How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost To Install?
Do you dream of lounging poolside at a moment’s notice without hauling all your stuff to and from the noisy, chaotic community pool? Then it might be time to become a pool owner! Installing an inground pool on your property can give you the freedom to relax, but how much will it cost? Learn what you can expect to pay to install a private inground swimming pool.
What factors can influence the average inground pool cost?
The cost of an inground swimming pool will vary depending on several factors, including:
Pool material
Material is a major factor in your overall pool price. Gunite (concrete) is the most expensive option, but it’s also more durable than other materials. Fiberglass, which comes in a pre-molded shell, is the mid-range solution. Vinyl is budget-friendly, but may require regular liner replacements.
Shape and size
Larger, more complex shapes will cost more than smaller, pre-fab pools because they require more intensive design services, building materials, and labor. You can expect to pay more for a sprawling lagoon or infinity pool than for a rectangle measuring 200 square feet.
Pool features
If you want to create a luxury oasis in your backyard, you can include premium features and amenities like:
- Water features, grottos, and rock features
- Attached spas or hot tubs
- Heating systems
- Lights and automation systems
- Saltwater conversion systems
Keep in mind that these will add to your total upfront investment as well as ongoing maintenance costs.
Site preparation
Take a look at your backyard. Is it easy for construction crews to access with large equipment? Are there trees that need to be removed? Is your soil rocky, or is the ground heavily sloped? Will you need to build or remodel a deck after installation? The answers to these questions will play a role in the total installation cost of your inground pool.
Location
Your geographic location will determine how much you pay for labor, construction materials, permits, and inspection fees. Because Florida has a competitive market, the costs may be lower than in other parts of the country. That said, you may pay more in a big city or a high-cost-of-living area.
Related: In-Ground vs Above Ground Pools
How much do inground pool materials cost?
Understanding the average price of inground pools based on materials used will help you estimate how much installation may cost in your area.
Vinyl liner
Vinyl pools are the most cost-effective option, averaging between $30,000 and $50,000. The components include:
- Liner material: $2,000-$5,000
-
Installation: $20,000-$35,000
- Wall panels, flooring, structural framing: $5,000-$10,000
- Add-ons (cover, heater, lights, water features, etc.): $5,000-$15,000+
Fiberglass
A typical fiberglass pool may cost between $45,000 and $70,000, including installation. Here’s how the expenses work out:
- Shell: $10,000-$25,000
- Installation: $25,000-$45,000
- Add-ons: $5,000-$20,000+
Concrete
In-ground concrete pools are the gold standard for backyard spas, offering unrivaled durability and more flexibility in style and design. They may cost between $50,000 and $100,000, including:
- Concrete structure: $35,000–$60,000
- Rebar framework and gunite application: $10,000–$20,000
- Finishing (tile, plaster, pebble surfaces): $5,000–$15,000
- Add-ons: $10,000–$40,000+
- Related: Concrete Pool Resurfacing Cost: What to Expect
What other costs should you consider with an inground pool?
In addition to building materials, labor, and taxes, you can expect a few additional costs associated with installing an inground pool on your property:
Required permits
You or your builder will likely need to obtain permits from the city or county before beginning construction. Check for necessary building, electrical, and plumbing permits, as well as approval from your HOA, if applicable.
Financing costs
While some people pay in cash, it’s more common to finance installation through a home equity loan, personal loan, or pool-specific financing plan.
Insurance costs
Installing a pool on your property will usually increase the price of your annual homeowner’s insurance premium. Make sure you include all mandatory safety features, such as fencing, alarms, and pool covers, to maintain compliance.
Return on your investment
A high-quality swimming pool will increase your home’s value, but it may not provide a one-to-one payoff. In most cases, a pool’s ROI is around 50%, meaning that a $50,000 pool may add around $25,000 to your property value.
Ongoing maintenance costs
Depending on the type of inground pool you install, you may incur a number of maintenance costs, including:
- Cleaning and chemical balancing
- Electricity
- Water
- Parts and repairs
- Resurfacing every 10 to 15 years
- Liner replacement every seven to 10 years
Related reading: Pool Maintenance 101: How To Care for Your Pool
Explore your options for quality inground pool products at GPS Pools!
GPS Pools is all about maximizing your outdoor living space and helping you create the ultimate spa sanctuary. We do it all, from design and installation to long-term maintenance. Explore our wide range of products, or reach out today to learn more!