Over the past five years, the cost of building a swimming pool has changed dramatically. What was once considered a luxury item that only fluctuated with seasonal demand is now heavily impacted by global economic forces—tariffs, inflation, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages have all played a role in reshaping pool pricing.
Whether you’re looking at an above ground model or a fully customized luxury inground pool, understanding how pricing has evolved and where it stands now can help you plan more effectively and avoid sticker shock.
Why Are Pool Prices Higher Today?
Several macroeconomic trends have driven pool prices higher since 2020:
1. Inflation
General inflation has affected all aspects of construction—especially building materials like concrete, PVC piping, rebar, and electrical components. This has directly increased the cost of pool shells, plumbing systems, and decking materials.
2. Tariffs on Imported Materials
Tariffs on goods from countries such as China and Turkey have raised costs for tile, natural stone, filters, and electronic components. Many pool products—especially automation systems and LED lights—depend on parts that are no longer as affordable as they were five years ago.
3. Labor Shortages
Pool construction requires skilled labor across multiple trades—excavation, plumbing, electrical, masonry, etc. Labor shortages and rising wages have pushed installation costs up across the board.
4. Pandemic-Era Demand Spike
COVID-19 lockdowns caused a boom in backyard investment. Pool demand skyrocketed from 2020 to 2022, creating backlogs, driving prices up, and pushing timelines out months or even years in some areas. While demand has since normalized, prices have not returned to pre-2020 levels.
Average Pool Pricing in 2025–2026
Here’s what you can expect to pay in today’s market:
Above Ground Pool Prices (Installed)
| Pool Type | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Soft-Sided Pool Kit | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| Steel Wall Pool Kit | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Fully Installed Above Ground Pool | $7,000 – $15,000+ |
Above ground pools remain the most affordable option, but even here, prices have risen approximately 30% since 2019 due to higher material and freight costs.
Inground Pool Prices by Type (Turnkey Installation)
| Pool Type | 2020 Avg Price | 2025–2026 Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Liner | $35,000 | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Fiberglass | $45,000 | $55,000 – $85,000 |
| Concrete / Gunite | $60,000 | $75,000 – $120,000+ |
On average, inground pool prices have risen between 20% and 35% since 2020, depending on region and customization.
Average Pool Pricing by State and Pool Type (2025–2026)
Below is a table of estimated average prices for a mid-sized residential pool (approx. 14’x28’) by pool type and state. These numbers reflect standard packages including basic filtration, shell, standard decking, and installation.
Note: Pricing may vary based on contractor, upgrades, soil conditions, permitting, and accessibility.
| State | Vinyl Pool | Fiberglass Pool | Concrete Pool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $45,000 | $58,000 | $85,000 |
| Alaska | $60,000 | $75,000 | $100,000 |
| Arizona | $47,000 | $60,000 | $92,000 |
| Arkansas | $44,000 | $56,000 | $82,000 |
| California | $60,000 | $75,000 | $110,000 |
| Colorado | $53,000 | $66,000 | $98,000 |
| Connecticut | $55,000 | $68,000 | $100,000 |
| Delaware | $50,000 | $63,000 | $95,000 |
| Florida | $48,000 | $62,000 | $90,000 |
| Georgia | $48,000 | $61,000 | $88,000 |
| Hawaii | $65,000 | $80,000 | $120,000 |
| Idaho | $50,000 | $63,000 | $92,000 |
| Illinois | $52,000 | $66,000 | $93,000 |
| Indiana | $48,000 | $61,000 | $88,000 |
| Iowa | $46,000 | $59,000 | $86,000 |
| Kansas | $45,000 | $58,000 | $85,000 |
| Kentucky | $45,000 | $58,000 | $85,000 |
| Louisiana | $46,000 | $59,000 | $87,000 |
| Maine | $55,000 | $68,000 | $100,000 |
| Maryland | $55,000 | $68,000 | $98,000 |
| Massachusetts | $57,000 | $70,000 | $102,000 |
| Michigan | $54,000 | $67,000 | $96,000 |
| Minnesota | $55,000 | $68,000 | $98,000 |
| Mississippi | $44,000 | $56,000 | $82,000 |
| Missouri | $47,000 | $61,000 | $88,000 |
| Montana | $50,000 | $65,000 | $95,000 |
| Nebraska | $48,000 | $63,000 | $90,000 |
| Nevada | $53,000 | $66,000 | $96,000 |
| New Hampshire | $56,000 | $69,000 | $100,000 |
| New Jersey | $58,000 | $72,000 | $105,000 |
| New Mexico | $47,000 | $60,000 | $90,000 |
| New York | $58,000 | $72,000 | $105,000 |
| North Carolina | $50,000 | $63,000 | $90,000 |
| North Dakota | $52,000 | $66,000 | $93,000 |
| Ohio | $51,000 | $64,000 | $92,000 |
| Oklahoma | $46,000 | $59,000 | $87,000 |
| Oregon | $56,000 | $70,000 | $100,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $55,000 | $68,000 | $98,000 |
| Rhode Island | $57,000 | $70,000 | $102,000 |
| South Carolina | $48,000 | $61,000 | $88,000 |
| South Dakota | $46,000 | $59,000 | $86,000 |
| Tennessee | $47,000 | $60,000 | $87,000 |
| Texas | $50,000 | $65,000 | $95,000 |
| Utah | $50,000 | $65,000 | $95,000 |
| Vermont | $56,000 | $70,000 | $100,000 |
| Virginia | $54,000 | $67,000 | $96,000 |
| Washington | $55,000 | $68,000 | $98,000 |
| West Virginia | $48,000 | $61,000 | $88,000 |
| Wisconsin | $52,000 | $66,000 | $94,000 |
| Wyoming | $51,000 | $65,000 | $92,000 |
What Budget Should You Plan For?
A good rule of thumb is to allocate 10–15% of your home’s value toward your pool budget:
- $500,000 home → $50,000–$75,000 pool
- $750,000 home → $75,000–$100,000 pool
- $1,000,000 home → $100,000–$150,000 pool
If you want extras like spas, automation, high-end decking, or an outdoor kitchen, plan toward the higher end of that range.
Note: These estimates include basic decking, filtration, and standard finishes—but not luxury features like automation, spas, or elaborate water features.
What Should Your Pool Budget Be?
With costs continuing to fluctuate based on location, materials, and backyard conditions, how do you estimate your pool budget?
We suggest a simple formula to use as a starting point:
Home Value x 10% = Pool Budget
This rule of thumb is commonly used by builders and appraisers to ensure your pool investment aligns with your property’s value. For example:
- $500,000 home → Plan for a $50,000 pool
- $750,000 home → Budget around $75,000
- $1 million home → You may be in the $100,000+ pool tier
If you plan on adding high-end features like automation, outdoor kitchens, fire bowls, or oversized decking, increase the estimate to 12–15% of your home’s value.
Tips for Managing Your Pool Budget in Today’s Market
- Use an Online Estimator – Tools like the PoolEstimate.com Online Pool Estimate can give you a clearer picture of pricing based on your location and preferences.
- Get Multiple Quotes – Pool prices vary widely by contractor. Always get 2–3 bids before making a decision.
- Consider Phased Installation – If your budget is tight, you can install the pool now and add decking, lighting, or outdoor features later.
- Finance When It Makes Sense – Visit SwimmingPoolLoan.com to explore loan options specifically for pools and backyard improvements.
- Avoid Off-Brand Equipment – Stick to trusted manufacturers like Pentair, Hayward, Jandy, and Raypak to ensure longevity and avoid costly replacements.
Final Thoughts
The cost of building a swimming pool has gone up—but so has the value of investing in your home’s outdoor living potential. With proper planning, you can build a pool that fits your lifestyle and adds lasting enjoyment without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re planning for a modest above ground pool or a fully customized inground retreat, understanding how pricing has evolved helps you budget wisely and make informed choices.
Start your journey by getting a free custom estimate at PoolEstimate.com, and connect with qualified builders at PoolContractor.com to bring your vision to life.
