Few things are more refreshing than plunging into a swimming pool on a hot summer’s day. This coveted home feature is excellent for improving a home’s resale value and the overall enjoyment of your outdoor space, but it’s essential to understand inground pool costs before you start picturing those poolside barbecues.
Installing a swimming pool is a big decision and an even bigger investment. This article explains how much an inground pool costs to help you budget for materials, installation, maintenance, and more.
- Homeowners can choose from three common pool liner materials: vinyl, concrete, and fiberglass.
- Inground pool costs vary depending on where you live and how long pool season lasts in that location.
- Long-term maintenance costs should be a significant consideration as you plan for your inground pool project.
What Is the Cost of an Inground Pool Installation?
On average, inground pool installation costs between $40,000 and $70,000. Depending on the pool, that cost range is highly variable — sometimes falling as low as $25,000 or as high as $135,000.
| Low-end Cost Range | $25,000–$40,000 |
| National Average Cost Range | $40,000–$70,000 |
| High-End Cost Range | $75,000–$95,000 |
| Extreme High-End Cost Range | $100,000–$135,000 |
This cost data comes from RSMeans, a price database for home improvement contractors. Figures included in this article include materials and installation unless otherwise stated.
Your budget isn’t the only thing to consider when putting in a pool. In this video, Danny Lipford discusses a few other things to think about:
How Do Inground Pool Costs Differ by Material?
Not all swimming pools are created equal. When designing your dream pool, you can typically choose from three materials: vinyl, concrete, and fiberglass. Each material has unique pros, cons, and cost considerations, which I’ve detailed below.
| Material Type | Average Cost (Fully Installed) |
| Vinyl Liner | $40,000–$65,000 |
| Gunite | $50,000–$100,000 |
| Fiberglass | $60,000–$120,000 |
Vinyl Liner
Vinyl liner pools are your cheapest option, typically falling within the $40,000 to $65,000 price range. Although vinyl liner pools have the lowest upfront costs, their long-term needs can get expensive.
The material requires replacement every five to nine years, which can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $5,000 each time. It also requires routine maintenance to prevent algae growth. Thursday Pools suggests budgeting for four to eight hours of pool maintenance per week.
Gunite
Gunite is a reinforced concrete material used to build long-lasting, highly customizable pools. Concrete pools don’t come in prefabricated shells, so the pool is tailored to your design needs and landscape. Although this is a notable benefit for aesthetically focused homeowners, it does result in higher overall costs for materials and installation.
Like vinyl liner materials, gunite requires routine maintenance. The material is porous and prone to algae and mineral buildup without regular cleaning. Gunite pools require acid wash treatments ($300 to $1,000) every three to five years and resurfacing ($8,000) every decade.
Concrete pools are popular with homeowners in sunbelt states where year-round mild temperatures pose less threat of freeze-thaw damage. However, those seeking a luxurious saltwater pool should steer clear of gunite, as the water can wear away the concrete plastering faster, leading to more frequent repair needs.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass pools cost similarly to gunite pools but have lower long-term maintenance costs. Like vinyl liner pools, fiberglass pools come in prefabricated shells. However, fiberglass shells feature highly durable gel coats that last the pool’s life span.
The material is also relatively flexible, allowing the earth around the pool to shift without cracking or warping. Lastly, fiberglass pool lining is algae-resistant, saving you the time and money of frustrating maintenance.
How Do Inground Pool Costs Differ by Size?
The size of your new swimming pool is another important cost factor. The larger the pool, the more materials, labor, and maintenance cost.
Standard inground pools span from 10–24 feet wide and 20–48 feet long and cost between $65 and $130 per square foot to install. The table below provides potential cost ranges for various pool sizes based on this estimate.
| Inground Pool Size | Average Cost (Installed) |
| 200 square feet | $13,000–$26,000 |
| 288 square feet | $18,720–$37,440 |
| 432 square feet | $28,080–$56,160 |
| 448 square feet | $29,120–$58,240 |
| 512 square feet | $33,280–$66,560 |
| 576 square feet | $37,440–$74,880 |
| 640 square feet | $41,600–$83,200 |
| 800 square feet | $52,000–$104,000 |
| 960 square feet | $62,400–$124,800 |
| 1,056 square feet | $68,640–$137,280 |
| 1,152 square feet | $74,880–$149,760 |
Again, the material is often the most significant factor that determines an inground pool’s cost. The table below contains real price estimates for various inground swimming pool sizes without installation. See how pools of the same size vary in price depending on their material:
| Inground Pool Size | Vinyl Lined Pool (Materials Only) | Gunite Pool Cost Range (Materials Only) |
| 12’ X 28’ | $16,120 | $30,950 |
| 12’ X 32’ | $17,760 | $33,975 |
| 12’ X 36’ | $19,270 | $36,525 |
| 16’ X 32’ | $21,425 | $40,100 |
| 16’ X 36’ | $22,805 | $42,175 |
| 16’ X 40’ | $23,950 | $43,575 |
| 20’ X 36’ | $24,965 | $44,925 |
| 20’ X 40’ | $26,350 | $54,700 |
| 20’ X 44’ | $29,000 | $60,150 |
| 24’ X 40’ | $31,625 | $65,750 |
| 24’ X 44’ | $34,775 | $65,275 |
| 24’ X 48’ | $37,950 | $71,375 |
How Do Inground Pool Costs Differ by Shape?
The shape of a pool can also impact overall installation costs. There are endless possibilities for pool shapes, with the most common options being square, oval, and rectangular. However, custom or freeform pools will almost always cost more due to their individualized manufacturing and installation processes.
Plan to retrieve estimates from a local pool installer to get the most accurate pricing for a specific inground pool shape. We compiled some prices from Pool Warehouse* to help you understand upfront price differences for several pool shapes.
| Pool Shape | Cost | Description |
| Rectangular | $8,225 | True rectangular dimensions with four straight sides |
| Gothic | $9,240 | Rectangular shape with reverse-radius corners |
| Grecian | $9,500 | Rectangular shape with flat/beveled corners |
| Oval | $10,100 | Rounded, elongated shape similar to an egg |
| Round | $10,335 | Circular shape, often popular for replacing older, above-ground pools |
| Kidney | $10,610 | Freeform shape with rounded ends that curve in toward one another |
| L-Shape | $10,700 | Shaped like a capital “L,” with two connected rectangles that form a corner |
| Lagoon | $12,045 | Freeform shape with many curves to resemble a natural body of water |
How Do Inground Pool Prices Differ by Location?
Swimming pool installation prices fluctuate by geographical location. This is because pool construction costs, permits, and materials vary from state to state. The popularity and feasibility of pool ownership in different locations affect prices. For example, you’ll pay more for a pool in states like Florida and California, as they have year-round sunshine.
Here are potential price ranges for vinyl liner pools in 10 states:
| State | Average Cost for an Inground Pool |
| Nevada | $40,000–$60,000 |
| North Carolina | $40,000–$85,000 |
| Georgia | $40,000–$85,000 |
| Connecticut | $45,000–$75,000 |
| Indiana | $45,000–$85,000 |
| New Jersey | $45,000–$85,000 |
| Arizona | $50,000–$75,000 |
| Florida | $50,000–$100,000 |
| Texas | $50,000–$100,000 |
| California | $50,000–$100,000 |
Don’t see your location listed above? Click your state below for local price estimates:
Get Pool Installation Cost Estimates In Your State
What Additional Features Go Into Inground Pool Installation Costs?
When budgeting for your new pool, you’ll need to account for far more than just its size, shape, and material. Many other upgrades and customizations can increase your final bill by thousands.
The table and sections below will help you plan for these high costs:
| Add-on Features | Average Cost |
| Landscaping | $500–$4,000+ |
| Fencing | $10–$45 per linear foot |
| Pool Decking | $3,000–$15,500 |
| Water Features | $300–$5,000+ |
| Diving Board | $600–$6,000 |
| Heating | $1,800–$4,200 |
| Pool Covers | $500–$3,500 |
Landscaping
Some homeowners enhance the area surrounding their pool with landscaping features. Palm trees, lighting, and outdoor decor can beautify or update the space but can add thousands of dollars to your total costs.
Professional landscaping sometimes ranges from around $5 to $20 per square foot. For a 500-square-foot area, this could add anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 to your inground pool cost.
Fencing
Some municipalities require homeowners to surround their inground pool with a fence. This safety feature makes it less likely for neighborhood pets and children to accidentally fall into the water. A secondary benefit of pool fencing is the privacy it adds to your outdoor living space.
Although pool fences are a worthwhile investment, they can be expensive, sometimes adding a few thousand dollars to your project costs. The specific cost of your pool fence will vary by the material and size you need, but you can likely plan to pay between $10 and $45 per linear foot.
Pool Decking
Decking is the surface surrounding the pool. Pool decking is available in various materials, from composite wood and stone to concrete and vinyl. Your price will vary considerably depending on the type of decking you choose. The most cost-effective material is concrete, but many homeowners opt for brick pavers or travertine tiles for a more luxurious look.
Regardless of your selection, plan to dish out between $3,000 and $15,000 or even more for inground pool decking.
Water Features
Fountains, jets, bubblers, waterfalls, and hot tubs can transform your pool from basic to dreamy. As you can imagine, these luxurious water features can get expensive, sometimes driving up costs by $5,000 or more.
Pool Heating
Heaters are a solid investment for pool owners in chillier states. With a heater in place, you can use your swimming pool more often throughout the year. Even homeowners in warmer states can benefit from heated pools, turning their backyard into a true year-round oasis.
There are several different types of pool heaters, from gas to solar, but they all add to the price. No matter which type you choose, you can expect to pay an additional $1,800 to $4,200. We refer you to check out our recommended solar pool heaters for your best pick.
Diving Board
Diving boards are a must for some swimming pool owners. Although they look simple, diving boards can add hundreds, even thousands of dollars to your inground pool costs. Though diving board prices vary significantly across retailers, prices typically fall between $600 and $6,000 (on average) for materials and installation.
Pool Covers
Pool covers are must-have features that keep the water clean and prevent accidental falls when the pool isn’t in use. Some municipalities require pool covers for this very safety reason.
Pool covers are pricey, often costing between $500 and $3,500, but typically hover around $1,500. If you select a pool with an automatic pool cover, you can expect prices to start around $4,500 and potentially exceed $10,000.
What Other Factors That Impact Inground Pool Cost Estimates?
Customizations and added features aren’t the only things inflating your final bill. You must account for the following factors when installing an inground pool:
- Site conditions: If your yard is hard to access, requires special equipment, or poses a particular threat to the pool company’s people or equipment, expect to spend more.
- Permits: Many cities require building and electrical permits for inground pool installation. Pool permits generally cost around $500 to $2,000 but vary depending on your specific project and location.
- Homeowners Insurance: Although pools are fun home features, they’re a liability. According to Latham Pool Products, swimming pool ownership can add $50 to $75 to your annual insurance premiums.
- Ongoing maintenance: Upkeep is perhaps the largest expenditure to plan for when installing an inground pool. Depending on the pool material, you should plan for $4,000 to $7,000 per decade for cleaning, water, chemicals, and electricity for your pool. Liner replacement for vinyl-lined pools may cost around $4,500 every five to nine years.
How Can You Save Money on Your Inground Pool? (5 Tips)
An inground pool will likely cost between $40,000 and $60,000 for materials and installation. However, you can cut some additional costs using the money-saving tips below:
- Consider a smaller pool: Although a huge backyard pool fits your design vision, it may not fit your budget. Installing a small pool can be a good way to save money up-front and in the future. Smaller pools almost always cost less for installation and materials, and you’ll have less square footage to maintain moving forward.
- Install the pool during fall or winter: Fall and winter are the cheapest times to install inground pools. Pool products from the summer typically go on sale in the fall, and pool installation companies are less booked up in the winter, leading to lower material and labor costs. Book a winter installation before January to avoid New Year price hikes.
- Choose a vinyl liner pool: Installing a vinyl-lined pool is one way to lower up-front project costs. However, you’ll pay more long-term maintenance and replacement costs. If you’d prefer a fiberglass pool but are wary of the initial investment, consider taking out a pool loan for manageable payments and fewer long-term upkeep costs.
- Start with a no-frills installation: Forgoing customization can help you save thousands of dollars on inground pool installation costs. Although you may eventually want waterfalls, landscaping, and a premium diving board to enhance your pool, save on initial costs by leaving these items out. As time goes on, you can get a feel for the features you would and wouldn’t use, then budget for them.
- Retrieve quotes from multiple installers: Different pool installation companies charge different premiums for their products and services. Getting price estimates from multiple installers is an excellent way to compare local pricing and understand industry trends. Plus, you may be able to get your favorite company to match a quote from the cheaper competitor.
Professional Vs. DIY Inground Pool Installation
We don’t recommend installing your own inground pool. Cutting costs with a DIY pool installation likely results from cutting corners. Even if you save money on the initial installation, you’ll probably make up for those savings with future repairs and replacements from a faulty installation.
If you don’t hire a professional pool installation company, you still need to buy the pool shell, equipment, and other materials required for the project. If you need specialized equipment for the installation, you’ll either have to rent it or hire someone with the proper certificates of operation.
You should also consider these drawbacks of DIY pool installation:
- No pool warranty: With a DIY pool installation, you won’t get the material and workmanship warranties you’d get with a certified installer. If you make any mistakes that lead to a faulty pool, you’ll be fully liable for the repair or replacement costs. Learn more about pool warranty providers in this article.
- Safety concerns: Installing a pool can be dangerous for you and your home. Without proper pool installation expertise, you could injure yourself or severely damage your landscape.
Hiring a Professional Pool Installation Company
Hiring a professional pool installer isn’t just worth the cost; it’s an easy process. Follow the steps below to start your pool installation project:
- Find local experts near you: Research local pool companies for overall pricing, reputation, and services.
- Get a quote from a few options: Retrieve free estimates from at least three of your top choices.
- Compare your top choices: Compare products and pricing from each installer to determine which option best fits your design needs and budget.
- Consult the company for recommendations: Discuss options with your pool company. You might want to consider the material, safety features, and customizations that will optimize your investment.
Ready to begin your inground pool project but don’t know where to start? Use the quick form below to get estimates from local installation experts:
So, Is an Inground Pool Worth the Cost?
Inground pool installation typically costs between $40,000 and $70,000 but can increase by thousands of dollars depending on your chosen customizations and added features. Along with the initial investment, you must plan for ongoing maintenance costs to keep your pool in good shape.
The key to budgeting for an inground pool is to be aware of all potential cost factors before diving headfirst into the project. With a potential price range in mind, you can budget responsibly for your new backyard oasis.
FAQs About Inground Pools
How should I prepare for an inground pool installation?
Prepare for an inground pool installation by setting a budget and determining the add-ons you’d like. You should contact your HOA for a permit or approval to build a pool on your property. Finally, notify your home insurance provider of the installation and discuss any necessary policy upgrades.
How long does an inground pool last?
The life span of your inground pool depends on its material and how well you maintain it. Vinyl liner pools will last 20+ years with routine upkeep and liner replacements. Concrete and fiberglass pools can last over 50 years with proper maintenance.
Which type of inground pool is easiest to maintain?
Fiberglass pools are the easiest to maintain. They don’t require resurfacing, replacement, or algae removal like vinyl and concrete pools do.
What is the cheapest type of inground pool?
Vinyl liner pools are the cheapest to install, typically ranging in price from $40,000 to $65,000. However, vinyl liner pools require more long-term maintenance, so you may end up investing more money over time. Fiberglass pools have higher upfront costs, between $60,000 and $120,000, but have fewer upkeep costs during their life span.
