How Much Do Lap Pools Cost? [2026 Data]

In 2026, the national average cost to install a lap pool is $44,000, though your total can shift significantly based on pool type, size, and material. Most homeowners spend between $6,000 and $80,000, with costs climbing as high as $100,000 for in-ground or indoor builds. Choosing between an aboveground model and a fully excavated in-ground pool is one of the biggest factors driving that spread.

Lap Pool Size: What It Costs by Length

The size of your lap pool is the primary driver of its total cost, with the most common 40-foot length averaging $45,000 to install. Stepping up to an 82-foot short-course pool raises that investment to $100,000 to $400,000, while an Olympic-size 50-meter pool runs $300,000 to $500,000. Pool width, which typically ranges from 6 to 10 feet, also factors into the final price.

Lap Pool Materials: Which Surface Fits Your Budget?

For an in-ground lap pool, the surface material you choose for the walls, floor, and surrounding area will directly shape your budget. Most residential lap pools measure 8-by-40 feet and are 4 feet deep, so material costs scale with that footprint. Costs vary significantly by material type, as the breakdown below shows.

Lap Pool Cost by Type: How Each Option Affects Price

Lap pool prices vary widely depending on placement and construction style, so choosing between an in-ground versus an aboveground pool comes down to your budget and available space. Costs vary significantly by type of pool, as shown in the breakdown below:

• Aboveground Pools: Aboveground pools cost $6,000 for professional installation and $3,000 for a DIY option. They're easily disassembled if you don't want a permanent pool. However, they're susceptible to damage from weather, particularly high winds.

• In-Ground Pools: In-ground pools average $67,000 but go up to $135,000. Many customizable options are available, including shape, surface, and style. If the cost of a pool heater is in your budget, it can also be a convenient upgrade.

• Indoor Lap Pool: Indoor lap pools cost $50,000 to $100,000 or about $6,000 for an aboveground option. These pools require a dehumidifier system, either a portable one for $200 or a built-in one for $5,000. Having an indoor pool allows you to enjoy it year-round regardless of the weather.

• Infinity Pool: Luxury infinity pools cost $80,000 to $130,000 and have an edge that seems to disappear on the horizon. You'll need two pool pumps: a standard one and one for the overflow edge.

• Saltwater Lap Pool: These pools are gentler on eyes and skin than chlorine pools and cost $50,000. A saltwater generator converts the salt into chlorine to sanitize the pool, which costs $500 to $2,500.

• Endless Lap Pool: Like a treadmill, an endless lap pool allows you to enjoy swimming long distances without a big pool. A pump creates a current you can swim against for as long as you want. An endless lap pool costs $24,000 and measures 14 feet long.

Lap Pool Contractor Costs: How Much Pros Charge

Labor typically accounts for 25% to 50% of your total lap pool project cost, covering everything from planning and excavation to construction and features. Because pool builds require a range of specialized skills, many pool contractors bring in subcontractors for work like plumbing and electrical, and costs for those trades vary by specialty, as the breakdown below shows.

Lap Pool Additional Costs: What to Budget For

Beyond the pool itself, several additional expenses can add up quickly, including excavation, permits, and water to fill the pool.

Excavation

In-ground lap pool installation requires excavation, with pool excavation costs running $1,000 to $1,500 for digging and backfilling. Obstacles like roots, rocks, or dense soil can push that figure higher, and hauling away excess dirt adds roughly $600 to the total.

Land Leveling

Yard leveling costs $200 to $900 for pools and is a critical step that protects your investment regardless of pool type. Skipping it on an in-ground pool risks liner leaks and soil erosion, while an aboveground pool on a sloped yard can collapse entirely.

Water to Fill the Pool

To find how much water you need, you'll use the calculation "length x width x average depth x multiplier." The multiplier varies based on the shape of the pool.

The multiplier for:

• Square, Rectangle, or Free-Form Pools: 7.5

• Round or Oval Pools: 5.9

So if you have an average rectangular pool (8-by-40 feet with a depth of 4 feet), you're looking at around 9,600 gallons. The average water cost is about $1.50 per 1,000 gallons. Keep in mind that you'll be using water to filter the pool, so once your pool is filled, it doesn't mean the water bill stops there.

You'll need to chlorinate the water as well, which will also factor into your regular maintenance costs.

Permits

Most lap pool installations, whether aboveground or in-ground, require a permit before work can begin, with an average cost of around $1,000. Your actual permit fee will depend on your state, county, and local ordinances, so check with your municipality early in the planning process.

Maintenance

The cost of maintaining a pool is easy to underestimate, running $150 to $260 per month during swim season for professional vacuuming, skimming, and chemical balancing. Handling maintenance yourself brings that down to about $50 per month for chemicals and supplies.

Pool Add-Ons or Features

These pool add-ons and features will help elevate your pool experience. Here are the common ones you might want for your home:

• Pool Covers: Pool covers cost $150 to $4,500 or more. They keep your pool protected during the offseason, and you can opt for a basic cover that you install manually or a fancy automatic one that works at the touch of a button.

• Pool Enclosure: Pool enclosures cost $7,000 to $18,000, and depending on your area, building codes may require them. They keep the pool safe from unwelcome intruders like alligators and allow you to enjoy a swim without the nuisance of insects.

• Adding a Hot Tub: Adding a hot tub to your pool costs $2,500 to $15,000. You can choose from in-ground, aboveground, prefab, or custom tubs. Hot tubs are relaxing and enjoyable year-round, so they might be a good choice regardless of your climate.

• Pool Heater: Pool heaters cost $1,800 to $4,100 and are powered by electricity, gas, heat pumps, or solar energy. They're a great addition to consider if you live in an area with cooler weather.

• Pool Lighting: Lighting for a pool costs $450 to $1,700. It's an intensive job, so you'll want to tackle this during the pool installation. Lighting is a must-have if you're planning on enjoying night swims, plus it adds a nice ambiance to the area.

Why You Should Hire a Lap Pool Installation Pro

Installing a lap pool is a big undertaking with various moving parts. Unless you're installing an aboveground pool, you'll need to hire a swimming pool installer near you who can take care of the job safely and efficiently. The labor costs are worthwhile, as a properly installed pool will last longer and provide you and your family with years of enjoyment.

Here's Why It's Ideal to Hire a Lap Pool Installer

Here are some advantages to hiring a pro to build your new lap pool:

• Installing an in-ground pool involves complex and potentially hazardous tasks—such as excavation and working with electrical wiring and plumbing—that require the expertise of pool installers who follow strict safety protocols.

• Aboveground lap pools are larger than other types of pools, so hiring a pro is beneficial, as they'll ensure a proper installation free of leaks.

• Lap pool installation pros can help you design your new pool, select the right materials, and recommend the ideal location for it in your yard.

• Your pro will handle the prep work, secure permits, and complete the work to code.

• You can opt for warranties that can come in handy if you encounter issues down the road.

• You'll avoid potential DIY pitfalls, such as damaging wiring and plumbing during excavation or improper installation, which can lead to leaks and structural damage.

If You Want to DIY a Lap Pool Installation

You'll need to hire a swimming pool installer for this project, but there are some smaller tasks you can complete on your own, such as:

• Remove furniture, planters, storage boxes, and debris to make it easier for your pro to access the area.

• After your in-ground lap pool is installed, you can enhance the surrounding landscaping by planting trees and shrubs and applying mulch.

• Furnish the patio or deck area with loungers, tables, and decor.

Are Lap Pools Worth It?

Lap pools are worth it if you plan to use one regularly for exercise. Since they're narrower than traditional pools, it's a fitting option if you have a smaller yard.

The ROI of a pool installation is 7% to 8% on average, but it ranges between 5% and 56%. Your area, the pool's design, and maintenance all impact the overall value. Your ROI will be on the higher side if you live in a sunnier state where pools are highly desirable, like California and Florida. ROI is the highest for well-kept in-ground pools that are ready to be used. The pool should be free of algae and have equipment that's in good condition.

On the other hand, if you aren't passionate about swimming laps, consider a traditional pool with more space to accommodate friends and family for pool parties and neighborhood barbecues.

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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