Homeowners across the U.S. typically pay between $1,698 to $5,969 for a professionally installed above-ground pool, with most homeowners paying $2,693.
For the above-ground pool kit alone, costs often range between $1,463 to $6,150. Head to Walmart or Amazon, where you can find even cheaper options, including kits under $100. If you prefer not to install the pool yourself, expect to pay between $823 to $3,233 for professional installation.
An above-ground pool is perfect for enjoying those summer days on a budget. With in-ground pools costing an average of $45,583, above-ground pools are much easier on your wallet.
While most homeowners pay $2,693 for an installed above-ground pool, many factors can affect your overall costs. The pool’s size, depth, and brand can all affect your final bill. Want to add a small waterfall or spruce up the landscape around your new outdoor oasis? That’s going to cost you extra.
How Much Does an Above-Ground Pool with installation Cost?
- National average cost: $2,693
- Typical price range: $1,698 to $5,969
- Low end: $475
- High end: $13,400
The costs listed above are all national averages, and they should help you estimate how much installing an above-ground pool will cost you. Homeowners across the U.S. typically pay between $1,698 to $5,969 for an installed above-ground pool, with most homeowners paying $2,693.
Most above-ground pools are sold as DIY kits. If the instructions are easy to follow, you can set the pool up yourself without a professional’s help. Costs for above-ground pool kits range between $1,463 to $6,150, varying significantly based on the pool’s size and quality. For the most affordable options, head to Walmart, Amazon, or Lowes, where you can find some above-ground pool kits for under $100.
To have your above-ground pool kit set up by a professional, you can expect to pay an additional cost between $823 to $3,233.
For a high-end pool project, installation and materials can cost upward of $13,400. For a small above-ground pool that only needs to last the season and fit a few swimmers, some homeowners might pay as little as $475 for the pool and installation fees.
On This Page
- Cost Estimator by Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Add-Ons & Extra Services
- Cost of Above-Ground Pools Across the US
- Cost of DIY Above-Ground Pool Installation
- FAQ About Above-Ground Pools
- Conclusion
Cost Estimator By Size
Your above-ground pool’s size will have a significant effect on your overall cost. A small pool made to fit four to five swimmers will cost less than a pool made to fit six to seven swimmers. Larger pools also take longer for a professional to install, increasing your final bill.
Keep in mind that the depth and shape of your pool will also impact the price. The deeper your pool, the more you can expect to pay. The depth of most above-ground pools typically ranges between 4 and 4.5 feet. Shapes include round, oval, and rectangular, with round pools being the least expensive to install.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
There are many other costs to consider besides your pool’s dimensions. While the shape and size of the pool are important, many factors increase your total bill, including:
- The pool’s material
- Professional installation costs
- The pool’s brand, which affects the quality
- The time of year you have your pool installed
- The existing landscape
- Increased homeowners insurance
- Items included in your pool kit
Material
Most above-ground pools are made of steel, resin, or aluminum. Each material has advantages and disadvantages. Costs among the three materials typically vary, depending on where you buy. Steel is often the most affordable, with aluminum being the most expensive material.
Steel
- It takes a long time to rust, but is susceptible to corrosion and oxidation.
- Steel is usually the most affordable option.
- Some newer pool models are designed to have more rust-resistant steel walls.
- Steel is also the strongest material of the three.
Resin
- It does not become hot to the touch as steel and aluminum will on a sunny day.
- It’s rust-resistant and won’t oxidize.
- It’s often cheaper than aluminum but more expensive than steel.
- Susceptible to cracking and fading due to winter weather and UV exposure.
Aluminum
- It is rust and corrosion-resistant.
- Often the most expensive pool material.
- Aluminum can withstand cold temperatures and the winter weather better than resin.
- It’s much lighter than steel, making it easy to assemble and move.
- Holes can develop in the pool’s liner due to the aluminum oxidizing.
Installation
You might not always need a professional to install your above-ground pool. If your pool kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions and you feel comfortable installing the pool yourself, you can turn it into a DIY project.
Otherwise, hiring a professional pool installer to set up an above-ground pool typically costs between $823 and $3,233.
Brand
A pool’s brand will often determine the pool’s quality. Higher quality pools are designed to last, and you’ll need to worry less about repairs. The higher the quality pool you buy, the more you can expect to pay.
Common above-ground pool brands include:
- Kayak
- Doughboy
- Intex
- Aqua Leader
Season
Interested in saving on costs? Then plan to have your pool installed during the off-season.
Why? Some pool professionals may offer a discounted rate to install your pool since the weather isn’t as grueling heat-wise. Installing a pool in colder weather is more comfortable than installing a pool at the peak of summertime, leading to lower labor costs.
Existing landscaping
Above-ground pools can take up a lot of space in the yard. To get the ground ready for your new pool, you may have to pay for some landscaping services.
Examples of landscaping services you might need:
- An old tree or stump may need to be removed so you have room for your oasis.
- Is your yard bumpy or on a hill? You may need to hire a professional to slope or grade the area so your pool will sit on flat ground.
Homeowners insurance
Having a pool on your property increases the possibility of someone getting hurt at your home, leading to higher homeowners insurance.
Pool kit items
When shopping for your above-ground pool kit, take a look at the items it includes. Some pool kits provide basic pool items, such as a filter, ladder, and pool cover.
How pool kit items affect total cost: If your pool kit doesn’t include specific equipment items, you may need to purchase those separately. Or, if you find you don’t like the included item, you’ll need to consider the cost of its replacement.
Vinyl liner replacement
Some above-ground pools are equipped with a vinyl pool liner. Pool owners will need to replace the liner when needed, typically every seven to ten years. Depending on the pool’s shape and size, replacing the liner in an above-ground pool usually costs $350 to $1,500.
Add-Ons and Extra Services
We’ve covered common variables that affect the overall cost of installing an above-ground pool, including the pool’s size, shape, and brand.
Next, we’ll review some attractive pool add-ons and extra pool services you may want to consider that will help make your backyard retreat the best it can be:
- Pool decking: Though not necessary for an above-ground pool, a pool deck adds significant visual appeal and convenience.
- Ladders and steps: For easy access into the pool.
- Hiring an electrician: An electrician can help ensure your pool heater and pool filter are in working condition.
- Pool heater: On those brisk days, a heater can make swimming in the water more comfortable.
- Pool cover: Lower your cleaning duties with the help of a pool cover.
- Lighting: Create a fun, relaxing ambiance with floating lights.
- Water Features: Enhance your backyard getaway with a small waterfall or two.
- Landscaping: Spruce up the pool’s surrounding landscape with colorful flower beds, textured mulch, and river rock walkways.
- Pool Maintenance: You can clean the pool yourself or have a professional take the job off your hands.
Pool deck
An above-ground pool deck has many advantages, including providing parents and adults a better view of children swimming in the water. A pool deck is also an excellent place for entertaining. Set up a few lounge chairs, some umbrellas, and enjoy a fun relaxing afternoon by the water.
On average, an above-ground wooden pool deck costs $15 to $30 per square foot.
Ladders and steps
Some above-ground pool kits come with a pool ladder, but maybe you need one that’s more stable. You may even prefer a set of steps instead.
Above-ground pool ladders average around $166. Pool steps are a bit more expensive, with an average cost of $211.
Electrician
When it comes to water and electricity, we recommend hiring a professional to take care of any wiring, such as installing the pool pump, heater, and filter. A professional can guarantee the work is done safely and your equipment is in working condition. Electricians typically charge $52 to $95 an hour to wire the pool’s equipment.
Pool heater
Want to swim on those windy days or prolong your swimming season? Consider making the pool water warmer with a pool heater. As the temperatures begin to drop, you’ll be able to squeeze in a few more weeks of swimming. The average cost for installing an above-ground pool heater ranges from $170 to $2,197.
Pool cover
A pool cover helps keep leaves, insects, and other wind-blown debris out of the pool’s water. Pool covers that are safety rated can help prevent drownings. Most above-ground pool covers will cost less than $100 or up to $375. A high-end pool cover can cost upwards of $1,000.
Lighting
Lighting isn’t often associated with above-ground pools since the lights can’t be installed the same way as in an in-ground pool. But if you still want the effect of pool lighting for your above-ground pool, floating lights or underwater lights are a great option, often costing between $23 to $113 per light.
Water features
Attractive water features can turn your backyard swimming pool into a small island getaway. Though you can’t have as elaborate waterfall designs as you would with an in-ground pool, you can still spruce up an above-ground swimming pool with a small waterfall or stand-alone fountain. A basic water feature typically costs between $28 and $101.
Landscaping
In-ground pools are often preferred over above-ground pools for their stunning visual appeal. But when you’re shopping on a budget and need to buy an above-ground pool instead, you can still create a beautiful escape in your backyard.
For example, plant tall ornamental grasses around your above-ground pool to add visual appeal or build a luxurious outdoor kitchen nearby for feeding and entertaining your pool guests.
Other landscaping improvements you might tack onto your in-ground pool costs:
| LANDSCAPING IMPROVEMENTS | COST |
| Sod Installation | $0.87 to $1.76 per sq. ft. |
| Pathway Installation | $8 to $22 per square foot |
| Tree and Bush Planting | $25 to $3,000 |
| Flower Bed Planting | $650 to $3,000 |
| Pergola Installation | $2,216 to $8,959 |
| Retaining Wall Installation | $4,025 to $8,711 |
| Outdoor Kitchen Installation | $5,057 to $17,276 |
| Gazebo Installation | $5,364 to $9,027 |
Maintenance
Keeping your above-ground pool clean and swimmable requires time and energy. Consider hiring a monthly pool service so you can spend less time cleaning the pool and more time enjoying the pool. Above-ground pool cleaning services usually cost pool owners $83 to $150 per month.
Cost of Above-Ground Pools Across the U.S.
The above-ground pool prices listed in this cost guide are all national averages. On a local scale, pricing may vary depending on where you live. A pool company might set higher or lower prices for its pool kits depending on the local market. Pool builders might also adjust their installation rates depending on local demand or transportation and shipping costs.
Cost of DIY Above-Ground Pool Installation
Many above-ground pools are sold as DIY kits. They often come with easy-to-follow instructions so that you can set the pool up without a professional. The typical cost for an above-ground pool kit ranges between $1,463 and $6,150, though you can find more affordable options priced under $100.
Hiring a professional to install your above-ground pool typically adds $823 to $3,233. Keep in mind that there are many advantages to hiring a professional, including peace of mind that the pool’s structure is secure. If you want to ensure your pool is built to last, we recommend a professional’s handiwork instead of installing the pool yourself.
FAQ About Above-Ground Pools
Depending on the type of above-ground pool you have, it typically takes between one and three days to install an above-ground pool. This includes preparing the ground, electrical work, and building the pool. Keep in mind that additional features like pool decking and landscaping will need more time to install.
Yes, you can convert an above-ground pool to a saltwater pool as long as the type of pool you have is saltwater compatible. The average cost to convert an above-ground pool to a saltwater system ranges between $475 to $1,045.
Above-ground pools typically last seven to 15 years, depending on the brand and how well you maintain your pool. Inexpensive above-ground pools with low durability, such as inflatable pools, might only last a season or two. The higher the quality pool you buy, the longer you can expect it to last.
Semi-inground pools are more expensive than above-ground pools but more affordable than in-ground pools. Most homeowners spend between $8,400 to $22,500 for a semi-inground pool.
Conclusion
An above-ground pool is an affordable option for families looking to enjoy summer fun in the backyard for years to come. You can buy an above-ground pool kit and install it yourself, or hire a professional pool builder to set it up for you.
Want to turn your backyard into a relaxing getaway? Call up a local landscaping professional near you who can design, install, and maintain your brand new poolside landscape.
Remember, the average national cost for a professionally installed above-ground pool is $2,693, with a typical range between $1,698 to $5,969. Expect to pay between 1,463 and $6,150 for the pool kit alone, though there are many affordable options available at popular home improvement stores, including kits under $100.
If you prefer to hire a professional to install the pool for you, labor costs often range from $823 to $3,233. For a high-end above-ground pool installation project, you might pay upward of $13,400. A low-end project for a small, inexpensive pool kit can cost as little as $475, including installation fees.
Main Photo Credit: Chris Grazioli / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
