Quick answer: You can buy a yurt three ways: order a new yurt built to your specifications directly from a manufacturer, buy an in-stock yurt that is already built and ready to ship, or buy a used yurt. Buying direct from the builder gives you the most control over size, fabric, insulation and load rating. Secret Creek yurt kits start at $7,200 for a 12' (113 sq ft) and run to $21,620 for a 30' (706 sq ft), and Secret Creek also lists ready-to-ship and occasional used yurts on its In Stock Yurts page. Whichever route you choose, budget separately for a platform, shipping and setup.
Searching "yurts for sale" returns everything from complete engineered kits to decades-old secondhand shells. This buyer's guide explains where to buy a yurt, how new, in-stock and used options compare, what to check before you pay, and the questions that separate a yurt that lasts from one that leaks.
Where can you buy a yurt?
Most yurts in the United States are sold by the companies that build them. There is no big-box store that stocks full-size yurts, and the structures are engineered products: the lattice wall, rafters, compression ring and fabric covers are designed to work together. That is why most buyers start with the manufacturer.
The main places to buy a yurt are:
- Direct from a yurt manufacturer (new, custom order) — you choose diameter, fabric colors, insulation, doors, windows and a load package for your snow and wind conditions.
- Manufacturer in-stock inventory — yurts that are already configured and built, usually with a shorter wait but no customization.
- Used yurts — sold by manufacturers (inspected and priced as used) or by private owners through classifieds and resale sites.
Secret Creek has handcrafted yurts, tipis and canvas tents since 1976 and sells all three ways: through the online Yurt Builder, through in-stock yurts, and with Sales Guides who can walk you through a custom project.
Should you buy a new, in-stock or used yurt?
Each path trades off price, wait time and control. Here is how they compare:
| Option | Best for | Customization | Typical trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| New custom yurt | Full-time homes, rentals, demanding climates | Full: size, colors, insulation, doors, windows, load package | Longest lead time, highest price |
| In-stock yurt | Buyers on a deadline who like a pre-set configuration | None — sold as built | Faster delivery, limited choices |
| Used yurt | Budget projects, seasonal use, studios | None | Lower price, unknown wear unless inspected |
Buying a new yurt
A new yurt is the right choice when the structure has to match a specific site or use. If you need a heavier snow load, extra windows for a rental, or insulation for year-round living, ordering new is the only way to get exactly that combination. You also get the full manufacturer warranty and a known build date.
Buying an in-stock yurt
In-stock yurts are pre-configured units that are built or scheduled to ship soon. Secret Creek's in-stock listings spell out the wall and roof colors, insulation, door, dome and window package for each unit, and note that in-stock items cannot be customized. Shipping and crating are calculated when the yurt is ready to ship to your location. If the listed configuration suits your project, in-stock is often the fastest way to own a yurt.
Buying a used yurt
A used yurt can save real money, but the condition of the fabric matters more than anything else. Roof and wall covers are the parts that wear first; wood lattice and rafters usually last far longer when kept dry. A used yurt sold by its original builder has the advantage of being inspected and correctly matched with its parts. A private sale may be missing pieces, carry a load rating that doesn't fit your climate, or have hidden fabric damage. Secret Creek occasionally lists used yurts at a discount on its In Stock Yurts page.
How much does it cost to buy a yurt?
Price depends mainly on diameter, then on options. Secret Creek complete yurt kit sizes and floor area:
| Diameter | Floor area | Notable inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| 12' | 113 sq ft | Starting at $7,200 |
| 16' | 201 sq ft | Lattice, rafters, top ring, covers, door |
| 20' | 314 sq ft | Adds dome skylight |
| 24' | 452 sq ft | Dome skylight plus snow & wind kit |
| 27' | 573 sq ft | Dome skylight plus snow & wind kit |
| 30' | 706 sq ft | Starting at $21,620 |
Every complete kit includes lattice wall sections, roof rafters and top ring, canvas roof and wall covers, and a door frame and door. For a full breakdown of what's in the box, see Yurt Kits Explained. For total project budgets, see How Much Does a Yurt Cost?
Plan for costs outside the kit price: a platform or deck, shipping and crating, sales tax, insulation and window upgrades, interior finish, utilities, and setup labor if you aren't pitching it yourself. Secret Creek offers financing options through third-party lenders if you want to spread the cost into monthly payments.
What should you check before buying a yurt?
Use this buyer's checklist whether you are buying new, in-stock or used:
- Intended use. A weekend getaway, a glamping rental and a full-time home need different insulation, doors and windows.
- Size. Measure your furniture plan against floor area, not just diameter. Our yurt sizes guide shows what fits in each size.
- Snow and wind loads. Ask what load package the yurt is engineered for and compare it with your local building requirements.
- Materials. Check the fabric type, frame wood and hardware. Our guide to what yurts are made of explains each component.
- Permits. Many counties treat a yurt like any other structure. Call your local building department before you order.
- Platform. Decide who will build the deck and confirm the plans match the yurt diameter. See yurt deck plans.
- Shipping and setup. Get a shipping and crating quote, and confirm whether you'll pitch the yurt yourself or hire a crew. Secret Creek publishes pitching and setup guides.
- Warranty and support. Find out what's covered, for how long, and whether replacement covers and parts are available later.
Is it better to buy a yurt directly from the manufacturer?
For most buyers, yes. Buying direct means the people who designed the structure help you size it, choose a load package and plan the platform. You get correct parts, a warranty that's honored by the builder, and a single source for replacement covers years later. It also means you can ask detailed questions about fabric, insulation and engineering before you commit.
When comparing builders, look at how long they have been making yurts, whether they publish clear specifications for each size, and whether they offer real people to talk to. Secret Creek has built yurts since 1976 and has Sales Guides available at 970.240.2111.
What are the red flags when buying a used yurt?
A used yurt can be a great value, but walk away or ask more questions if you see:
- Mildew, UV brittleness, tears or pinholes in the roof cover
- Cracked rafters, broken lattice slats or a damaged compression ring
- Missing parts such as the tension cable, dome or door frame
- No record of the original builder, size or load rating
- A seller who can't show the yurt pitched or provide clear photos
Even a sound used frame may need new covers, so price a replacement roof and wall cover into your offer.
How long does it take to get a yurt?
Timelines depend on the route you take. An in-stock yurt can ship soonest — some Secret Creek in-stock units are listed as ready to ship in about six weeks, and used units may ship sooner. A custom yurt takes longer because it is built to order, and lead times vary with season and demand. Ask for a current estimate when you request a quote, and remember to schedule platform construction so the deck is finished when the yurt arrives.
How do you order a yurt step by step?
- Pick your size and use with the Yurt Builder or the yurt kits page.
- Select colors, insulation, doors, windows and a load package.
- Request a final quote, including shipping and crating.
- Confirm permits and platform plans for your site.
- Build the platform, then pitch your yurt with the setup guide or a crew.
If you'd rather talk it through, request a consultation with a Sales Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to buy a yurt?
For most buyers, the best place to buy a yurt is directly from an established yurt manufacturer. You get correct sizing, a load package matched to your climate, a warranty and access to replacement parts. Secret Creek sells new custom yurts, ready-to-ship in-stock yurts and occasional used yurts.
How much does a yurt cost to buy?
Secret Creek complete yurt kits start at $7,200 for a 12' yurt (113 sq ft) and $21,620 for a 30' yurt (706 sq ft). Platform, shipping, tax, upgrades and setup are budgeted separately.
Is it worth buying a used yurt?
A used yurt can be worth it for budget or seasonal projects if the frame is sound and the fabric is in good condition. Buying a used yurt from its original builder lowers the risk of missing parts or hidden damage. Budget for possible new covers.
Can you customize an in-stock yurt?
No. In-stock yurts are sold as configured, with the listed colors, insulation, door, dome and windows. If you want a different configuration, order a custom yurt through the Yurt Builder.
Do I need a permit to buy and put up a yurt?
Permit rules vary by county and by use. Many jurisdictions require a permit for a yurt used as a dwelling or rental. Check with your local building department before ordering so your size and load package meet local requirements.
Can I finance a yurt?
Yes. Secret Creek offers financing through Enhancify, which lets you compare offers from third-party lenders and pre-qualify without affecting your credit score. Approval, rates and terms are set by the lender.
Next Steps
Ready to buy? Browse in-stock yurts, design your own with the Yurt Builder, or request a consultation with a Sales Guide at 970.240.2111. Secret Creek has handcrafted yurts, tipis and canvas tents since 1976.