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Swimming Pool Construction Cost per Square Foot

A new swimming pool can have a very wide range of costs per square foot. The average cost for an in-ground pool ranges from $150 to $250 a square foot, depending on the material, type, shape, and finish. These costs include the full construction, including the deck and finishing work. The following sections break down the various components for understanding the costs.

For above-ground pools, costs are much lower per square foot - around $35 to $40 a square foot. Costs can also vary depending on the material, decking, shape, and type.

Swimming Pool Cost by Type

Pools are available in many options and types, depending on the location, size, and needs. Most pools can be broken down into two basic categories - above-ground and in-ground. Each has pros, cons, costs, and construction parameters.

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.

In-Ground Pool Cost

In-ground pools range from $35,000 to $90,000 on average. They can be built in many ways with different materials. The most common are vinyl ¹, fiberglass, and concrete. Each material has costs and positive and negative attributes to consider. In general, in-ground pools are more attractive. They have more customization options and pool type choices, including saltwater, infinity, and natural.

In-Ground Pool Cost by 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:

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. The vinyl liner can be applied to any pool shape or size. This means you can have freeform and organic shapes that are difficult to get with fiberglass. However, vinyl liners do not last as long as fiberglass ² or concrete. They cost less initially but cost the most long term because the liner must be replaced every 7 to 9 years.

Fiberglass In-Ground Pool Cost

Fiberglass in-ground pools cost between $45,000 and $85,000. Fiberglass pools are made with a shell set in the ground. They are tough, durable, and very long-lasting. The shape is dictated by what the company can produce. Size is also restricted because some large shells can be hard to transport. Most fiberglass pools often have depth restrictions, so you must find another material if you want a pool deep enough for diving. Fiberglass is the lowest maintenance pool material, so it costs the least long term.

Concrete In-Ground Pool Cost

The average cost for a concrete in-ground pool ranges from $50,000 to $90,000. Concrete has some of the most versatility in building a pool. The pool can be any size or shape and finished in numerous ways. This includes tile and other decorative finishes,which are unavailable for vinyl and fiberglass. Concrete pools require more maintenance than fiberglass long term. However, they are easier to maintain than vinyl, making them a good long-term investment.

In-Ground Pool Sizes and Prices

Swimming pools come in nearly any size and shape you desire. The general rule is to make the pool twice as long as it is wide if you opt for a rectangular pool. However, there is plenty of room for variation, so you could support a slightly wider or shorter pool if you have the space.

Below are some of the average costs for the various pool materials in a range of sizes. These costs include the fully built pool with its deck and finishing but do not include landscaping or “extras,” such as waterfalls and diving boards:

Small In-Ground Pool Cost

Small in-ground pools have a wide range of costs, depending on the pool size and type. A small fiberglass pool is considered anything less than 26 feet in length, which means that it can have an average cost of between $31,200 and $85,000. Small pools are meant just for cooling off and not for swimming, such as a plunge pool, which can be as small as 15 feet long and cost between $10,000 and $20,000. If you intend to use the pool for swimming, it should be at least 20 feet long. The lowest costs you can assume for an in-ground swimming pool are between $24,400 and $62,600, depending on the material.

In-Ground Pool Prices by Type

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:

Spool Pool Cost

Spools typically cost between $9,000 and $15,000. A spool is a very small pool with some spa features. Spools are usually less than 12 feet long and often have built-in ³ benches or jets. Essentially, a spool gives you some of both if you want a hot tub and pool but only have room for one. When the jets are not on, the pool could be used for cooling off. With the jets active, it becomes closer to a hot tub. Spools are good if you are restricted on space and want more of a custom hot tub.

Plunge Pool Cost

Plunge pools range from $10,000 to $20,000. They are a small pool made for recreation. If you have a small area and want your pool for soaking or cooling off, a plunge pool is a good option. This small pool is usually about 13-15’ long, 6-8’ wide, and 3-5’ deep. They may include a waterfall feature and typically have a concrete deck. This is a great option for small properties and those who enjoy the water without wanting to swim. However, they need as much maintenance as a larger pool, requiring filters, heaters, and chemical treatments.

Custom Pool Cost

A custom pool averages $10,000 to $100,000. Custom means you are designing the exact pool rather than choosing a stock size, shape, or design. They can be small plunge pools or larger lap pools. They are most often created from vinyl or concrete because fiberglass is difficult to create in custom molds or sizes. Custom pools may have additional features, such as waterfalls, jets, and zero-entry decks. You are most likely to opt for a custom pool if you have serious size constraints or want special features.

Endless Pool Cost

Endless pools ⁴ cost between $20,000 and $30,000. Endless pools can be in-ground or above-ground. These pools are small, roughly 10 to 12 feet in length. They have powerful jets that push the water from one end to the other. A person inside the pool can swim against these jets for a good workout without going anywhere. Think of it as a swimming treadmill. They have various strengths and sizes to fit your fitness needs.

Family Leisure In-Ground Pool Prices

Family leisure pools cost between $35,000 and $90,000. A family leisure pool is your typical backyard swimming pool. It can be any shape, material, or size. It is usually deep enough to feature diving boards or slides and has a shallow end for relaxing. These pools usually have a wide deck for entertaining. The exact size varies depending on the amount of space you have and the number of users who are in the pool at once.

Lagoon Pool Cost

Lagoon pools average $35,000 to $100,000. A lagoon pool can be made of vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete. This is a “freeform” pool designed to look natural. The pool has undulating curves and edges instead of being rectangular or circular. Rather than having a standard deck, these pools are usually landscaped right up to the edge with various plants. The idea is to create a more natural-looking pool, while keeping the standard pool interior for swimming.

Walk-in Pool Cost

Walk-in pools range from $38,000 to $110,000. These pools are also called beach-entry or zero-entry pools. They mimic the natural and gradual ease into the deeper water you find on a beach leading to a lake or ocean. This can be an easier pool to navigate for people with mobility problems because there are no stairs or ladders. The pool can be fiberglass or concrete, but vinyl cannot be used. Any pool can be adapted to this entry. The entry area costs around $7,000 to $9,000.

Saltwater Pool Costs

Saltwater pools range from $40,000 to $60,000. These are in-ground pools made of vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete with a saltwater chlorine generator. They cost roughly the same as a standard pool of the same type but with lower ongoing costs. The salt can feel better on your skin, with the water having a softer, silkier feel. The pools may need less maintenance because they do not need to be “shocked” with chlorine ⁵. However, the salt can damage your landscaping and may corrode some pool parts, such as the ladder, stone decking, or the O-rings in your filters.

Lap Pool Cost

Lap pools cost between $40,000 and $65,000 on average. If you swim regularly for exercise, a lap pool can be a great addition. This is a long, thin pool measuring roughly 8 feet by 50 feet. They can be made of vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete, and they often fit into spaces where a standard pool cannot because of their unique dimensions. They require the same maintenance as other pools and should be fenced for security.

Indoor Pool Cost

Indoor swimming pools average $40,000 to $200,000. They are a great investment if you want to swim year-round or avoid common cleaning issues with an outdoor pool, such as debris and leaves. Indoor pools allow you to swim no matter what the weather or time of year. Without sunlight, they may grow algae more easily and require continuous maintenance. They may also have additional heating costs, and the surrounding area may become hot and muggy during warmer weather. There are also additional costs associated with the surrounding structure.

Natural Pool Costs

Natural pools range from $60,000 to $80,000. They make beautiful additions to many yards. This pool uses natural plants to filter the water rather than chlorine or salt, so it is considered better for the environment. It consists of two parts - the swimming area and regeneration zone, where the water is filtered. The two areas must be roughly the same size, so they require about twice the space. They can be made of a few materials and can have many features, including waterfalls and infinity edges. The plant medium can also be made of various aquatic plants. The pool is low-maintenance once set up but can become home to aquatic animals and insects.

Infinity Pool Costs

Infinity pools average $90,000 to $105,000. Infinity pools make a beautiful addition to any yard or property. They create a waterfall illusion with the water flowing continuously over the edge of the pool into a small basin where it can be recycled. The pool creates a stunning visual effect, which can be very appealing. They are easy-to-maintain with constantly flowing water to prevent algae buildup. The small basin the water pours into can also make an excellent kiddie pool. Infinity pools are expensive, costing significantly more than other same-sized pools. They also require a sloping property to show off the edge. Otherwise, they are not as impressive. A slope of this kind can also be dangerous near the pool.

Olympic-Size Pool Cost

The cost of Olympic-size swimming pools is between $300,000 and $500,000. Olympic-size pools conform to very strict measurements. They are exactly 50 meters in length and contain 10 lanes. Each lane measures 2.5 meters in width. The pool may be deep enough for diving at one end or “walkable” the entire length with depths that never rise above 2 meters. Olympic-size pools are usually made of concrete to make them easier to maintain long term.

Average Costs of Building a Swimming Pool

Labor costs vary, depending primarily on the pool type. In-ground pools have higher labor costs than above-ground pools, while concrete and fiberglass have higher labor costs than vinyl. Labor costs are also impacted if blasting is needed with the excavation and whether the deck is installed at the same time.

On average, labor costs to build a pool range from $5,000 to $30,000 but can go higher for custom pools with specialty designs. The pool material cost ranges from $4,000 for a vinyl liner ⁶, $10,000 for a basic fiberglass shell, up to $27,000 for a premium shell, and between $55 and $70 a square foot for a concrete pool.

Not every project requires all levels of work. For example, not every installation requires blasting, and the finish work can range, depending on the pool material, with fiberglass requiring the least and concrete requiring the most.

Pool Landscaping Cost

The cost of landscaping around your pool varies from $100 for simple grass to $45,000 for things like added fountains, hardscape paths to patios, and custom shrubbery. Landscaping around your pool is not necessary. Some people install a deck and allow their lawn to continue out each side. Other people may choose to create a backyard landscape around their pool area that blends in with the yard. The landscape around the perimeter completes the pool’s appearance if you have a natural or lagoon pool. You can also landscape after your pool has been installed when you have a chance to see how it impacts the yard.

Swimming Pool Permit Cost

The cost of a permit for a swimming pool ranges from $200 to $300. This varies by your municipality and pool type. Your permit must be applied for with all paperwork submitted before work begins. Building regulations in your area may impact the scope. Be prepared to change things if your work lies outside local regulations or codes when you apply for the permit. Pulling a permit also means that an inspection of your pool must be undertaken before you can use it.

Pool Excavation Cost

Excavation for a pool costs between $500 and $3,500 on average. The excavation cost for an in-ground pool varies depending on a few factors, including the pool size, shape, depth, and terrain. It requires blasting at an increased cost if the yard is rocky and difficult to dig in. Any excavation also has dirt-hauling costs added to the total excavation cost. The distance the hauling needs to travel and the location in your yard can impact costs. If you have a hard-to-reach area, costs are higher than if the yard can be easily accessed.

Blasting Rocky Terrain

The cost to blast rocky terrain averages $600 to $7,200. Not every pool installation requires this. Sometimes, you can determine whether it is needed before work begins. You may find that the first few feet of excavation goes easily but then stops. Blasting may be necessary if a lot of rock is found below the surface. Blasting and excavation costs are rarely quoted until the work has begun, and the installers can see the land’s condition.

Installing Pool Equipment

The cost of installing all your pool equipment ranges from $5,000 to $7,000. This equipment includes the basics necessary for the pool to operate. This includes things like your pump, filter, and heater. If you choose to upgrade any of these, such as using a solar heater, your costs can differ. These costs include things like running an electrical line or the plumbing needed. Not all pools use the same equipment, so there can be variations in cost.

Cost to Build a Deck Around a Pool

The average pool deck costs between $5,000 and $15,000 installed. When building an in-ground pool, you need to add a deck. Decks provide a non-slip area around the pool, protect your landscaping, enhance the pool area, and provide a more appealing visual. Decks come in many materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, and wood. It is very common for the pool cost to include the price of a concrete deck as part of the package. You have additional costs if you choose to upgrade to a different material.

Pool Material Installation Cost

The installation of your pool material ranges from $5,000 to $20,000. This wide range is due to the many types and installations available. Vinyl installation is usually fairly inexpensive. Fiberglass shells are frequently set in concrete, which cause the installation cost to vary by shell size. Concrete pools can be created in several ways, each with labor costs. The cost of installing the pool varies based on the pool material and type.

Pool Finishing

The cost of finishing your pool averages $5,000 to $30,000. Finishing costs include many variables. Concrete pools must have their surface finished, meaning they have higher finishing costs. Your pool’s edging, ladder or step installation, and other small details impact the cost to finish the project. Finishing is often what gives your pool its final appearance. It may not impact the use, but it impacts appearance, maintenance, and long-term care.

Design: Top Swimming Pool Shapes

Swimming pools come in many shapes and configurations. Your pool’s shape and style are dictated by a few things. The first is the material. Vinyl and concrete can be formed into nearly any configuration. This includes custom designs that may follow any number of shapes. Fiberglass pools are often limited by the manufacturer. They may have a set number of shapes and sizes to choose from because each shell is made in a mold.

When it comes to custom designs, the sky is the limit in terms of what you can do. However, there are also many popular pool shapes that you can find nearly anywhere:

Rectangle

The standard rectangle is a very common shape. It is easy to excavate and build and comes in all materials. It is also one of the least expensive shapes. You can find rectangular pools of all sizes in above-ground and in-ground types. You can vary your rectangular pool with modifications, such as zero entry. You can also change the dimensions, making the pool longer and thinner for laps or shorter and wider for recreation.

Oval Pool

Oval pools are popular designs for recreation. They can be used for laps if you are swimming in the center but are more often made to relax and cool off. An oval pool can range in size and shape. You can find many size options in all three materials. Oval pools can be attractive because they do not have sharp edges but a more fluid-appearing design. Like rectangular pools, you can customize your oval pool. This includes adding things like zero-entry or waterfall features.

Kidney Pool

Kidney-shaped pools are common for backyard recreation. They give you more swimming area in a shorter amount of backyard space. The pool gets its name from the slightly bent rounded shape that resembles a kidney. You can add a patio area in the curve to save space. You can use the pool in various ways because the pool has a long and short edge. Kidney-shaped pools are available in many sizes and materials.

Lagoon Pool

The lagoon pool form does not have a set shape from one to the next. Every manufacturer or designer has its own “lagoon” shape. The idea is that the pool has a more “natural” contour. It may curve sharply in some places and just slightly in others. Just like a body of water may have a varying edge, so does this pool shape. This is a popular shape for those who want to landscape around the pool, making it seem part of the garden.

Round Pool

Round pools are more common above-ground than in-ground but can be found as in-ground pools. Round pools are great for saving space. They give you a relatively large amount of area to swim in but do not take up a lot of real estate in any one direction. They are not as good of a choice if you want a pool for exercise. But they are an excellent choice if all you want to do is cool off on a hot day. All pool types can be found in round shapes of all sizes.

Maui Pool

The Maui pool is a unique shape that can accommodate exercise and recreation. This pool is shaped almost like a triangle. It has one long side with rounded corners, and the other side tapers down to a rounded entry point. The long side is often big enough to get in some laps, while the tapered entry point is usually shallow. This can make it a good pool for families with many swimmers who have different needs.

Full-L Pool

The full-l pool is sometimes called the Bermuda or Bahama design. You have essentially two rectangles in this pool shape. One is larger and wider, and the second comes off the other rectangle and is shorter and narrower. The shorter arm is usually more shallow and can be used as an entry point. This pool is also good for mixed swimmers. Those who want to exercise can do laps on the larger side, while those who want to cool off can use the short arm.

Cost to Build a Shipping Container Pool

The cost of a shipping container pool starts at around $17,000. This does not include the water or deck you may want to include. Shipping containers can come in many sizes. They can be sunk into the ground or used as an above-ground pool with proper ladders. Depending on the shipping container’s age and type, you may need to line the container to safely hold water long term. Things like chlorine or saltwater may harm the container if not lined.

Pool Filter Cost

Pool filters are a very important part of any pool installation. They keep your pool water clean and free of debris. There are several kinds of filters, from simple pocket and cartridge filters to large sand or glass filters. Each has a range of costs and microns it is capable of filtering out:

Swimming Pool Pump Cost

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.

Pumps ⁷ come in many types and sizes. The larger your pool, the larger the pump size you need. You can have different options for their use, depending on how often you need to run the pump:

In-Ground Pool Add-Ons

You may want to add other features to your pool, depending on the type, location, and desires. These vary from heaters that make it more comfortable to diving boards. Each has costs that are an add-on to most projects:

Pool Waterfall Cost

The cost of a pool waterfall is between $250 and $15,000, depending on the type. Waterfalls are a great way to keep water moving through the pool. Some act as your pool pump, helping pull the water through a filter. Others are there for ambiance. Waterfalls come in a wide range of styles and heights. Many can include rock formations and other additions to your landscaping.

Pool Lighting Cost

Pool lighting ranges from $450 to $1,200. Adding lights to your pool allows you to use the pool for more hours of the day. This is a great addition if you entertain frequently and want to use the pool at night. Pool lighting comes in different types, from floating lights to deck lights in the pool walls. Lights can be simple, or you can have elaborate lighting options that change color. The more elaborate the lighting display, the higher your costs.

Diving Board

Diving boards average $500 to $1,000. Ensure your pool is at least 12 feet deep to add a diving board. Fiberglass pools cannot get this deep, so you cannot use a diving board with this pool. Diving boards come in many lengths, widths, heights, and styles. Remember that the higher the board, the deeper the pool must be to safely use it. Ensure your pool also has adequate space for the board before installation.

Pool Steps

Pool steps cost between $1,400 and $1,900. A set of steps helps you enter and exit the pool more easily. Some pools, such as fiberglass pools made from molds, have stairs as part of the design. Other pools like concrete need them added at the same time the pool is built. If your pool has a shallow end, you may want to add the stairs in this area to make entry easier. Steps come in a wide range of widths and depths to accommodate many pools.

Pool Cover

The average cost of a pool cover is between $2,700 and $3,700. Pool covers are a great addition to many pools when not in use. A cover can keep your pool safe and difficult to access when not in use. Covers can also keep your pool clean by keeping out debris. Covers can be broken down into two categories - mesh and solid. Each has attributes that may make one a better fit for your pool.

Pool Heater Cost

The cost of a pool heater ranges from $3,450 to $5,450. Pool heaters are a good addition if you live in a climate where the water may not get warm on its own. They can also extend the swimming season for warmer climates. Heaters can run on propane, gas, or electricity. Solar heaters are also a good choice for those who want to keep their energy bills low. Ensure your pool heater is sized to handle your pool’s water capacity.

Cost of a Retaining Wall for a Pool

The average cost of a retaining wall ⁸ is between $3,500 and $10,000. Retaining walls are a good idea for your pool area when building into a slope. They can prevent erosion and enhance your landscaping at the same time. Retaining walls come in a wide range of materials and styles. Not all are suitable for every application. Pay attention to your terrain, soil, and project needs when choosing your wall type.

Pool Enclosure Cost

Adding a swimming pool enclosure keeps your pool cleaner and safer. Enclosures completely encase your pool, keeping out pests and neighborhood children. They also keep out falling leaves and other debris that might get into the pool. Pool enclosures come in all shapes and sizes. They can be screen, glass, or polycarbonate, and some can even have retractable openings. Some of the more popular shapes and costs include:

Pool Fence Installation Cost

Pool fences are required and integral parts of any pool installation. In many areas, you must have a fence surrounding the pool and a gate to lock it securely. While an enclosure can be used instead of a fence, you must fence your backyard or pool if you do not want to completely enclose your pool. Like the fences you can use elsewhere on your property, fences come in a wide range of materials, sizes, and prices to consider.

Cost of Running a Pool

Every pool has costs related to running it, whether this is the cost of adding water, chemicals, filtering, pumping, or heating.

The average cost of running a pool, including opening, closing, maintenance, electricity, chemicals, and repair costs vary depending on the location, whether you do the work or hire it out, and the pool type. Expect to pay around $3,500 for the combined costs each year you run the pool. Larger pools may cost closer to $5,000 per year. Smaller pools that require less maintenance or use saltwater, solar heaters, or solar covers may have ongoing costs closer to $1,200 a year.

Pool Maintenance Costs

You can clean, open, close, and maintain your pool yourself. However, many pool owners hire out this maintenance to a pool company for convenience and ensure it gets done properly. Annual pool maintenance costs range from $475 to $800 for the summer months. If you use your pool all year, expect the price to be higher. Typical pool maintenance involves emptying the skimmer basket, vacuuming the bottom, skimming debris off the surface, and checking and maintaining the chemical balance. Some maintenance can also include servicing equipment. This can be a lot for the homeowner, which is why people often contract it out.

In-Ground vs Above-Ground Pool

Both in-ground and above-ground pools make great additions to a yard. They provide hours of enjoyment and exercise for the household, but they have some differences.

In-ground pools are more invasive and require you to dig up an area of your yard. They typically last longer, especially fiberglass ² and concrete pools. Above-ground pools are less invasive and usually faster and easier to install. Depending on the pool type, in-ground pools may have more options for size, shape, and depth, but many above-ground pools offer choices.

However, the biggest difference is the price. In-ground pools cost around $35,000 to $90,000, while above-ground pools cost between $1,500 and $16,000.

To help compare, the following chart ranks each of the types on six different points: cost, installation, maintenance, appearance, longevity, and durability. Each is ranked on a scale of 1-5, with 5 being the best and 1 the worst:

Saltwater vs Chlorine Pool Costs

No matter which pool type you have, you need to treat it regularly to prevent bacteria growth and keep it clean. The two most common methods involve creating a saltwater or chlorine pool. When building a pool from scratch, there is little difference between the two. However, saltwater pools usually have fewer chemical expenses, averaging around $70 to $100 a year, while chlorine pools have chemical costs of about $300 to $800.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Landscape Around the Pool

To enhance your use of the space, you may want to landscape around the pool area. Landscaping can take on many forms, from simple greenery to paths and benches. Landscaping costs start at around $13,000 for a 1,200 sq.ft. yard.

Outdoor Kitchen

If you use your pool a lot in the summer months, you may want to add an outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens allow you to cook and serve food or store snacks and drinks near the pool. The average outdoor kitchen costs between $7,000 and $20,000 on average.

Pool House

If you have a lot of pool equipment, building a pool house can be a good place to keep it. Pool houses can also give guests a place to change, and some larger pool houses can have entertainment areas. Pool houses cost between $150 to $600 a square foot installed, depending on the materials and features.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

² Fiberglass: Plastic that is reinforced with glass fibers. The fibers may be mixed randomly throughout the plastic, or come in the form of a flat sheet, or be woven into a fabric

³ Built-in: An item of furniture, such as a bookcase or set of cabinets, that is built directly into the structure of the room. Built-ins are therefore customized to the room and not detachable

⁶ Liner: A covering, usually made of vinyl, for the walls and floor of a swimming pool, used to keep the water in and protect the pool's surface.

⁷ Pumps: A device used to move air, liquid, or gas by mechanical means

⁸ Retaining wall: A structure used to support vertical slopes of earth or to hold back water