How much does an above-ground pool cost?
Columbus, OH

How much does an above-ground pool cost?

Columbus, OH

How much does an above-ground pool cost?

$800 – $4,500cost for above-ground pool only
$1,600 – $7,500average total installed cost

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$800 – $4,500 cost for above-ground pool only

$1,600 – $7,500 average total installed cost


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Jennifer Carlson
Written by
Jennifer Carlson
Edited by
Sarah Noel
Fact-checked by
Kristen Cramer

Cost of above-ground pool

An above-ground pool costs $1,600 to $7,500 with installation, depending on the size, shape, and material. Above-ground pool prices are $800 to $4,500 for the pool itself and $800 to $3,000 on average for labor. Adding a deck, steps, lighting, or a fence will increase the final cost.

Average above-ground pool cost with installation - Chart
Average above-ground pool cost with installation - Chart
Average above-ground pool cost with installation
National Average Cost $4,500
Minimum Cost $1,000
Maximum Cost $20,000
Average Range $1,600 to $7,500

Doughboy above ground swimming pool surrounded by a deck and pool fence
Doughboy above ground swimming pool surrounded by a deck and pool fence
Get free estimates from above ground pool installers near you.

Above-ground pool cost by size

The cost of an above-ground pool installation depends mostly on its size:

Above-ground pool cost by 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

*Not including installation

Above-ground pool cost by material

Steel is the strongest and most affordable material for above-ground pools, but it’s prone to rust and corrosion. Resin doesn’t rust or get hot to the touch, but it can fade and crack over time. Aluminum is lighter than steel but costs more.

Above-ground pool cost by material
Material Average cost (materials only)*
Steel $800 – $3,000
Resin $900 – $3,500
Aluminum $1,000 – $4,500

*Not including installation

15x30 oval above ground pool liner installation with wood decking and a patio
15x30 oval above ground pool liner installation with wood decking and a patio

Above-ground pool cost calculator

The cost to build an above-ground pool depends on the materials, labor rates, shape, and other factors:

Above-ground pool cost factors
Factor Average cost
Materials $800 – $4,500
Labor $800 – $3,000
Total cost installed $1,600 – $7,500

Factors that affect the cost of installing a pool include:

  • Shape – Round above-ground pools tend to cost less than oval pools and rectangular pools.

  • Brand – High-quality pools last longer but cost more. Low-quality pools cost less upfront, but you may spend more on repairs and replacements. Common pool brands include Doughboy, Kayak, Aqua Leader, and Intex.

  • Type – Most above-ground pools come with rigid walls or a steel frame. Inflatable inground pools made of PVC or vinyl and are smaller and cheaper.

  • Time of year – Installing a pool during fall and winter months may cost less than during the pool industry's busy season.

  • Liner – An above-ground pool liner costs $2,000 to $5,000 for a replacement, depending on the size and shape. Above-ground 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 using a garden hose or $30 to $100 per 1,000 gallons with a water delivery service.

  • Maintenance – Professional pool maintenance costs $80 to $150 monthly. Above-ground pools are often smaller than inground swimming pools and require fewer chemicals, reducing overall maintenance costs.

  • Permit – Pool permits cost $100 to $300, but some cities don't require a permit for small pools. Check whether your local regulations require permits for above-ground pools before building.

Labor

The labor to install an above-ground pool costs $800 to $3,000 on average. The installation may involve several professionals, including a plumber to run pipes to the new pool and an electrician to run electrical wiring for a pump or heater.

Additional costs

Consider which features or add-ons you may want when calculating your final cost. Above-ground pools with decks cost more than freestanding pools but typically look more appealing.

Above-ground pool costs by feature
Feature Average total cost
Pool lighting $500 – $1,700
Pool ladder or steps $100 – $600
Pool heater cost $1,300 – $2,400
Pool cover cost $35 – $750
Deck cost $25 – $50 per square foot
Pool fence cost $20 – $60 per linear foot

Above ground saltwater pool installed on a concrete slab in a home's backyard
Above ground saltwater pool installed on a concrete slab in a home's backyard

Above-ground DIY kits

Above-ground pool kits cost $100 to $800 for an inflatable or set-and-fill pool and often include a filter, skimmer, and cover. Some kits also include a ladder.

Get free estimates from above ground pool installers near you.

If you’re not confident you can install the pool yourself or are concerned about damaging your yard, consider buying the pool you want and having a professional pool installer set it up for you.

Above-ground vs. other pool types

Above-ground pools cost less, are easier to install than inground pools, require little maintenance, and suit small yards better. However, above-ground pools typically aren’t as visually appealing and don’t last as long as other pool types.

Pool cost by type
Pool type Average installed cost
Semi-inground pool cost $7,000 – $25,000
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+

Above-ground pool with a wood deck and fencing
Above-ground pool with a wood deck and fencing

Above-ground pool FAQs

Does an above-ground pool add value to a home?

While an inground pool increases home value by 5% to 7% on average, an above-ground pool typically won't increase a home's value. However, unless it's a poorly maintained eyesore, it most likely won’t lower the home’s value since it’s easy to remove.

How many gallons of water are in an above-ground pool?

An above-ground pool needs 7.5 gallons per cubic foot, or the following quantities for different pool sizes, depending on the depth.

Average gallons of water to fill an above-ground pool by size
Pool size Gallons of water
12' circular pool 3,900
12'x24' rectangular pool 8,600
18' circular pool 8,800
24' circular pool 15,600

What do I put under an above-ground pool?

Place any of the following under your above-ground pool to make the ground smooth, level, and stable:

  • 6”x6” square pavers and a 2-inch sand pad

  • Concrete

  • Solid foam

  • Premade pool pads

How long does it take to install an above-ground pool?

Installing an above-ground pool takes 1 to 3 days. Your project will take longer if you build a deck or fence around the pool at the same time.

How long do above-ground pools last?

Above-ground pools last 7 to 15 years if built with good-quality materials that are properly maintained. Pools in extreme climates may have shorter lifespans than pools in moderate or mild climates.

How do you winterize an above-ground pool?

You can winterize your above-ground pool by following these steps:

Get free estimates from above ground pool installers near you.
  1. Balance the pH levels.

  2. Remove all accessories.

  3. Clean the inside walls.

  4. Add winterizing chemicals.

  5. Lower the water to just below the skimmer or install a skimmer guard.

  6. Disconnect the pump and remove the old filter.

  7. Cover the pool.

The winterizing process prevents algae, maintains chlorine levels, and protects your pool from harsh weather.

Getting estimates from above-ground pool installers

Follow these guidelines when searching for above-ground pool installers near you:

  • Compare at least 3 pool estimates from companies that have been in business for 5+ years.

  • Look for Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) members.

  • Check for positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

  • Beware of extremely low prices, which may indicate low-quality work.

  • Get a contract and warranty before work begins.

  • Don't pay in full until the project is complete.

Questions to ask pool contractors

Ask these questions to help you choose the best contractor possible:

  • Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

  • Can you give me a list of references?

  • What experience do you have building above-ground pools?

  • How long will the installation take?

  • Do you offer any support after the installation?

  • How should I prepare my yard before you start?

  • Do you have any financing options?

  • How much will it cost to maintain an above-ground pool?

  • Do you offer a maintenance plan?

  • Can I get a warranty? If so, what does it cover?