How Much Does an In-Ground Pool Cost? [2025 Data]

Average Cost to Install an In-Ground Pool

Installing an in-ground pool costs an average of $65,909, with most homeowners paying between $44,499 and $87,349. That said, a small vinyl pool with minimal features might cost as little as $14,000, while a large pool with high-end features can cost $135,000 or more.

In-Ground Pool Cost by Material 

In-ground pool costs vary by material, with vinyl pools costing as low as $40,000 for installation, and concrete pools costing as much as $120,000. Fiberglass pools fall in the middle, but they’re the most cost-effective in terms of maintenance. 

Here’s what you might pay for different pool materials, broken down by installation and maintenance costs:

In-Ground Pool Cost by Size 

You’ll spend around $90 to $250 per square foot for the average in-ground pool. While most pools come in standard sizes, you can also choose a custom-made pool, which will raise prices. Here’s what an in-ground pool might cost based on size:

In-Ground Pool Cost by Style

In-ground pools come in various styles beyond the basic rectangular option, including lap pools ($44,000) and lagoon pools ($100,000 and above). Certain pool styles require additional materials, features, and labor that impact the price. Here are some common pool styles and prices:

In-Ground Pool Labor Cost

Labor will make up 25% to 50% of the total cost of your pool installation. In addition to a pool contractor, you may also consider hiring other professionals. This includes a licensed electrician who can handle heating, pumps, and lighting. Other pros include landscapers (for the area around the pool) and fence contractors.

• Local in-ground pool contractor: $55–$150 per hour

• Electrician: $50–$150 per hour

• Landscaper: $50–$100 per hour

• Fence installer: $35–$65 per hour

In-Ground Pool Cost by Location

In-ground pool installation is pricier in areas with a higher cost of living—up to $137,000 in New Jersey and $140,000 in California, for example. On the other hand, it's less expensive in lower-cost states like West Virginia (up to $54,000). Here’s what you might spend on pool installation based on location:

Additional Cost Factors 

Several additional factors will impact the cost of your pool installation, including site preparation, cleaning and heating systems, pool covers, insurance, and other related expenses. Here’s how the costs might break down:

• Pool excavation: $500–$3,020

• Relocating underground plumbing: $500–$5,000+

• Leveling your yard: $1,000–$3,300

• Demolishing an existing patio or backyard structure: $300–$2,500+

• Removing trees: $200–$2,000

• Permits: $450–$1,800

• Filling a pool with water: $90–$270

• Saltwater pool costs: $60 for 11 bags of salt, which is required for the average 20,000-gallon pool

• Saltwater filtration system: $500–$3,300

• Pool cover cost: $870–$2,800

• Pool heater: $1,830–$4,210

• Pool pump installation cost: $700–$4,000

• Pool filter installation: $250–$2,000

• In-floor pool cleaner: $125–$4,000

• Pool lighting: $200 per light

• Diving board: $300–$5,000

• Slide: $1,500–$20,000

• Pool fence costs: $1,500–$10,000

• Waterfall: $4,000–$20,000

• Landscaping: $700–$3,300

• Pool decking costs: $3,000–$12,000

• Liability insurance: $50 per year, on average

• Maintenance: $3,000–$5,000 (including normal maintenance, repairs, water, and electricity costs to run your pool)

DIY In-Ground Pool Installation vs. Hiring a Pro 

If you hire an in-ground pool company near you for this installation, you'll spend around 25% to 50% of the total project cost on labor. This may seem like a hefty price tag, but it could save you money if a DIY excavation or installation goes wrong—especially if it causes flooding or damage to utility lines. 

Here’s why it’s beneficial to hire a pool installation pro:

• Professionals understand how to prevent flooding, cracking, and ground settlement.

• They ensure compliance with building codes and local zoning laws.

• Pros bring the specialized equipment and skills needed for safe excavation.

• DIY mistakes can result in leaks, bulges, or pool failure—potentially costing thousands to fix.

• Pool pros are trained to handle plumbing, filtration, and electrical systems safely.

• Reputable installers offer warranties and carry insurance.

• Experts can complete the job safely, quickly, and efficiently. 

• A professionally installed pool often adds greater resale value and passes home inspections more easily.

If you want to participate in the process, focus on smaller tasks instead, such as the following:

• Removing trees and shrubs

• Clearing debris, old landscaping, or smaller structures

• Painting or staining fences or future decking

• Assisting with minor landscaping

• Installing furniture or accessories

How to Save on In-Ground Pool Installation Costs 

While you should invest the extra money to hire professionals for in-ground pool installation, you can save money throughout the project with simple cost-saving tips.

1. Consider minimizing costs by skipping extras, such as waterfalls ($1,500 to $5,000), colorful lighting ($200 per light), or slides ($1,500 to $20,000).

2. It’s essential to consider both short-term and long-term expenses when determining the best value. For example, vinyl is the most cost-friendly pool material to install, but it will set you back $1,100 to $1,700 per year in maintenance. In contrast, fiberglass costs $500 to $1,500 per year in maintenance, although the installation is more expensive. 

3. When considering style, you might forgo a lagoon pool (which costs $100,000+) or an infinity pool (which runs around $80,000). The average rectangular pool costs $65,909.

4. You might be tempted to install a large pool, but reducing the size will save you $90 to $250 per square foot.

5. If you have spare time, you can save at least $1,000 per year in maintenance and cleaning costs for an in-ground pool by tackling some DIY tasks.

Does Installing an In-Ground Pool Increase Home Value? 

The ROI for a pool is between 5% and 56%, though in-ground pools yield a higher return than aboveground pools. The ROI is lower than that for other home projects, such as kitchen remodels or upgraded landscaping, because pool maintenance requires work. Not all potential buyers want the responsibility and ongoing cost.