How Much Does It Cost to Install an Aboveground Pool in 2025?
The average aboveground pool costs $3,450, though most homeowners pay between $1,015 and $6,000 to install 5-foot-high unpainted solid wood wainscoting in a 12-by-12-foot room.
Key aboveground pool cost factors include location, pool size, materials, and additional features like decks or covers.
Investing in a professional installation ensures the safety and longevity of your pool.
Regular maintenance is crucial to extend the lifespan of your pool and enjoy its benefits.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Dreaming of a refreshing oasis in your backyard without the hefty price tag of an in-ground pool? Installing an aboveground pool may be the perfect solution. On average, homeowners spend $3,450, with installations ranging between as little as $150 and as high as $20,000. Your final price depends on factors like location, pool size, and material quality. Let's dive into what influences the cost so you can plan your ideal backyard getaway.
Aboveground Swimming Pool Cost Factors
An aboveground swimming pool is a fantastic way to enjoy summer fun without the high costs of a semi-inground or fully in-ground pool. They're affordable, easy to install, and can provide endless enjoyment for you and your family.
Keep in mind that the cost to build your pool will depend on the size and shape you choose. Larger and deeper pools, or those with unique shapes like ovals and rounds, generally have higher price tags than smaller, rectangular options.
Aboveground Pool Cost by Size
| Size | 48” Wall | 54” Wall |
|---|---|---|
| 12’ | $1,150 – $1,220 | $1,075 – $1,650 |
| 15’ | $1,300 – $1,490 | $1,260 – $2,168 |
| 18’ | $1,420 – $1,650 | $1,580 – $2,200 |
| 24’ | $1,610 – $1,940 | $1,840 – $2,500 |
| 30’ | $2,200 – $2,800 | $2,400 – $3,000 |
Oval Above-Ground Pools
| Size | 48” Wall | 54” Wall |
|---|---|---|
| 24'x12' | $1,290 – $1,550 | $1,430 – $2,500 |
| 33'x18’ | $1,670 – $1,935 | $1,960 – $3,530 |
| 41'x21' | N/A | $4,010 - $4,840 |
Rectangular Above-Ground Pools
| Size | 52” Wall |
|---|---|
| 9’x18’ | $820 – $2,100 |
| 12’x24’ | $1,200 – $2,800 |
Aboveground Pool Cost by Material
Aboveground pools come in a variety of materials, each with its own benefits:
Steel: This is the most budget-friendly option. Steel pools are sturdy but may be prone to rust or corrosion over time.
Resin: A bit more expensive than steel, resin pools resist rust and corrosion, offering durability with less maintenance.
Aluminum: The premium choice, aluminum pools are lightweight, highly resistant to rust and corrosion, and ideal for long-term use, though they come at a higher price point.
| Material | Cost |
|---|---|
| Steel | $1,800 – $10,000 |
| Resin | $1,500 – $3,700 |
| Aluminum | $1,800 – $10,000 (can reach $20,000+ for large aluminum pools) |
Price of an Aboveground Pool With a Pool Deck
Thinking about enhancing your pool experience? Adding a deck to your aboveground pool not only makes it easier to get in and out but also creates a perfect spot for lounging, sunbathing, and hosting backyard gatherings. It seamlessly blends your pool with your landscape, boosting both functionality and curb appeal.
Some pool kits come with deck materials included, and you can also find standalone DIY pool deck kits ranging from $800 to $3,000. If you're adding a deck separately, expect to spend between $15 and $30 per square foot, depending on your chosen materials. Homeowners typically invest between $1,000 and $5,000 for a 300- to 600-square-foot deck.
Cost of Aboveground Pool Kits
Many companies sell out-of-the-box ground pool kits for DIY installation. Costs for a simple aboveground pool kit can start as low as $150 (for small soft‐sided pools) and reach $10,000 for many metal‐framed pools, with large aluminum pools potentially reaching $20,000 or more (including installation). In general, the more you pay, the higher the ratio of resin to metal in the materials will be (and the longer the pool will last).
Aboveground Pool Installation Costs
Many aboveground pool kits are designed for easy DIY installation. More complex models—and uneven yards—may require hiring a professional swimming pool installer in your area. Hiring a pro to install your aboveground pool costs $1,000 to $3,000, in addition to the cost of the pool materials.
The total cost will depend on the size and shape of the pool. Rectangular and oval pools entail more complex work than round ones, so labor costs will be higher. Demand is higher in the summer months, so aim for a winter or autumn installation to cut your labor costs. The job should take one to three days.
Overall Cost of Aboveground Pool Accessories
As with any kind of pool, you can consider installing a number of different features and add-ons for your aboveground pool.
Pool Deck
The cost to build a pool deck for an aboveground pool is between $1,000 and $5,000 for a 300- to 600-square‐foot deck.
Pool Covers
Standard pool covers cost between $30 and $300 and come in various materials and sizes. They are a necessity, protecting the surface throughout the winter months and shielding the water from algae and debris. Safety-rated covers are designed to prevent drowning.
Aboveground Pool Heater
Homeowners typically pay between $1,800 and $4,200 (with an average cost of about $3,000) to install a gas, propane, electric, or solar heater in aboveground pools. In most cases, the cost of heating a pool also includes an additional $100 to $600 per month in energy bills. Alternatively, you can use sun-absorbing pool mats, costing $300 on average, to bring solar heat to your aboveground pool.
Other Aboveground Pool Costs
Keep in mind that aboveground pools have ongoing operating and maintenance costs. Here’s a look at what you’ll pay.
Insurance
Before installing your aboveground pool, it's a good idea to check with your homeowners insurance provider. Adding a pool can affect your insurance rates, and some companies may require safety measures like a protective fence or a child-proof gate for coverage. Taking these steps not only helps with insurance but also ensures your pool area is safe for everyone.
Maintenance
Keeping your aboveground pool in great shape doesn't have to be a hassle. On average, pool maintenance costs around $115 per month, and thanks to their smaller size, aboveground pools are generally easier and more affordable to care for than in-ground pools.
Here's what regular maintenance involves:
Skimming the surface to remove leaves and debris
Cleaning the pump filter to ensure proper circulation Brushing and vacuuming the pool to keep it sparkling clean
Testing the water's chemical balance to maintain safe swimming conditions
Adding chemicals as needed to keep the water clear and healthy
If you'd rather leave the upkeep to someone else, hiring a local pool service costs between $85 and $150 per month on average. This way, you can focus on enjoying your pool while the pros handle the maintenance.
Aboveground Pool Installation Prices Near You
Your location is a factor in the cost you’ll pay to install an aboveground pool, with materials and labor commanding different costs in different areas.
| City | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $5,300 |
| Austin, TX | $1,500 |
| Denver, CO | $2,700 |
| Atlanta, GA | $1,700 |
| Boston, MA | $1,900 |
| Cincinnati, OH | $1,600 |
| St. Louis, MO | $3,600 |
| Philadelphia, PA | $1,100 |
Hiring a Pro vs. DIY Installing an Aboveground Pool
If you're handy and your yard is level, installing an aboveground pool yourself using a pool kit can be a rewarding project that saves you $1,000 to $3,000 in installation costs. Many aboveground pools are designed for easy DIY assembly, and with careful planning, you can have your pool up and running in no time.
However, if your site is sloped or uneven, or if you prefer professional expertise for peace of mind, hiring a pool installation pro near you is a smart choice. Professionals have the experience and tools to handle complex installations, ensuring your pool is safe and properly set up. This way, you can focus on enjoying your new backyard oasis.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best above‐ground pool brands are those that exude exceptional quality and reliability. Intex, Doughboy, Kayak Pools, Bestway, Coleman, and Summer Wavesdeliver robust construction, safety, and longevity. Each brand comes with rigorous quality standards, strong warranties, and engineered durability. Evaluating product features and aftersales support ensures you choose the optimum option for your project.
Above‐ground pools built with high‐quality materials like heavy‐gauge aluminum or stainless steel can last between 10 and 20 years with diligent maintenance. In contrast, soft‐sided or inflatable models have a shorter lifespan if the installation and upkeep are not rigorous. Consistent cleaning, proper chemical balancing, and timely repairs extend the pool’s service life significantly.
The cost to hire a moving service to relocate your aboveground pool varies. The size of the pool, its weight, and the distance you’d like to move it all factor into the cost. Be sure to ask your movers ahead of time if they can take on this project, as not all pros offer this service. Professional movers charge $25 to $50 per hour, per mover.
An aboveground pool installation requires between one day and several days, depending on the pool’s dimensions, design, and site conditions. The process begins with thorough site preparation followed by the systematic assembly of pool components. Additional tasks, such as constructing an adjacent pool deck, extend the overall timeline. Efficient planning and execution ensure a secure and properly functioning pool.
An aboveground pool installation requires a consistent, level base for optimal performance. Suitable surfaces include dirt, sand, concrete, and well-maintained grass areas. Avoid rocky or uneven terrain, as it jeopardizes the pool’s stability. Preparing the site with a uniform layer of smooth sand or soil, measuring 3 to 4 inches, secures a stable and long-lasting installation.
Yes, you can convert your aboveground chlorinated pool to a saltwater pool with a dedicated conversion system that costs between $750 and $2,000, depending on pool size. This conversion enhances water quality and reduces maintenance frequency while eliminating the need for constant chlorination. It is a practical upgrade that boosts overall pool efficiency and comfort.
- Swimming Pool - Clean and Maintain
- Swimming Pool - In Ground - Build or Install
- Swimming Pool Heaters - Install or Replace
- Replace Vinyl Liner for Swimming Pool
- Swimming Pool -Remodel
- Swimming Pool Covers - Install or Replace
- Pool Deck - Build
- Swimming Pool Heaters - Repair or Service
- Swimming Pool - Resurface
- Pool Tile - Install or Repair
- Swimming Pool - Opening & Closing Service
- Swimming Pool or Accessories - Repair or Service
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