How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pool?
$1,500 to $100,000+ is the cost range to build a pool, from a basic above-ground setup to a large inground concrete or gunite pool. Most homeowners installing an inground pool pay between $35,000 and $65,000, with the national average sitting around $55,000 in 2026.
Pool installation is one of the largest backyard investments a homeowner can make. The total cost depends heavily on the pool type, size, material, features like heating and lighting, and the surrounding decking. Understanding these cost factors upfront helps you plan a realistic budget and avoid surprises during construction.
Pool Cost by Type
Pool costs range from $1,500 for an above-ground pool to $100,000+ for a custom concrete pool. Here is what to expect for each pool type in 2026:
| Pool Type | Cost Range | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Above-Ground | $1,500 - $6,000 | 7 - 15 years |
| Inground Vinyl Liner | $25,000 - $45,000 | 20 - 30 years (liner: 7-15 yrs) |
| Inground Fiberglass | $30,000 - $60,000 | 25 - 50 years |
| Inground Concrete/Gunite | $50,000 - $100,000+ | 50+ years |
Factors That Affect Pool Cost
$1,500 to $100,000+ is the typical range, and several key factors determine where your project falls within it.
Pool Size
A small 10x20 pool costs 30% to 50% less than a large 20x40 pool of the same type. Larger pools require more excavation, more material, more equipment, and a bigger filtration system. A small fiberglass pool might cost $30,000, while a large one of the same type could run $55,000 to $60,000. Pool size also impacts long-term costs since bigger pools use more chemicals, water, and energy to maintain.
Pool Features
Adding features like heating, lighting, water features, and an automatic cover can add $3,000 to $25,000+ to the base pool cost. Here is what common pool features cost:
| Feature | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Pool Heating (gas, heat pump, or solar) | $2,500 - $8,000 |
| LED Pool Lighting | $700 - $1,800 |
| Water Features (fountains, waterfalls, bubblers) | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Automatic Safety Cover | $5,000 - $15,000 |
Decking Material
Pool decking costs $5 to $30 per square foot depending on the material. Most pools include 200 to 600 square feet of surrounding deck area. Basic concrete or broom-finished decking is the most affordable at $5 to $10 per square foot. Pavers cost $10 to $20 per square foot and offer a more upscale look. Natural stone like travertine or flagstone runs $20 to $30 per square foot but provides a premium finish. Many pool owners also build a wood or composite deck ($4,000 to $12,000 for a standard 300 sq ft deck) alongside the pool for lounging and dining space.
Site Preparation and Excavation
Excavation and site preparation typically cost $1,500 to $5,000, but can run higher if your yard has rocky soil, steep slopes, or difficult access for equipment. Tree removal, which averages $400 to $1,900, may be needed if large trees are in the pool area. Retaining walls or grading work for sloped lots can add $2,000 to $10,000.
Permits and Fencing
Pool permits cost $200 to $2,000 depending on your municipality. Most local codes also require a safety fence around the pool, which adds $1,500 to $10,000 depending on material and linear footage. Check your local building codes before starting construction, as requirements vary significantly. Our fence cost calculator provides detailed estimates by material type.
Inground Pool Cost by Size
$30,000 to $110,000 for an inground pool depending on dimensions, with costs scaling significantly by size. Here are typical 2026 costs for fiberglass and concrete pools:
| Pool Size | Fiberglass | Concrete/Gunite |
|---|---|---|
| Small (10x20) | $30,000 - $42,000 | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| Medium (12x24) | $36,000 - $50,000 | $60,000 - $82,000 |
| Large (16x32) | $44,000 - $58,000 | $72,000 - $95,000 |
| Extra Large (20x40) | $50,000 - $60,000 | $85,000 - $110,000 |
Ongoing Pool Costs to Budget For
Annual pool maintenance costs average $1,200 to $3,600 per year. Beyond the installation price, owning a pool comes with recurring expenses that you should factor into your total budget:
- Chemicals and water testing: $500 to $1,000 per year for chlorine, pH balancers, algaecide, and shock treatments.
- Electricity: $600 to $2,400 per year to run the pump, filter, heater, and lights.
- Professional cleaning service: $100 to $250 per month if you hire a weekly pool service.
- Repairs and resurfacing: Vinyl liners need replacement every 7 to 15 years ($4,000 to $8,000). Concrete pools need resurfacing every 10 to 15 years ($5,000 to $15,000).
- Winterization and opening: $300 to $600 per year in climates that require seasonal closing and opening.
How to Save Money on Pool Installation
$3,500 to $15,000 in potential savings is achievable with the right approach. These tips can help reduce your total cost.
- Get at least 3 quotes. Pool contractor prices vary widely, sometimes by $10,000 or more for the same scope of work.
- Build in the off-season. Fall and winter installations (where climate allows) may come with 10% to 20% discounts since contractors are less busy.
- Choose fiberglass over concrete. Fiberglass pools install faster, cost less, and have lower long-term maintenance costs than concrete.
- Start with fewer features. You can always add heating, lighting, or water features later. Get the pool built first within your budget.
- Consider a smaller pool. A well-designed small pool can be just as enjoyable as a large one at significantly less cost. Many homeowners find that a 12x24 pool meets their needs perfectly.
- Do your own landscaping. Handling the surrounding landscaping yourself can save $2,000 to $8,000 compared to having the pool contractor include it.
Planning to DIY? Considering above-ground? Above-ground pool kits are a fraction of the cost of in-ground installation.
Shop on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a pool?
The cost to build a pool ranges from $1,500 to $100,000 or more depending on the type. Above-ground pools cost $1,500 to $6,000, inground vinyl liner pools cost $25,000 to $45,000, inground fiberglass pools cost $30,000 to $60,000, and inground concrete or gunite pools cost $50,000 to $100,000+. The national average for an inground pool is around $55,000 in 2026.
What is the cheapest type of inground pool?
Vinyl liner pools are the cheapest type of inground pool, costing $25,000 to $45,000 installed. They use a flexible vinyl sheet fitted over a frame of steel, polymer, or wood walls. While they have the lowest upfront cost, vinyl liners need replacement every 7 to 15 years at $4,000 to $8,000 each, so long-term costs can add up.
How long does it take to install an inground pool?
Fiberglass pools are the fastest to install at 2 to 4 weeks since the shell is pre-manufactured. Vinyl liner pools take 4 to 8 weeks. Concrete or gunite pools take the longest at 8 to 16 weeks because the shell must be sprayed, cured, and finished on-site. Permitting and weather can add additional time.
How much does pool maintenance cost per year?
Annual pool maintenance costs range from $1,200 to $3,600 per year, or $100 to $300 per month. This includes chemicals ($500 to $1,000 per year), electricity for the pump and heater ($600 to $2,400 per year), and occasional repairs. Hiring a weekly pool service runs $100 to $250 per month on average.
Does a pool increase home value?
A pool can increase home value by 5% to 8% in warm-climate markets where pools are expected, but the return varies significantly by region. In cooler climates, a pool may add little value or even deter some buyers. On average, homeowners recoup about 40% to 60% of the pool installation cost at resale.
How much does a pool heater cost?
A pool heater costs $2,500 to $8,000 installed, depending on the type. Gas heaters cost $2,500 to $5,000 and heat quickly but have higher operating costs. Heat pumps cost $3,500 to $8,000 and are more energy-efficient for long-term use. Solar heaters cost $2,000 to $4,000 but depend on climate and sun exposure.