total investment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yurt Prices

Q1: How much does it cost to build a yurt myself?

By taking the DIY route, you can save $2,000–$7,000+ CAD on labor. Our kits are designed for straightforward setup, making this achievable.

Q2: What is the cheapest yurt I can buy?

Smaller, basic yurts can be found for under $15,000 CAD. However, always check what's included. Remember — a cheap yurt may lead to higher replacement or upgrade costs in the future.

Q3: Is buying a yurt cheaper than buying a house?

Yes, significantly. Even with all the extras, the total yurt construction cost is often a fraction of the cost of a traditional home in Canada, making it an incredible and attainable path to homeownership or business investment.

Q4: Do I need to factor in the cost of land?

Absolutely. If you don’t already own land, this can be your largest expense. Buying a yurt is only part of the equation — land purchase is another.

Q5: What’s the cost of a yurt for glamping businesses?

For business owners, yurts are an incredible ROI tool. Depending on location and amenities, a single luxury yurt can generate rental income of $150–$450 CAD per night, meaning you could recoup your yurt purchase cost in just one season.

I hope this breakdown gives you a clearer picture of what it truly takes to bring a yurt dream to life. It’s more than just a purchase; it's an investment in a different way of living. And frankly, it's an incredible one.

Why choose The Out Factory Yurts

Now that you know the true cost of owning a yurt, the next step is making sure you get the best value for your investment.

At The Out Factory, we deliver feature-rich, commercial-grade yurts at prices that competitors can’t match. No hidden upgrades. No stripped-down models. Just durability, comfort, and innovation from day one.

Whether you’re an individual looking to buy a yurt for full-time living, or a business investing in a luxury glamping site, our mission is the same: to help you purchase a yurt that becomes a lasting asset.

Experience Our Yurts in the Wild

Want to see how our yurts transform spaces into world-class hospitality destinations? Take a look at the Machaan Wilderness Lodge in Nagarahole, Karnataka.

• 8 independent yurts (24 ft diameter each)
• Total area: 3,616 sq. ft.
• Luxury resort rooms with en-suite washrooms
• Fully air-conditioned for comfort in all seasons
• Colors: Cocoa & Hemp, blending seamlessly with the forest surroundings

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This project showcases how yurts can serve as luxury resort accommodations, balancing sustainability, durability, and high-end guest experiences.

After watching, if you’re ready to take the next step, here are some helpful links:

📊 View Our Pricing Page  | 🏡 Explore Our Yurt Specifications  |  🔨 See More Yurt Installations

👉 Or simply contact our team of experts today to discuss your project and get a transparent, customized quote.