How Much Does an Above-Ground Pool Cost?
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Homeowners can install an attractive above-ground pool at a fraction of the cost they might expect. An above-ground pool costs around $1,010 to $11,200, or an average of $3,940.
Highlights
- The average cost of an above-ground pool is $1,010 to $11,200, with a national average of $3,940.
- Factors affecting the cost to install an above-ground pool include the pool size, shape, type, material, and brand; the type of liner; site preparation; labor; and geographic location.
- The benefits of having an above-ground pool installed are affordability, recreation and relaxation, aesthetics, and easy maintenance.
- While a homeowner may be able to install their own above-ground pool, leveling the ground for the pool is a challenging task that may require professional help for the best results.
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Enjoying an afternoon lounging (or splashing) in the pool is the perfect way to pass those lazy summer days, but the cost to build a pool can cause homeowners to balk. Luckily, there is a relatively affordable option for installing a swimming pool in the backyard: a budget-friendly above-ground pool. While homeowners may prefer the look of an inground pool, there are many reasons to reconsider an above-ground pool. One of the main benefits is the much lower price tag, but just how much does an above-ground pool cost? On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,010 and $11,200, or an average of $3,940. Much of that cost is made up of labor and materials, but there are other factors to consider as well.
Key Cost Factors
Homeowners can expect similar cost factors for above-ground pools as when considering inground pool costs. As with any building project, the size and shape will be a major consideration, as will the materials, brand, labor, and the home’s location.
Size and Shape
Shapes for above-ground pools include round, oval, and rectangular, and the size and shape of the pool will significantly affect the total price. For instance, the materials necessary for a small above-ground pool can vary depending on the shape. A rectangle above-ground pool measuring 9 feet by 18 feet can cost between $820 and $2,100, but a 33-foot by 18-foot oval above-ground pool will cost between $1,670 and $3,530. Round above-ground pools range from $1,300 to $2,170 for a 15-foot pool.
| Pool Shape | Size | Cost (Materials Only) |
| Oval | 24 feet by 12 feet | $1,290 to $2,500 |
| Oval | 33 feet by 18 feet | $1,670 to $3,530 |
| Oval | 41 feet by 21 feet | $4,010 to $4,840 |
| Rectangular | 9 feet by 18 feet | $820 to $2,100 |
| Rectangular | 12 feet by 24 feet | $1,200 to $2,800 |
| Round | 12 feet | $1,150 to $1,650 |
| Round | 15 feet | $1,300 to $2,170 |
| Round | 18 feet | $1,420 to $2,200 |
| Round | 24 feet | $1,610 to $2,500 |
| Round | 30 feet | $2,200 to $3,000 |
Type and Material
The three above-ground pool types are hard-sided, metal frame, or inflatable. Hard-sided pools might be made of steel, aluminum, or resin, but the sizes and shapes are often limited. Resin is relatively durable and costs between $1,000 and $3,000. Steel frames are one of the cheapest options at $800 to $3,000. Aluminum is the most expensive option at $1,000 to $4,500, and it holds up to extreme temperatures. Metal frame pools are a popular option that is easy to install with a frame and liner, but they aren’t compatible with saltwater generators. Inflatable pools are easy to set up for a low cost of $350 to $900, but they must be taken down and stored carefully at the end of the season.
Brand
Big-box retailers or pool installation companies sell many DIY pool kits. Popular name brands include Doughboy, Intex, Kayak, Trevi, and Wilkes. Doughboy and Kayak are among the pricier options, while Intex and Wilkes are less pricey. While the choice will ultimately come down to the desired features and materials a homeowner is looking for, it’s helpful to look at above-ground pool pricing from some of the top brands.
| Above-Ground Pool Brand | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| Doughboy | $3,000 to $10,000 |
| Intex | $200 to $1,000 |
| Kayak | $4,000 to $12,000 |
| Trevi | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| Wilkes | $1,000 to $4,000 |
Liner Type
A metal or hard-sided above-ground pool will also need a liner that’s usually made from vinyl. There are many types of liners on the market and most cost between $100 and $660. Costs will depend on size, material, and even color. It’s best for homeowners to search for “above-ground pool installers near me” and ask a local rep which combination of frame and liner is the best choice.
Site Preparation
Unless the pool is inflatable, some site preparation will be necessary before the pool can be placed. The ground beneath the pool needs to be level and free from debris and vegetation. This can cost $1,000 to $3,300, or some homeowners may be able to learn how to level the ground for a pool themselves to save on labor costs. The soil will also need to be packed down and layered with a base like sand—or a contractor can install a concrete slab for an average of $6 per square foot.
Labor and Geographic Location
Labor makes up $1,000 to $3,000 of above-ground pool installation prices. Any extra customization or a larger pool will increase the price. Also, professional swimming pool maintenance services will cost about $85 to $150 each month for homeowners who prefer this option.
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Geographic location will also affect above-ground pool installation costs. Materials and labor vary from one city to the next, and there’s generally a higher cost in more urban areas. This is especially true in an area with significant residential construction, as demand will drive prices higher. Homeowners can look for “above-ground pool installation near me” to get a quote from a local company.
| City | Average Cost |
| Atlanta, Georgia | $1,700 |
| Austin, Texas | $1,500 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $1,900 |
| Cincinnati, Ohio | $1,600 |
| Denver, Colorado | $2,700 |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | $1,100 |
| San Francisco, California | $5,300 |
Additional Costs and Considerations
Beyond the basic cost factors for above-ground pools, other features for homeowners to consider may increase functionality or enhance the overall design of the pool.
- Permits: A pool permit can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, and any additional decking surrounding the pool may also require that the homeowner obtain a permit, which will cost between $225 and $500.
- Filters, pumps, and heating systems: Filter and pool pump costs will be included in the cost of an above-ground pool kit, but pool heater cost is usually an added expense. Above-ground pool heaters cost around $2,900, including installation. The best above-ground pool filters usually cost $250 to $4,500.
| Feature | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| Filter | $250 to $4,500 |
| Heater | $1,800 to $4,100 (including labor) |
| Pool filter and pump | $250 to $2,000 |
- Deck installation: Many homeowners like the idea of building a deck around their above-ground swimming pools. A pool deck usually costs between $1,000 and $5,000, but this can vary based on the size of the pool and the deck materials.
- Fence installation: A pool fence is usually associated with inground pools, primarily because it’s easier to fall into an inground pool than other types. Still, installing a pool fence around an above-ground swimming pool may keep the kids out when there are no adults around. On average, pool fences cost between $1,500 and $10,000.
- Pool cover: A pool cover can protect the pool from the elements in the offseason and provide homeowners with peace of mind that children or animals wandering around the pool won’t be able to fall in. Most pool covers cost $35 to $750, but upgrades like drainage systems can increase this cost.
- Customizations: Homeowners can choose between steps and ladders for entering and exiting the pool. Other options include adding custom water features like a waterfall or fountains ($25 to $130) or decorative lighting ($30 to $120) for evening pool parties.
| Customization | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| Lighting | $30 to $120 |
| Steps or ladder | $20 to $700 |
| Waterfalls and fountains | $25 to $130 |
- Landscaping: Landscaping can lend the space around the pool a more pleasing appearance. Planting flower beds can cost $650 to $3,000, and adding trees costs $25 to $3,000.
- Additional features: Putting in an outdoor kitchen costs $5,060 to $17,280. Installing lighting can extend enjoyment of the pool into the evening, and this addition costs about $2,100 to $4,900.
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- Water and operating costs: Filling the pool at the beginning of the season will cost an additional $90 to $270. Energy bills for a pool heater run between $100 to $600 per month.
- Maintenance and repairs: Homeowners can choose either to learn how to maintain a pool and do it themselves or hire one of the best pool cleaning services for a monthly cost of $85 to $150.
- Insurance: Homeowners insurance rates tend to rise with the addition of a pool on the property since pools are considered a safety risk. While above-ground pools are less hazardous than inground pools, homeowners will still want to be prepared to spend more on homeowners insurance after installing one. For those concerned about damage from normal wear and tear, it’s worth looking into the best home warranties for pool coverage, such as one from Choice Home Warranty or American Home Shield.
Types of Above-Ground Pools
The type of pool will affect the total cost since some materials are more costly than others. The types of pools to choose from while looking at above-ground pools for sale are aluminum, inflatable, resin, and steel. These costs are for materials only and do not include installation.
| Pool Type | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| Aluminum | $1,000 to $4,500 |
| Inflatable | $350 to $900 |
| Resin | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Steel | $800 to $3,000 |
Aluminum
Aluminum is considered the high-end frame option for above-ground pools with an average cost of $1,000 to $4,500. Aluminum resists rusting, corrosion, and peeling, making it the longest-lasting material. Aluminum is also lightweight and holds up well in extreme temperatures. It’s worth noting that a vinyl liner will need to be installed with the aluminum frame.
Inflatable
Inflatable pools can be constructed for both adults and kids to enjoy. They are typically round and can measure up to 18 feet in diameter. Inflatable pools are the best DIY option since there is no need for a contractor to build the pool. Homeowners simply need to hook up the air compressor, fill up the pool as needed, and deflate and store it for winter. Inflatable pools cost $350 to $900 depending on the size, making them ideal for those looking for above-ground pool ideas on a budget.
Resin
Resin pools are constructed with metal walls and plastic parts on the tracks and rails. The walls are then coated with resin in place of a vinyl liner. Resin won’t get hot to the touch, can handle a saltwater generator, and is cheaper than aluminum. However, the resin will crack or chip over time due to UV exposure. Resin pools typically cost $1,000 to $3,000.
Steel
Metal frames are cost-effective and fairly easy for a pool installer to set up. A liner is stretched over the frame and the pool stays in place year-round. Metal frames for outdoor swimming pools are prone to rusting over time, and will corrode quickly if a saltwater generator is installed. Nevertheless, a metal frame pool is more durable and longer lasting than an inflatable pool. Homeowners can expect to pay around $800 to $3,000.
Benefits of Choosing an Above-Ground Pool
Homeowners who long for an outdoor pool can feel confident that an above-ground pool is a solid choice for enjoying pool time without blowing the budget. Above-ground pools have a lot of great benefits for homeowners and their properties.
Affordability
Above-ground pools come in a wide selection of styles and sizes to fit a variety of budgets. Not only is the cost of materials much more affordable, but less labor is required for installing an above-ground pool. DIYers may be able to install these pools themselves. Additionally, above-ground pool owners will pay less for maintenance, chemicals, water, and repairs. Even pool removal costs for an above-ground pool are much lower than removal costs for an inground pool.
Recreation, Relaxation, and Exercise
Pools are a source of relaxation for adults who want an afternoon of peace and quiet. Homeowners who enjoy swimming laps in a pool can ask a local pool installer about above-ground lap pools. Pools can also be highly therapeutic for anyone getting back into exercise or doing physical therapy after an injury. And since above-ground pools tend to be shallower than in-ground pools, it’s easier to float or stand as needed.
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