How Much Does a Spool Pool Cost in 2025?
Installing a spool pool costs $22,650 on average though most homeowners pay between $5,500 and $50,000. The final price depends on the materials and size of the pool your pro installs.
Incorrect installation of spool pools can lead to costly damages, making professional installation a safer choice.
The cost of spool pools depends on the type, size, materials used, and location (indoor or outdoor).
Copper, cedar, and vinyl are common materials for spool pools.
Spool pools enhance relaxation, are smaller and more affordable than regular pools, and require less installation time.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
What do you get when you combine the refreshment of a pool with the relaxation of a spa? A spool pool, also known as a cocktail pool. On average, installing a spool pool costs $22,650, with most homeowners spending between $5,500 and $75,000. These compact pools are perfect for turning your backyard into a resort-style oasis, especially if space is at a premium. We'll break down the costs and factors to help you plan your dream outdoor retreat.
Average Project Cost
On average, spool pool costs range from $5,500 and $50,000, including labor. Here's how the costs break down:
Labor: Expect to pay around $1,650 for labor on a 300-square-foot pool, which works out to about $5.50 per square foot.
Materials or Kit: Materials or kits can run anywhere from $400 up to $20,000.
Additional Features: Adding extras like heating, jets, or custom designs will increase the total cost.
These small-sized pools offer the refreshing benefits of a larger pool at about half the price. They're perfect for cooling off in the summer, and with heating options, you can enjoy them year-round.
Cost Factors
Spool pools can vary in cost based on the type of pool, the size, the materials it is made of, and even if it is located indoors or out.
Size
Spool pools are often around 168 square feet to 300 square feet and no deeper than 4 feet, meaning most spool pools are about $924 to $1,650 to install, not including the price of materials.
Materials
Materials cost an average of $20,000 and make up most of the cocktail pool cost. Copper tends to be the most expensive material, while cedar and vinyl are the most affordable material options.
| Material | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cedar (round, 6-foot diameter) | $5,000 |
| Vinyl | $10,000 |
| Fiberglass | $15,000 |
| Concrete or gunite | $23,000 |
| Steel | $25,000 |
| Copper | $50,000 |
In-Ground vs. Aboveground
Aboveground spool pools cost $5,000 to $20,000, while inground spool pools cost $20,000 to $50,000. These ranges better reflect current market data and installation complexities.
Shape
The shape of your cocktail pool can influence the final cost. Rectangular and square pools are usually the easiest to install, making them less expensive compared to round pools with curved perimeters, L-shaped pools, or custom pool designs.
Indoor
Indoor pool installation averages about $25,000, although prices may range from $5,500 for a single-person plunge pool to over $50,000 to install a spool pool with extra features, like heating, an Endless Pool system, seating, and remote controls, inside an existing structure.
Labor
Labor will make up about 25% to 50% of the final project cost, or you may be charged an average of $5.50 per square foot.
Permits
Don't forget to obtain the necessary permits before you start excavating or building your cocktail pool. You should budget about $200 to $1,000 for permits. Your local regulations may vary, so it's a good idea to check with your municipality to find out what's required.
Land Preparation
Excavation costs for spool pools can be an additional $400 to $1,500. The land will need to be excavated for in-ground pools, but you’ll also need to establish a solid foundation for aboveground pools as well.
Additional Features
You can transform your spool pool into a luxurious spa by adding features like a heater, an infinity edge, or even an underwater treadmill. A cocktail pool spa costs around $17,000 without labor. These models often include a heater, whirlpool or air pump system, and additional seating. Many kits come with several of these features already included, but if not, adding them will increase the costs:
| Additional Spool Pool Features | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Pool heater | $1,800–$4,100 |
| Speakers | $30–$150 |
| Waterfall | $300–$2,000 |
| Entertainment system | $500–$2,500 |
| Saltwater system | $500–$2,500 |
| Steps and Railings | $150–$500 |
| Infinity edge | $40–$90 per square foot |
| Tiling | $1–$100 per square foot |
Adding these features can bring your spool pool's cost up to $50,000 or higher, but you'll have a luxurious backyard oasis tailored to your preferences. Ready to get started? Hire a professional to ensure your spool pool is installed safely and correctly.
DIY Spool Pool Cost
If you're considering a DIY approach, you could save about $5.50 per square foot on labor costs. However, this is a challenging project best suited for experienced DIYers. You'll need to prepare the land and create a solid foundation. To save money on materials, you might look into DIY pool kits, which start as low as $400 and go up to $20,000. Some creative options include repurposing stock tanks or shipping containers, costing between $100 and $4,000 plus sealing and installation.
DIY Spool Installation vs. Hiring a Professional
Deciding whether to install your spool pool yourself or hire a professional depends on your skills and experience. If you're not well-versed in excavation, plumbing, and electrical work, it's wise to hire a local pool contractor to handle the installation. Incorrect installation can lead to costly issues, like flooding or electrical hazards. Professionals ensure your pool is installed safely and correctly, giving you peace of mind.
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
Installation of a spool or cocktail pool can take four to 12 weeks, depending on the size, type, and location. A professional can install an above-ground, vinyl-lined swim spa in three to four days. Delivery of the unit may take several weeks. If you are installing an in-ground model, complete all excavation work during delivery time.
Cocktail pools are not intended for traditional swimming; they are built to deliver a cooling and relaxing experience. They provide an ideal setting for a refreshing dip rather than for exercise or lap swimming. The pool’s limited dimensions restrict vigorous activity and ensure safety, making it a perfect retreat for quick cool-downs and leisurely soaks in a compact, stylish design.
Spool pools have a depth of 38 to 42 inches, which is ideal for sitting, standing, and gentle dipping. This deliberate depth prioritizes safety and an inviting atmosphere while eliminating the possibility of diving or extended swimming. The measured design creates a secure, intimate space for relaxation and adds a refined touch to your outdoor area.
If you're handy and have experience with excavation, plumbing, and electrical work, you might consider installing your spool pool yourself. However, hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely and correctly. Pros have the expertise to handle all the technical details, giving you peace of mind and helping you avoid costly mistakes.
Maintaining a spool pool demands regular cleaning, precise chemical balancing, and thorough system inspections. Homeowners must allocate time monthly for filter cleaning and water quality checks while performing seasonal maintenance to ensure optimal system performance. Ongoing upkeep preserves water clarity and operational efficiency, reduces repair costs, and extends the pool’s lifespan while creating a safe and enjoyable environment.
Enhancing your cocktail pool installation with additional features can significantly elevate its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Homeowners may consider upgrades such as a brick paver patio, well-designed ambient lighting, and a secure fencing system. These enhancements create a defined outdoor space, improve safety, and contribute to a luxurious, inviting environment that increases both usability and long-term home value.
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