How much does a cocktail pool cost?
How much does a cocktail pool cost?
$15,000 – $35,000 average total cost
Average cocktail pool cost
A cocktail pool costs $15,000 to $35,000 on average to build, with most homeowners spending about $25,000 for labor and materials. The cost of a cocktail pool depends on the material, size, location, and whether it's above ground or inground. Cocktail pools are small pools ideal for lounging rather than swimming.
| National Average Cost | $25,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $5,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $85,000 |
| Average Range | $15,000 to $35,000 |
Many people use "cocktail pool", "spool", and "plunge pool" interchangeably, but these are actually different types of small pools. This guide covers the details and costs of cocktail pools and provides a comparison to other small pools to help you decide which type best fits your needs.
Cocktail pool cost factors
Cocktail pools can be made to fit almost anyone's taste and style, but several factors influence the total cost, including:
Size – While cocktail pools are smaller than traditional swimming pools, they still vary in size. In general, the larger the pool, the more it costs to build.
Shape – Square and rectangular cocktail pools are typically quicker and easier to install than round or irregular shaped pools.
Material – Cocktail pools made from copper, steel, and concrete cost the most while vinyl, fiberglass, recycled metal, and wood offer more budget-friendly options.
Features – Adding extras like hydrotherapy jets, heating, lighting, and interior seating increases the cost but adds versatility.
Inground vs. above ground – Above-ground cocktail pools require less installation labor than inground pools that require more planning and excavation.
Local regulations – Many municipalities require fencing or a barrier around pools over a certain depth. Fence installation costs $20 to $60 per linear foot.
DIY vs. professional installation – You can install a cocktail pool for as little as $5,000 if you do the work yourself, but going the DIY route requires knowledge and skill in several areas, including plumbing and electrical.
Maintenance – Professional pool maintenance costs $80 to $150 per month on average. Cocktail pool maintenance will typically fall at the low end of that price range due to its smaller size.
Labor
Labor typically accounts for 25% to 50% of the total cost for a cocktail pool. Depending on the material, features, and location, labor costs to install a cocktail pool may include:
Site preparation
The average cost to level or regrade a yard is $0.40 to $2.00 per square foot.
Pouring a concrete slab costs $6 to $12 per square foot, including materials and labor. Most above-ground cocktail pools require a concrete slab.
For inground cocktail pools, excavation costs $100 to $300 per hour or $2.50 to $15.00 per cubic yard.
Electrical & plumbing
As with hot tubs and traditional swimming pools, most cocktail pool installations involve some level of electrical and plumbing work. These costs vary depending on your current electrical and plumbing conditions and the specific requirements of your new cocktail pool.
Plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour.
Electricians cost $50 to $130 per hour.
Permits
Building permits cost $500 to $2,000. Your cocktail pool installation may require one or more permits, depending on the project scope.
Additional features and costs
A cocktail pool may be just one piece of a larger indoor or outdoor entertainment area. Consider these potential options and costs:
A custom firepit costs $325 to $2,000 installed, or $2,200 to $6,800 when including the cost of a new patio.
Building a deck costs $25 to $50 per square foot for material and labor, or $3,600 to $7,200 total for a 12'x12' deck.
A stone walkway costs $16 to $35 per square foot or $1,600 to $3,500 on average.
A pre-built outdoor kitchen costs $7,000 to $16,000 installed. Building a custom outdoor kitchen costs $10,000 to $35,000.
Landscaping costs $50 to $100 per hour or $25 to $85 per shrub for new plants and bushes. A complete new landscaping installation costs $3,000 to $16,000.
A new screened in porch costs $50 to $175 per square foot.
Cocktail pool vs. other small pools
Cocktail pools are only one of several types of small pools. While cocktail pools are ideal for lounging, plunge pools are slightly deeper and great for exercise as well as relaxation. Swim spas are all of the above and can also generate current to swim against.
| Pool type | Average installed cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail pool | $15,000 – $35,000 |
|
| Plunge pool cost | $15,000 – $40,000 |
|
| Swim spa cost | $20,000 – $40,000 |
|
| Spool pool cost | $20,000 – $40,000 |
|
Adding jets and heat to your cocktail pool transforms it into a "spool"—the features of a spa combined with a pool. Many people use these terms interchangeably.
Cocktail pool pros and cons
Cocktails pools typically cost less than standard-sized swimming pools and their small size translates to less water use and lower maintenance costs. However, these compact lounging pools are not the best choice for those who want to use the pool for swimming or as an amenity for large gatherings.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
If a small pool does not fit your needs and you have the space for a larger pool:
An average-sized inground pool costs $25,000 to $100,000.
A typical above-ground pool costs $1,800 to $5,000 installed.
Cocktail pool FAQs
What is a cocktail pool?
A cocktail pool is a small pool just deep enough to relax and cool off in. These compact pools may be above ground or inground, indoors or outdoors, and are ideal for intimate entertainment and limited space. Popular add-on features include integrated benches, jets, and heating to enjoy the pool year-round.
Be sure to discuss the specific features you're looking for in detail with your contractor to ensure you're on the same page. There are several different types of small pools, but their names are often used interchangeably.
How big is a cocktail pool?
Cocktail pools size ranges from 8'x12' to 12'x24', with depths averaging 3' to 5'. These lounging pools are typically smaller than a traditional swimming pool but larger than a hot tub and accommodate up to 10 people. Like the name, cocktail pools are designed to allow people to relax and enjoy a beverage.
Getting estimates from cocktail pool installers
Follow these guidelines when searching for a pool installation company to install your cocktail pool:
Compare 3 to 5 quotes with similar details from companies that have been in business for 5+ years.
Search for members of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) with positive reviews on Google and HomeGuide.
Look out for extremely low bids, as this can often indicate lack of experience or lower quality work.
If the cocktail pool dealer only offers delivery, contact these professionals for an installation estimate:
Get a detailed contract and warranty in hand before the pool installation begins.
Avoid making large payments up front. Additionally, don't pay in full until the installation is complete.
Questions to ask a cocktail pool contractor
Consider asking these questions to help you choose the best contractor for your cocktail pool installation:
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Have you handled an installation like this one before?
How should I prepare my property before the installation?
What kind of site preparation do you do?
Can you supply a list of references?
How often do I need to change the water in a cocktail pool?
Do you provide support if I have any questions or issues after the installation?
What features are included?
What extra features can I add to the pool, and how much do they cost?
Do you offer financing?
How much deposit do you require?
How soon can you install my pool?
What extra costs might come up during this type of installation?
How much will it cost to maintain the pool?
Do you offer an ongoing maintenance plan?
Do you offer a warranty, and what does it cover?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.