
Building a Pool on a Budget
- Instead of a large pool, choose an above ground pool for between $2,000 and $5,000, or a semi-inground pool for just above that, for around $8,500.
- Delay Add-ons. ...
- If you go with a traditional inground pool, think about a smaller size. ...
- Another budgeting choice is to install a shallow pool which requires less excavation and installation costs.
What is the average cost of an inground pool?
The total cost of an inground pool ranges from $28,000 to $55,000, or about $50 to $125 per square foot. That’s an average cost of $35,000. Those who live in warm climates may consider an inground pool a necessity, especially in the warmer months. Others may consider it a luxury, and some may even think of it as an investment for their property.
What is the average cost to build a pool?
The average cost to install a 30’ diameter above ground pool is $3,500 to $6,000, while the cost to build a 16’ x 32’ inground pool is $46,500 to $66,500. Pricing depends on the size of the pool, the pool type, the materials used (fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl), and if it's saltwater.
How much does it cost to install an above ground pool?
Having an above-ground pool deck opens your backyard up to many design possibilities. However, the average cost of installing above-ground pools with decks ranges from about $2,500 to $11,000. The final cost will depend on the shape and size of your above-ground pool. For materials, you can spend anywhere from $15 to $30 per square foot.
How much does it cost to install a fiberglass pool?
With a concrete patio and electrical, a typical fiberglass pool installation will cost between $65,000 and $95,000. What is the cost of optional accessories? – Salt chlorine generators typically cost between $1,900 and $2,900, not including the electrical hookup costs. – Pools LED lights will cost between $700 and $1,000 each.

Is a pool worth owning?
A pool can increase not only your social worth but also the value of your home. However, the increase is probably not as much as you think. According to HouseLogic, there's no real guarantee that you'll make your money back. In fact, adding a swimming pool may only increase your home's value by 7%.
What kind of pool is the cheapest to install?
vinyl liner poolsGenerally, vinyl liner pools have the lowest initial costs. Thus, you will spend the least amount of money purchasing a vinyl liner pool. On average, vinyl liner pools cost $35,000 to $65,000 to install. Homeowners can customize this pool into various shapes and designs.
How much is an inground pool in Illinois?
$100,000 to $200,000 is the general price range for an inground swimming pool. On the other hand, an above ground pool will set a homeowner back about $4,000 to $12,000. However, this cost does not take decking into account.
What time of year is cheapest to build a pool?
Fall or winter pool installations usually offer lower prices, avoid the yearly increase of cost of goods, allow more time for landscaping to grow back, and may be eligible for tax write-offs.
What are the 3 types of pools?
By now, you probably know that there are three types of inground pools: fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete (also called gunite). Below is a detailed comparison of these three pool types, including the pros and cons of each. You can check out our guide to general pricing for the three pool types.
What kind of pool lasts the longest?
A concrete pool has the highest lifetime cost and takes the longest to install (approximately three to six months), but it can be built to any specifications. They are the most difficult to maintain, but they also last the longest.
What is the cheapest shape of inground pool?
For either a custom-built pool or a prebuilt liner shape, the most affordable inground pools are those with the least-interesting shape—those with a rectangle or an oval shape will generally be the most inexpensive.
How do most people pay for an inground pool?
The most popular option among pool loans is the tried-and-true personal loan. A personal loan lets you borrow a lump sum at a fixed interest rate and with a fixed repayment period. This means you'll be charged a regular monthly payment that will never change.
What is the life expectancy of an inground pool?
Pools with vinyl liners will last more than 20 years, as long as you replace your liner every 6-12 years. Concrete pools have exceptional longevity, but you need to resurface the concrete every 10 years or so. Fiberglass pools have the longest lifespans of any in-ground pool, often easily surpassing 30 years.
How many hours a week do you need to maintain a pool?
Regular pool/spa maintenance tasks. The following tasks need to be done regularly to maintain your swimming pool or spa. HomeAdvisor estimates that these tasks require four to eight hours per week. You can hire a pool company to help, which typically costs between $75 and $100 per hour, or you can do it all yourself.
How can I save money by installing a pool?
Tips for reducing the cost of an inground pool Save money by choosing a basic concrete deck now and adding the fancy patio later. Avoid the deep end: “Smaller pools are all the rage these days, not only because they save space but because they're cheaper to install and maintain,” Jobe says.
How long does it take to install a pool?
between 8 and 12 weeksMost pool projects take, on average, between 8 and 12 weeks, depending on the scope of the project. But many factors can affect your pool building timeline, including the time of year you plan to build among other things.
What is the cheapest shape of pool to build?
For either a custom-built pool or a prebuilt liner shape, the most affordable inground pools are those with the least-interesting shape—those with a rectangle or an oval shape will generally be the most inexpensive.
What is the best type of pool to install?
A popular choice is a gunite swimming pool because it is highly durable and it can be created in just about any shape. Gunite pools use a rebar framework that is sprayed over with a concrete and sand mixture. Gunite is exceedingly durable, so swimming pools made of this substance are built to last.
What is the easiest pool to install?
fiberglass swimming poolsAs we mentioned above, there may be installation delays depending on where you live. However, overall, fiberglass swimming pools are by far the quickest inground pools to install.
What is the easiest inground pool to install?
Fiberglass poolsKeep in mind that Fiberglass pools are the quickest to install of the three inground pool types while concrete swimming pools take the longest.
How much does it cost to build a swimming pool?
Swimming pools have a wide cost range, depending on the type, material, and placement. Expect costs to be between $20,000 and $110,000.
Do you need planning permission to build a swimming pool?
Yes, and you also need a permit for an in-ground pool. Some HOAs may also have strict rules on the types that may be added to a property. Check wit...
How much does it cost to build a pool in your backyard?
Costs range depending on the type and size, but the average cost for a 12’ x 24’ fiberglass pool is around $70,000.
Do swimming pools add value to your home?
This depends on the type and where you live. In-ground concrete and fiberglass pools may add value, but above-ground and vinyl options do not. This...
How much does it cost to build an in-ground pool?
Costs vary depending on the material. A 12’ x 24’ fiberglass pool costs around $70,000.
How much does a 12’ x 24’ in-ground pool cost?
A 12’ x 24’ fiberglass pool costs around $70,000, but costs vary depending on the material.
How much does a 20’ x 40’ in-ground pool cost?
A 20’ x 40’ in-ground pool costs between $104,000 for a vinyl pool to $280,000 for a concrete one.
How much does it cost to install a pool?
Swimming pool installation costs from $1,000 to $55,000, with inground pool prices at $35,000 on average, and above ground pools at $2,800. The cost mainly depends on the size and depth of the pool and if it’s installed above or inground. Additional features and different types of pools can easily double the cost.
How much does an inground pool cost?
Inground pool costs range from $18,000 to $85,000 with pool owners typically spending between $28,000 and $55,000. The excavation and total labor costs make up 25% to 50% of the pool's cost, followed by a variance in pricing based on the type of pool materials.
How much does it cost to build an inground pool?
Inground pools cost between $50 to $125 per square foot to install without any upgrades, whereas above ground pools range from $8 to $16 per square foot. Custom pool upgrades like a pool deck, fence, hot tub, lighting, or a cover, will add $2,000 to $10,000 to your project cost.
How much does it cost to clean a saltwater pool?
The benefits of a saltwater pool include not having the smell and irritation of chlorine on the skin and the lower maintenance costs of $45 per month, or $80 to $150 per month if you pay a cleaning service.
Why is an indoor pool better than a pool outside?
An indoor pool offers year-round swimming, less maintenance because debris can't get into the pool, and less chemical use as there is little sunlight disrupting chlorine levels. However, they come at a much higher construction cost and uses more energy.
Why is my pool cracking and leaking?
Unexpected costs can be added on if you hire someone to excavate and your soil is too rocky for them to complete the job for the given estimate; and if the soil isn’t backfilled correctly, the additional pressure on the pool during heavy rains can cause it to crack and leak.
Why are pool costs so high?
Costs for building a pool in your backyard are high because of all the stages of work that go into it.
How much does an inground pool cost?
The average inground pool purchased in the United States normally costs $35,000 – $60,000. Roughly the same price as your average new car or truck. Above ground pools typically cost $4,000-$8,500 for an above ground pool with installation.
Where Can I Find Swimming Pool Prices?
Trying to find out how much an inground pool cost in your area? That’s almost the same as asking how much a house costs. Wondering how much above ground pools cost? The answer to that question is completely up to you. Because there are so many variables at play, the only way to know how much the pool you actually want will cost is to acquire an estimate from a swimming pool builder – or, better yet, get as many quotes as possible from numerous pool builders.
How much does it cost to build a swimming pool?
These variables impact the cost of building a swimming pool. The national average range to build a swimming pool is $10,000 and $100,000 because of the enormous variety.
How much does an above ground pool cost?
Above-ground pools cost between $1,500 and $16,000. They come in a wide range of different materials, shapes, sizes, and styles. They can have decks, stairs, and other features or a simple metal-frame structure. Above-ground pools are as enjoyable as an in-ground pool, less expensive, and easier and less invasive to install. Above-ground pools may not last as long as an in-ground pool. Some people may not find them as attractive as in-ground pools, and you may be limited in shape, size, and style.
What is the most common pool material?
In-ground pools are the most popular and common pool installation. You can build a pool in various shapes, sizes, and styles, depending on the material and type. In-ground pools are most commonly built using concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. Each material has costs, pros and cons, and building processes that impact your project:
How much does a vinyl pool cost?
Vinyl in-Ground Pool Cost. The average costs of a vinyl in-ground pool are between $35,000 and $65,000. Vinyl pools use a liner during construction. This gives them the freedom fiberglass pools do not have, while costing much less than concrete.
What is the most common type of pool?
In-ground pools are the most popular and common pool installation. You can build a pool in various shapes, sizes, and styles, depending on the material and type. In-ground pools are most commonly built using concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl.
Why is a pool pump important?
Your swimming pool pump is as important as your filter. It keeps the water circulating. This cleans it by pushing it through the filter and helps the chlorine or other chemicals mix throughout the pool. A good pump can also prevent issues like stagnation.
What is the best thing about an in ground pool?
One of the best things about in-ground pools is how you can customize them to your needs. Whether you want a pool for cooling off, an exercise pool, or a specific shape or style, you can achieve your goals with an in-ground pool. They come in many forms, and costs range by type, size, and material:
How Much Does a Pool Cost?
Pool prices vary depending on the kind of swimming pool you want to buy. The overall pool cost is determined on other options as well.
Pool Resources
PoolCost.com provides a wide variety of consumer resources to make your job of finding a pool builder easier. If you have questions about buying a pool, you’ll find answers here. Want to know how much your pool payments will be? Start here!
How is the price of a pool shell determined?
The price of the pool shell is determined by two things: the size of the pool and the cost to deliver the pool to your home.
How much does a fiberglass pool shell cost?
A large fiberglass pool shell typically costs between $15,000 and $27,000. Delivery fees could be anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 or more, depending on your location and any state or local transport regulations involved.
How much does a vinyl pool liner cost?
For the DIY-er, vinyl liner kits are available for purchase online ...and for cheap! Someone building their own vinyl liner pool can probably do so for under $20,000. Base vinyl liner packages from most pool builders typically cost $25,000–$45,000. Turn-key vinyl liner packages will typically cost $35,000–$65,000.
What is gunite pool?
Just to be clear, a gunite pool is a concrete pool. Gunite is simply a way of applying the concrete that makes up the pool shell. When it comes to the initial price of a concrete pool vs. a fiberglass pool, the primary difference is that there is no DIY option for concrete pools (for most people, anyway).
Why are fiberglass pools so durable?
Modern fiberglass pools are so durable because of the scientific developments in the pool's gelcoat layer that have occurred over the past decade . The gelcoat layer is the part of the pool we see and touch. Modern gelcoats will last decades, or possibly even a lifetime. This eliminates the need for costly refinishing.
How big is a fiberglass pool?
Fiberglass pools are basically classified into three size groups: small —less than 27 feet long. medium —between 28 and 34 feet long. large —35 feet long or longer. In most cases, you can expect a small fiberglass pool shell without delivery to cost between $10,000 and $19,000.
Can you buy a River Pools fiberglass pool?
As you consider purchasing a River Pools fiberglass pool through one of our independent dealers, this cost and pricing guide will help you develop an initial budget and plan for the ownership costs associated with each type of inground pool.
How much does an inground pool cost?
Let’s start with a simple answer. The average inground pool costs around $50-125 per square foot . This price totals to around $25,000-60,000 overall from A to Z. Since that’s the average range, most people can expect to pay around $37,000 for the pool, but that depends on many different factors.
How much does it cost to maintain a pool?
Depending on your luck, it could cost as much as $27,000 or more to maintain the pool over a 10-year period. These pools require many more chemicals, and most owners need to acid wash the interior of the pool every four years to remove mold and algae.
How big is an inground pool?
Pool Cost Breakdown by Size. While the average inground pool is 14 x 28, you might want something that is larger or smaller. You might not have enough space for a pool of that size, and if you decide to get a concrete pool, you’ll have a lot more control of how you fit the pool into your yard.
What is the best part of an inground pool?
The best part of building an inground pool is envisioning all of the great additions you can put on. Most homeowners imagine a beautiful rock waterfall, with a slide built-in, and bright blue lights illuminating the pool in the night.
How much does it cost to replace a vinyl pool liner?
The liners crack and break, which causes them to need replacing every decade or so. When that happens, you’re looking at the expense of around $5,500 to replace it, so the average cost to maintain a vinyl pool across a 10-year period is as much as $13,000 or more.
How much does it cost to build a 14x28 pool?
The average cost of building a 14 x 28 inground concrete pool is around $60,000, with the costs of running as low as $30,000 and as high as $200,000 or more for large pools with tons of features. Where you also run into some serious expenses is in the cost to maintain these pools.
What is the most expensive pool?
As you can see, a concrete pool (also referred to as gunite or shotcrete) is the most expensive option. In addition to costing the most upfront, concrete is the most expensive to maintain, but it also has the most design flexibility.