How much does a pool deck cost?
How much does a pool deck cost?
$25 – $50 average cost per square foot
$5,000 – $20,000 average installed cost (deck only)
$6,600 – $27,500 average total cost (above-ground pool with deck)
Average cost of a pool deck
The average cost to build a pool deck is $25 to $50 per square foot or $5,000 to $20,000 total. An above-ground pool with a deck costs $6,600 to $27,500 installed. Pool deck costs depend on the size, design, and whether the pool is inground, above-ground, or semi-inground.
| National Average Cost | $12,500 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $30,000 |
| Average Range | $5,000 to $20,000* |
*For 200 to 400 square feet.
Pool deck cost by size
The cost of a pool deck installation depends on its size. A walk-around deck surrounds the pool and is at least 15 inches wide. A proportionate deck is roughly the size of your pool and costs much more than a minimal walk-around deck.
| Deck size (square feet) | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| 100 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| 200 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| 300 | $7,500 – $15,000 |
| 400 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| 600 | $15,000 – $30,000 |
Pool deck cost by material
A pressure-treated pine deck costs $14 to $28 per square foot for materials alone. This is the most common choice for decking because it’s affordable and readily available. However, other materials are more durable and insect-repellant than pine.
| Material | Cost per square foot installed | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated pine | $25 – $50 | Most affordable, common choice but not very strong |
| Ipe decking cost | $50 – $70 | High-density, mold-resistant Brazilian hardwood |
| Cedar | $30 – $47 | Water and pest-resistant but soft and prone to damage |
| Redwood | $28 – $54 | Durable and pest-resistant but prone to mold |
| Tigerwood | $40 – $64 | Exotic, naturally water-resistant hardwood |
| Mahogany | $30 – $57 | Hardwood that also resists water damage |
| Bamboo | $27 – $52 | Lightweight but scratches and dents easily |
| Composite decking cost | $40 – $80 | Wood and plastic mix that doesn’t need to be resealed |
| Trex decking cost | $45 – $70 | Popular composite decking brand |
| Aluminum | $100 – $125 | Low-maintenance and not prone to stains, rot, or insects |
Most woods need to be sealed regularly to maintain their longevity, but composite decking and other materials don’t.
Pool patios
Inground pool owners may choose to install a pool patio directly on the ground instead of a deck. Patios cost $5 to $35 per square foot installed, depending on the material. Most concrete patios cost less than stone or paver patios.
| Material | Cost per square foot installed |
|---|---|
| Poured concrete patio cost | $5 – $15 |
| Stamped concrete patio cost | $8 – $19 |
| Natural stone patio cost | $16 – $35 |
| Flagstone patio cost | $15 – $32 |
| Paver patio cost | $10 – $17 |
Pool deck cost calculator
The cost to build a pool deck depends on the materials, labor rates, size, and other factors:
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $14 – $28 |
| Labor | $11 – $22 |
| Total cost | $25 – $50* |
*Not including the pool, a pool fence, or old deck removal and disposal.
Additional factors that affect the cost of installing a pool deck include:
Pool type: A raised above-ground pool requires a raised deck, which may cost more than a flat patio or deck for an inground pool.
Design: Unique shapes, curves, or built-in seating cost more to build than simple square or rectangular designs. Installing multi-level, elevated, or wrap around decks costs more than installing flat side or splash decks.
Site conditions: You may pay more if your yard’s slope is too extreme or if there are any obstacles in the way.
Pool fence: A pool fence costs $10 to $45 per linear foot installed or $2,000 to $13,500 total on average. All states except Alaska, Colorado, and Delaware require safety fencing around permanent pools. If your yard is fenced, that fence may already fulfill the legal requirements. Check local laws for specific rules.
Replacement: Replacing an existing pool deck costs $5 per square foot more because it requires removing and disposing of the old deck.
Permit: Most deck building permits cost $50 to $150. Contractors usually include these permit costs in their labor fees.
Repairs: Deck repair costs $750 to $2,500 on average, depending on the extent of the damage. Pool deck resurfacing costs $3 to $12 per square foot for concrete pool decks.
Some local regulations waive safety fence requirements if you have a suitable pool cover.
Labor
The labor to install a pool deck costs $11 to $22 per square foot on average. A small, simple design costs less to install than a large, custom deck. If you need to complete any of the following prep work projects, labor rates will be higher:
Land leveling costs $500 to $1,000, depending on the terrain and how much excavation is needed to create a level surface for the deck installation.
Tree removal costs $5 to $25 per linear foot, or $300 to $2,000 total for a tree 30' to 80' tall.
Additional costs
Adding lighting, shade, or other features can help make your pool deck more attractive and comfortable. Consider which customizations you may want or need before hiring a contractor.
| Feature | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| Deck railing cost | $20 – $60 per linear foot |
| Drainage system cost | $10 – $25 per linear foot |
| Pea gravel cost | $0.85 – $2.80 per square foot |
| Deck covering cost | $10 – $60 per square foot |
| Pergola cost | $10 – $65 per square foot |
| Deck staining cost | $1.50 – $4.00 per square foot |
| Deck painting cost | $2 – $5 per square foot |
| Outdoor lighting cost | $80 – $300 per fixture |
| Pool cover cost | $1,000 – $3,600 |
DIY pool deck vs. hiring a pro
Experienced DIYers may be able to buy, cut, and install a wood deck themselves. However, most homeowners would be intimidated by this project because it requires heavy-duty tools and precise measuring.
Hiring a local contractor to build your pool deck costs more but is much more likely to result in a safe, high-quality deck. Professional deck builders can also help you decide on the best material, size, and shape for your project.
Pool deck FAQs
What is a pool deck?
A pool deck is a structure that covers the ground next to a pool, providing a convenient place to dry off, lounge in a chair, or enjoy time with friends. Many above-ground pool decks are made of wood, composite material, or aluminum. In-ground pool decks are often made of concrete.
What is the best pool deck material?
The best pool decking material for you depends on your budget, preferences, and desired maintenance level. Composite decking is the easiest material to maintain and looks like natural wood, but pine wood is more affordable.
How do I calculate my pool deck size?
Many pool decks are proportionate, meaning they have about the same square footage as your pool. You’re free to adjust the size of your deck as much as you want, however, especially if you don’t have much space in your yard or have a smaller budget.
You may want to design a big deck if any of the following apply:
You have a large yard or pool.
You plan to have large gatherings outside.
You want to make room for seating, a grill, a fire pit, and other outdoor furniture.
How long does it take to build a pool deck?
Building a pool deck takes at least 5 to 7 days for 100 to 300 square feet. An elevated or multi-level pool deck larger than 300 square feet can take 2 to 4 weeks. Permit processing will take a week or more, plus any applicable site preparation time.
Getting estimates from pool deck contractors
Follow these guidelines when searching for pool deck contractors near you:
Compare 3+ estimates from experienced companies.
Look for members of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP).
Read deck builder reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Beware of the lowest estimates, which may indicate low-quality work.
Get a contract and warranty before any work starts.
Don't pay in full until the project is done.
Questions to ask pool deck contractors
Ask these questions to help you choose a quality contractor:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
What experience do you have building pool decks?
Can I see a portfolio of recent decks you’ve built?
How long will the deck take to build?
What material do you recommend?
Do you offer any financing options?
What does your warranty 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.