Pool Removal Cost Calculator

Pool removal cost might surprise you as you research your options. Our data shows that swimming pool removal costs average $6,000 nationwide. The price spectrum ranges from $300 for a basic above-ground pool removal to $25,000 for complex in-ground pool removals.

The cost to remove pool structures varies substantially based on several factors. Homeowners typically pay $13.50 per square foot for pool removal services. The swimming pool removal cost varies by installation type. Partial in-ground pool removals cost between $3,000 and $10,000. Full removals range from $10,000 to $15,000.

This piece breaks down all costs linked to pool removal in 2025. We’ve compiled fresh data about above-ground and in-ground removals along with unexpected expenses contractors rarely mention upfront. This information helps you make smart decisions about your property.

Average Pool Removal Cost in 2025

Pool demolition prices have moved up and down since last year. I looked at data from contractors of all sizes nationwide and put together fresh cost details to help you plan your pool removal budget.

National average and typical range

Pool removal in 2025 costs about $6,000 on average nationwide. The price range runs from $3,000 to $20,000, and most homeowners pay between $5,000 and $8,000 for a standard project.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you might pay:

• Overall average cost: About $10,000
• Minimum cost: $300 for simple above-ground pools
• Maximum cost: $20,000 for complex removals
• Most common price range: $2,500 to $13,500

These numbers show the full range of pool removal projects across the country. Your actual costs might fall outside these ranges based on where you live, your pool’s size, and how easy it is to access your property.

Location plays a big role in the final cost. Pool removal in the Northeast runs between $6,000 and $16,000. Southeastern states are cheaper at $4,000 to $12,000. Western states charge the most, from $7,000 to $20,000, because they have tougher environmental rules and higher disposal fees.

Cost per square foot explained

The cost per square foot helps you estimate your project budget. Homeowners pay about $13.50 per square foot for pool removal services in 2025. This gives you a good starting point to calculate your total cost.

Here’s what different pool sizes typically cost:

Pool Size (feet)	Partial Removal Cost	Full Removal Cost
10×20	$2,000-$6,200	$4,300-$10,800
12×24	$2,300-$7,700	$4,600-$11,600
15×30	$2,500-$8,100	$4,100-$13,400
20×40	$3,000-$10,300	$6,100-$16,400
30×50	$4,100-$14,700	$8,000-$22,500

Larger pools cost more to remove, especially for complete removals that need more demolition and hauling work.

Above-ground vs in-ground pool removal

The biggest price difference lies between above-ground and in-ground pool removals. Above-ground pools cost much less to remove because they don’t need heavy machinery or deep digging.

Above-ground pool removal costs:

• Simple removal (pool only): $300 to $800
• With deck removal: $1,000 to $5,000
• National average: $900

In-ground pool removal needs special equipment and more labor, which drives up the cost:

In-ground pool removal costs:

• Partial removal: $2,500 to $10,000
• Full removal: $4,000 to $16,000
• Small to medium pools: Start at $3,000
• Large or complex projects: Up to $22,500

This price gap reflects the job’s complexity. A partial in-ground pool removal breaks up the pool’s top section, puts holes in the bottom for drainage, and fills the shell with rubble and soil. Full removal costs more but removes the entire pool structure, letting you use the space however you want.

Your choice of removal method will shape your budget and determine what you can do with the space after the pool is gone.

Cost Breakdown by Pool Type and Method

Pool removal costs can be confusing. The price tag isn’t the only thing to think over – your property’s future plays a big role too. Let’s get into the exact costs and what you need to know about each method.

Partial vs full removal: what’s the difference?

You need to understand the basic differences between partial and full pool removal to plan your budget properly.

A partial pool removal starts when contractors drill holes in the pool bottom for drainage. They demolish just the top portion (typically 18 inches to 2 feet) of the walls. The debris goes into the bottom shell, which they then fill with dirt or gravel. This method costs nowhere near as much—around $4,025—and takes only 1-3 days to finish.

A full pool removal means taking out the entire pool structure. Workers haul away all debris and fill the hole with engineered backfill that they compact properly. This complete approach runs about $9,720 and usually takes 3-7 days.

Aspect	Partial Removal	Full Removal
Cost Range	$3,000-$10,300	$4,300-$22,500
Timeline	1-3 days	3-7 days
Future Use	Landscaping only	Any use including buildings
Disclosure	Required when selling	Not required
Best For	Budget-conscious homeowners	When it comes to saying goodbye to your pool, you’ve got two main options – and your choice makes a big difference in both price and future possibilities

Of course, the cost difference stands out—partial removal costs 30% less than full removal. All the same, full removal gives you complete freedom for future property use.

Above-ground pool removal cost

Taking out above-ground pools costs much less than in-ground ones. The national average for above-ground pool removal runs from $475 to $2,500, with most homeowners paying about $900.

These factors affect the final price:

• Pool Size: Small pools (up to 12 ft) cost $300-$1,200, medium pools (12-18 ft) cost $500-$2,000, and large pools (18+ ft) cost $1,000-$3,500
• Pool Construction: Steel-frame pools ($500-$3,500) cost more than resin pools ($400-$3,000) or inflatable pools ($300-$1,500)
• Additional Structures: Deck removal adds $700-$1,700, and enclosure removal runs $800-$2,000

The total can go up with drainage costs ($175-$225) and disposal fees ($200-$500). Location matters too—Northeast states charge 10-15% above the national average, while Midwest rates run 10-20% below.

In-ground pool removal cost

In-ground pool removal needs more work, which explains the higher price. The costs vary by method:

• Partial removal: $2,000-$10,300
• Full removal: $4,300-$16,400

Pool size makes a big difference in cost:

Pool Size (ft)	Partial Fill-In	Full Removal
10×20	$2,000-$6,200	$4,300–$10,800
15×30	$2,500-$8,100	$4,100–$13,400
20×40	$3,000-$10,300	$6,100–$16,400
30×50	$4,100-$14,700	$8,000–$22,500

The pool’s material affects removal costs too. Concrete and gunite pools are the toughest and priciest to remove at $3,000-$15,000. Vinyl-lined pools cost less ($3,000-$10,000). Fiberglass pools might save homeowners up to $2,000 if workers can remove the shell in one piece.

Small to medium pools with easy access might cost $3,000-$6,000 for partial removal. The same job with tough access, large decks, or complex plumbing can jump to $6,000-$15,000.

You’ll need full removal if you plan to build anything where the pool used to be. The upfront cost runs higher, but you won’t need to disclose it when selling your property and can use the land any way you want.

Material Matters: How Pool Type Affects Cost

The type of material used in your pool plays a big role in determining the final removal cost. Two pools of similar size can cost very differently to remove based on what they’re made of. Here’s how different pool materials affect your costs.

Concrete pool removal cost

Concrete pools are the toughest and most expensive to remove. These pools need special heavy equipment and lots of work to demolish because they’re heavy and durable. Most homeowners pay between $3,000 and $15,000 for concrete pool removal, with typical costs falling somewhere in between.

Why does concrete cost so much to remove? We mainly struggled with breaking apart the thick concrete shell. This job needs jackhammers, excavators with special attachments, and tools to cut through rebar. Contractors say concrete costs more than other materials because:

• Demolition creates lots of debris to haul away
• The job takes 3-5 days to finish
• You need to rent heavy machinery

Partial concrete pool removal costs between $3,500 and $5,000. This covers breaking up the top while leaving the bottom in place. Complete removal runs $5,000 to $15,000+, which covers full demolition, hauling away debris, and filling the hole properly.

Vinyl liner pool removal cost

Vinyl liner pools are more budget-friendly to remove than concrete ones. Removing a vinyl-lined pool typically costs between $3,000 and $10,000, though some contractors charge $4,000 to $11,000.

You’ll need to remove vinyl pools completely rather than partially fill them. A structural engineer needs to check and approve that the vinyl liner’s backing (usually aluminum, plywood, steel, or concrete) is safe to remove.

The most budget-friendly option starts at $4,000 to $6,000. These pools cost less because there’s:

• Less concrete to break up
• Fewer materials to remove
• A simpler removal process

In spite of that, costs can still go up based on pool size, access issues, and extra structures that need removal.

Fiberglass and gunite pool removal cost

Taking out a fiberglass pool costs between $5,000 and $15,000, with some contractors charging $6,000 to $16,000. Fiberglass removal can actually save you money if the shell stays in one piece.

Contractors can lift out intact fiberglass pools as a single unit, which cuts down on labor costs. Damaged pools need to be broken into pieces, which takes more time and money.

Gunite pools—a type of sprayable concrete—cost about the same as regular concrete pools to remove. Removal runs from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on size and method. These pools need heavy machinery and lots of work to demolish because gunite is so tough.

Your final bill depends on several key factors, no matter what type of pool you have:

1. Pool size and depth
2. How easily equipment can reach your pool
3. Local rules about disposal
4. Required permits
5. Whether you remove all or part of the pool

Knowing how your pool’s material affects removal costs helps you plan your budget for this big home project. You can avoid surprises during removal by understanding what to expect for your specific type of pool.

Hidden Costs You Might Overlook

Pool removal budgets can surprise homeowners who focus only on demolition costs and overlook other expenses that can add thousands to the final bill.

Permit and inspection fees

Every pool removal project needs proper permits. These cost between $200.00 and $400.00 and take one to three weeks to get. Most good contractors include these fees in their estimates and handle the paperwork.

Your permit prices will change based on:

• Pool size
• Demolition complexity
• Local building codes and regulations

Some cities need multiple permits—not just for demolition but also for dumpster placement. These extra permits cost between $10.00 and $75.00. Local authorities might need inspections during and after removal. This extends the timeline and might cost more if work needs fixes.

Disposal and dumpster rental

Getting rid of pool debris is a big expense. Disposal fees range from $150.00 to $500.00, based on debris weight and volume.

Dumpster rentals cost between $300.00 and $700.00 per week. Your pool’s size affects these costs—a typical 16′ x 32′ concrete pool fills several 20-yard dumpsters.

Make sure to ask if your contractor’s quote has these disposal costs or if they’ll bill them separately. Some contractors package these expenses, while others list them as extra charges.

Deck, fence, and enclosure removal

The area around your pool often needs removal too. Deck removal costs about $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot. Wooden decks cost $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot while concrete decking runs $5.00 to $15.00 per square foot.

Fence and enclosure removal costs vary from $800.00 to $2,000.00 for standard fencing. Large enclosures like pool cages or glass structures might cost $5,000.00 or more to remove.

These extra structure removals can affect your budget by a lot—sometimes doubling the project cost.

Soil compaction and landscaping

Soil compaction is vital yet often underestimated. Poor compaction leads to yard depressions or sinkholes over time.

Professional landscaping after removal costs $200.00 to $300.00 per hour. Basic restoration starts around $500.00. More detailed landscaping projects increase these costs by a lot.

Soil moisture content affects proper compaction. Too much moisture weakens stability, while too little prevents good compaction. This shows why professional oversight matters.

Structural engineer fees

Many cities require a structural engineer’s help to ensure ground stability and safety, especially for full pool removals. Engineers charge between $500.00 to $1,500.00, with hourly rates of $100.00 to $200.00.

Engineers provide these vital services:

• Creating a demolition and compaction plan
• Conducting density testing (typically 90-95% compaction required)
• Certifying the area’s safety for future construction

This expense becomes mandatory if you plan to build on the old pool site. Even without building plans, good engineering oversight prevents future yard issues, making it worth the investment.

Getting detailed quotes from multiple contractors helps avoid budget surprises and keeps your pool removal project on track financially.

DIY vs Hiring a Pro: What You Need to Know

You might feel tempted to save money by removing your pool yourself, but reality rarely matches expectations. A good look at both options will help you make a smart decision that works for both your wallet and practical needs.

DIY cost estimate and equipment rental

DIY pool removal costs range from USD 1000.00 to USD 4000.00, which looks like big savings at first glance. The budget usually breaks down into these main costs:

• Equipment rental: $300.00 to $600.00 per day for excavators, jackhammers, and concrete saws
• Safety gear: $60.00 to $120.00 for protective equipment
• Permit costs: $200.00 to $400.00 based on local rules
• Disposal fees: $250.00 to $500.00 to dump materials

These savings often disappear as the project stretches from days to weeks—or even months—if you lack experience. Most homeowners don’t have the skills, equipment access, or technical know-how to get the job done quickly.

Legal and safety considerations

Pool demolition comes with many regulatory challenges. Your city likely requires specific demolition permits, and many areas need a structural engineer’s oversight, which makes DIY removal illegal in some cases.

Safety risks go beyond legal issues. Bad drainage can damage local water systems, and using equipment without experience can lead to injuries. Hitting underground utility lines—gas, electrical, or water—creates dangerous and expensive emergencies.

Environmental concerns matter too. Pool chemicals need proper handling and disposal to avoid contamination.

When to hire a professional

Professional pool removal runs between $5000.00 to $20000.00, with contractors charging about $200.00 to $300.00 per hour. Current rates as of July 2025 start at $162.00 to $203.00 per cubic yard.

You should hire professionals if:

• Your pool is in-ground concrete or gunite
• Local rules require engineering oversight
• You have time constraints
• You want to build something else there later

Professional contractors have proper insurance and licensing. They know how to use heavy equipment safely, work around utility lines carefully, and follow all local regulations. Their expertise protects your property value and keeps you safe.

Ways to Save on Pool Removal

Want to reduce your pool removal costs while maintaining quality? Here are practical money-saving strategies that contractors rarely mention upfront.

Drain the pool yourself

Local regulations permitting, you can save approximately $100 by draining your pool. The water needs proper dechlorination with pH levels between 6.5-7.5. You might face environmental fines ranging from $100 to $2,500 if drainage isn’t done correctly.

Remove enclosures or decks beforehand

You can save $1,000 or more by removing lightweight enclosures or fencing yourself. The removal of pool filters and pumps on your own will cut additional labor costs from your contractor’s final bill.

Choose budget-friendly fill materials

Premium soil isn’t always necessary. Fill dirt costs about $12 per cubic yard while tailings cost just $5 per cubic yard. A practical mixture uses 80% fill/tailings with 20% topsoil for the surface layer.

Get multiple contractor quotes

You should get at least three estimates to receive competitive pricing. This strategy helps secure better rates on labor and disposal fees and identifies potential market outliers.

Recycle or sell salvageable materials

Pool components can be surprisingly valuable. Aluminum parts sell for $0.30-$0.70 per pound, while copper components from pumps bring $1.50-$3.00 per pound. Working pumps and filters can fetch $100-$500. Homeowners typically recover $200-$500 through smart recycling.

Conclusion

Pool removal costs can vary a lot based on your situation. The national average sits at $6,000, but actual costs range from $300 for simple above-ground pools to $25,000 for complex in-ground demolitions.

Your pool’s type plays a big role in the final cost. Above-ground pools usually cost less than $1,000 to remove. In-ground concrete pools need more resources, equipment, and expertise, which drives up the price. Your choice between partial and full removal will affect both current costs and future property options.

Hidden costs can blow up your budget if you’re not careful. The final price includes permits, disposal fees, deck removal, soil compaction, and engineering certifications. Getting detailed, itemized quotes from multiple contractors helps you budget accurately.

You might think about DIY removal to save money. But safety risks, legal issues, and possible expensive mistakes make professional removal a smarter choice for most homeowners. Professional contractors bring their own equipment, technical know-how, and understanding of regulations that protect your property value and safety.

Smart planning can help cut down expenses. You can drain the pool yourself, take out surrounding structures, pick cheaper fill materials, shop around for quotes, and recycle valuable parts. These steps help reduce costs without cutting corners.

Taking out a swimming pool involves more than just money decisions. Maybe you want to get rid of an unused liability, need more yard space, or plan future construction. Now you know the real costs involved and can make smart choices about your property’s future. This guide and current 2025 pricing data will help you direct your pool removal project the right way.