How Much Does a Pool Filter Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Installing a pool filter is crucial for keeping your swimming pool clean and safe. Homeowners spend an average $1,125 on pool filter installation, but costs can range from $300 to $2,800. The type of filter, your pool type, materials, and labor rates all impact your costs. Proper budgeting and hiring a professional can help ensure your pool stays crystal clear all season long.

Pool Filter Installation Cost Factors

Several factors impact the cost of installing a pool filter. Here’s a closer look at the cost factors that inform your pool filter installation total.

Labor Costs

The overall labor cost for a pool filter replacement is between $110 and $140, on average, depending on the type of pro you hire based on your needs. Plumbers charge between $45 and $200 per hour, electricians charge between $40 and $100 per hour, and pool technicians charge between $75 and $100 per hour. 

Materials

Pool filter prices vary depending on the type and size you need. Most filters cost between $250 and $2,000, but if you're on a tight budget, disposable pocket filters can run as little as $30. Cartridge filters are usually on the lower end of the price range, while diatomaceous earth (DE) filters are on the higher end but offer superior performance.

Filter Installation Cost by Pool Type

Different types of pools require specific filtration systems. For instance, a high-end saltwater pool needs a compatible and efficient filter—not just a basic cartridge filter. It's important to choose the right filter for your pool type to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Consider your pool's needs and budget accordingly.

Above Ground

Filters for above-ground pools cost between $250 and $1,100. Often, above-ground pools come as a package deal, with a filter and pump included—usually a sand or cartridge filter.

In-Ground

Filters for in-ground pools range from $250 to $2,500. With in-ground pools, you have more options when selecting a filter. Sand filters are the least expensive but have a shorter lifespan and lower efficiency. Diatomaceous earth (DE) filters are the most expensive, but they offer the longest lifespan and highest efficiency.

Saltwater

Expect to pay between $250 and $2,000 for filters for saltwater pools. Saltwater pools require specialty filters rated for use in saltwater environments. While you can choose from sand, cartridge, and DE filters, they must be compatible with saltwater. As with other pools, sand filters are the most budget-friendly to install but only last three to five years, while a quality DE filter can last at least 10 years.

Cost by Filter Type

You'll pay anywhere from $30 to $2,000 for the filter itself, and sometimes, this price includes a pump setup. The type and size of your pool determine the filter you need. The filter's efficiency is measured in microns—the smaller the micron rating, the more effectively it can trap tiny particles and keep your water clean.

Pocket

Pocket filters, also known as filter bags, typically cost $30 to $100. They aren't standalone units but are added to an existing filtration system to enhance filtration. These budget-friendly models can filter particles between 15 and 20 microns.

Sand

Sand filters cost an average of $750. They contain a number 20 silica sand that traps debris. They have a filtration capacity of 20 microns, so they're not the most efficient units, but they do manage to filter out the larger particles.

Cartridge

Cartridge filters cost an average of $900. They typically have a filtration capacity of 10 to 15 microns and are considered reasonably eco-friendly as they reduce water consumption due to not needing backwashing. They're moderately priced and moderately efficient, but cleaning can be difficult and time-consuming, so it’s wise to hire a local pool maintenance service to take care of it for you.

Glass

Expect to pay around $1,000 for a glass pool filter on average. Glass filters are increasingly popular because they're more efficient than sand and cartridge models and can filter out particles as small as 9 microns. They're usually less expensive than diatomaceous earth models, a solid compromise between cost and effectiveness.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) pool filters average around $1,260. DE filters can remove particles as small as 3 microns, making them the gold standard of pool filtration systems. They provide the cleanest possible water, have a long lifespan, and are eco-friendly since DE is a natural product. These filters are super-efficient compared to other types, which can reduce your filter and pump run time and lower your pool's energy costs.

Additional Pool Maintenance Tasks

Aside from replacing or installing a new pool filter, bundling other pool services, such as adding a skimmer box or replacing the pump, influences the total project price. Here are some additional tasks that you can ask your pool service pro to handle, along with their costs.

Pool Filter Cleaning

Pool filter cleaning costs $60 to $65 for general light cleaning. If it needs a more intense cleaning session, expect to pay up to $125. Ideally, to keep your filter working at its best, have it cleaned every three to six months. 

Ongoing Pool Service

You may be able to get filter cleaning and maintenance taken care of as part of a pool service package. You can purchase an annual pool service for an average of $1,800, which includes repairs, maintenance, and opening and closing the pool at the start and end of the season.

Skimmer Box Installation

You can purchase a skimmer box (also known as a pre-filter) for between $5 and $35. This handy device helps extend the lifespan of your filter by removing large particles and debris before they reach the filter, protecting its internal mechanisms and motor.

Pump Replacement

Assuming you're replacing like-for-like, pool pump replacement costs an average of $900. If, however, you're changing brands, increasing size, or upgrading quality, labor costs will most likely increase because there may be changes to plumbing and electrical setups.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pool Filter Pro

If you have some basic DIY skills, you might be able to handle the installation yourself for smaller, simple filters. However, for more complex systems or those requiring electrical and plumbing work, it's best to hire a professional. While DIY installation can save you on labor costs, it's not worth risking damage to an expensive filter. A professional installer can ensure your pool filter is set up correctly, saving you time and potential headaches and repairs down the road.

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.