Swimming Pool Types
There are two primary types of outdoor swimming pools for homes:
- Above-ground swimming pools, as the name suggests, rest on top of the ground and don’t require a lot of site preparation.
- In-ground pools are permanent features of a home landscape and require extensive work to prepare the site and construct the pool.
Local codes and your Homeowners Association may prohibit pools or restrict the type, size and placement of a swimming pool. Any type of pool needs a barrier around it according to the specifications of your codes.
Facts About Above-Ground Swimming Pools
Above-ground pools are semi-permanent features so you can take them down with a little effort. Homeowners usually set up an above-ground pool in a backyard and may build a pool deck around it to make getting in and out of the pool easier and to give it a more built-in look. Or a homeowner may simply add a pool ladder for access.
Read our guide, How to Choose an Above-Ground Swimming Pool, for tips on finding the right pool for your family.
Pros and Cons of Above-Ground Swimming Pools
Above ground pools are good options for homes with small yards and for homeowners who want a quick way to set up a relaxing recreation spot. If you want a pool but don’t plan to be in the home more than a couple of years before moving, an above-ground pool might make sense.
Above-Ground Pool Pros
- Cost is much less than that of an in-ground pool.
- Maintenance is easier than maintenance for an in-ground pool.
- You can often assemble one yourself.
- Assembly time ranges from a few minutes to just a day or two.
- Above-ground pools don’t require lots of yard space.
- You can dismantle an above-ground pool to move or remove it.
Above-Ground Pool Cons
- An above-ground pool is less attractive than an in-ground pool.
- There’s more risk for damage than with an in-ground pool.
- You’ll need a pool deck to create a built-in look.
- Shape is usually limited to rectangular, oval or round.
- Depth is the same for the entire pool.
- The maximum available depth is usually 52 inches or about 4-1/3 feet.
- An above-ground pool typically has a life span of no more than 15 years, depending on materials and maintenance.
Price Ranges for Above-Ground Pools
The cost of an above-ground pool varies by the size, depth and construction. Of course, larger, deeper pools are more expensive. An above-ground pool with a metal frame or an above-ground pool with steel wall panels usually costs more than a comparable above-ground pool with an inflatable ring. Here are some general price range estimates:
- You can find small inflatable top ring pools for up to four swimmers in the $100 to $200 range.
- Metal-framed pools for four or more swimmers typically start around $100 and can cost $6000 or more.
- Large 46- to 52-inch-deep pools with metal wall panels can range from $400 to about $4,000 or more.
- Depending on the pool, you may also need to purchase a filter, ladder, ground cover and pool cover.
- Installing a concrete slab or adding a pool deck will, of course, increase the cost of the project.
Facts About In-Ground Swimming Pools
As you’d guess from the name, in-ground pools require excavation. The pool is more or less flush with the ground and there’s typically a paved area surrounding the pool.
In-Ground Pools Pros and Cons
In-ground pools are best for homeowners with a lot of yard space and those who expect to remain in the same home for several years to enjoy the investment. And, if you want a pool you can customize to fit your needs, an in-ground pool is the way to go.
In-Ground Pool Pros
- An in-ground pool blends into the landscape and is generally more attractive than an above-ground pool
- There are nearly endless size and depth options with customization available for layout, shape and accessories.
- An in-ground pool allows variable water depths.
- An in-ground pool can last up to 30 years or more, depending on construction and maintenance.
- It might be an attractive feature for home buyers when it’s time to sell.
In-Ground Pool Cons
- An in-ground pool costs much more than even a top-of-the-line above-ground pool.
- It will typically be an improvement that raises property taxes.
- It will take up a large part of your yard.
- An in-ground pool requires professional grading, excavation and installation.
- It might take several weeks to install.
- You’ll need to do more extensive and costly maintenance than with an above-ground pool.
- An in-ground pool uses more power and water than an above-ground pool.
Price Ranges for In-Ground Pools
The cost of installing an in-ground pool varies widely. In addition to factors such as size, shape and material options, consider the expenses of having the yard prepared for the pool and the cost of excavating the pool area. This preparation requires professional work and expensive equipment. You may need to hire professionals for electrical and plumbing work as well.
As an estimate, expect costs to start around at least $30,000 and range up to $60,000 and more. Depending on the package and the work that’s necessary, costs can top $100,000. And, while an inground pool may be attractive to some homebuyers, you may not recover the full cost of the project when you sell.
Saltwater Pools and Traditional Chlorine Pools
Within the categories of both above-ground and in-ground pools, you can often decide whether you want a saltwater pool or a traditional chlorine pool. Both pool systems use chlorine to sanitize the water, but while traditional pools require regular applications of chlorine, a saltwater pool system produces the chlorine from pool salt. Saltwater pools have water that feels softer to your skin and they’re usually easier to maintain.
Our guide, Saltwater Pools vs Chlorine Pools, breaks down the differences and gives you pros and cons for each system. If you want a saltwater pool, make sure your pool and pool materials are suitable. If you’re considering a saltwater above-ground pool, for example, shop for pools designed for a saltwater system.
Price Ranges for Saltwater Pools and Traditional Pools
The cost differences between saltwater pools and traditional pools are mainly in the cost of the chlorine generator or salt cell and the cost of ongoing maintenance. The chlorine generator is an additional setup expense that can add up to $2500 or more to your installation, depending on the size of the pool. You typically need to replace the generator every three to seven years and you’ll use additional electricity to power the chlorine generator for at least 8 hours per day.
However, ongoing maintenance for a saltwater pool is typically lower than the cost of maintaining a traditional pool. Since you use standard pool chemicals for both systems, the key difference in maintenance expense is the cost of the salt or chlorine you need for the pool. Pool salt tends to be cheaper than chlorine.