Fiberglass vs Concrete vs Vinyl Liner | Cost and Pricing
One of the first questions a pool shopper asks themselves when they begin the process of buying a swimming pool is: How much does a pool cost, and what are the expected prices for the different types of swimming pools?
Unfortunately, many people run into a roadblock when they research online as to how much an inground or above ground swimming pool really is going to cost.
This article will attempt to answer this important question, but keep in mind that pool prices can vary drastically from region to region.
How much do above-ground and inground pools cost?
The average above-ground pool kit costs $2,500–$7,500, depending on the quality. Rectangular inground pools with a deck can cost over $10,000. Inground vinyl liner pools cost $20,000–$55,000. Inground fiberglass pools cost $45,000–$85,000. Inground concrete pools cost $50,000–$100,000.
Above Ground Pools
There are two pricing components in purchasing an above ground pool:
- The kit
- The installation
Kits for Above Ground Pools
Many swimming pool companies only sell above ground pool kits, and do not actually do the pool's installation.
The average above ground swimming pool kit will cost between $1,500 and $4,500, depending on the quality of the pool.
Typically, the more resin and less metal the pool has, the higher the price will be and the longer it will last.
Installations for Above Ground Pools
The installation costs of above ground pools usually run $1,000–$3,000, depending on the size and type of pool. Keep in mind that oval pools normally cost more to install than round pools, and the kits are also more expensive.
In recent years, big-box stores like Walmart have also started selling above ground pools. The main manufacturer of these pools is Intex. Such ‘set and fill’ pools are very inexpensive, usually costing $100–$800, and in most cases they last 1–3 summers before they need to be replaced.
Finally, there are some rectangular above ground pools available on the market as well. The most well-known rectangular above ground pool company is Kayak Pools. Rectangular above ground pools are almost always surrounded by a wrap-around deck; this is necessary for structural support. Because of this, they are usually over $10,000 installed.
Vinyl Liner Inground Pools
Vinyl liner pools are usually the least expensive inground pool option. This is mainly due to the fact that the materials for a vinyl liner are inexpensive.
For a very basic, medium-sized vinyl liner pool without patio, you can expect to spend $20,000–$30,000.
Other options such as heaters, covers, decking, etc., will certainly escalate this price.
Read More: Vinyl Liner Pool Basics: Pros, Cons, and How They’re Made
Fiberglass Inground Pools
Fiberglass pools cost more than vinyl liner pools to install because a fiberglass shell and shipping cost so much more than the cost of a vinyl liner pool kit in terms of raw materials.
If a consumer were to buy just a fiberglass pool shell with shipping, they will likely spend $12,000–$25,000 depending on the size of the pool.
To have a pool contractor install the pool, including decking/patio, you can expect to spend in the neighborhood of $45,000–$85,000.
Again, options such as a heater, lights, water features, patio, and other accessories will escalate this price.
Read More: Fiberglass Swimming Pools 101: Manufacturing, Cost, and More
Want to see about how much that cost will be with all your favorite pool accessories?
Use our Design and Price Tool to walk through your options and approximate price!
Concrete/Gunite Inground Pools
In most cases, but not always, concrete pools will have the highest initial cost, and will vary greatly depending on the size of the pool and the material used for the pool's surface (such as white plaster or exposed aggregate).
The reason why concrete pools tend to cost more is due to the labor involved with their installation.
In the majority of cases, a normal-sized concrete pool will cost about $55,000–$100,000 with decking and options.
Read More: Concrete Pool Basics: Pros, Cons, and How They’re Made
If you'd like to gain insight into the different pool options available to you, be sure to check out our free eBook below, "Comparing Fiberglass, Concrete, and Vinyl Liner Pools in the Modern Age".
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Editor's note: This blog article was originally published in July 2009 and has been updated and revamped for accuracy and appearance.