It’s one of the most commonly known facts about pools: they are not cheap.
You may be interested in buying a pool, but you have no clue how much to set aside or how much you will pay. There are all kinds of online sources offering all different answers, leaving you feeling confused, overwhelmed, and completely lost.
At Aloha Pools & Spas, we believe that buyers deserve clear, realistic expectations. In this article, we will break down how much a pool costs by type and the factors that affect cost.
(DISCLAIMER: all these numbers are average ranges for these costs; to get a better understanding of what a pool would cost from Aloha, check out our cost estimator or connect with one of our sales representatives).
How much a pool costs by type
There is a very large price range Aloha sells; we have pools that have sold for $5,000.00 and others that have sold for $175,000.00. What matters are the size, construction, and features of your pool. Here’s a general breakdown of the average range by pool type.
2026 Pool Pricing (National Averages)
- Above-Ground Pool: $1,600-$7,500
- Semi-Inground Pool: $7,000-$25,000
- Inground Pool: $25,000-$100,000+
Please keep in mind, this only accounts for the pool/pool install itself. Factors like added decking will drive up the costs, especially for above ground and semi-inground pools.
Determining Factors of Pool Cost
When you meet with a sales representative, they will discuss the multiple factors that affect the pool price. Some of these factors, such as pool size and pump type, are completely within your control. However, other factors, such as location and inspection requirements, can drive the price beyond your control. It’s important to keep all factors in mind when budgeting to ensure you’ve set aside enough money to cover your needs.
Size and model of the pool
The smaller the pool, the less it costs. Some models go on sale in the fall, especially with our above-ground pool packages, which can help reduce your cost. Packages vary based on price and quality, so there are options for all budgets.
Accessories
The steps, ladder, and other pool accessories are a small portion of the price that really adds up. As you customize your pool to fit your needs, this is the place where people really evaluate what is worth the splurge. Most pool packages come with standard necessities. Above-ground accessory packages cost between $400.00 and $2,800.00, depending on how much you want to upgrade. In inground pools, rails can be upgraded for $500.00- $1,000.00, and steps can be upgraded for $1,500.00-$8,000.00, depending on size and shape.
Decking
Depending on what your backyard needs, this can get really expensive. Aloha pours concrete for in-ground pool customers, but above-ground pool customers should consider a deck in their budget if they plan to have one.
Salt versus Chlorine Pool
A salt system will be more costly upfront- this runs between $1,100.00 and $2,500.00, depending on gallons treated, as compared to a regular chlorine pool, but it is a lower long-term cost. Note on this: we typically do not recommend installing a salt system in an above-ground pool.
Factors Beyond the Owner’s Control
While you can always control where you splurge on the pool itself, some elements are beyond the customer’s control. You should still consider these factors in your budgeting as well:
Levelness of the Yard
This is not a huge cost jump (a few hundred dollars). If a yard is more than 4 feet out of level, you will need retainer walls, which can cost between $40 and $125 per square foot, depending on the location.
Inspection Requirements
Especially in the larger areas we serve, such as St. Louis, Missouri, many inspections are required to ensure all requirements are met. This can add costs if it changes the construction process. (Inspection and permit fees will cost between $200.00-$800.00 for metropolitan areas).
Electrical Cost
This is a large portion of your bill when you pay for a team to install your pool. This typical range is $1,500.00-$9,500.00 and is heavily determined by the pump’s proximity to the meter base. Costs rise when the team digs long trenches for those heavy wire runs, and things like lights, a salt system, an automatic pool cover, or a heat pump also will drive the price.
Geographical Location
Aloha Pools & Spas has five locations across the southeast. Because each store is located in a different-sized area, our prices vary significantly more than those of some of our competitors. For instance, a pool in Union City, Tennessee, with the exact same features as a pool in St. Louis, Missouri could cost nearly $30,000.00 less, due to electrical factors and state/local regulations. It is crucial to note these prices, especially for our customers in higher populated areas, because they can drastically change your cost.
Talk to a Sales Representative!
Your pool is a very important decision, and you should be spending your money in the areas that matter to you- whether that be size, model, or accessories. If it’s time to find out which pool is right for you based on how much you’re ready to spend, please contact our sales representatives here.
We look forward to helping you create your own backyard oasis!
