How much does an above-ground pool cost?
How much does an above-ground pool cost?
$800 – $4,500 cost for above-ground pool only
$1,600 – $7,500 average total installed cost
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.
| National Average Cost | $4,500 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $20,000 |
| Average Range | $1,600 to $7,500 |
Above-ground pool cost by size
The cost of an above-ground 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 |
*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.
| Material | Average cost (materials only)* |
|---|---|
| Steel | $800 – $3,000 |
| Resin | $900 – $3,500 |
| Aluminum | $1,000 – $4,500 |
*Not including installation
Above-ground pool cost calculator
The cost to build an above-ground pool depends on the materials, labor rates, shape, and other 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.
| 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 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.
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 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+ |
If you don’t like the look of above-ground pools or your yard has a steep incline, consider installing a semi-inground pool instead of a traditional inground pool.
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.
| 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:
Balance the pH levels.
Remove all accessories.
Clean the inside walls.
Add winterizing chemicals.
Lower the water to just below the skimmer or install a skimmer guard.
Disconnect the pump and remove the old filter.
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?
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.