How Much Is An Inground Pool?

The answer to the question, “How much is an inground pool?” isn’t as simple as you might think. Beyond material and labor costs, there are other factors and hidden inground pool costs that can easily throw off your budget.

Below, we break down the cost to install an inground pool and offer money-saving tips to help you create a realistic budget.

The average cost of an inground pool is about $80 to $250 per square foot. However, the pool’s final pricing depends on a range of factors, including:

• Size and depth: Deeper and larger inground pools cost more simply because more materials are needed to build them, and a larger hole needs to be excavated, which is more time-consuming.

• Type and design: Rectangular-shaped pools are the most affordable, thanks to their simple shape. Lap pools are longer (and so cost more), while infinity and lagoon pools are the most expensive because of their intricate designs.

• Site conditions: Building a pool on a site with limited access and uneven terrain calls for specialized equipment, which increases construction costs.

• Location: Inground pool prices vary from state to state because of differences in material costs, labor rates, and permitting fees, so where you live will influence how much your inground pool costs.

How much it costs to install an inground pool depends on how difficult it is to excavate and prepare the site, how long the installation will take (and so how many hours of labor will be needed), what material you use to make the pool, how much the permit costs, and more. Don’t worry, we talk you through all these factors below. 

Excavation costs vary depending on soil conditions, terrain, pool design, and size, but they typically range from $500 to $4,500.

Budget tip: One of the easiest ways to keep your inground pool costs as close to your budget as possible is to work out the size of your inground pool. Then, you can get an accurate excavation estimate and avoid surprise costs later.

Considered the most expensive part of the process, labor usually makes up about 25 to 50% of the pool budget.

Budget tip: Instal the pool in fall or winter to get off-peak season promos and discounts. Most installers will cut you some kind of deal at that time of year. 

The great news for your purse strings is that pool shells can be made out of different materials to suit a wide range of budgets. Vinyl is the cheapest option in the shortrun but needs replacing every 10 years or so, while concrete is highly durable but very costly. People often opt for fiberglass as it's the most budget-friendly. Which you opt for will define how much your inground swimming pool costs.

• Concrete ($50,000 to $100,000) is durable and highly customizable but also comes with high maintenance costs.

• Fiberglass ($28,000 to $60,000) has the lowest maintenance cost, making it a budget-friendly option in the long run.

• Vinyl ($28,000 to $40,000), while initially cheaper, needs the liner replaced every decade, adding to the long-term maintenance costs.

Budget tip: Consider both long-term expenses and upfront costs when choosing a pool shell material.

Water pumps, filters, and heating systems are necessary for keeping your pool safe and functional, while saltwater systems and automation systems are upgrades that deliver added efficiency and comfort.

Budget tip: To keep the cost of your inground pool down, start with basic equipment, then upgrade over time when your budget allows.

Pool projects require site plans, building permits, and other construction drawings. The cost of the permitting process ranges from $450 to $1800, depending on regulations and pricing in your state.

Budget tip: If allowed by local authorities, use non-certified site plans . These are more affordable and quicker to complete than certified versions.

Design and water features, like decking, landscaping, pool deck jets, and bubblers, give the pool a relaxing and inviting vibe. While these features deliver therapeutic benefits, they also come with added costs.

When calculating how much an inground pool costs, don’t forget to consider pool maintenance expenses, too. Cleaning, chemical treatments, inspections, and occasional repairs add significant costs over time, so make sure to factor them into your budget.

Here’s a surprising way to save on pool installation: hire professionals! While they usually charge more, their expertise helps prevent costly mistakes and saves you money in the long run.

With the help of pool designers and builders, you can create a functional and safe pool within budget. A drafting firm, like MySitePlan, provides site plans and construction drawings without the hassle.

With our non-certified site plans, you can avoid unnecessary delays and expenses. Contact us now to learn how we can help.