How Much Does a Plunge Pool Cost?

Average Plunge Pool Costs

The cost average of $10,000 to $35,000 for your lounge pool changes significantly based on your specific project. The type of basin you choose—concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl—impacts price.

Labor Rate for Building Plunge Pool

Professional installers will charge between $1,000 and $10,000 to build the dipping pool. They charge by the project, not based on hourly work. That typically includes:

• Building permit costs: $400-$1,800. Some municipalities require one for this type of installation.

• Land excavation rate : $1,500-$5,000. Included in some but not all estimates. Deeper ones will land on the higher end of that budget.

Your labor rates will increase if you choose to add additional features to the project, such as:

• Landscaping costs : $1,400-$5,200.

• Water features price: $1,000-$4,400.

Plunge Pool Costs by Material and Size

The two main factors to your plunge pool costs are the basin material and size of your space. Below is a summary of those price factors.

Concrete Plunge Pool Costs

Expect to pay between $20,000 and $35,000 for a concrete pool. That's combining $2,000 to $6,000 for labor and $18,000 to $30,000 for materials.

A gunite plunge pool is custom poured and extremely durable. It needs regular maintenance including an acid wash every three to five years to prevent leaks and mold. If there’s extensive damage, resurfacing the concrete can make it look new again. Pool replastering costs an average of $6,500.

Vinyl Lined Dipping Pool Costs

Rates for a vinyl-lined unit range between $10,000 and $18,000. Budget between $1,000 and $3,000 for labor, and $9,000 to $15,000 for materials. It’s a versatile option that can easily take on any shape you want.

It's easy to maintain but won't last as long as concrete. The average vinyl liner only lasts 6 to 12 years, while gunite only needs resurfaced every 10 years. If it breaks, the price to repair the vinyl liner ranges between $1,000 and $3,200.

In-Ground Fiberglass Pool Prices

If you're looking for a smaller basin, the cost for an in-ground fiberglass pool ranges between $10,000 and $22,000. Labor makes up between $1,500 and $4,000 of that budget, while materials account for the other $8,500 to $18,000.

Unlike concrete, fiberglass is pre-formed before it goes into the ground. That makes it less flexible when it comes to the shape. The upside is a lower installation price, low maintenance, and good durability.

Above-Ground Soaking Pool Costs

The price for an above-ground pool for soaking or lounging ranges between $3,000 and $30,000. You can buy and assemble a kit that simply sits on your patio or property. The alternative is pouring concrete into a custom shape above the ground.

For this model, you don't have to excavate the land. It just needs to be level. The basin will impede property sightlines, so make sure it fits into and matches your backyard design.

Average Cost of a Small Plunge Pool

The price for a small lounge pool falls between $10,000 and $15,000. For that lower price, you can go extra small with a basin diameter around six feet, just big enough to fit two or three people.

Larger models are typically around 10 to 12 feet in diameter. They're big enough to stretch out, but still don't offer quite enough space for swimming.

Dipping Pool Features and Prices

If you want more than just a basic basin, you will need to pay extra. Additional features can increase the usability and appearance of your backyard unit.

Cold Plunge Pool Costs vs. Heated

A cold lounge pool costs between $12,000 and $25,000. You might not be able to use the basin in winter because the water will be too cold. The cost of a pool heater adds between $1,600 and $3,600 to that budget, and gives you a more consistent water temperature.

Prices for an Infinity Lounge Pool

Infinity edge pool prices fall between $25,000 and $50,000. They're designed to look boundless, making them perfect for any property with a view or on an incline. They're difficult to install and require a more complex basin and pump system than standard edge models.

Tiling

Tiling a pool costs between $4 and $32 per square foot of labor, plus the price of the tile. Standard tiles like ceramic can be as low as $1 per square foot. Highly-stylized types like mosaic or glass run as high as $100 per square foot.

To save on labor and materials, consider only adding tiles to the top edge or coping. Pool coping costs an average of $40 per foot to install.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pool Installer

Building a lounge pool yourself will save labor costs, bringing your total budget to $8,000 to $45,000. That includes the price of the building permit and land excavation.

You can find basin designs and molds for as little as $4,000. The addition of a pump and other equipment will add to your budget.

When building your own feature, you'll need to do the research on whether or not you need a building permit. Land excavation is also on you. If you don't get it right, your basin could leak or not pump correctly. That's why hiring a local pool builder is the better alternative. Their experience and expertise will ensure a successful installation.

FAQs

What is a plunge pool?

A plunge pool is a smaller version of your regular swimming pool. It has a smaller footprint and is often, but not always, deeper than larger alternatives.

Standard sizes range from 6 feet to 12 feet. It's a simpler version of a spool, which is a combination of spa and pool that tends to include variable water temperatures and jets. The price of a spool averages slightly higher than a plunge unit.

What are the benefits of a dipping pool?

A dipping pool is perfect for properties with limited space. It allows you to jump in and cool off quickly or enjoy lounging for long periods of time. Because of its smaller footprint, this option also costs less than a larger in-ground model.

How much space do I need to build a plunge pool?

The space you need depends on the exact model you choose. An eight-by-eight round basin only needs a perimeter around 10 feet including the enclosure. If you want to add water features or a patio around it, you’ll need more space.

How do I maintain my soaking pool?

• Measure pH levels and keep them steady.

• Ensure consistent calcium and chloride levels.

• Cover the basin when possible or not in use.

• Clean it consistently.

If you don't have the time to take care of it yourself, professional pool maintenance costs between $75 and $100 per hour.

Can I add a plunge pool indoors?

Like regular swimming pools, plunge units can live indoors. Their small size makes them a perfect fit for your sunroom or extra living space. If you don't have to add an extension to your home, the price will be about the same as an outdoor alternative.

Can I swim in a plunge pool?

Plunge pools were not designed for swimming. However, you can wade or lounge in plunge pools. They’re great for taking a quick dip to cool off after exercise and for relaxing after a long day.

Is a plunge pool worth it?

In terms of return on investment (ROI), a plunge pool can be a smart home upgrade that attracts buyers—especially if you live in a warmer climate. Adding a pool to your home can increase your home’s value by 7%. 

However, keep in mind that not all buyers will want a plunge pool over a standard pool. And having a pool in the backyard could deter buyers with young kids.

Overall, whether or not a plunge pool is worth the cost will depend on the individual. If you love to swim or have kids or grandchildren who want to play and dive in the pool, a plunge pool may not be worth it since it’s only designed for wading and lounging.

However, if you’re more into therapeutic relaxation than swimming, a plunge pool could be the perfect option for you. It’ll cost significantly less and is easier to care for than a standard pool as well. 

Is it more affordable to build a plunge pool vs. a swimming pool?

You’ll spend less if you decide to install a plunge pool instead of a swimming pool. The average cost to build a plunge pool is $20,000, while the cost to build an in-ground swimming pool starts at $37,000 and goes up from there.