Inground Pool Cost Calculator
Estimate the total cost of installing a swimming pool. Choose your pool type, size, and desired features to get a realistic budget including construction, decking, fencing, and annual maintenance costs.
How Pool Cost Estimator Works
Inground pool cost in this estimator starts at $25,000 for a small vinyl liner pool and reaches $95,000 for a large concrete/gunite pool, before heaters, decking, fencing and permits. Pick a pool type, size and add-ons above to see installation cost, yearly upkeep and a 5-year total, all calculated privately in your browser.
Inground Swimming Pool Cost by Type and Size
These are the base pool construction figures this calculator uses, before add-ons and the $400 permit allowance:
| Pool type | Small (10x20) | Medium (15x30) | Large (20x40) | Yearly upkeep |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl liner | $25,000 | $35,000 | $45,000 | $1,800 |
| Fiberglass | $30,000 | $45,000 | $60,000 | $1,500 |
| Concrete/gunite | $40,000 | $65,000 | $95,000 | $2,400 |
Heating is the biggest optional add-on: the estimator adds $3,000 for a gas heater, $4,000 for solar pool heat and $5,000 for a pool heat pump. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that solar pool heaters are cost competitive with gas and heat pump heaters and have a low annual operating cost, that air-source heat pumps are especially efficient with warm outside air, and that pool covers can save 50-70% of pool heating costs (DOE Better Buildings, Pool Efficiency). For sizing, DOE says solar heating needs a collector equal to 50% to 100% of the pool's surface area; a 15-by-30 foot pool in Florida typically needs about 450 square feet of collectors (DOE, Heat Your Water with the Sun).
How Much Does a Swimming Pool Cost?
Swimming pool costs range from $3,000 for above-ground pools to $100,000+ for custom inground concrete pools. The average inground pool costs $35,000-$65,000 including installation. Above-ground pools cost $3,000-$8,000. Vinyl liner inground pools cost $25,000-$45,000. Fiberglass pools cost $30,000-$60,000. Concrete/gunite pools offer the most customization at $40,000-$100,000+. The pool shell is just the starting point — decking, fencing, landscaping, equipment, and permits add 30-50% to the base cost.
Pool Types Compared
Above-ground pools offer the lowest cost and fastest installation but have limited size options and shorter lifespan (7-15 years). Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable inground option but liners need replacement every 5-9 years ($4,000-$6,000). Fiberglass pools arrive pre-manufactured for quick installation (1-2 weeks) with smooth, low-maintenance surfaces lasting 25+ years. Concrete/gunite pools are fully customizable in shape and size, lasting 50+ years with proper maintenance but requiring resurfacing every 10-15 years.
Annual Pool Maintenance Costs
Expect $1,200-$3,600 annually for pool maintenance including chemicals ($600-$1,200), electricity for pumps and heaters ($600-$1,200), cleaning and service ($500-$1,500), and periodic repairs. A heated pool increases energy costs by $100-$300 per month during swim season. Pool covers reduce heating costs by 50-70% and chemical usage. Opening and closing the pool seasonally costs $300-$500. Insurance premiums may increase $50-$100 annually. Factor these ongoing costs into your total pool budget.
Getting the Most from This Tool
Start by exploring the default settings to understand what the tool offers, then customize the inputs to match your specific needs. Use the results as a starting point for deeper analysis or decision-making. Bookmark this page for quick access in the future. All processing happens in your browser, so your data stays private and the tool works even without an internet connection after the initial page load.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an inground pool cost?
Inground pools cost $25,000-$100,000+ depending on type. Vinyl liner: $25,000-$45,000. Fiberglass: $30,000-$60,000. Concrete: $40,000-$100,000+.
How much does pool maintenance cost?
Annual maintenance costs $1,200-$3,600 including chemicals, electricity, cleaning, and repairs.
Does a pool increase home value?
Pools typically add 5-8% to home value in warm climates but can actually decrease value in cold climates. ROI is generally 40-50%.
How long does pool installation take?
Above-ground: 1-3 days. Fiberglass: 1-2 weeks. Vinyl liner: 2-4 weeks. Concrete: 6-12 weeks.
Do I need a permit for a pool?
Yes, most municipalities require building permits for pools. Permits typically cost $200-$500 and may require fencing and safety inspections.
How long do pools last?
Above-ground: 7-15 years. Vinyl liner: 20+ years (liner replacement every 5-9 years). Fiberglass: 25+ years. Concrete: 50+ years.
What is the cheapest type of inground pool?
In this estimator, a vinyl liner pool is the lowest-cost inground option at $25,000-$45,000 for the pool itself, versus $30,000-$60,000 for fiberglass and $40,000-$95,000 for concrete/gunite. Vinyl liners need replacement every 5-9 years, so compare the 5-year total, not just the build price.
Is solar pool heat or a pool heat pump better for an inground pool?
The U.S. Department of Energy says solar pool heaters are cost competitive with gas and heat pump pool heaters and have a low annual operating cost, while air-source heat pumps are especially efficient when outside air is warm. This estimator adds $4,000 for solar and $5,000 for a heat pump.