Cost to Install an Indoor Pool
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
An indoor pool is a luxurious addition to any home, providing year-round enjoyment and fitness opportunities. Here's a detailed breakdown of costs and factors to consider:
Average Costs
| Type of Indoor Pool | Cost Range |
|----------------------------|----------------------------|
| Above Ground | $10,000–$36,000 |
| Inground | $20,000–$200,000 |
| Prefab Design | $20,000–$90,000 |
| Custom Design | $30,000–$110,000+ |
| Saltwater Pool | $156,000–$200,000 |
Cost Factors
- Pool Type
- Above Ground Pools: Cost less, easier installation.
-
Inground Pools: Require excavation and offer more design options, increasing costs.
-
Materials
- Concrete: $20,000–$90,000, highly durable, lasts up to 75 years.
- Vinyl: $30,000–$65,000, cost-effective but requires liner replacement (~$2,300 every 10 years).
-
Fiberglass: $40,000–$85,000, prefabricated and easy to maintain, lasting ~25 years.
-
Size and Shape
- Costs range from $70–$315 per square foot.
-
Common sizes and costs:
- 12x20 ft.: $16,700–$75,000
- 16x32 ft.: $35,600–$160,000
- 20x40 ft.: $55,600–$250,000
-
Dehumidification System
-
Essential to maintain indoor air quality and humidity.
- Whole Home: $1,300–$2,800
- Ventilation-Based: $4,000–$10,000
- Mechanical Refrigeration: $4,000–$20,000
-
Enclosure Costs
- Retrofitting a space for an indoor pool: $40,000–$200,000.
-
Pool Enclosure: $900–$24,000 (average: $10,200).
-
Heating System
- Pool heat pumps: $1,000–$9,500.
- Options include electric, gas, or solar-powered systems.
Additional Costs
| Feature/Expense | Cost Range |
|-------------------------------|---------------------------|
| Excavation | $4,000–$10,000 |
| Permits | $200–$2,000 |
| Electrical and Plumbing | $600–$11,000+ |
| Finishing (e.g., Tiling) | $2,000–$5,000+ |
| Vapor Barrier Installation| $0.50–$0.75 per sq. ft. |
Common Pool Types and Costs
| Pool Type | Cost Range |
|-----------------------------|----------------------------|
| Plunge Pool | $10,000–$30,000 |
| Basic Indoor Pool | $20,000–$90,000 |
| Endless Pool | $50,000–$60,000 |
| Lap Pool | $50,000–$100,000 |
Labor Costs
Labor accounts for 25%–50% of the project cost.
| Project Scope | Cost |
|------------------------------------|---------------------------|
| Smaller Indoor Pools | $23,000–$60,000 |
| Complex, Custom Designs | Higher than $60,000 |
Ways to Save
- Opt for Prefabricated Designs: Save on custom design fees.
- Choose Smaller Pool Sizes: Reduces excavation, materials, and maintenance costs.
- Bundle Projects: Install pool heating, lighting, and plumbing simultaneously for discounts.
- Use Basic Materials: Vinyl and fiberglass are more affordable than concrete.
- DIY Finishes: Consider completing tiling or painting yourself.
Transform your home into a private oasis with an indoor pool tailored to your needs and budget!
Ongoing Costs and Add-Ons for Indoor Pools
Once you’ve invested in an indoor pool, there are recurring expenses and optional upgrades to consider. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:
Ongoing Indoor Pool Costs
- Maintenance Costs
- Chemical balancing: $15/month
-
Hiring a pool cleaner: $25–$50/hour
-
Home Insurance
- Adding an indoor pool may increase insurance premiums.
-
Liability coverage may also be needed for potential injuries around the pool.
-
Taxes
- A pool improves your property’s value, which could increase property taxes.
Popular Add-Ons for Indoor Pools
- Water Features
- Waterfall: $100–$3,500
- Pool Grotto: $5,000–$10,000
-
Infinity Pool: $80,000–$155,000
-
Pool Steps
- Standard steps: $1,400–$1,900 or $65 per linear foot
-
Sloping no-step entrance: $30,000–$60,000
-
Pool Covers
- Automatic cover: $5,000–$22,000
- Vinyl cover: $1,200–$1,300
-
Mesh cover: $1,500–$3,000
-
Pool Lighting
- Adds $500–$1,800 depending on design and bulb type.
- LED options cost more upfront but last longer and offer versatility.
DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY Installation Costs
- Materials: $5,000–$90,000 (prefabricated models).
-
Requires heavy equipment for excavation, plus professional plumbing and electrical work.
-
Professional Installation Costs
- Labor: $23,000–$60,000.
- Working with a pro may include cost-saving benefits, like wholesale pricing on materials.
Money-Saving Tips for Indoor Pools
- Choose Vinyl or Fiberglass Linings:
- Vinyl offers a lower upfront cost.
-
Fiberglass reduces maintenance expenses over time.
-
Build in an Existing Enclosed Space:
-
Avoid excavating directly inside your home to save on construction costs.
-
Align Pool Design with Existing Systems:
-
Plan around current plumbing and electrical setups to reduce labor expenses.
-
Keep it Small:
-
Opt for a smaller pool with standard dimensions.
-
Go Prefabricated:
-
Prefab pools are generally more affordable than custom designs.
-
Get Multiple Estimates:
- Request quotes from at least three contractors to ensure the best price and quality.
An indoor pool is a long-term investment in luxury and fitness. Careful planning, design simplifications, and smart budgeting can make your dream pool more affordable!
