The pool construction industry experienced a meteoric rise during the pandemic as homeowners sought private, at-home leisure options amid lockdowns and travel restrictions. With gyms shuttered, vacations canceled, and social gatherings limited, backyard pools became a coveted luxury for families around the world. However, as societies reopen and life begins to return to pre-pandemic norms, a pressing question emerges: Is pool construction slowing down? In this article, we’ll examine the current trends, economic indicators, and key factors shaping the pool construction landscape in 2025 and beyond.
How the Pandemic Supercharged Pool Demand
Between 2020 and 2022, the demand for private swimming pools soared. According to a 2023 report by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), over 5 million new residential pools were installed in the U.S. during the pandemic period — a 24% increase compared to the previous three years. This surge was fueled by:
- Remote work blurring the boundaries between home and office life
- Parents seeking safe recreational options for children during school closures
- Travel restrictions prompting staycations and backyard upgrades
- Low-interest rates encouraging home improvement investments
With government stimulus checks being used to fund backyard makeovers and home equity at record highs, pool sales skyrocketed. Retailers like Leslie’s, PoolCorp, and Master Spas reported record profits, and manufacturers faced unprecedented backlogs.
Signs That the Pool Construction Market May Be Cooling Off
While demand remains solid, signs suggest that the pool construction market may be plateauing or experiencing a moderation in growth. Several factors point to a potential slowdown, reflecting shifting consumer priorities and economic headwinds.
1. Inflation and Rising Construction Costs
Inflation has affected nearly every sector of the economy, and pool construction is no exception. From concrete and steel to filtration systems and labor, costs have risen significantly over the past two years. A 2024 industry analysis by the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) showed that:
| Material | Cost Increase (2022–2024) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | 18% |
| Steel and Aluminum | 22% |
| Labor | 15% |
| Filtration Systems | 30% |
These higher construction costs are making pools less accessible to the average homeowner. While luxury buyers in high-income areas are still investing, many middle-class buyers are postponing or opting for smaller installations.
2. Shifting Lifestyles Post-Pandemic
As life returns to a semblance of pre-pandemic normalcy, consumer behavior is changing. With travel resuming and outdoor activities like camping and road trips gaining popularity, the urgency to invest in a pool has declined for some homeowners. According to a 2025 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey, 73% of respondents said their interest in pools had decreased since 2022 due to increased travel options and a broader return to social life.
Additionally, urban areas are seeing a reengagement with communal facilities. Public pools, water parks, and multi-family complexes with shared pool amenities are gaining traction, especially among younger homeowners and renters who may have initially wanted private pools but are now cost-conscious.
Regional Variations in Pool Construction Activity
The slowdown in pool construction is not uniform across all regions. Several variables influence the pace and scale of new pool installs. These include climate, local economic conditions, and housing market trends.
1. Southern and Southwestern United States: Strong Continued Demand
Regions like Texas, Arizona, Florida, and California maintain strong demand for pools due to their hot climates and large suburban housing bases. Pool builders in these areas report full order books well into 2025. In Arizona, for instance, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, pool ownership remains a near-necessity rather than a luxury.
2. Northeast and Midwest: Signs of Declining Growth
In contrast, regions like the Northeast and Midwest have seen slower growth compared to the boom years. Shorter swimming seasons and colder climates make pool ownership less essential. In some areas, such as New York and Michigan, local government agencies report a 12–15% decline in pool permit applications compared to 2022.
Supply Chain Constraints and Labor Shortages
1. Skilled Labor Is Still a Bottleneck
The construction industry has faced a persistent shortage of skilled labor, and pool construction is no exception. According to the Construction Industry Institute, there were an estimated 400,000 unfilled construction-related jobs across the U.S. in 2024, many in subcontractor categories such as plumbing, concrete work, and electrical installation — all essential for modern pool builds.
This shortage has lengthened wait times for installation and increased labor costs. As a result, many pool contractors are limiting the number of new builds they can take on, indirectly leading to slower growth in the sector.
2. Imported Components and Equipment Delays
Pool construction relies heavily on imported components like pumps, heaters, and smart water systems. Many of these components come from Europe and Asia, and ongoing geopolitical issues, such as trade tensions and shipping constraints, have caused delays and price hikes.
A survey conducted by Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) in early 2025 revealed that roughly 30% of pool builders experienced delivery delays of at least two months for key equipment. This not only disrupts project timelines but can also dissuade homeowners from committing to a new build.
Regulatory and Environmental Concerns
1. Water Usage Restrictions in Drought-Prone Regions
In areas like California and Nevada, water use is under increasing scrutiny. Prolonged drought conditions have led local authorities to impose restrictions on water-intensive activities — including pool fills. While pools do not account for a significant share of total water consumption, they are often associated with outdoor water use in public discourse.
Some municipalities have introduced requirements such as pool covers, rainwater harvesting systems, or mandatory use of recirculated water for pool maintenance. These add complexity and expense to pool ownership, discouraging some potential buyers.
2. Increased Permitting and Environmental Compliance
There is also growing scrutiny on the environmental impact of pool chemicals, energy consumption, and runoff. In jurisdictions like Los Angeles and Colorado, new pools are required to submit environmental impact assessments before approval. While intended to promote sustainable practices, these additional regulatory layers may deter new pool installation projects.
The Role of Technology and Innovation
Despite the potential slowdown, innovation within the pool industry is helping maintain interest. Smart pools, energy-efficient equipment, and modular designs are attracting a different type of buyer — one who prioritizes sustainability, tech integration, and ease of maintenance.
1. Smart and Automated Pools
Pool automation systems allow homeowners to regulate temperature, monitor chemical levels, and control filtration remotely via mobile apps. Companies like Hayward and Pentair have introduced AI-driven maintenance systems that reduce long-term operating costs and complexity.
2. Eco-Friendly Pool Designs
Solar-heated pools, saltwater systems, and reduced-chemical sanitization technologies are becoming selling points. These features not only lower operating costs but also appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. According to the APSP, 40% of new pool builds in 2024 included at least one environmentally friendly feature, marking a shift toward sustainability.
3. Modular and Above-Ground Innovations
Above-ground pools have long been seen as a compromise between cost and luxury. However, recent innovations — including durable composite materials, stylish designs, and partial in-ground installations — are helping above-ground pools win over a broader demographic.
Manufacturers like Vantage and FibroPool now offer modular kits that allow homeowners to install high-quality pools for as little as $10,000–$15,000, compared to over $50,000 for a traditional in-ground installation.
What Buyers Are Saying: Market Sentiment in 2025
Customer sentiment plays a critical role in market trends, and polling and survey data provide insight into shifting attitudes toward pool ownership.
1. Price Sensitivity Is a Growing Concern
A 2025 nationwide survey from Houzz found that 45% of homeowners cited cost as the primary reason they had abandoned pool plans, compared to just 20% in 2021. Rising interest rates and inflation have made financing a new pool more expensive, prompting many families to reconsider.
2. New Priorities in Home Investment
Pool installation once ranked third in home improvement projects (after kitchens and bathrooms), but recent data shows homeowners are increasingly focusing on energy efficiency, home offices, and outdoor living spaces without pools.
According to a 2024 HomeAdvisor report, home office installations and HVAC upgrades have surged in popularity, outpacing swimming pool investments for the first time since 2019. This suggests a broader trend of functional lifestyle upgrades over luxury additions.
What the Future Holds for Pool Construction
So, is pool construction really slowing down?
Yes — but with qualifications. The industry is experiencing a period of adjustment rather than an outright collapse. While the breakneck growth of 2021–2022 is unlikely to continue at the same pace, the long-term outlook for the pool construction industry remains largely positive.
1. The Market Is Maturing
After an explosive growth phase, it’s natural for markets to stabilize. The pool industry is no different: demand is settling among dedicated buyers, including those in warmer climates, luxury home markets, and high-net-worth individuals. Builders are also shifting focus toward maintenance, renovations, and accessories, which offer more recurring revenue.
2. Innovation Will Continue to Drive Interest
Despite inflationary pressures and changing consumer priorities, technological advancements and eco-friendly initiatives will keep the market dynamic. Homeowners are looking for smarter, greener, and more efficient ways to enjoy their pools, and the builders who adapt to these preferences will thrive.
3. Long-Term Value of Pool Ownership Remains Strong
Pools continue to offer significant lifestyle and resale value, especially in suburban and luxury real estate markets. According to Zillow, homes with pools can command a 7–10% higher resale price in certain regions, particularly in outdoor-friendly neighborhoods.
Conclusion: A Slower Growth Rate, Not a Collapse
While the frenzy of the pandemic-driven pool boom may be behind us, the pool construction industry is not in decline — it’s evolving. Builders and retailers must prepare for a more measured pace, shifting consumer expectations, and the challenges of rising costs and stricter regulations.
For homeowners, the opportunity to invest in a pool remains viable, especially with modern options that cater to budget, sustainability, and design preferences. The demand is no longer universal but concentrated among specific demographic and geographic clusters.
In summary, the future of pool construction will be more stable, more sustainable, and more selective — but not shrinking. The plunge may be over, but the industry is diving into a new era of opportunities.
Final Thoughts: A Measured Approach for Industry Players
For industry stakeholders, the takeaway is clear: the golden years of explosive, demand-driven growth are over. However, there is still room to innovate, educate, and serve a resilient niche of dedicated buyers. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor, a materials supplier, or a homeowner, understanding these shifts — and adapting accordingly — will be crucial to success in the years ahead.
Why did pool construction boom during the pandemic?
The pandemic led to a surge in residential pool construction as people spent more time at home and sought safe, private recreational activities. With travel restrictions and lockdowns in place, homeowners invested in improving their living spaces, and swimming pools became a desirable addition for both fitness and relaxation. Additionally, low-interest rates and government stimulus payments provided financial flexibility for such projects.
This surge also stemmed from a growing emphasis on mental health and overall well-being during a stressful time. Backyard pools offered a way to de-stress and enjoy outdoor activities without relying on public facilities, which were often closed or limited due to health protocols. As a result, demand for pool construction skyrocketed, overwhelming contractors and driving up wait times for installations.
Is the pool construction industry really slowing down now?
While the pool construction boom has undeniably cooled since its peak during the pandemic, the industry hasn’t necessarily slowed to pre-2020 levels. Recent data and industry reports indicate a moderation in growth rather than a sharp decline. Many contractors report that demand remains high, but at a more manageable pace compared to the frenzied market of 2021 and 2022.
This moderation can be attributed to a combination of economic adjustments, including rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, and shifting consumer priorities. Although the market has leveled off, it remains steady. Homeowners continue to view pools as a long-term investment, and new entrants into the market are keeping construction activity robust in many regions.
What economic factors are contributing to the slowdown in pool construction?
One of the key economic factors affecting the pool industry is rising interest rates. As the Federal Reserve has increased borrowing costs to combat inflation, this has impacted construction loans, home equity lines of credit, and overall consumer spending. These higher costs can make large discretionary projects like pool installation less attractive or harder to finance.
Additionally, inflation has raised the prices of construction materials and labor. Companies have had to pass on these costs to consumers, making pool projects more expensive and potentially deterring some homeowners from moving forward. At the same time, rising costs for other home improvement projects and daily essentials have shifted spending priorities, leading to a slower but more sustainable demand for new pools.
Are changing consumer behaviors affecting pool construction trends?
Yes, consumer behaviors are evolving in ways that impact the pool construction industry. While pools remain desirable, homeowners are showing a growing preference for multifunctional outdoor living spaces that include features like outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and landscaping rather than focusing solely on in-ground pools. These upgraded outdoor areas offer versatility and appeal to a broader range of family activities.
Moreover, there is increasing awareness of sustainability and water conservation, particularly in drought-prone regions like the southwestern United States. Homeowners are seeking more water-efficient designs or alternatives like splash pads and small plunge pools. This shift in consumer priorities is influencing construction trends and prompting designers to innovate while remaining sensitive to broader environmental concerns.
How are pool construction companies adapting to the new market conditions?
In response to the evolving market, pool construction companies are diversifying their offerings and emphasizing value-added services. Many are expanding into full-scale outdoor design, including decks, lighting, and smart pool systems that enhance the user experience. By offering integrated outdoor living solutions, companies can cater to changing consumer preferences while maintaining revenue streams.
Additionally, firms are investing in technology to streamline operations, manage supply chains more efficiently, and improve client communication. Many are also focusing on workforce development to address labor shortages and ensure high-quality service delivery. These adaptations are helping companies remain competitive in a more balanced market while building a foundation for long-term resilience.
Will pool construction rates return to pre-pandemic levels?
It is unlikely that pool construction will fully revert to pre-pandemic levels given the lasting impact of lifestyle changes and shifting property values. While the explosive growth of the pandemic era has waned, the heightened interest in home improvement and private recreation has left a permanent mark on consumer behavior. As a result, the pool industry is expected to maintain a level of demand that exceeds historical norms.
Furthermore, technological advancements and broader product offerings have expanded the market to include new customer segments. The availability of more affordable options, such as modular and fiberglass pools, has enabled a wider demographic to enter the market. This diversification suggests that while growth may have stabilized, the industry is unlikely to see a major reversal.
What does the future look like for the pool construction industry?
The future of the pool construction industry appears to be one of measured growth and innovation. As the market stabilizes, companies are expected to focus more on sustainability, design customization, and integrated smart technologies. These advancements will likely address evolving consumer expectations while also responding to regulatory and environmental pressures in certain regions.
Moreover, with an aging population and the rising popularity of aging-in-place design, there may be increased demand for pool features like easy-access entries and therapeutic components. Market segmentation and regional differences will also play a role, with areas experiencing population growth likely to see stronger demand. Overall, the industry is poised to remain a steady part of the home improvement landscape for years to come.