In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Pools: What’s the Difference?

A backyard pool can provide years of summer fun. But figuring out if an above-ground vs. an in-ground pool is the best fit for your yard, budget, and lifestyle can be a complicated decision. They differ significantly in a number of ways, from upfront cost to overall lifespan. Use this guide to learn the pros and cons of each type of pool so you can make the right call for your yard’s new addition.

In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Pool: Key Differences

In-ground and above-ground pools are installed differently. In-ground pools go into the ground, so they require site prep and excavation. Above-ground pools sit on top of the ground (or on a concrete slab or a deck) and typically don’t require excavation, although you’ll likely need to level the ground. In-ground pools are a permanent addition to your property, while above-ground pools are more of a temporary option. In-ground pools have much higher installation and maintenance costs, but a lifespan that’s decades longer than above-ground pools. In addition, above-ground pools are pre-fabricated in a limited number of shapes and sizes, but the options for customizing an in-ground pool are nearly limitless.

What Is an Above-Ground Pool?

These semi-permanent pools are installed directly on the ground, on a deck, or on a concrete slab. Fairly inexpensive, they’re offered in a limited range of sizes, shapes (like round, oval, and rectangular), and materials (such as vinyl, aluminum, and resin). Some types of above-ground pools, especially inflatable ones, are easy for DIYers to assemble and disassemble each season, or you can choose a higher-end model that includes add-ons like decking, railing, and heating. No matter what type of above-ground pool you choose, they typically max out at a depth of 54”, which makes them suitable for cooling off and playing—but not diving. 

Best For: 

• Homes with small yards

• Yards that may not be suitable for excavation

• Homeowners who aren’t in their “forever home”

Pros of Above-Ground Pools

• Above-ground pools are more affordable than in-ground pools. The average cost of an above-ground is between $7,000 and $8,000. In contrast, in-ground pools typically start at $38,000 and go up from there.

• Above-ground pools usually take only a few days to install, and DIY installation is often an option.

• They’re a good choice for yards that are small or have unsuitable conditions for in-ground pools.

• Your above-ground pool can be disassembled and relocated. It’s also easier to remove an above-ground pool entirely if it no longer meets your needs.

• Above-ground pool cleaning is fairly simple, and they require less maintenance than in-ground pools.

Cons of Above-Ground Pools

• Above-ground pool sizes and shapes are very limited. They’re almost always round or oval, and generally max out at 6 feet deep. Sorry kids, that means no head-first diving!

• An above-ground pool doesn’t have the same curb appeal as an in-ground pool, and may even be a turn-off to potential buyers.

• A well-maintained above-ground pool may last for several decades, but for the most part, these pools have a lifespan of less than 20 years

What Is an In-Ground Pool?

In-ground pools go into an excavated hole in the ground. Homeowners have a wide variety of designs, materials, and add-on features to choose from. But with an average cost of $55,000, these permanent watering holes are also a major investment.

Best For: 

• Homeowners looking for a permanent backyard fixture

• Yards with ample space

• Those who want a custom pool

Pros of In-Ground Pools 

• In-ground pools are available in almost any shape or size with a variety of pool finishes and can be customized to fit into your yard’s landscape beautifully.

• You can add features like tanning ledges, waterfalls, or slides to create the backyard oasis of your dreams.

• Adding an in-ground pool may add value to your property and can be a desirable factor when selling your home.

• In-ground pools are durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of 30 to 50 years, depending on materials and maintenance.

Cons of In-Ground Pools

• In-ground pool costs can easily climb to $70,000 or higher, and they will likely raise your property taxes.

• Installation can take weeks or even months, depending on the type of pool and your local swimming pool installer’s schedule.

• In-ground pools require constant maintenance and have relatively high seasonal maintenance costs. You may need to resurface a concrete pool after 10 to 15 years, which can cost between $1,000 and $6,500 per 1,000 square feet. Pool liners may also need to be replaced if they’re showing signs of wear or damage.

• You’ll need a large, level yard for an in-ground pool, and if it has large buried rocks or other factors that may interfere with excavation, you’ll likely be looking at additional costs.

Above-Ground vs. In-Ground Pools

Let’s look at how each type of pool performs in a head-to-head battle. 

Price: Above-Ground

Expect to spend a few thousand dollars for an above-ground pool versus tens of thousands for an in-ground pool. Also, with an in-ground pool, your property taxes will likely increase.

Installation: Above-Ground

It takes a mere one to three days to install an above-ground pool. If you choose an in-ground pool, expect to wait weeks or even months after hiring a pool contractor before wading in.

Maintenance: Above-Ground

In general, above-ground pools are less pricey and time-consuming to maintain.

Longevity: In-Ground

In-ground pools can last 30 to 50 years, while above-ground pools tend to span 10 to 20 years.

Customization: In-Ground

When it comes to designs and add-on features, the sky’s the limit with in-ground pools. You’ll have very few options with above-ground pools.

Size: In-Ground

You can go as big as you like (and your budget will allow) with in-ground pools. Meanwhile, above-ground pools are much more limited in space and are generally too shallow for diving.

Usage: In-Ground

Since in-ground pools can be much larger, deeper, and full-featured, they’re more useful. You and your family can swim laps, jump or dive in, snorkel, and race, in addition to splashing and floating around.

Extras: In-Ground

In-ground pools offer a variety of features, such as hot tubs, waterfalls, slides, diving boards, and shallow and deep ends. With above-ground pools, you have very few options.

Home Value: In-Ground

In general, in-ground pools may increase home value, whereas above-ground pools either have a negative or neutral effect on home value.

Portability: Above-Ground

Unlike in-ground pools, above-ground pools can be disassembled and reinstalled in another location.

Space Requirements: Above-Ground

You need more yard space to install an in-ground pool versus an above-ground pool.

Dina Cheney contributed to this piece.