Planning a backyard pool in Georgia? You might be curious about the actual costs involved. My research shows that prices change by a lot based on several factors. Atlanta homeowners typically pay around $74,546 for an in-ground swimming pool, with costs ranging between $53,865 and $98,360.
Your choice of materials plays a big role in Atlanta’s pool installation costs. Georgia’s average pool prices largely depend on your preferred type. Concrete pools range from $95,000 to $225,000, while vinyl liner pools cost between $75,000 and $100,000+. Savannah’s inground fiberglass pools start at $60,000, and complete projects can run from $85,000 to $200,000. The long-term costs also matter. Fiberglass pools need minimal maintenance at about $15,000 over ten years. This compares favorably to concrete pools that require $26,400 in maintenance during the same timeframe.
This piece breaks down Georgia’s pool costs comprehensively. We cover everything from the original installation to ongoing maintenance costs. These insights will help you make a smart choice whether you live in Atlanta, Savannah, or anywhere else in the Peach State.
Types of Inground Pools Available in Georgia
Image Source: Georgia Classic Pool
Georgia homeowners have three main types of inground pools to think about, each with its own advantages and limitations. The sort of thing I love about pool research is how each type offers something unique. Let me share what I’ve learned to help you make the right choice.
Concrete pools: high customization, high cost
Concrete pools (also called gunite or shotcrete) are the top choice for Georgians who want complete customization. Builders create these pools on-site using a steel-reinforced framework and spray it with a concrete mixture, which essentially becomes a custom sculpture in your backyard.
These pools stand out because you can shape them any way you want. The design flexibility is unmatched compared to other options. You can create virtually any shape, size, or depth you can imagine. Want a freeform design with a tanning ledge, infinity edge, or beach entry? Concrete makes all this possible.
Concrete pools last up to 50 years with proper care, but they need regular maintenance. You’ll spend time scrubbing the porous surface to prevent algae growth and use more chemicals than other pool types. It’s worth mentioning that these pools need resurfacing every 10-15 years, which costs about $10,000.
Money-wise, concrete pools are the biggest investment. Prices start at $50,000-$60,000 but can reach $70,000-$100,000 depending on your custom features.
Vinyl liner pools: budget-friendly but less durable
Vinyl liner pools give you a more affordable way to own a pool. These pools use a custom-made vinyl sheet between the water and pool structure, with steel or polymer wall panels forming the frame.
You’ll find vinyl liner pools attractive because they cost less upfront, usually between $30,000-$45,000. Installation happens quickly compared to concrete, so you can start swimming sooner.
All the same, these pools have some drawbacks. You’ll just need to replace the liner every 5-9 years, which costs $2,000-$4,000 each time. Sharp objects can puncture the liner, so you’ll want to be extra careful with pool toys and pet claws.
These pools still offer many design options and give you a smooth, comfortable surface that feels great on your skin. Budget-conscious homeowners who want a simple pool solution often choose this option.
Fiberglass pools: low maintenance and mid-range pricing
Fiberglass pools hit the sweet spot in many ways. Manufacturers create these pre-formed shells off-site and deliver them ready to install. Your pool can be ready in just 2-3 weeks, nowhere near the months needed for concrete pools.
The non-porous gelcoat surface makes these pools easy to maintain. They fight off algae growth better, use fewer chemicals, and don’t mess with water chemistry. Over 10 years, you’ll spend about $4,000 on maintenance, much less than concrete pools’ $15,000-$27,000.
Expect to pay between $45,000-$65,000 for a fiberglass pool. While you’re limited to pre-made shapes and sizes, today’s fiberglass pools come with many attractive designs and built-in features like tanning ledges, benches, and steps.
Busy families love fiberglass pools because they strike a perfect balance between upfront cost and long-term value. With minimal upkeep, these pools can last 25-30 years or longer.
Average Pool Cost in Georgia by Type and Size
A breakdown of inground pool costs in Georgia shows major price differences based on size, material, and location. You can expect to pay $50 to $150 per square foot as a starting point to calculate your total project costs.
Small pools (up to 26 ft): $60,000–$85,000
Small swimming pools up to 26 feet long start around $60,000. A 10×20 pool (200 square feet) costs $10,000 to $30,000 for simple installation. Add decking, fencing, and equipment, and the total jumps to $60,000-$85,000. Small fiberglass pools start at $45,000, making them a middle-range choice. Concrete versions of the same size start at $65,000.
Georgia homeowners often choose 12×24 feet pools, which cost $22,000 to $35,000 for base installation. The price goes up when you add finishing touches and landscaping.
Medium pools (26–34 ft): $85,000–$100,000
Medium-sized pools give you more swimming space at a higher price point. A standard 16×32 foot pool costs $40,000 to $65,000 for base installation. Premium features push the total investment to $85,000 to $100,000.
These pools are the top choice for Georgia homeowners because they balance swimming space with cost. Vinyl liner options cost less upfront, but you’ll need to replace the liner every 10 years.
Large pools (35+ ft): $100,000–$150,000+
Pools longer than 35 feet come with premium price tags. An 18×36 foot pool runs $50,000 to $80,000 for basic installation. A 20×40 foot pool costs $65,000 to $100,000. High-end features can push total costs beyond $150,000. Specialty designs like infinity or beach entry pools range between $65,000 and $150,000.
Savannah GA pool cost vs. Atlanta pool cost
Regional variations make a difference in Georgia. Atlanta homeowners spend an average of $74,546 on inground pools, with most costs falling between $53,865 and $98,360. Savannah’s pricing looks quite different.
Savannah’s fiberglass pools start at $60,000, with complete projects ranging from $85,000 to $200,000. Concrete pools cost more here, running between $95,000 and $225,000 – higher than Atlanta’s average. Vinyl pools in Savannah cost $75,000 to $100,000+.
Labor costs, permit fees, and local regulations create these regional price differences. You should get quotes from local contractors instead of relying on statewide averages.
Key Factors That Influence Pool Installation Costs
Image Source: Estimate Florida Consulting
Your final inground pool cost in Georgia depends on several property-specific factors beyond the simple pricing for different pool types. You should understand these variables before starting your project to avoid unexpected budget issues.
Soil and terrain conditions
Georgia’s distinctive red clay soil makes pool construction challenging. Contractors need specialized equipment to handle the complex excavation, which adds to your overall costs. Building on sloped yards requires extra work, and you might need retaining walls that can cost $500 to $8,000.
Rocky soil makes the project even more expensive because it needs special excavation equipment. Your costs can rise if the crew finds underground obstacles like tree roots, buried utilities, or old swimming pools during excavation. The best way to get accurate cost estimates is to have professional soil testing done before construction starts.
Access to the backyard
The way contractors reach your planned pool location affects construction costs. When access is limited, crews must use smaller equipment or rely on manual labor. This takes longer and costs more.
Some contractors can work in spaces as narrow as 32 inches, but this slows down the work substantially. When equipment can’t reach the site, cranes might be the only option—it’s expensive but it works. The ideal setup needs about eight feet of space between your house and fence for standard equipment.
Permits and local regulations
Building permits in Atlanta cost about $25, but you might pay $200 to $500 total for permits based on where you live. You could face extra costs if you need to remove trees or do other prep work.
The project needs approval from several offices: Planning and Zoning, Environmental Health, and Environmental Management. Each area has its own rules about how far the pool must be from property lines, what safety features you need, and how inspections work.
Labor and contractor fees
Labor makes up 25% to 55% of your total pool installation cost. Atlanta pool contractors charge $50 to $150 per hour. Their rates change based on their experience and how complex your project is.
A general contractor adds 10% to 20% to your project cost, but their oversight helps prevent costly mistakes. You’ll pay more for labor when the project is complex, the terrain is difficult, or access is limited.
Material and component choices
The pool material you choose shapes your budget now and later. Concrete pools let you customize everything but cost more upfront and need more maintenance. Fiberglass pools balance cost and durability well, while vinyl pools cost less at first.
Your choice of components like pumps and electrical systems affects both initial and ongoing costs. High-efficiency systems cost more upfront but save money over time through lower utility bills.
Ongoing Maintenance and Long-Term Costs
Owning an inground pool in Georgia costs way beyond the initial installation. A clear understanding of maintenance costs will help you avoid budget surprises later.
Concrete pool maintenance: resurfacing and chemicals
Concrete pools need the highest ongoing investment among all pool types. A concrete pool’s maintenance costs reach approximately $27,500 over a 10-year period. The pool’s porous surface needs more chemicals and regular scrubbing to stop algae growth. These pools must be resurfaced every 10-15 years at a cost between $10,000 and $20,000. The surface might also need acid washing every 5-7 years, which costs $450-$600 per treatment.
Vinyl liner replacement and upkeep
Liner replacement stands as the most important recurring expense for vinyl liner pools. The liners usually last 10-12 years, though some might fail earlier. Standard pools need $4,500 to $6,500 for replacement costs. Vinyl pools’ monthly chemical costs range between $20-$30. These pools average $11,500 in maintenance costs over 10 years, making them a mid-range option for long-term expenses.
Fiberglass pool maintenance: lowest over 10 years
Fiberglass pools excel in maintenance with 10-year costs of just $3,800. The gelcoat surface naturally fights algae growth and needs fewer chemicals and less scrubbing. Small crack repairs might be needed occasionally at $300-$800. Resurfacing becomes necessary after decades of use and costs $6,000-$15,000—still cheaper than concrete over the same timeframe.
Monthly utility and cleaning service costs
Regular operational expenses apply to all pools. Georgia’s professional pool cleaning services typically charge $75-$150 per month for weekly visits. Running the pump adds $40-$70 monthly to utility bills. Water costs range from $300-$800 yearly, based on evaporation rates and local prices. Pool opening and closing services run $300-$700 yearly.
Simple DIY maintenance supplies cost about $600-$1,200 yearly for chemicals and testing equipment. Each pool type has different chemical needs—concrete pools require about $750 annually, vinyl pools need $400, and fiberglass pools use just $175.
Does a Pool Add Value to Your Georgia Home?
Georgia homeowners often question their pool’s financial impact after making the investment. The value of this underwater asset depends on several important factors.
How pools affect resale value in Georgia
Research indicates inground pools boost home value by 5-7% on average. The impact is more dramatic in metro Atlanta, where homes with pools sell for $701,495 versus $358,654 for those without. Buckhead shows an even more impressive gap with pool homes commanding a 134% premium. Most homeowners see a return on investment (ROI) between 5% and 56%, with the average falling around 7-8%.
What buyers look for in pool homes
The pandemic transformed buyer priorities toward outdoor spaces. Homes with clean pools and modern features attract top offers. The pool’s condition plays a crucial role—poorly maintained ones can reduce property value. Buyers carefully evaluate safety features, equipment updates, and proper permits. Note that pools aren’t universally appealing, as some buyers consider them a maintenance burden.
Tips to maximize ROI from your pool investment
Your pool should match neighborhood standards to optimize returns—they add more value where they’re common. Maintaining detailed service records helps reassure future buyers. Adding professional landscaping around the pool area can increase your home’s value by nearly 15%. Smart staging of the pool area helps potential buyers foresee their future lifestyle.
Conclusion
Building an inground pool in Georgia is a big investment that comes with many moving parts. Your costs can range from $60,000 to over $150,000 based on the size and materials you choose. Of course, each pool type comes with its own perks – concrete pools let you customize everything, vinyl pools are budget-friendly, and fiberglass strikes a sweet spot between cost and easy upkeep.
The real story shows up in long-term costs. Fiberglass pools end up being the clear winner at just $3,800 over ten years, while concrete pools need almost $27,500 in the same timeframe. It also makes sense to get local quotes in places like Atlanta and Savannah instead of going by state averages.
Your property’s soil type, access to the backyard, and local building rules will affect your final costs by a lot. Getting a full picture of your site before you commit is key to staying on budget.
Georgia homeowners can expect a solid return on their investment. While pools typically add 5-7% to home values across the country, Atlanta’s pool homes sell for much more – this is a big deal in upscale areas like Buckhead. All the same, you’ll need to keep up with maintenance and make sure your pool fits in with other homes nearby to get the best value.
You might want a luxury escape or a fun family hangout. Either way, knowing these costs helps you make smart choices about your Georgia pool project. Take your time to do research, get several quotes, and think over both immediate and future costs before you start digging.
