After reading this cost guide, you’ll have an idea of how much to build an inground pool. During the summer, a pool is a wonderful haven and raises the value of a home. You can host parties or simply enjoy the sun with an inground pool. The material, form, and size of an inground pool, as well as its cost, vary. An inground pool can cost anywhere between $38,719 and $69,599 in total, making the average cost of $51,833.
Turnkey packages usually include electrical systems, pumps, a deck, plumbing, and a safety barrier. Some packages only include shipping and the pool shell. Additional factors that affect the price of an in-ground pool include size, shape, landscaping, location, lighting, custom work, decks, water features, fencing, and heating. Due to the need for compulsory permits, property taxes, and maintenance expenses, the cost of a pool installation might increase.
Factors in an Inground Pool’s Cost Calculation
An in-ground pool installation typically costs between $38,719 and $69,599, with a $51,833 national average, according to a report made by HomeAdvisor. The typical pool dimension is around 14×28 feet and has a depth of about 6.5 feet. You’ll typically spend between $50 and $125 per square foot. The price per square foot may go to $300 or more with a pool house. Additionally, depth has an impact on cost because deeper holes require more materials. The price per square foot will be closer to $125 for deeper pool designs. The Red Cross suggests a minimum depth of 9 feet for diving.
Standard pool filtration, cleaning and maintenance equipment, shipment, installation, the initial water fill, and at least some pool decking are usually included in quotations for basic pool projects. Remember that different pool builders package their swimming pools in different ways.
For a pool’s cleaning devices, check out our buying guide of the best pool cleaners in 2024 to learn more about these essential pool cleaning products.
1. Shape and Size
Larger pools typically measure 18 by 36 feet and have ends that are 9 to 12 feet deep. This size costs approximately $35,000. Small pools such as spool, plunge, and cocktail ones cost between $10,000 and $25,000 and more. These pools are typically 5.5 to 7 feet deep, 10 feet wide, and 20 feet long. They can be equipped with jets so that you may swim laps, although they are primarily used for relaxing and cooling down. No matter what their shape is , just prepare between $50 and $125 per square foot for the design of a swimming pool.
| Dimensions | Inground Pool Cost | Above-Ground Pool Cost |
| 9 ft. diameter | $640–$960 | $3,200–$8,000 |
| 10 ft. diameter | $800–$1,200 | $4,000–$9,900 |
| 6-by-10 ft. | $600–$900 | $3,000–$7,500 |
| 9-by-15 ft. | $1,400–$2,000 | $6,800–$17,000 |
| 10-by-20 ft. | $2,000–$3,000 | $10,000–$25,000 |
| 12-by-24 ft. | $2,900–$4,300 | $14,400–$36,000 |
| 10-by-40 ft. | $4,000–$6,000 | $20,000–$50,000 |
| 16-by-32 ft. | $5,100–$7,700 | $25,600–$64,000 |
2. Type
Concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl are the three main types of in-ground pools, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Pools are typically less expensive in sunbelt locations such as Florida, California, and Texas than in northern states.
3. Design
An in-ground pool’s cost will be partially determined by its design, and its level of customization will depend on the pool’s material. Compared to vinyl or fiberglass pools, concrete pools are more customizable. The most common shapes of inground pools include:
- Freeform (radius)
- Rectangle
- Kidney
- Classic (Roman or Greek)
- L-shaped
- Circle/oval
| Pool Design | Cost Range |
| Spool Pool | $5,500–$50,000 |
| Plunge Pool | $10,000–$50,000 |
| Lap Pool | $6,000–$500,000 |
| Salt Water Pool | $12,000–$38,000 |
| Endless Pool | $23,000–$40,000 |
| Natural Pool | $50,000–$100,000 |
| Infinity Pool | $55,000–$130,000 |
| Lagoon Pool | $50,000–$150,000 |
| Custom Pool | $100,000+ |
4. Materials
Pools made of fiberglass require little upkeep, are strong, and pair well with salt water systems. Since fiberglass pools are constructed off-site and consume little chemicals, they have the lowest overall cost of ownership. One drawback of fiberglass is that the shapes can’t be altered. On the other hand, concrete is strong and completely customizable. However, the chemical and maintenance requirements for these pools are the highest. Saltwater systems cannot be used with them. Pools with vinyl liners can be customized more than pools with fiberglass and are less expensive to install, but the vinyl needs to be replaced every 5 to 9 years. Vinyl can also tear and get brittle over time.
| Pool Material | Type of Pool | Typical Price Range |
| Concrete | Inground | $35,000 – $65,000 |
| Fiberglass | Inground | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| Vinyl | Inground | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Aluminum | Above Ground | $1,000 – $4,500 |
| Resin | Above Ground | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Steel | Above Ground | $800 – $3,000 |
5. Labor
The cost of labor will vary depending on the type of pool material. For instance, installing concrete will take longer than installing fiberglass. Geographical locations can also have a significant impact on labor expenses. Typically, higher living expenses translate into higher labor costs. If huge trees or room systems have to be removed, labor expenses for excavation might soar.
6. Geographical Location
Depending on some factors, the location may impact in-ground pool installation costs. It is reasonable to expect to pay 15–25% more in northern states than in states such as Arizona, Florida, or Texas. Concrete pools can be as expensive in these areas as fiberglass pools. In-ground pool construction costs more in pricey urban areas than in rural ones.
| City | Cost Range |
| Los Angeles | $24,000–$61,000 |
| New York | $19,000–$43,000 |
| Houston | $27,000–$66,000 |
| Denver | $50,000–$115,000 |
| San Francisco | $40,000–$91,000 |
| Miami | $26,000–$51,000 |
| Nashville | $48,000–$65,000 |
7. Permits
For an in-ground pool to be built, the majority of cities demand a building permit. This helps to ensure that the job is carried out in accordance with professional and safe construction standards. Additionally, a separate electrical permit may be necessary. Permits for new construction typically cost between $450 and $1,800 each. Although electricians and pool contractors typically obtain permits for their construction sites, homeowners can also do this. After the project is completed, an inspector will verify that it complies with local building codes.
8. Excavation and Site Preparation
The site must be prepared for the installation of the pool when the permits are obtained. This entails excavating the land and performing preliminary grading for the planting, patio, and pool areas. The cost of landscaping and excavation will differ based on the type of pool and the property. Some pools, such as lap pools, will cost extra because they are much longer than the typical pool.
9. Finishes
Because a darker-colored pool collects more of the sun’s heat, heating costs will be lower. By choosing a long-lasting pool finish, homeowners can significantly cut maintenance costs. Smooth, impermeable surface finishes on fiberglass pools reduce the formation of algae and improve circulation. Because of its tougher, more porous surface, concrete frequently needs extra maintenance and chemicals to prevent algae growth.
Other Costs and Considerations
There are usually extra cost concerns and considerations when setting a budget for an in-ground pool. Excavations can cost between $1,500 and $5,000, and encountering rock can increase costs by another $1,200 or more. Hard-to-reach locations can increase the project’s cost by $10,000 or more and delay it.
If you reside in a remote area, the building crew’s travel costs may increase by $100 or more. If you choose a fiberglass pool, a crane might be required if the backyard entrance isn’t wide enough. Landscaping, accessibility, fences, weather, lighting, heating, deck installation, electrical work, property taxes, and yearly upkeep are all examples of added costs.
1. Landscaping
Landscape costs can range from $1,500 to $5,200 on average, or roughly $4 to $12 per square foot, and play a significant part in pool cost estimating. Costs for landscaping rocks range from $460 to $1,000. Tropical, desert, and modern landscaping designs are the three most popular types for in-ground pools.
2. Fencing and Accessibility
Costs for installing a fence range from $13 to $50 per linear foot or between $1,500 and $10,000 altogether. Each gate adds $200 to $350. Removable fences range from $100 to $500 in price per panel, including latches and locks to support the structure. Pool covers range from $600 to $2,200 with installation, and premium security and automation features cost between $1,000 and $15,000. Always utilize child-proof latches and locks.
3. Weather
The pool size, the number of installers, and the weather all affect the time it takes to install a pool. Concrete and vinyl pools require perfect weather conditions. However, fiberglass pools may be installed all year round and require little to no special skills. Because vinyl might contract, expand, or crack, it cannot be installed on a day that is too cold or hot. Concrete must be cured for at least 28 days and cannot be poured when it is freezing outside due to the risk of cracking.
4. Filters, Pumps, and Heating Systems
Typically, electrical work costs $2,200 or less. If you desire a heated pool or reside in a colder environment, the cost of the pool heater should also be factored into the overall budget. Installing a pool heater can cost between $1,500 and $4,000, and operating costs normally range from $100 to $600 per month, depending on your area, how much you use it, and the time of year.
If you want to know more about pool pumps, read our guide on how to ground a pool pump correctly to ensure your safety.
5. Electrical and Lighting
Outdoor lights improve the atmosphere and add safety to the pool. For 50-watt lights, prices range from $100 to $300 per light. Pricing for both traditional lighting and energy-saving LEDs varies according to features such as floating lights, colored lights, and output. A phone can often be used to manage some LED and fiber optic choices. Although lighting can be installed after the pool has been built, it is suggested that they be installed at the same time.
6. Deck Installation
Be prepared to spend an addition of $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the size of the pool and the materials you want for the deck. The cost is determined by the width, the number of sides the deck is built on, and the chosen materials. Material choices include engineered, composite, or natural wood, with each having its durability and cost implications. If you select an elaborate design or pricey materials, the entire cost may go up.
7. Pool Enclosure
Costs for pool enclosures range from $5,000 to $15,000. These cages, which are available in glass, plastic, mesh, and vinyl materials, can prolong the swimming season by preserving heat and maintaining cleaner water for longer. They can also offer UV protection.
8. Property Taxes
Property taxes may rise if upgrades such as an in-ground pool are added. State tax regulations determine whether taxes are raised. Tax deductions for a pool added for medical reasons could rise by $12,000 or more. That’s a tax savings of at least $3,000, though the precise amount will depend greatly on your tax situation.
9. Yearly Upkeep
Monthly maintenance costs for in-ground pools range from $100 to $200. A contractor is often preferred by pool owners because maintenance can be messy and cost a lot of time. Professionals that take care of pools also provide reopening and winterizing services. Basic annual upkeep adds an additional $1,200 to $1,800.
For cleaning, an automatic pool cleaner is a go-to device that many pool owners purchase to help them ease up the pool cleaning process. More information can be found in our article on choosing the best robotic pool cleaner.
10. Additional Features
To create a tranquil pool, fountains, waterfalls, and lights can be added. A luxury pool upgrade might cost between $100,000 and $200,000. Additional minor improvements can cost from several hundred dollars to $30,000 or more.
Inground Pool Types
The material has a big impact on an in-ground pool’s overall cost. Pools are often made of fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl. Here are the three most common pool types and their corresponding in-ground pool costs.
1. Fiberglass
Costs for a fiberglass pool range from $20,000 to $36,500. This cost includes a simple deck as well as shipment and installation. Over a ten-year period, maintenance expenses range from $5,000 to $15,000. In order to fit the shape, preformed fiberglass pool shells are inserted into a leveled hole. Fiberglass shells for this kind of pool typically have a maximum width of 16 feet, and they don’t require any specific maintenance procedures or care.
2. Concrete
A concrete in-ground pool costs between $35,000 and $65,000 to install initially, but you should budget an extra $27,000 to $40,000 over the course of ten years. Replastering and acid washing are common maintenance procedures. Since concrete pools are frequently larger, keeping them clean and swimmable requires more power and chemical treatments.
3. Vinyl
An in-ground vinyl pool installation costs between $20,000 and $40,000. Maintenance typically costs between $11,000 and $17,000 over ten years. Vinyl pools are available in a number of shapes and unique designs, are flexible, and are not abrasive. Due to their ease of cleaning, many owners tend to do it themselves. However, vinyl liners need to be replaced every 5 to 9 years since they might tear and become brittle.
Hiring a Professional vs. DIY ?
It is recommended to consult a professional to install an in-ground pool. Mistakes when performing a DIY project may result in additional costs for professional replacement or repairs.
One advantage of hiring a pro is that you typically receive a full warranty. This means that the builder will be liable for repairing any mistakes made during construction or issues you may have had with your swimming pool from the beginning.
Each pool installation is different. A DIYer might not be aware of the need for a retaining wall in some yards before building a pool until it is too late. Additionally, while excavating, it’s possible to run across rocks or groundwater. It is often worthwhile to pay the extra money to let the experts handle the project.
The installation timeline may be affected if you install the pool yourself. The longer the project is left undone, the more likely a problem will arise and the more you’ll have to spend on equipment rental. The work should be completed at the soonest possible.
FAQs
Making a decision on pool installation and maintaining a reasonable inground pool cost can be a difficult process. To assist you in making your choice, the following commonly asked questions about the cost of building an inground pool are provided, along with answers.
1. What’s the cost of a 12×24-foot inground pool?
The average cost of a 12×24-foot inground pool ranges from $14,400 to $36,000.
2. Is it possible to get an inground pool for $30,000?
The least expensive in-ground pool is a pre-made fiberglass shell, which normally costs between $20,000 and $40,000. For additional amenities such as fencing and heating, a small 12×24-feet vinyl pool can cost from $25,000 to $35,000.
3. Why are inground pools so pricey?
It’s a huge building project with multiple stages, pricey components, and utility work, including electrical, plumbing, and gas.
Final Thought
Your dream pool’s design and construction may seem like an endless project. There are other features you may build around your pool, like outdoor kitchens, waterfalls, and fresh flower beds.
Hopefully we have answered your question of how much to build an inground pool. Remember that the average cost of an in-ground pool for homeowners is $45,583, with installation costs typically ranging from $32,408 to $60,873. A high-end pool project costs $135,000, whereas low-end pool construction jobs normally cost $21,500.
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