Inground Pool Cost Guide

How much does an inground pool cost? This cost guide breaks down everything you need to know about the cost of an inground pool.

The reality is that any swimming pool purchase is a significant financial commitment. It is vital to do your homework to determine the exact costs of your new inground pool and its return on investment.

What Homeowners Need to Know Before Buying

As North America’s leading distributor of fiberglass pools, exclusively representing the world’s largest manufacturer of fiberglass swimming pools, we have put this blog together to make your job as the homeowner easier in choosing the right pool for your project. Our job as a company is to be truthful and transparent with all our customers to serve them and increase their knowledge about swimming pools to have an excellent overall experience.

Please note that the numbers provided within this inground pool cost guide are an approximation, and your pool’s price may vary depending on various factors, including region, the pool installer, access, size, etc. Contact us directly for a more precise quote for your project.

What Most Buyers Overlook When Budgeting for a Pool

As someone who is looking for a pool, one of the first and most important questions that may come to your mind are the following:

How much does a swimming pool cost?
What is the cost difference between different types of pools?

Unfortunately, many people only stick to the above questions and do not consider some of the more important factors that impact the overall long-term cost of owning a pool, such as:

Maintenance Costs
Installation Time
Hidden Fees
Return on Investment (Especially if planning to sell your property)
Usability

Don’t worry! We have put this blog together for you to have more confidence in purchasing a swimming pool based on your budget and the expected long-term costs associated with owning each type of pool.

Above Ground Pools vs. Inground Pools

Depending on the chosen quality, size, and brand, an above-ground pool can cost you between $3,500 to $12,500. On the other hand, inground pool prices start from $25,000 to over $100,000 depending on the type of inground pool, its size, brand, installation time, installer’s brand image, etc. Vinyl liner pools cost between $25,000 and $75,000. Fiberglass pools cost between $30,000 and $85,000. Concrete pools cost between $55,000 and $150,000.

Above Ground Pool Costs

$3,500 to $12,500
An above-ground pool has two elements: Above-ground pool kit and Installation.

Many companies specialize only in selling above-ground pool kits without actually offering installation on their sales. This is because many homeowners consider the DIY installation of above-ground pools, especially if they are looking for a small above-ground pool.

Usually, the price and life of the above-ground pool will be longer if it has more resin and less metal. However, oval and uniquely shaped above-ground pools will generally cost more than a standard rectangular above-ground pool. This is because of the more costly installation and pool kits.

These days, many big-box stores worldwide, including Walmart, have started selling above-ground pool kits. However, homeowners must remember that less expensive above-ground pools must be replaced between 1 – 3 seasons.

Comparison table of above-ground pool vs inground pool

Vinyl Liner Inground Pool Costs

$25,000 to $75,000
For years, Vinyl Liner has been considered the least expensive type of inground pool. This was true because of the affordability of its materials (Steel Kits). This has significantly changed over the past few years due to the price increase of raw materials, increasing the costs of pool installers leading to a more expensive final product for the end-user.

Vinyl Liners also have high maintenance costs, especially with the need to replace the liner after several years. This has increased the shift of homeowners toward fiberglass instead of the vinyl liner as the budget is not that much different anymore. Still, the overall benefits of a fiberglass pool win over a vinyl liner.

Inground pool in vinyl liner with tear.
Vinyl liner is still a highly popular option among people who do not have the budget for a concrete pool and want something customized in terms of shape and depth that fiberglass pool manufacturers do not offer.

Fiberglass Pool Costs

$30,000 to $85,000
Fiberglass pool cost infographic highlighting fast installation, ROI, and durability.
Fiberglass pools are among the newest and most popular inground swimming pools worldwide. Its market has significantly grown over the past 25 years in North America due to the following:

Unbeatable Fast Installation Time (2-4 Days)
-Durability
-Longevity
-Low Maintenance Costs
-Advanced Technologies
-Return on Investment (ROI)

In the past, fiberglass pools used to be slightly more expensive than vinyl liner pools due to higher manufacturing costs on the fiberglass shell and shipping costs on the transportation of the fiberglass pool shell to the property. In most properties, fiberglass pools are lifted over the house by a crane to be placed into the excavated area.

However, today, fiberglass pools are not only better than alternatives in terms of overall offerings, but their prices are also very competitive as the pandemic increased the prices of vinyl kits and liners, making them less attractive.

Fiberglass pool installation can be done in as little as 2 to 4 days, depending on the size of the fiberglass pool, access and pool installer you are working with.

Concrete Inground Pool Costs
$55,000 to $150,000
High-end concrete inground swimming pool under construction.
Concrete pools are the most expensive option for inground pools, especially considering their initial costs. The cost is highly variable depending on the size of the pool, selected material (White plaster / Exposed Aggregate), and finishing material (Tiles / Aggregate / Plaster). The maintenance costs of a concrete pool are also high. Considering its requirement for pool resurfacing after several years and continuous cleaning requirements due to proneness to algae.

Concrete pools can also take significantly longer to build in comparison to vinyl liner and fiberglass pools. Homeowners looking for a customized shape and high-end pool consider concrete as an option.

Choosing the Right Pool for Your Lifestyle and Budget

When choosing the right pool for your home, it’s not just about the pool cost. It’s about how your pool fits your lifestyle, backyard space, and long-term plans. Whether you’re considering a full-length large pool or a compact design with swim jets, understanding the swimming pool prices of different options will help you make an informed decision. Two of the most common choices for homeowners are above-ground pools and inground pools, and each has its pros and cons depending on your goals.

Above-ground pools can be a practical solution for families looking for a quick and affordable way to cool off during the warmer months. Installation is fast, upfront swimming pool costs are generally lower, and they can be disassembled or relocated if needed. If you’re renting, planning to move soon, or just testing out the pool lifestyle, this might be a good start.

However, there are trade-offs. Above-ground pools are often smaller, less durable, and have limited customization options. They usually don’t add value to your property, and their lifespan is significantly shorter than permanent alternatives. Long-term, the cost of maintenance, limited usability during the year, and frequent repairs may outweigh the initial savings.

Inground Pool Cost Guide

If you’re seeking a long-term investment that elevates your backyard, enhances your lifestyle, and increases your property value, inground pools are a wiser choice. While the inground swimming pool cost may be higher upfront compared to above-ground options, the benefits they offer in return are significant.

Why Inground Pools Are the Smarter Long-Term Choice

Inground pools are permanent structures that can be tailored to your exact vision or prefabricated for your convenience. Whether you want a sleek modern look, integrated water features, or energy-efficient systems. The inground pool cost varies based on materials, size, complexity, and region, but many homeowners find the value well worth the investment.

Among the different types of inground pools, fiberglass pools stand out due to their low maintenance, fast installation, and sleek appearance. While fiberglass pool cost can be slightly more than vinyl at the start, the long-term savings on chemicals, repairs, and energy efficiency make it a popular choice. It’s also worth noting that fiberglass pools typically have fewer hidden costs and offer better longevity with minimal upkeep.

If you’re planning to stay in your home for several years or looking to boost resale value, understanding the cost of an inground pool from start to finish is essential. You also want to factor in the inground pool installation cost, which includes excavation, plumbing, electrical work, and any landscaping or decking around the pool.

Comparing Inground Pool Prices: Lap Pools vs. Compact Pools with Swim Jets

Large pools are typically longer and spacious, often exceeding 30 feet in length, which naturally increases your inground pool price due to the need for more materials, excavation, and labour. These pools are ideal for fitness enthusiasts or homeowners with larger properties looking for a dedicated swimming space.

On the other hand, compact inground fiberglass pools with integrated swim jets offer a smart solution for smaller backyards. Pools that are 13 to 20 feet can create a current, allowing for continuous swim workouts without taking up too much space. From a cost perspective, they offer excellent value for money, with lower installation costs and significantly reduced ongoing maintenance.

Large Inground Pool Price Range: $65,000 to $120,000+
Small Inground Pool Price Range: $35,000 to $60,000

Both options offer excellent return on investment, especially in high-end neighbourhoods where outdoor living spaces add significant real estate value.

Visual comparison of inground pool cost for lap pools versus small fiberglass pools with swim jets.

Understanding Inground Pool Installation Costs

Another important aspect of the cost of an inground pool is the installation itself. Many homeowners underestimate the variation in inground pool installation costs. These range from $10,000 to over $40,000, depending on access, soil type, backyard slope, and local labour rates.

For example:

Standard fiberglass pool install (easy access): $10,000–$18,000
Complex install requiring crane, grading, or permits: $20,000–$40,000+

This is why it’s important to work with a reputable dealer and installer who can give you transparent pricing based on your specific site conditions.

What Affects the Cost of an Inground Pool Installation?

1. Access to Your Backyard
If your backyard is accessible with construction equipment, you’ll save significantly on labour. But if a crane is required to lift the pool over your home, or if fences and landscaping must be removed and replaced, the installation price increases substantially.

2. Soil Type and Ground Conditions
Rocky soil, high water tables, or unstable ground conditions will require additional excavation time, specialized equipment, or soil stabilization — all of which impact the overall inground pool cost.

3. Backyard Slope or Elevation Changes
Sloped yards may require retaining walls, backfilling, or custom engineering. These elements increase both the complexity and the cost of an inground pool project.

4. Permits and Local Regulations
Every municipality has its own zoning and building codes. If your area has strict permit requirements or requires additional safety features, this can affect both your timeline and your budget.

Swimming Pool Installation Price Ranges

Here’s a closer look at typical inground swimming pool cost ranges when it comes to installation:

Whether you’re planning a large lap pool or a compact fiberglass plunge pool, installation costs can make up a significant portion of your total pool cost. It’s essential to include these costs in your budgeting process.

For homeowners focused on efficiency and long-term value, fiberglass pools are a standout choice. Not only is the fiberglass pool cost more predictable, but the streamlined installation process also helps keep labour and project timelines manageable.

Why Pool Installation Costs Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought

Many homeowners begin their search focused only on the advertised swimming pool prices, but the true investment lies in the combination of the pool shell, accessories, landscaping, and most importantly, installation.

By working with an experienced dealer and authorized installer, you’ll receive a clear inground pool cost guide tailored to your unique property. This ensures you get accurate inground pool prices upfront, with no budget surprises later.

Final Note

If you are looking for something temporary and small to be able to use with the kids for a season or two, look into the above-ground pool options. Or, if you plan to have a pool that offers good return on investment, definitely proceed with an inground pool. If you are looking for a pool that you can customize, especially if you are looking at larger pools with a width of over 15 feet and length of over 40 feet, choose between vinyl and concrete depending on your budget, purpose and use.

Suppose you would like to have an inground swimming pool that is strong, reliable, valuable with minimal long-term maintenance costs and can be installed within a few days. In that case, fiberglass pools are your number one choice.

We offer fiberglass pools that are as small as 10 feet to as large as 33 feet. We are among the only companies that offer fiberglass pools with waterline porcelain tiles, which gives you the high-end concrete appearance at a much more affordable price. If you are thinking of a fiberglass swimming pool, our team would be more than happy to help you choose the fiberglass pool of your dreams and have it installed within days by one of our Authorized Dealers.

Leading Inground Fiberglass Swimming Pool Distributor

If you are looking for an inground fiberglass swimming pool, PENTARM POOLS is the right choice. We operate through a network of robust authorized dealers across North America to ensure high-quality installations, the fastest delivery times and competitive prices.

Our goal is to help everyone choose the pool of their dreams. Experience the difference of working with a customer-centric company like PENTARM POOLS. Get in touch with one of our sales representatives to choose the pool that is best for you.