How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost?
Last updated: May 4, 2026 by the How Much Does That Cost? editorial team. Estimates are informational - see our methodology.
An inground pool costs $35,000 to $85,000 on average for a typical residential pool, or roughly $75 to $190 per square foot of pool surface depending on material. Gunite (concrete) pools sit at the higher end because they're fully custom, while fiberglass and vinyl-liner pools are faster to install and generally cheaper.
A small vinyl-liner pool in an easy-access backyard can come in under $30,000, while a large custom gunite pool with a tanning ledge, water features, and a full patio surround can push past $100,000. The calculator below adjusts for your pool size, material, and site conditions.
Quick Answer
Typical range: $35,000 – $85,000
Low end
$25,000
High end
$150,000+
Actual pricing varies by location, project size, materials, labor rates, and job complexity. Use the calculator below for an estimate tailored to your project.
an Inground Pool Cost Calculator
Adjust the inputs below for an estimate tailored to your project.
Optional upgrades
Estimated Project Cost
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Typical estimate: —
This is an estimate, not a quote. Actual pricing depends on your specific project details and local contractor pricing.
Cost Breakdown
How a typical project budget breaks down by category.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Excavation & site prep | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Pool shell (materials & construction) | $15,000 – $45,000 |
| Plumbing & electrical | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Equipment (pump, filter, heater) | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Decking/patio surround | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Permits & inspections | $500 – $2,000 |
What Affects the Cost
Pool material
Vinyl liner is the cheapest option upfront but needs periodic liner replacement. Fiberglass installs quickly and holds up well but comes in preset shapes. Gunite/concrete costs the most but can be built in any custom shape and lasts decades with resurfacing.
Pool size and shape
Larger pools and custom shapes (versus standard rectangles) require more excavation, material, and forming labor, directly increasing cost.
Site accessibility and excavation
Rocky soil, steep slopes, limited equipment access, or trees that need removal can significantly add to excavation time and cost, especially for crane-set fiberglass shells.
Decking and surround material
The patio surface around the pool — concrete, pavers, or natural stone — is often priced separately from the pool itself and can add thousands depending on material and size.
Added features
Heaters, saltwater systems, automatic covers, tanning ledges, and water features are common upgrades that each add to the base pool price.
Permits and local code
Most municipalities require permits, inspections, and a compliant safety fence or pool alarm, which vary in cost and requirements by location.
Cost by Pool Size
| Pool Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 300 sq ft | $22,500 – $57,000 |
| 450 sq ft | $33,750 – $85,500 |
| 600 sq ft | $45,000 – $114,000 |
| 800 sq ft | $60,000 – $152,000 |
| 1,000 sq ft | $75,000 – $190,000 |
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Doing it yourself
Inground pool construction is almost never a true DIY project — it involves heavy excavation equipment, structural engineering, and licensed plumbing/electrical work. Some homeowners DIY the decking, landscaping, or fencing around a professionally installed pool to save money.
Hiring a professional
Licensed pool contractors handle excavation, shell construction, plumbing, electrical, and code compliance, and typically manage the multi-week process from permits through final inspection.
Bottom line: Hire a licensed, insured pool builder for the pool itself; DIY is realistic only for the surrounding landscaping, decking finish, or fencing.
Ways to Save
- Choose fiberglass or vinyl liner instead of gunite if custom shape isn't a priority.
- Schedule construction in fall or winter when pool builders have more availability and lower demand.
- Keep the pool shape simple (rectangle or standard fiberglass shape) rather than a fully custom design.
- Use pavers or stamped concrete instead of premium natural stone for the surrounding patio.
- Get at least 3 written quotes from licensed pool builders and compare what's included.
- Add a manual or solar cover instead of an automatic cover if budget is tight.
How We Estimated This Cost
We model each calculator from public price ranges, labor data, material pricing, industry surveys, and the regional adjustment method explained in our methodology. Estimates are reviewed for consumer usefulness, then shown as ranges because local quotes, site conditions, materials, and timing can change the final price.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an inground pool cost on average?
The average inground pool costs about $55,000 installed, with most homeowners paying between $35,000 and $85,000 depending on size, material, and added features.
What is the cheapest type of inground pool?
Vinyl-liner pools are typically the cheapest inground option, followed by fiberglass. Gunite/concrete pools cost the most because they're fully custom-built on site.
How much does it cost to maintain an inground pool per month?
Routine maintenance (chemicals, electricity, occasional service) typically runs $100-$300 per month, though this varies with pool size, climate, and whether you self-maintain or hire a pool service.
How long does it take to install an inground pool?
Fiberglass pools can be installed in as little as 3-6 weeks from permit to swim-ready. Gunite/concrete pools typically take 8-12 weeks or longer due to the multi-stage curing and finishing process.
Does an inground pool add home value?
A well-maintained inground pool can add value in warm climates where pools are expected, but the return varies widely by region and rarely fully recoups the installation cost in cooler climates.
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