How Much Does a Semi-Inground Pool Cost in 2024?

Average Semi-Inground Pool Cost

Semi-Inground Pool Cost Factors

The size and type of pool impact the amount of materials and labor required for installation, affecting the final pool cost.

Size

The pool size is a major cost factor. Larger pools require more materials and take longer to install.

Pool Type 

A semi-inground pool can be constructed by lowering an above-ground pool or raising an inground pool. Above-ground pools are more affordable and usually offer a greater pool depth. These types typically last seven to 15 years. 

Raising an inground pool is more costly because it involves building a retaining wall to support the structure. However, it offers a greater range of aesthetic options and better durability, with lifespans of up to 75 years.

Compared to the average cost to build a new pool, semi-inground designs are slightly more costly than above-ground pools and hot tub installations but more affordable than inground types.

Labor

Most homeowners spend between $5,000 and $10,000 in labor to install a semi-inground pool. These costs depend mainly on the size and type of pool. Large and inground pools that need to be raised with a retaining wall require more installation time and labor, increasing the total cost.

Location

The cost of installing a semi-inground pool increases for difficult-to-access areas. Narrow driveways, slopes, or greenery can obstruct construction equipment, which increases labor costs if the pool installers need to spend extra time to navigate these barriers.

If you live in a rural area, you may have to pay transportation fees for laborers and materials.

Additional Semi-Inground Pool Cost Factors

In addition to constructing and installing the pool, it’s important to budget for preparation, permits, and optional add-ons.

Landscape Preparation

While a semi-inground pool doesn’t require the same degree of landscape preparation as an inground pool, your pool installers still need to clear and excavate the area. Depending on the size of the pool, this typically costs between $400 and $1,500.

Permits

Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain a permit to install a semi-inground pool. Most pool permits cost between $250 to $2,000.

Add-On Pool Features

Extras like pool lighting and heaters can increase the comfort of your pool experience. Explore the costs associated with these common pool add-ons.

Ongoing Costs

Pools come with ongoing costs for cleaning and safety. The cost to maintain a pool averages $120 to $350 per year for basic tasks like cleaning, pH testing, and checking filters. Pool chemicals average around $15 per month.

In addition to basic maintenance, you’ll need to install a pool pump to filter the water. A pool pump costs an average of $300 to $2,700 to replace.

Semi-Inground Pool Cost by Material

Several materials are available for constructing semi-inground pools to create your desired aesthetic. Material choices also impact the final cost of your pool.

Steel

Above-ground steel pools are the most affordable option, costing between $800 and $3,000 for materials. They’re strong and sturdy but prone to rust and have a shorter lifespan than other types. 

Resin

Resin above-ground pools typically cost $900 to $3,500 for materials and provide a functional, affordable pool. Unlike steel, resin pools aren’t prone to rust or oxidation. However, they may fade or crack over time.

Aluminum

Aluminum pools are the most durable and costly of the above-ground options, averaging $1,000 to $4,500 for materials. Like resin, aluminum is resistant to rust and oxidation but is sturdy and lightweight.

Vinyl

Installing a pool with a vinyl liner typically costs between $6,300 and $8,400 for the initial materials. Vinyl is the most affordable inground option and offers plenty of flexibility to fit different pool shapes. However, vinyl liners must be replaced every 10 years, which costs around $3,000 to $7,500.

Fiberglass 

Fiberglass liners have a longer lifespan than vinyl but are slightly more costly and offer less shape flexibility. They cost an average of $10,500 to $26,400 for initial materials and typically last around 25 years.

Concrete

Concrete inground pools are the most costly, averaging between $16,500 and $28,800 for materials. However, they last up to 75 years and can be customized with stone or pool tile to create a unique look.

Does Installing a Semi-Inground Pool Increase Home Value?

Installing a semi-inground pool can increase the value of your home, though it depends on the type of pool and homeowner preferences. A semi-inground pool is more likely to increase home value if you live in a warm climate where pools are common. 

More durable designs, like raised inground pools made from long-lasting materials like concrete, may also offer a greater increase in value. However, pools come with maintenance and remodeling costs, which may not suit every buyer. When deciding whether to install a semi-inground pool, consider how it will increase your enjoyment of your home rather than viewing it as a guaranteed investment for the property.

Budgeting for Installing a Semi-Inground Pool

Semi-inground pool installation requires professional tools and expertise, but careful preparation and planning can keep the project budget-friendly:

• Prepare your yard in advance. Remove greenery from the excavation area and clear furniture or vehicles that could interfere with installation equipment.

• Plan for your installation. Spring and summer are the busiest times for pool installation, so consider booking in the fall, when rates may be less competitive. In most climates, avoid booking in winter because frozen ground can present challenges for excavation.

• Contact multiple pool installation professionals in your area to compare quotes.

• Consider installing add-ons yourself. While pool installation is best left to the pros, you can save on features like decking pool enclosure costs if you feel comfortable tackling a DIY.

It’s also important to consider upfront vs. long-term costs when budgeting for your semi-inground pool. Materials like steel and vinyl have the lowest upfront cost but have a shorter lifespan. For a long-lasting pool, sturdier materials like aluminum and concrete can save you on pool liner repair costs and other common pool repairs.

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.