How Much Does an In-Ground Pool Cost?

Average Cost to Install an In-ground Pool

The average cost of installing an in-ground pool is between $38,818 and $72,039 or an average of $54,580. Expect to pay $50 to $125 per square foot, regardless of your pool’s shape or design. Basic maintenance adds $1,200 to $1,800 yearly. Increased utilities and repairs cost an additional $1,800 to $3,200 every year.

Custom features like waterfalls and hot tubs will add anywhere from $1,000 to $8,000 to your project total. Your price will depend on the type—concrete, vinyl or fiberglass—as well as the size and location.

Considering an in-ground pool as the warm months come upon us?

In-Ground Pool Costs

No matter your pool’s size, shape or location, you need to anticipate and plan for all associated installation costs. 

• Call the Dig Line: Call 811 before digging. You need to make sure that there aren't any power or sewage lines beneath the spot you want to dig. A professional takes care of this.

• Accessibility: Hard-to-reach areas can add $10,000 or more to the project. If large equipment, like loaders, dump trucks and cement trucks, can’t access the area, it drastically increases the project time.

• Travel distance: Add $100 or more for the building crew to get to your house.

• Cost of living index: Expect hourly and project rates to reflect the cost of living in your area.

  • On average, you’ll pay 15% to 25% more in the Northern States than in places like Arizona, Texas or Florida.

• Property Taxes: Adding value upgrades like this can increase your property taxes. This increase depends on your state and municipal codes.

Resale Value: In warmer climes, this is considered a plus to your property and can increase the resale value by up to 7%. However, you’ll rarely make back the installation price.

In-Ground Pool Prices by Material

Depending on the type of material you choose, you’ll spend anywhere from $20,000 to $65,000 or more to install a pool. In-ground models are available in three types: concrete, vinyl and fiberglass. They have similar initial pricing for turn-key installation, but there are great differences in the lifetime cost.

Gunite, Shotcrete or Concrete Pool Cost Per Square Foot

The initial price of installing one runs $30,000 and $50,000. Expect to pay an additional $27,000 to $40,000 over 10 years. Upkeep includes acid washing and replastering. Often the largest, they require more electricity and chemicals to keep them clean and swimmable.

• Both “Gunite” and “shotcrete” are concrete. The only difference is the water ratio involved and how it is applied. Both use less water than form-set concrete and are applied using a pressurized spray.

• Get an acid wash every three to five years. Concrete is very durable, but it can also be a haven for mold and algae if not properly maintained. Because this will strip a small layer away, the shell will have to be re-plastered at some point.

Vinyl Underground Pool Prices

Installing an underground vinyl pool runs $20,000 to $40,000. Over a 10-year period, figure maintenance at $11,000 to $17,000.

• Versatile, nonabrasive and easy maintenance: They come in various shapes and custom designs.

• Easy to clean: Many owners handle the cleaning themselves.

• Sustainable: Because algae don’t grow easily on vinyl surfaces, you won't need to use chemicals often.

Cost to Build in a Fiberglass In-Ground Pool

A fiberglass pool costs $20,000 to $36,500. This includes delivery, installation and a basic deck or coping. Maintenance runs an average of $5,000 to $15,000 over 10 years.

• Pre-made: These preformed shells get put into a leveled hole pre-dug to match their shape. It lends itself well to the experienced DIYer, but most people prefer the peace of mind of letting a professional handle the work.

• Smaller than concrete: The shells usually measure no more than 16 feet across. The size limitations are an acceptable trade-off for many people, considering that no acid wash or liner replacement is required.

• Easy cleaning: They are possibly the easiest types to clean and maintain. There are no special requirements for the shell.

In-Ground Pool Cost Estimator by Size

Average size swimming pools run $20,000 to $50,000. They’re around 14x28 feet with a typical depth of around 6.5 feet. On average, you’ll spend anywhere from $50 to $125 per square foot. Upgrades, like a pool house, push that up to $300 or more per square foot.

• For head-first diving, the Red Cross recommends a depth of at least 9 feet. This size starts around the $20,000 range.

• Large ones start at around $35,000. They are around 18x36 feet, and many have deep ends of 9 to 12 feet. These are often too large for suburban homes.

• Depth affects the price. The deeper the hole, the more materials needed. Expect deeper designs to land closer to the $125 per square foot.

Small Backyard Pools Cost

Small ones, like plunge, spool and cocktail pools, run $10,000 to $25,000 or more. They generally measure about 10 by 20 feet long and 5.5 to 7 feet deep. They are used mostly for cooling off on hot days, but you can also fit them with swim jets for exercise.

Cost of In-Ground Saltwater Pools

A saltwater swimming pool costs $1,000 to $2,500 above the average, which would bring your total installation to $34,500 to $67,000. It costs less to maintain a saltwater system versus using chlorine.

In-ground saltwater types:

• Will run $100 in annual maintenance.

• Require generators ranging from about $400–$2,000.

• Add up to $500 to your overall price of labor vs. freshwater pools.

• Will require corrosion-resistant features.

To learn more about how these two options compare, check out our saltwater vs. chlorine guide.

Custom Pools Costs

Beach Entry or Zero-Entry Pool Costs

Zero-entry pools, also called beach entry, fall in the same range as a standard one, or $50 to $125 per square foot. These have one or more sides that gently slope up to meet the land. Instead of steps to enter the water, you walk down a slope, just like a beach.

Lagoon Pool Costs

Lagoon styles cost $50,000 to $150,000. These luxury oases cost more because of the custom designs and add-ons such as waterfalls, grottos and tropical landscaping. They’re usually a free-flowing, asymmetrical design meant to create the feel of a tropical retreat.

Semi-In-Ground Pool Cost

Semi-in-ground pools cost $6,800 to $25,000, including labor and materials. Be sure to budget $3,000 to $7,000 just for labor. Like other types of pools, size plays a significant role.

Indoor Pool Cost

Indoor pools cost between $40,000 and $200,000. If you already have a structure to cover it, your costs sink to about $20,000 to $100,000.

Cost to Put in an In-Ground Pool with Hot Tub

A basic spa can add $5,000 to $8,000 to your base price. A hot tub is a popular feature for pools. If you need excavation service and customization, installing a built-in hot tub costs $15,000 to $20,000.

Pool Lighting

Lights average $100 to $300 each for 50-watt built-in lights, but higher wattages are available. Lighting can set the mood and provide some safety for night swimming.

Traditional incandescent lights and energy-efficient LED lights are available for a wide variety of prices depending on features such as light color, floating or fixed, and output.

Grotto or Plants

Plant installation costs: $1,500–$5,200. Keep in mind that leafy plants will drop their leaves, which could blow into the water.

Waterfalls or Water Features

Waterfall installation costs $1,500 to $5,000 or more; elaborate ones can reach $30,000. Budget 10% to 15% of your total project for a water feature. They create an attractive focal point and go well with elevated hot tubs and spas.

Diving Board or Slide

• Slides: $1,000–$14,000 depending on design, manufacturer and features, such as water jets.

• Diving Boards: $300–$5,000. Installation pricing depends on the type you choose and on local codes and requirements. Discuss this with an installer before you buy a board.

Pool Decks

Pool decks, patios and coping cost $3,000 to $12,000. Fees increase by varying degrees if you choose a more elaborate design or an expensive material.

Heaters

Pool heater installation costs $1,500 to $4,000. The operating cost will range from $100 to $600 monthly. A heater can extend your swimming into cooler months.

Fencing or Enclosing your Pool

• Fence installation costs $13–$50 per linear foot, or a total between $1,500–$10,000.

• • Gates add $200–$350 each.

  • Removable fences: $100–$500 per panel. Includes locks and latches to keep it in place.

• Pool covers cost $600–$2,200 with installation.

• • High-end automatic and security options: $1,000-$15,000.

• Pool enclosures cost $5,000–$15,000. They extend your swimming season by retaining some heat and keeping the water cleaner, longer.

• Always install childproof locks and latches.

Fireplace

Outdoor fireplaces cost between $1,500 and $20,000, including installation, and depending on the materials you choose. The average cost is $3,000. Expect to pay $300 to $1,000 for a contractor to install a pre-made fireplace kit; customs projects will cost much more, but anticipate about $70 to $150 per hour of labor. 

Backyard Built-In Pool Landscaping Prices

Landscaping costs $1,500 to $5,200 on average. It plays a large role in pool project pricing. For sloping yards, you might want to discuss these options with a landscape designer near you.

• Retaining wall costs: $1,200–$13,000 and creates a level yard.

• Semi-in-ground pools cost $8,000–$10,000 more than an in-ground unit for a 12- by 24-foot model. They can be built directly into slopes and give you the opportunity to install an infinity edge, costing an additional $15,000 to $20,000.

• Resloping your lawn costs: $1,000–$3,000. Reuse the excavated dirt to level your yard. This can save you $1,000 or more on removal fees.

• Patio deck installation costs: $3,000–$12,000. Create a partial deck on the sloping side.

Landscaping rocks cost $460–$1,000. The natural look of stone makes for a relaxing escape. Available in natural and artificial, the price depends heavily on the type, amount and configuration.

Hiring a Below Ground Pool Installer vs. DIY

An in-ground pool is a great addition to your home—but it can also cause additions elsewhere, such as taxes and maintenance fees. If you decide to get one, careful planning can help you avoid unforeseen costs.

While an above-ground kit might make for an excellent DIY project, hire a professional to put one in the ground. One mistake during a DIY job can mean professional repairs and replacement at the least. At worst, you might cause damage to your home or property. Fixing those mistakes might end up costing more than hiring a professional to start. Bring in a pro for a consultation and find in-ground pool prices near you today.

When getting a quote, find out what the package includes. A typical turn-key package includes the electrical systems, pumps, plumbing, a simple deck area, and often a basic safety fence. Some packages include the shell and delivery only. Get a description of what's involved in writing.

FAQs

What is the cheapest in-ground pool?

Go for a premade fiberglass shell, which typically runs $20,000 to $40,000, for the cheapest in-ground pool.

What's the most affordable in-ground pool shape?

The most affordable in-ground pool shape depends on your yard, but it’s usually an oval or rectangle.

How does the type of pool affect cost?

The type of pool you choose (above ground, in-ground, lap or plunge) affects the price mostly due to the size and labor needed to put it in.

What's a walk-in pool, and how much does it cost to build?

At $50 to $125 per square foot, a walk-in pool, also known as a zero-entry or beach entry, allows you to walk down a slope into the water rather than using stairs.

How much does an underground pool liner cost?

An underground pool liner runs $1,000 to $2,500 on average. However, it depends on what material you choose.

What does it cost to convert a liner pool to Gunite?

Costs will vary but expect it to run between $50 and $80 per square foot to convert your liner to Gunite.