The cost of installing a semi-inground pool typically ranges from $6,500 to $24,750, with an average cost of $11,600. Sinking a small above-ground pool to form a semi-inground system can have a low cost of $4,835 on average, while the cost of raising an in-ground pool to make it a semi-inground could go as high as $26,000.
It is called semi-inground because most of the pool is under ground level, with only a few inches above the ground. The concept may sound strange to some homeowners, but it may just provide you with the best of both worlds. To put it briefly, you get the durability and quality of a conventional in-ground pool, with the affordability of an above-ground pool.
This pricing guide will take an in-depth look at the factors that affect cost, and some extra services you can get with your new semi-inground pool.
Table of Contents
- Average Costs for a Semi-Inground Pool
- Cost Estimator by Pool Surface Material
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Extra Pool Services
- Pro cost vs DIY cost
- Cost by Location
- FAQ About Semi-Inground Pool Costs
- Find a Pool Builder Near You
Average Costs for a Semi-Inground Pool
| National average | $11,600 |
| Typical range | $6,500 – $24,750 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $4,835 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $26,000 |
With the national average cost of $11,600, installing a semi-inground pool typically costs between $6,500 and $24,750. A small-scale project can cost about $4,835 or less, while raising a medium-sized, high-quality in-ground pool may cost as much as $26,000.
It is important to note that several factors determine the total cost of a semi-inground pool, including its size, type of surface material used, and the choice between raising and lowering a pool to make a semi-inground system.
Cost Estimator by Pool Surface Material
As mentioned above, you can enjoy a semi-inground pool by one of two ways: raising an in-ground pool, or lowering an above-ground pool into the ground. The choice you make will impact the total cost of installation. In-ground pool material, equipment, and maintenance costs can be much higher than those of an above-ground pool.
Surface materials differ between each type of pool, and so do the prices. There are significant differences between the material costs, so homeowners should make a decision based on their budget and future expenses.
| In-ground materials | Above-ground materials |
|---|---|
| Vinyl liner | Steel |
| Fiberglass | Aluminum |
| Concrete | Resin |
In-ground pool material
Generally, in-ground pools are more expensive than above-ground pools. A vinyl-liner pool is typically the most budget-friendly option for homeowners, with concrete being the most expensive.
Vinyl liner
On average, vinyl-liner is the most affordable surface material. It requires less time to install than concrete, and does not require as much maintenance as other surface materials.
However, vinyl liners need replacement every 7 to 10 years, which typically cost between $3,000 and $4,200.
It is important to mention that some above-ground pools are equipped with liners, and replacing them would typically cost between $350 and $1,500.
Pros:
✓ Resists algae growth
✓ Least expensive
✓ Customizable pool shape
Cons:
✗ Saltwater might corrode metal frame
✗ Rips in the liner may cause more damage to your pool
✗ Liner replacement required every 7 to 10 years
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is another great and affordable option for the surface material of your semi-inground pool. Fiberglass pools are suitable for saltwater and relatively easy to maintain, but come with fewer options to customize.
If the fiberglass coating chips and cracks, your pool might require resurfacing. Depending on your pool’s size, fiberglass resurfacing can range from $3,500 to $10,000.
Pros:
✓ Compatible with saltwater pools
✓ Easy to maintain
✓ Quick installation
✓ Prevents the growth of algae
Cons:
✗ Fewer options to customize
✗ Slippery pool bottom
✗ High cost of transport
✗ Fiberglass resurfacing required after high exposure to pool chemicals
Concrete
Concrete is an expensive pool surface material. It is easily customizable to make your pool more aesthetically pleasing, but less durable than fiberglass and vinyl.
To maintain your concrete pool’s cleanliness, it will require an acid wash every 3 to 5 years. Concrete pool acid washing costs between $525 and $1,775.
In some cases, you may need to replaster your concrete pool due to cracks and surface damage. This process will need to be performed every 10 to 15 years, with prices starting at $2,500.
Pros:
✓ Easy to customize
✓ Most versatile
✓ Aesthetically pleasing
✓ Can raise your home’s resale value
Cons:
✗ Takes longer to build than other materials
✗ Not as long-lasting
✗ Very expensive
✗ Rough on your feet
✗ More chemicals required to reduce pH levels
Above-ground pool
Above-ground pools are generally less expensive than in-ground pools, making them a budget-friendly addition to your backyard. Another appealing factor to consider is that most above-ground pools come in a DIY kit with easy instructions. On average, an above-ground pool kit costs between $1,460 and $6,150.
One downside to an above-ground pool is that it may not always be well-suited to become a semi-inground pool. Additionally, converting an above-ground pool into a semi-inground system requires a professional.
Above-ground pools come in three different materials: steel, resin, and aluminum.
Steel
Pros:
✓ Most affordable
✓ Strongest out of the three
Cons:
✗ Rusts over time
✗ Susceptible to oxidation and corrosion
Resin
Pros:
✓ Not susceptible to oxidation
✓ Not as hot to the touch as steel or aluminum
✓ More affordable than aluminum
Cons:
✗ Susceptible to fading and cracking
Aluminum
Pros:
✓ Better at withstanding cold temperatures
✓ Lighter than steel
Cons:
✗ Most expensive material
✗ Holes may develop in the pool’s liner
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Your semi-inground swimming pool’s surface material is hardly the only factor determining the overall cost of installation. Several factors such as pool size and ground preparation may lower or raise the price of a semi-inground pool. Even after installation, you’ll have to cover maintenance and insurance costs for as long as the pool is being used.
The following section will expand on factors that will affect the amount spent on a semi-inground pool.
Pool size
The larger the pool, the higher the cost. Large pools require more labor, digging, and materials to complete the installation.
But if you’re on a tight budget and aren’t seeking a large pool, you can always go for an above-ground pool that generally costs less and is easier to install. To cut back on labor costs, you can purchase the above-ground pool kit and assemble it yourself. However, you’ll need to higher a pro to lower the pool into the ground.
Ground preparation
Sloped yards are ideal for semi-inground pools. They can add to its overall appeal and bring life to your backyard.
But not all terrains are suitable for a semi-inground pool. If necessary, you will have to pay for sloping or grading services. Though not necessarily the case with semi-inground systems, ground preparation for in-ground pools will cost $20,000 on average.
Location
You might have the right amount of space to install a pool, but that may not always lead to an easy process. If the site is difficult to reach, pool installers may require additional equipment, such as cranes, which would raise the overall cost.
The bottom line: Additional labor and equipment generally means more spending.
Permit
Building a semi-inground in your yard will require a permit, and its cost will depend on where you live. You should always include permit costs when setting up a budget, especially in areas where they can be quite high.
Insurance
Swimming pools are fun and relaxing additions to our backyard, but they may also be the cause of accidents and harmful injuries. Installing a semi-inground pool could raise the cost of homeowners insurance, making it a long-term expense.
Maintenance
A small and basic above-ground pool could make it a DIY project, but most pool types require professional maintenance to avoid harming yourself and damaging your property. The annual cost of pool maintenance typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,035 on average.
The cost will vary depending on whether you have an above-ground pool buried or an in-ground pool raised.
Extra Pool Services
To get the best out of your pool area, you can go for these add-ons that can revamp your backyard and provide you with a positive outdoor experience.
Pool fencing
Adding a fence around the pool provides you with an extra sense of security and privacy. Professionally installed pool fencing typically costs between $1,350 and $6,985, depending on the pool’s size and the type of fence.
The cost of a pool fence per linear foot is between $15 and $30, with the cost of labor ranging from $40 to $74 per hour on average.
Landscaping
Pool landscapes can improve the overall functionality of your pool area, raise your property’s value, and make your pool safer.
You can make it a DIY project to cut on additional spending, or hire a professional with experience in design and installation for a mesmerizing landscape.
Hiring a landscape designer would cost between $1,900 and $6,800 on average, depending on the size of your yard and project complexity.
| Project | Typical price range |
| Landscape curbing and edging | $700 – $1,750 |
| Landscape lighting | $2,100 – $4,900 |
| Xeriscaping | $11,600 – $20,000 |
| Tree removal | $385 – $1,070 |
| Tree planting | $25 – $3,000 |
| Sprinkler system | $2,400 – $4,200 |
| Planting flower beds | $650 – $3,000 per flower bed |
| Pergola installation | $2,100 – $6,000 |
| Gazebo installation | $5,365 – $9,025 |
Pool enclosure
Pool enclosures come with great benefits that include:
- Prevent unwanted debris from falling into your pool
- Enhanced pool safety for families with children
- Protection from UV rays
- Less pool maintenance
Professional installation of pool enclosures typically cost homeowners between $6,335 and $19,665 (or $9 to $122 per square foot).
Pro Cost vs DIY Cost
Installing a semi-inground pool is not a DIY project, but a complex job that requires experienced pool builders. Without the proper knowledge or expertise, you may easily harm yourself and bring further damage to your property that could end up costing you more.
The best solution for a semi-inground pool installation is hiring a professional team.
Cost by Location
All of the costs listed in this pricing guide are national averages. The labor, material, and installation costs for a semi-inground pool will vary depending on where you live. Areas with rocky soil may require extensive ground preparation, raising total cost of installation. Generally, pool companies will set prices based on the local area’s demand.
FAQ About Semi-Inground Pools
In terms of appearance, semi-inground pools are seen as a hybrid between the traditional in-ground and above-ground pools, with one half raised and the other buried below the ground.
Semi-inground pools are perfect for homeowners who have the budget for something more expensive than a basic above-ground pool, but not as costly as an in-ground pool system. Here are some pros and cons semi-inground pools:
Pros:
• Suitable for rocky and sloped terrain
• Less cleaning required compared to an in-ground pool
• Quick installation
• Requires less digging and construction
• Sturdier than above-ground pools
• Very durable with corrosion-resistant materials
Cons:
• Limited to round or oval shapes
• Struggles to keep water temperature cool
• Requires regular maintenance
• Limited pool models and custom pool design
Semi-inground pools can certainly add value to your property. The installation process is easier and quicker than traditional in-ground pools, they are aesthetically pleasing, and provide your backyard with a unique feel that can rival other high-end in-ground pools.
Steel and aluminum are two of the surface materials that are not suitable for pools with saltwater. Steel is susceptible to corrosion which will only accelerate under saltwater, while holes developed in the aluminum pool’s liner will only make matters worse. It is recommended to avoid these two materials with saltwater pool systems.
Pools are a great addition to your property, but they also come with their share of drawbacks:
• Home becomes more vulnerable to break-ins or theft
• The pool owner is held responsible for injuries that occur in and around the pool
• High maintenance and insurance costs
• Concern for children’s safety
Find a Pool Builder Near You
In addition to raising your property’s resale value, a semi-inground swimming pool will provide you with a fun, relaxing, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. Not only are they quick to install, but cost less than in-ground pools and are sturdier than above-ground pools.
With an average cost of $11,600, semi-inground pools are a great alternative to the more expensive in-ground pools.
To install a new pool or convert your existing one into a semi-inground system, you need to hire a pool builder. PoolGnome connects you to the best professional pool builders near you.
Note: PoolGnome may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Photo Credit: Pexels
