How much does a semi-inground pool cost?
How much does a semi-inground pool cost?
$7,000 – $25,000 average installed cost
Average semi-inground pool cost
A semi-inground pool costs $7,000 to $25,000 installed on average. The cost of semi-inground pool materials is $2,000 to $15,000, while the labor cost for semi-inground pool installation is $2,000 to $10,000. Semi-inground pools are ideal for sloped yards but not as customizable or long-lasting as fully inground pools.
| National Average Cost | $16,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $4,800 |
| Maximum Cost | $46,000 |
| Average Range | $7,000 to $25,000 |
Semi-inground pools typically refer to partially buried above-ground pools.
Some contractors raise an inground pool and surround it with a retaining wall, but that option costs more than average.
Semi-inground pool cost by size
The cost of a semi-inground pool installation depends mostly on its size:
| Pool size | Average cost (materials only) |
|---|---|
| 12' round | $800 – $1,100 |
| 15' round | $900 – $1,800 |
| 18' round | $1,100 – $2,600 |
| 24' round | $1,700 – $3,200 |
| 12'x24' oval | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| 12'x24' rectangle | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| 18'x33' oval | $2,600 – $3,000 |
Semi-inground pool cost by material
Steel is the strongest and most affordable material for semi-inground pools, while fiberglass and concrete are the most expensive. Inflatable or flexible above ground pools may cost less, but these pools are not strong or sturdy enough for semi-inground designs.
| Material | Average cost (materials only) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Above ground | ||
| Steel | $800 – $3,000 | Durable but prone to rust |
| Resin | $900 – $3,500 | Doesn’t rust but can fade or crack |
| Aluminum | $1,000 – $4,500 | Lighter than steel but expensive |
| Inground | ||
| Vinyl | $6,300 – $8,400 | Liner needs to be replaced regularly |
| Fiberglass | $10,500 – $26,400 | Low maintenance and long-lasting |
| Concrete | $16,500 – $28,800 | Most expensive option |
Semi-inground pool cost calculator
The cost to build a semi-inground pool depends on the materials, labor rates, shape, and other factors:
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $2,000 – $15,000* |
| Labor | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Total cost | $7,000 – $25,000 |
*Including the pool and any retaining wall materials
Factors that affect the cost of installing a semi-inground pool include:
Shape – Small, round semi-inground pools tend to cost less than oval and rectangular pools.
Location – The construction team will be using large equipment. Costs increase if the path is too narrow, the slope is too extreme, or if there are obstacles in the way.
Time of year – Installing a pool during the fall or winter may cost less than during the pool industry's busy season.
Liner – A vinyl pool liner costs $3,000 to $7,500 for a replacement. Pools with liners typically need a replacement every 6 to 10 years.
Water –The cost to fill a pool with water is $4 to $10 per 1,000 gallons when you use a garden hose or $30 to $100 per 1,000 gallons for a water delivery service.
Maintenance – Professional pool maintenance costs $80 to $150 monthly. Smaller swimming pools require fewer chemicals, which reduces the overall maintenance cost. The support wall around semi-inground pools may also need maintenance or repairs over time.
Permit – Pool permits cost $100 to $300 on average. Contractors typically include the permit costs in their labor fees.
Labor
The labor to install a semi-inground pool costs $5,000 to $10,000 on average. Dropping an above-ground pool into the ground a few feet takes less work than constructing an inground pool and adding a retaining wall.
The installation may also require excavation, along with a plumber to run a water line and an electrician to run power to the pool pump.
Additional costs
Consider which features or add-ons you may want before hiring a contractor:
| Feature | Average total cost |
|---|---|
| Pool lighting | $500 – $1,700 |
| Pool heater cost | $1,300 – $2,400 |
| Pool cover cost | $35 – $750 |
| Deck cost | $25 – $50 per square foot |
| Pool safety fence cost | $12 – $16 per square foot |
Semi-inground pools vs. other pool types
Semi-inground pools are relatively low maintenance and better for sloped yards. They are more durable than above-ground pools but not as customizable or long-lasting as inground pools.
| Pool type | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| Above ground pool cost | $1,600 – $7,500 |
| Inground pool cost | $25,600 – $100,000+ |
| Infinity pool cost | $60,000 – $150,000+ |
| Spool pool cost | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Lap pool cost | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| Plunge pool cost | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Shipping container pool cost | $35,000 – $65,000 |
| Swim spa cost | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Cocktail pool cost | $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Endless Pool cost | $26,000 – $75,000+ |
| Indoor pool cost | $110,000 – $220,000+ |
Some HOAs and local ordinances don't allow above ground or semi-inground pools, so check with your local authorities first before any work begins.
Semi-inground pool FAQs
What is a semi-inground pool?
A semi-inground pool is made by either partially burying an above-ground pool or partially raising an inground pool. They are popular in homes with sloped yards and take less time and money to install than fully inground pools.
How deep are semi-inground pools buried?
Installers typically bury semi-inground pools about 2 to 3 feet in the ground for a total depth of 3 to 8 feet on average. Some semi-inground pools have a shallow and deep end, while others have a single depth across the bottom.
Are semi-inground pools worth it?
Semi-inground pools are worth it if you want the appearance of an inground pool but the affordability of an above ground pool. Semi-inground pools typically cost less for excavation and installation, and you'll spend less to fill in the space if you choose to remove it later.
How long does it take to install a semi-inground pool?
Installing a semi-inground pool takes 2 days to 5 weeks to excavate, place the pool, and add a wall or enhancements. The project will take longer if you're building a deck or fence around the pool at the same time.
How long do semi-inground pools last?
Semi-inground pools last 7 to 15 years for quality above-ground pool materials with durable walls. If you use inground pool materials, they could last up to 75 years.
Getting estimates from semi-inground pool installers
Follow these guidelines when searching for semi-inground pool installers near you:
Compare at least 3+ estimates from experienced companies.
Search for members of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP).
Examine their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Beware of the lowest prices, which may indicate low-quality work.
Get a contract and warranty before any work begins.
Don't pay in full until the project is done.
Questions to ask semi-inground pool contractors
Ask these questions to help you choose a quality contractor:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
What experience do you have building semi-inground pools?
Can I see a portfolio of recent pools you've built?
How long will the pool installation take?
Can I prepare my yard somehow before you start?
How much will it cost to maintain a semi-inground pool?
Do you offer a maintenance plan after the installation?
Do you offer any financing options?
What does the 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.