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

In-ground pools aren’t as common in Denver as in hotter states like California and Arizona, but it’s an amenity that some homeowners don’t want to live without. The average in-ground pool cost in Denver is $105,000, although it can go as low as $40,000 or as high as $184,000. When budgeting for a pool in Denver, consider the following breakdown. 

Denver In-Ground Pool Cost Factors

If you know the size, materials, and design you want, you can get an idea of your pool's costs right away.

Size

The size of your pool will drastically affect the total cost, and the national average cost is about $50 to $120 per square foot. However, building a pool in Denver is substantially more expensive than the national average, likely because most pools in the area are on luxury properties. You can expect to pay on the higher side of the spectrum, if not more.

Materials

Concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass are all viable pool materials in Denver. Pool companies specialize in all three types, so reach out to get individualized recommendations for your project and property. Your decision will ultimately depend on your budget and personal preferences. 

If you’re looking for a custom pool, you’re likely to go with a concrete pool, whereas fiberglass is your best bet if you want a low-maintenance solution. Vinyl offers flexible design options while being cost-effective.

In-Ground Pool Design

In addition to the size and material, the pool design also affects the total costs. Since pools in Denver are more common in the luxury market, you’re more likely to see high-end options like infinity, lagoon, or custom pools.

In-Ground Pool Installation Pro Costs

Keep these Denver pro costs in mind when tallying up the budget for your in-ground swimming pool.

Labor 

The labor costs for your in-ground pool will range between 25% to 50% of your total costs. A pool builder in Denver, Colorado, can estimate the labor costs for your dream pool. Your pool contractor will help you sort out the details, from the design to the construction.

Additional Pros to Consider Hiring

Your contractor will also hire subcontractors to take care of all the moving parts as needed for your project. Additional pros you might hire include: 

• Excavation crew: $120–$150 per hour

• Electrician: $60–$120 per hour

• Plumber: $45–$200 per hour

• Landscaper: $50–$100 per hour

• Fence Installer: $1,600 

Permits 

In Denver, you’ll need various permits to construct an in-ground pool. Your pool builder will obtain the necessary permits, which is a major plus since the paperwork can be extensive. Here is a list of required permits:

• Zoning 

• Building 

• Sewer use and drainage 

• Excavation 

• Electrical 

• Plumbing 

• Mechanical 

• Boiler and AC 

To apply for these permits, your pool builder will need to provide a site plan, boundary survey, drawings of electrical and mechanical equipment, and a shoring plan (showing structural supports). 

Site Prep 

Just like most large construction projects, properly prepping your yard for an in-ground pool is the key to a successful installation. Here are some of the tasks you’ll see on a prep to-do list:

• Consulting with the pool company to finalize the pool’s design and size.

• Temporarily removing fences and planning to restore landscaping that may be damaged during construction.

• Rerouting underground utilities if necessary.

• Calling the insurance company and homeowners association to notify them of the intent to install a pool.

In Denver, the soil consists of sand and clay, like bentonite. Sandy soil drains water well, but it can wash away in heavy rains. Your contractor might excavate at an angle, strategically place concrete pool walls, or use a stainless steel panel and buttress support system. 

Clay or bentonite soil swells or shrinks depending on the amount of moisture in the soil, which requires replacing the soil surrounding the pool area with select fill (soil that won’t expand or contract). Another option is installing a structural support, like piers.

Add-Ons

Since most Denver pools are in upscale homes, the popular add-ons you’ll see are aimed at leveling up the pool experience. Here are some options to consider:

• Hot tub: $2,000–$11,000

• Tanning ledge: $5,000–$10,000

• Pool lighting replacement: $625 per light

• Waterfall: $1,500–$5,000

• Pool deck: $300–$20,000

• Pool heater cost: $1,800–$4,200

Maintenance 

In-ground pool maintenance costs in Denver range between $960 and $1,800 annually. This covers regular cleaning, water testing and balancing, and opening and closing the pool. In the Mile-High City, you’ll need to close your pool for winter to protect it from freezing temperatures.

Does an In-Ground Pool Increase Home Value in Denver?

If you install a custom pool on a luxury property and maintain it properly, you have the highest chance of the pool increasing your home value. Most homeowners average a 7% to 8% return on an in-ground pool. You’ll see the highest return for a pool that’s in good condition, so prioritize regular maintenance. 

On the other hand, it’s less common in Denver for non-luxury properties to have pools. In neighborhoods with fewer luxury homes, some homebuyers could see a pool as a liability. In this case, you might consider other projects that increase home value, like window, bathroom, or kitchen upgrades.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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