How much does pool installation cost?

When dreaming about lazy summer days by the pool, it’s no surprise that what comes to mind for most people is the question, “how much does a pool cost?”.

The question of swimming pool installation cost doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all answer. The truth is, having a swimming pool installed in your backyard can cost anywhere between $12,000 and $100,000.

Pool installation cost will vary based on the type of pool you want and other specifications. Generally, inground pool prices commence at $35,000, while above ground pools cost from $4,000 up, and plunge pools cost upwards of $8,000.

So, how much is a pool going to cost you? In this guide, we will help you understand everything you need to know about the costs of installing a swimming pool. We will explore swimming pool cost by type of pool and materials, what a professional pool builder charges, how to find a pool builder, swimming pool fencing costs and the ongoing costs of maintaining a swimming pool.

How much does a pool cost?

The average pool installation cost for an inground pool in Australia is about $45,000. This typically includes excavation, concreting, materials, tiling, filtration, sanitation, lighting and heating.

You can choose to install a pool for under $15,000 if you opt for DIY pool options but be prepared for a lot of work and challenges along the way. It’s always safer to get the help of a qualified pool installer.

Let’s explore cost of swimming pool by budget:

Budget pool installation cost

For a budget above ground, plunge, vinyl-lined, fibreglass or swim spa: $20,000 – $25,000

Mid-range pool installation cost

For inground, concrete, fibreglass or standard-sized pools: $25,000 – $60,000

Luxury pool installation cost

For natural pools, larger inground pools, water features, premium landscaping materials and tiling, and sites that are sloping or difficult to work with: $60,000+

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How much does an inground pool cost?

Inground pool prices are more expensive because of the need for excavation. Inground swimming pool prices installed by a licensed pool builder will range between $25,000 and $75,000 depending on the style and material you choose.

You can choose from fibreglass, concrete or vinyl-liner pools and this choice will affect the cost of inground pool installation.

Above ground swimming pool prices

How much is an above ground pool? While typically the cheapest pool option, above ground pools cost up to $20,000 for a permanent installation with a building structure.

An above ground fibreglass pool shell alone starts from about $7,000, while a kit which includes a pump and filter starts from about $9,000. A resin shell can cost as little as $3,500.

Extra costs for decking, fencing and concrete slabs need to be considered when budgeting for an above ground pool. Excavating can cost more than $2,500 to get level ground, while timber decking adds an extra $1,500 to $2,000 to your budget.

How much does a plunge pool cost?

Plunge pool prices are generally more affordable due to being a much smaller size than other pool types. Depending on the size you choose, the average plunge pool cost is about $8,000 to $15,000. You can expect to pay $1,500 to $2,500 to have decking installed.

Materials for pools

When choosing your pool type, you will also need to select between a fibreglass, concrete or vinyl-liner pool. Fibreglass pools are the most commonly sought-after material due to the fact they’re more affordable than concrete pools while being durable, long-lasting and easier to maintain.

Fibreglass pool prices

How much does a fibreglass pool cost? Fibreglass pool prices range between $25,000 and $45,000 for a professional installation but can cost upwards of $50,000.

The total price of your pool will be influenced by multiple factors, such as the size and shape of the pool, where it will be located, the ease of access to the property, and more. Fibreglass pools are usually a quicker installation choice than concrete pools.

Read more: All about fibreglass swimming pools

Concrete pool cost

Concrete pools cost anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000, or more. The average concrete pool cost in Australia is approximately $50,000 for installation. The overall price is influenced by the various options you might choose, from size to shape.

While concrete pools tend to be the most expensive pool installation, they give you more control over the appearance of your pool, especially if you want to achieve a more luxurious result.

Concrete pools cost more because they are built from scratch on site, which takes a lengthier amount of time to install than a ready-to-go fibreglass pool.

Vinyl-liner pool cost

Vinyl-pool liners are initially a much cheaper option than concrete or fibreglass pools. Vinyl-liners come in both an above-ground option, which is prefabricated, and an inground option. The above ground vinyl-liner is a more common choice.

An above ground vinyl-liner pool cost with full installation by a professional is about $10,000. You will, however, need to factor in pool fencing costs to comply with Australian safety standards.

An inground vinyl-liner pool cost is anywhere between $20,000 and $50,000, and averages about $35,000. The lifespan of an inground vinyl-liner pool is only five to ten years, making them a less economical and less popular option. A replacement vinyl-liner will cost between $3,000 and $4,000.

Other influences that determine swimming pool cost

When you’re planning your new swimming pool and coming up with a pool budget, it’s important to consider all the possible pool costs associated with the build.

Here are a few other factors that influence pool prices:

• The length of time it takes to install
• The condition of the site, soil type, how rocky it is and whether heavy machinery will be required to excavate
• The quality of the pool
• If you require extra features, such as water features, jets, heating or lighting
• Whether you opt for cleaning accessories or a self-cleaning pool.

Examine the pros and cons of each pool type and all the extra costs associated with them. Find out if the pool installation comes with any extras such as in-floor cleaning systems or enhanced circulation, which could increase your pool costs.

It’s important you check that your pool shell has an extended warranty and look for a pool builder with vast experience and a solid portfolio of works. Your swimming pool build must meet Australian construction and safety standards.

It may seem alluring to cut costs with a DIY pool, but if you have no pool building experience there are a lot of troubles you can run into, including safety risks. A DIY pool may even put your insurance policy at risk.

How to find swimming pool builders

How much does a professional pool builder cost to build a pool? If you’re looking for a licensed pool builder and need pool quotes, check reviews from local pool installers on Yellow Pages and get free quotes today.

Before getting quotes, ensure you know exactly what you want and speak with your local council about boundary regulations or other requirements that may be in place. A qualified pool builder will be able to factor those choices in to the build, but you need to be aware of the overall process and the inclusions you want so that you get reliable and accurate quotes.

When choosing a pool builder consider:

• Any options and upgrades you want and request an itemised quote from your pool builder
• Decide where your pool will be placed in your yard and what look you want to achieve
• Get at least three quotes from pool builders that specialise in the pool type you’ve chosen
• Find out what’s included in the quotes and what might cost you extra
• Ensure your quotes account for the style of the pool, external finishes, upgrades, heating, lighting and cleaning options, and pool fencing.

Some pool builders offer guarantees for osmosis, structural, internal and paving. Ask about these things when discussing your pool build. Be sure to ask prospective pool builders if they are licensed and insured for the job, if you can see samples of their work and if they can provide you with references.

Swimming pool fencing

To comply with Australian laws and standards, it’s essential that your swimming pool is safely enclosed with appropriate pool fencing. The cost of pool fencing will significantly increase the overall price of the build.

Depending on the materials, length of the swimming pool fence and the state you live in, the cost of pool fencing installation is between $200 and $600 per linear metre.

Pool fencing guidelines are very strict in order to protect children from drowning. The Australian Standard AS 1926.1-2012 outlines all the current specifications for pool fencing for swimming pools that are deeper than 300mm. This includes portable and inflatable pools.

The height of pool fences and gates must be more than 1.2 metres tall, while the gaps between panels should be no more than 100mm, and the space at the bottom of the fence needs to be under 100mm.

You should always check with your local council to ensure your pool build is compliant. In some areas you may need to have pool fencing inspected as well as your pool registered, which can add to the cost of a swimming pool build.

Another consideration is creating a budget for paving, landscaping and building a deck around your pool.

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Ongoing swimming pool costs

Maintaining a pool can be expensive. Not only will you need to invest time and money in keeping your pool clean, but you’ll need the correct chlorine levels or salt level for your pool, a quality filtration system and more. The ongoing cost of pool maintenance will also depend on the type of pool.

The average annual cost of pool maintenance, including cleaning, electricity, and water is $3,000 to $5,000. Running a pool pump alone is roughly $800 to $1,200 per year, while the pump itself can cost between $150 to $800. A pool heater will increase your electricity bill by about $75 per month.

If you are investing in a pool cover, the price ranges dramatically. A basic above ground pool cover may cost as little as $60, while the installation of an automatic cover for an inground pool can cost as much as $10,000. A pool vacuum can cost between $400 and $1,500.

Concrete pools cost more to run and maintain. This is due to the porousness of the interior surface, which attracts algae and bacteria. If you opt to have a concrete pool built, you will also need to factor in having it resurfaced. This process typically needs to be done every 10 to 15 years and will cost about $10,000.

Being susceptible to bacteria and algae can also increase the cost of chemicals used to keep the pool safe to swim in. Vinyl-liner pools are also prone to algae and bacteria.

How to reduce ongoing pool expenses

When you pay for quality materials, it’s an investment that usually pays off in the long run. When you purchase a high-quality pool that will last, you will likely save money on running and maintenance costs rather than installing a cheap pool that needs constant repairs.

Here are a few tips to help you reduce your pool related expenses:

• Commit to cleaning your pool on a weekly basis
• Check over your pool equipment and maintain it regularly
• Choose solar heating and a solar pump to keep energy bills down
• Keep the pool water at the right level to reduce the amount of chemicals needed to keep it clean
• Use a pool cover to minimise evaporation and the loss of heat and chemicals.

While the initial outlay for a saltwater system is more expensive, the ongoing purchase of salt is much cheaper than chlorine, so this is another good option to keep ongoing expenses down.

Swimming pool cost FAQ

How long does pool installation take?

Fibreglass pools come ready made, which means installation can be done in just a few weeks. Concrete pools are built onsite, so you can expect a three to six month wait for completion.

* All costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this cost guide was written and should only be used as an estimate.