How Much Does a Pool Cost? [2024] (2024)

Nothing quite beats the feeling of cooling off in a swimming pool on a hot summer's day. Except when that pool is in your own backyard — which makes it even more refreshing. But how much does installing a swimming pool cost? And what do you need to consider when installing a swimming pool? Does a pool add value to your property? In this article, we answer those questions and more.

How much does it cost to put in a pool in Australia?

What factors influence the cost of a swimming pool?

There are many factors that influence the cost of a swimming pool. These include:

• Size of the swimming pool — this will likely be the first decision you make and will influence all costs after
• Above ground versus inground swimming pool — above ground are cheaper to install and inground costs vary depending on material of the liner
• The shape of the swimming pool — rectangular pools are usually cheaper to build
• Excavation costs — inground pools will need excavation and this varies depending on access to the property, soil type, landscape and terrain, complexity of the excavation
• Pool liner type — vinyl liner is the cheapest, followed by fibreglass and then concrete
• Pool fencing — this is a mandatory requirement in Australia and can carry depending on the type of pool fencing that you choose
• Concrete slabs and decking — an above ground pool may require a concrete slab if your ground is not level. You'll also need to think about decking and if you would like this
• Pool decor — from lighting to pool furniture there are many additional costs on installing a swimming pool. Perhaps you want a water filter, an in built spa or slides or other play equipment
• Ongoing pool maintenance costs — cleaning, chemicals, electricity and water bills all add up

What is the cheapest pool to install?

The cheapest pool to install would be an above ground plunge pool due to its smaller size. However, if you want one you can actually swim in then the cheapest pool to install would be an above ground resin pool or fibreglass pool. Shells start from $3,500 and $7,000 respectively, but a kit (with pump and filter) will add a couple of thousand to this.

This does not include additional costs such as excavating (if needed) and concrete slabs. You will also need to consider fencing and timber decking. If both are needed, this could be an extra $4,000 approximately in total, but depends on complexity and requirements. A pool installation specialist can provide a quote that covers all elements of pool installation.

How do the costs differ between inground and above ground pools?

The costs for inground and above ground pools differ greatly, mainly due to the extensive excavation which is required for an inground pool. Excavation costs can vary depending on the size of the pool, soil type, access to your property and how difficult the excavation is.

The costs vary further depending on if you choose a concrete inground swimming pool (the most expensive), a fibreglass inground pool (the second most expensive) or a vinyl liner pool (the least expensive inground option). In contrast, kits are available for above ground pools and installation is far simpler.

How much does a fibreglass pool cost?

Made entirely of fibreglass materials, a fibreglass pool can cost between $25,000 and $35,000. Much faster to construct than concrete pools (weeks not months), fibreglass pools are also easy to maintain and exceptionally resilient and durable.

How much does a vinyl-liner pool cost?

A vinyl-liner pool is the cheapest inground pool option and features a thick sheet of vinyl between the ground and the water. Costs start from around $10,000 for an inground vinyl liner pool (less for above ground), but it is worth noting that maintenance costs can be more. Vinyl liners are far less durable than fibreglass or concrete and can deteriorate over time, requiring replacement.

How much does a concrete pool cost?

The most expensive pool option, a concrete pool can cost as much as $100,000 or more. Again, there are many factors impacting this such as size, shape, soil, excavation costs and additions such as fencing, decking, lighting and other considerations.

How much does a plunge pool cost?

Intended for relaxing rather than swimming, plunge pools range between 2 and 6 meters long and around 1.2m in depth. Above ground, they are usually easy to install and maintain and start around $8,000.

What is the cheapest shape of inground pool?

The most affordable inground pools are simple rectangular ones, rather than kidney-shaped or unusually shaped pools. This makes build and materials more affordable as there are fewer custom elements to make or transport and less complex excavation required.

Do pools add value to your property in Australia?

There is no concrete evidence on whether a pool adds value to your property; it is dependent on your location, local climate, type of pool, and if this is in demand in your area.

When making your decision, look at house sales in your area and compare those for properties with and without pools. Also, consider if other people in your area have swimming pools. The most popular areas for swimming pools in Australia are (unsurprisingly) those in warm climates.

Regional Queensland which includes the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns has the most pools in the country with 20% owning a swimming pool, up 3% in four years. Not far behind is Perth (19%), Brisbane (18%) and Sydney (15%) with cooler states such as Victoria, Canberra and Tasmania having far less.

Is putting in a pool worth it?

If you're wondering if putting in a pool is worth it, ask yourself why you want a pool in the first place. Is it to add value to your property? To create a space for your family to enjoy in your forever home? To create a wow factor for your short-term rental?

Knowing the 'why' will help you weigh up the financial cost versus benefits. Do your research on whether it will add value to your property and remember, as well as initial financial outlay there are ongoing costs for maintenance.

Swimming pool maintenance costs

The ongoing costs of your pool are influenced by the type of pool you decide to buy and install. While all pools require maintenance, some require more than others. Keeping the pool maintained will help it look great and last longer. maintenance can cost anything from $600 to $2,000 per year and includes:

• Water filtering such as servicing the pumps and filter
• Water sanitation such as the cost of chemicals and chlorinators
• Cleaning of the pool including manual cleaning costs or in-built cleaning systems
• Aesthetic maintenance of the liner and the surrounding area
• If you have heat pumps these are also a consideration

On top of the maintenance costs, there are also costs associated with running the pool such as electricity and water bills.

Other swimming pool costs

Ongoing swimming pool costs can be anything from $600 per year to $2,000 per year depending on the size and type of pool you have. This includes things such as pump maintenance, cleaning and heating.

During installation, there are also other costs to consider such as any council application costs, fencing and gates (which is often a legal requirement), decking, and pool furniture. Lights are also an addition that improves the visual appeal of a swimming pool and adds to safety.

How much is pool fencing?

Costs for pool fencing vary from $200 per metre for timber fencing and up to $600 per linear metre for high-end glass fencing. Pool fencing is mandatory in Australia and should be factored into your swimming pool installation costs. As long as the fence conforms to Australian Standards for pool fencing, the material you choose is up to you.

How much does it cost to hire a swimming pool builder?

Most pool builders don't advertise prices online, because every pool installation is different (see above for the varying factors). Always seek at least three quotes from swimming pool builders to ensure you are getting a fair price, but also that they are the right fit for your job in terms of experience and reliability.

Consider these factors:

• Does your swimming pool builder need a license in your area, if so, are they licensed?
• Can they provide a written quote and does this include everything? Installation, excavation, transit and delivery, removal and disposal of spoil, pumps, accessories etc
• Are there references and examples of previous completed works in your area

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.