How Much You'll Sink Into a Swimming Pool: Installation Costs by Pool Type

A pool can be a great addition to your backyard. It encourages you to stay active in the fresh air and, according to HGTV, can add 5% to 8% to the value of your home.

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However, pool prices can be high. If you want something custom or oversized, think even higher. Knowing pool installation costs for different types of pools can help you decide what to add to your home.

Costs by Pool Type

The following prices are the U.S. average, but labor and material costs can make a pool price more or less expensive in different locations. You should also budget for taxes and permit fees, which differ depending on location and aren’t included in the prices below. Unless otherwise specified, the prices are for a 12-foot by 24-foot pool.

Inground

As the name suggests, inground pools are sunk into the ground. They’re the most expensive option, as the hole needs to be dug and materials must be taken away. The average cost for an inground pool is $38,000 (CAD 50,876), which includes the excavation and leveling of the area as well as installation of the pool. Materials have a large impact on cost, with vinyl significantly more affordable than concrete.

Above-Ground

Above-ground pools don’t require excavation. As long as your backyard is relatively level, the pool frame can be placed directly on the ground. Above-ground pools can also be removed when you move, making them a good choice for renters. Depending on the size, you may still need a permit. The average cost for an above-ground pool is $3,481 (CAD 4,659). You can also save money on labor by buying a DIY kit and installing it yourself.

Semi-Inground

As the name suggests, semi-inground pools sit partly in the ground and partly above the ground. They tend to look better than above-ground pools but are easier to install than inground pools. They can be a great choice if your backyard has rocky ground that's expensive to excavate. Pool Gnome states that the average cost is $11,600 (CAD 15,523) but doesn’t specify the size of the pool.

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Costs by Pool Material

Pools are most often made from concrete, fiberglass or a vinyl liner. There are different costs involved for each type. Unless otherwise specified, the prices are for a 12-foot by 24-foot pool.

Concrete

Concrete pools are made using concrete forms, reinforcement and construction. They’re difficult to damage, so they'll last a long time before repairs are needed. It’s also easier to customize a concrete pool as they’re poured on-site. They're the most expensive choice, with an average cost of $30,833 (CAD 41,279).

Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are manufactured off-site and delivered as a one-piece insert. Like concrete, they’re a durable option. As they have a nonporous surface, they also need fewer chemicals and less maintenance to keep clean. The cost for a fiberglass pool averages $28,047 (CAD 37,552).

Vinyl

Vinyl pools consist of a vinyl liner mounted on steel frames. Vinyl is the most affordable pool choice and is quick to install. However, they do need to be replaced more frequently than fiberglass or concrete. The average cost for a vinyl liner pool is $18,517 (CAD 24,791).

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Special Pool Types

A regular pool can bring joy to your life and add value to your home, no matter what type it is. But you may be looking for something a little special. Infinity pools and plunge pools can add a designer touch to your backyard.

Infinity Pool

Infinity pools are popular on Instagram because of the vanishing edge that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. The water runs over the edge into a catch basin and is pumped back into the pool. The average cost for an infinity pool installation is $44,160 (CAD 59,152). When budgeting for this job, you should also consider the cost of proper landscaping to enhance the beauty of the pool. Ongoing costs for an infinity pool are also higher than other types of pool. The additional pump adds to energy costs, and the catch basin adds to maintenance costs.

Plunge Pool

Plunge pools are sometimes known as cocktail pools. They're small pools that are good for people with limited yard space or those who want more yard for gardening or other features. Depending on the size, a plunge pool can also double as a hot tub. Some people add swim jets to the pool so they can still exercise, even though the pool isn’t large enough for laps. The cost of a plunge pool will generally start at $10,000 (CAD 13,395) for vinyl or fiberglass and $20,000 (CAD 26,793) for concrete.

Saltwater Pools

All pool types can use saltwater rather than chlorinated water. Saltwater pools tend to have lower maintenance costs, and there are also no ongoing chemical costs. The average cost for a saltwater pool is $16,000 (CAD 21,436). These costs vary widely depending on the type of installation you choose. It’s also possible to convert an existing pool to saltwater using a DIY conversion kit.