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

Chicago’s warm summers make it a good candidate for an in-ground swimming pool, but this project will require some planning to stay on budget. In-ground pool costs in Chicago average $127,700 but can range from $71,400 to $184,000. Let’s take a look at the different factors that affect the final cost. 

In-Ground Pool Cost Factors

The type and size of the pool are the biggest factors that affect the final cost, but you’ll also need to consider the cost of any additional features, like lighting, a hot tub, or a slide, as well as required features like fencing.

Pool Type and Materials

In-ground pool costs in Chicago will depend heavily on the pool type and material. The three materials you can choose from include:

• Vinyl: Vinyl pools are constructed with a pool floor and walls and then covered with a vinyl liner. This type of pool is popular for its affordability. There are options for customization, but not as much as with concrete pools. 

• Fiberglass: Fiberglass pools are prefabricated which makes installation quick and easier than with other materials. They are susceptible to forming cracks, so it may not be the best option for Chicago’s freezing winter weather.

• Concrete: For highly customized pools, concrete offers an incredible amount of flexibility in the shape and features. It is, however, more expensive than other materials and requires resurfacing every 10 years. 

Because Chicago has one of the highest combined state and local sales tax rates at 10.25%, material costs will likely run higher than in other parts of the country.

Size

The pool’s size will determine how much material is needed for in-ground pool construction—the larger the size, the more material, the higher the cost. The following table gives estimates for standard sized pools, but the actual costs will vary for different in-ground pool shapes, difficult excavation, or other extenuating circumstances or customizations. Cost per square foot ranges from $90 to $250, so you can use that as a guide to estimate how much you’ll need for the project. 

Features

While the actual in-ground pool will account for the bulk of the cost, there are other features to consider. Some features, like fencing, are required for safety, and others, like a slide or solar pool cover, can make your time in the pool easier and more fun. 

• Pool lighting: $200 per light

• Solar pool cover: $75–$300

• Hot tub: $5,000–$20,000

• Slide: $1,500–$20,000

• Landscaping: $700–$3,300

• Pool Fence: $1,500–$10,000

• Excavation: $500–$3,020

Maintenance

When you install an in-ground pool, you should also consider how ongoing maintenance costs will affect your budget. Pool maintenance costs fall between $116 and $354 per year, but you can expect to pay more in the years that you need to replace the vinyl liner or resurface a concrete pool.

Climate

During the summer, a pool will offer a welcome respite from Chicago’s warm and humid weather. But during the winter, Chicago temperatures often drop below freezing. This will limit the time of year that you can install an in-ground pool, and it also means that you’ll need to properly close your pool each fall and reopen it in the spring. If you’re willing to work with the weather and perform the necessary yearly maintenance, then you can definitely enjoy an in-ground pool in Chicago.

In-Ground Pool Pro Costs

While you can save a significant amount of money on total pool installation costs by doing the labor yourself, pool installation is a difficult process that requires knowledge of building codes, permits, and inspections. A pool installation professional will walk you through the process and ensure that the pool and the installation meets all requirements. 

Building Code Requirements

The Chicago Department of Buildings lays out Guidance on Private Outdoor Pools to help homeowners prepare for an in-ground pool installation. Adhering to these building code requirements will add to the total cost to cover:

• A fence or wall that completely encloses the pool deck and is at least 5 feet high with self-closing and self-latching hardware mounted on gates at a height inaccessible to small children

• Walk areas that are at least 6 feet wide on all sides of the pool with an easily cleaned non-slip surface. Walkways must be pitched away from the pool with walk drains provided for every 100 square feet of walk area.

• Two or more means of egress that can include stairs or ladders with handrails on both sides

• Pools must also meet electrical and plumbing building codes. 

Permits and Inspections

An in-ground pool that has a water depth greater than 48 inches at any point requires a full building permit based on plans prepared by a licensed architect or structural engineer. You can ask your pool contractor in Chicago to help you obtain a permit and make sure you’re meeting all building code requirements. Your local pro can help you navigate any required inspections throughout the pool construction process. 

Labor

Labor to install the pool will account for 25% to 50% of the total in-ground pool cost in Chicago. Some jobs will be bid per hour while others might be bid based on the total project. Contractors charge between $55 and $150 per hour, so it’s important to get an idea of the time frame so you can get an estimate of the labor costs for your local in-ground pool company. 

Taxes

The increase in property value when you install a pool will then likely increase your home’s value and lead to higher property taxes. You can contact the county clerk’s office to get more information on your tax rate and help you estimate how much your property taxes could go up. 

Does an In-Ground Pool Increase Home Value?

In general, homeowners in Chicago can expect around a 7% ROI on their in-ground pool, but in some cases, a pool can have an ROI of up to 56% of the cost to install it. Because Chicago does see cold winters, the ROI on an in-ground pool may not be as much as it would be in a state with year-round warmth. You can talk with your pool installation pro or a local real estate agent to get a better idea of how much this project could increase your home value.

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 extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on 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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