The average above ground swimming pool costs $1,500 without installation and ranges from $350 to $9,500 depending upon the brand, size, and any additional features.
This calculator will allow you to get a ballpark cost estimate for an above ground swimming pool based on its size and shape. As with inground pools, there are LOTS of options to choose when you buy a pool. Therefore, this tool is only going to provide a very rough estimate. But hopefully you can use it to determine if a swimming pool is something you can afford or not.
Here’s the most popular above ground pool on Amazon:
Above Ground Pool Cost Breakdown: What You Need to Know
Installing a brand new above ground swimming pool can be a great way to improve your summer festivities. You own the luxury of having a pool you can use whenever you want, regardless of the time of day. You will be able to relax, play, host parties, and just cool off whenever you feel like it, without the expense and more permanent commitment that an in-ground pool brings
Want a pool that won’t break the bank? Above ground pools cost between $1,500 to $15,000. This makes them a wallet-friendly choice compared to the cost of an inground pool, which can run upwards of $50,000.
Pool planning goes beyond the original purchase price. Our team has researched backyard pool options extensively. We’ll help you break down every expense you need to think over – from simple materials to ongoing maintenance costs.
This detailed guide covers all your above ground pool expenses. You’ll learn about installation fees, equipment needs, maintenance requirements, and unexpected costs that might surprise you. We want you to make a smart choice without any financial surprises later.
Understanding Base Pool Costs
Let’s talk about above ground pools and their base costs. You need to understand these costs to make a smart choice. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll spend.
Different pool types and their price ranges
Our research shows inflatable pools are easiest on your wallet, with prices from $400 to $800. Rigid steel wall pools cost more but last longer, running between $1,200 to $4,000. Premium hybrid frame pools will set you back $3,000 to $5,000. All-resin pools are at the top end, ranging from $4,000 to $8,000.
Material costs comparison (Steel vs. Resin vs. Aluminum)
We looked at three main materials you can choose from:
- Steel Pools: These are your best bet for strength at $800-$3,000, but watch out for rust
- Resin Pools: A solid middle ground at $1,000-$3,000, and you won’t worry about rust or oxidation
- Aluminum Pools: The premium choice costs $1,000-$4,500, giving you something light that stands up to weather
Size and shape impact on pricing
Pool size affects the cost by a lot. Round pools help you save money, but oval ones need extra support that drives up the price. To name just one example, a 12-foot round pool starts around $800, while an 18-foot round pool might cost up to $2,600. Oval pools, especially the 12’x24′ size, start at $1,500.
Wall height plays a role in the final price – 54-inch walls cost more than 48-inch walls. Think over your space and needs before picking a size and shape. These choices are the foundations of what you’ll spend upfront.
Installation and Setup Expenses
The process of setting up an above ground pool goes beyond just buying the unit. Let’s delve into what you need to know about installation expenses and requirements.
Professional installation costs breakdown
Professional installation costs typically range from $1,000 to $3,000. The size and complexity of your pool will determine the final price. Oval pools generally cost more to install than round ones. Your investment covers expert assembly, proper leveling, and equipment setup.
DIY installation considerations and savings
A professional installation will give a peace of mind, but many homeowners choose the DIY path to cut costs. Here’s what we know about doing it yourself:
- You’ll need 2-3 people and simple tools
- The job takes about 1-2 days
- Ground preparation and leveling need special attention
- You can save up to $3,000 on labor
Site preparation and permits
Site preparation is a vital step before installation begins. Ground leveling costs range between $1,000 to $3,300. Sand or stone dust makes an ideal base layer for the foundation.
Most municipalities need permits for pools deeper than 24 inches. The permit fees range from $100 to $300. You’ll also need an electrical permit that costs about $40 plus state assessment fees. A deck addition requires extra permits costing $225 to $500.
Local authorities and your HOA (if you have one) should approve your plans before installation starts. Installing without proper permits might lead to fines or maybe even mandatory pool removal.
Essential Additional Costs
Setting up our above ground pool taught us that equipment and accessories make up much of the original investment. Let’s look at these vital additional costs that help our pool run smoothly and safely.
Required equipment and accessories
These simple components are the foundations of your above ground pool:
- Pump and filter system: $150-$600
- Pool ladder or steps: $100-$300
- Basic pool covers: $50-$250
- Pool wall skimmer: You need this for circulation and debris collection
Safety features and compliance costs
Our backyard pool requires specific safety features by law. A code-approved fence costs $17-$50 per linear foot based on your material choice (chain link is most affordable, while aluminum or wrought iron costs more). Pool alarms are mandatory in many areas. A complete safety system needs self-closing gates with self-locking latches.
Water and chemical initial setup
The right water chemistry is vital from the start. Chemical costs range from $20-$100 per month, based on pool size and usage. You’ll need:
- A complete testing kit to monitor water quality
- Basic chemicals including chlorine, pH balancers, and algaecides
- A mineral purification system reduces ongoing chemical needs
Your monthly electricity bill will increase by $30-$100 to run the pump and filter system. This should be part of your budget planning.
Long-term Financial Planning
Smart planning helps protect your investment in an above ground pool. We’ve done extensive research to show you what ongoing costs you should expect.
Monthly maintenance expenses
You’ll spend between $80 to $150 each month to maintain your pool properly. Here’s what we set aside in our budget:
- Chemical supplies: $25-50 per month
- Electricity costs: $30-50 monthly
- Water top-offs and testing supplies
- Simple cleaning materials
Seasonal costs and winterization
Seasonal care needs careful planning, especially when you have to winterize your pool. Professional services charge $150 to $300 to close your pool. This price covers water level adjustment, winterizing chemicals, and pool cover installation. A quality winter cover costs between $100 to $300 – it’s worth the investment.
Insurance and warranty considerations
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover above ground pools, but they need extra safety measures. We suggest boosting your liability coverage or adding an umbrella policy to stay protected. Pool kits usually come with a 30-year pro-rated lifetime warranty. Your pumps and filters have a one-year warranty, while pool liners come with a 15-year prorated warranty. It’s worth mentioning that these warranties only cover manufacturer defects, not regular wear and tear.
Your yearly maintenance costs will run between $960 to $1,800, not counting major repairs or replacements. Good planning and proper care will extend your pool’s life and protect your investment.
Conclusion
Above ground pools are a budget-friendly way to add a swimming pool to our property. The total costs range from $1,500 to $15,000 based on our choices. Careful planning makes the most important difference when we choose the right materials and understand installation requirements and maintenance needs.
Our budget should cover both upfront expenses and ongoing costs. Equipment and safety features come first. Monthly maintenance runs between $80-$150 on average. These costs might look high at first glance, but they’re just a small part of what an inground pool would cost us.
Good research and preparation help us get the best value for our investment. A complete cost analysis includes permits, installation, seasonal maintenance and insurance. This approach helps us avoid unexpected expenses and enjoy our above ground pool for years ahead.
Consider This When Buying an Above Ground Pool
The first major thing to consider is how large an above-ground pool that you want and where it will be situated in your yard. Remember, just because the pool is larger does not mean it’s automatically better. Consider again if you really need a large pool or if it would make more sense to purchase a smaller one that may be more durable, as it may cost you less money as the years go by for maintenance. Don’t go with something too cheap, as you might end up regretting it in a few years or even a season’s time.
Once you’ve selected your pool, measure the area in your yard where you are considering setting the pool up to be sure you have enough room. Remember to measure to be sure you have enough room. Ideally, your site is already level and ready for your pool. Otherwise, you may need to rent equipment to create a level site for your pool, or you could hire a landscaper company to do it for you.
Don’t forget to plan for safety. In the middle of assessing all the costs involved in purchasing and installing your above-ground pool, you will want to consider safety features that reduce the chances of accidents occurring. Consider purchasing items such as a fence, a ladder, and a pool cover. These three things will give you all the basic safety measures. You may also want to consider more advanced safety features such as a surface alarm that will go off if a person or animal falls into the water. You may save money by assembling and installing these things yourself rather than hiring a professional.
Pool decks are optional, however, they are encouraged. They add to the aesthetic as well as the functionality of your above-ground pool. You will be able to not only relax in the pool but also by the pool. Not to mention it is also safer to have a flat surface around the pool to lessen the risk of falls.
Save Money with an Above Ground Swimming Pool
A smaller pool means a smaller amount of work needs to be done as well as keeping future maintenance costs lower. You can save thousands of dollars by going for a smaller, sometimes better-made option. To get a good estimate of how much an above ground pool costs, use the calculator on this page.
If you’re really serious about saving money, you can not hire any outside help at all. You will only be paying for the equipment you rent to get the plot ready, the cost of the permit (if needed), and any additions you want to add to the pool.
By not buying anything besides the most important essentials, you can have a nicer pool that costs less overall. You can always pay for a larger deck or hot tub later.
Consider quality when adding up the costs of your new pool. Even if it costs a bit more upfront, you will save money long-term by choosing an above-ground pool made of stronger and more reliable materials. This could add years of enjoyment to your experience.
