Building a backyard pool is an investment that brings joy, relaxation, and aesthetic appeal to a home. However, the rising interest in sustainable living and eco-friendly alternatives has led many homeowners to ask an important question: Is a natural pool cheaper? This article explores the economics of natural pools compared to traditional pools, covering various aspects such as construction cost, maintenance, longevity, and long-term value.
We’ll start by defining what a natural pool is, how it differs from a regular pool, and the elements that set it apart from the chlorine-heavy recreational spots you might be more familiar with. From there, we’ll break down each financial piece of the puzzle to help you make the most informed decision for your home and budget.
What Is a Natural Pool?
A natural swimming pool, also known as a natural pond or ecological pool, mimics the appearance and filtration of a natural ecosystem. These pools use aquatic plants and biological filters to purify the water, eliminating the need for chemical cleaners like chlorine or bromine.
There are two main zones in most natural pools:
- The swimming zone: where you swim, usually lined to prevent sediment interference.
- The regeneration zone: a built-in wetland area filled with aquatic plants that clean and nourish the water.
Some designs also include a biological or plant-based filtration system to enhance water clarity and quality. This natural filtration process can create a healthier, chemical-free swim while visually blending with the landscape.
Initial Construction Costs: What’s the Real Price Tag?
The cost to build a pool is one of the largest concerns when making a decision. It’s helpful to compare the initial investment required for a natural pool versus a traditional concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl-lined pool.
Traditional Pool Construction Costs
Traditional in-ground pools typically range from $35,000 to over $100,000 depending on size, materials, and added features like waterfalls, heating, lighting, and decks. The breakdown usually includes:
- Excavation and site preparation: $5,000 – $15,000
- Pipe systems and pump installation: $5,000 – $10,000
- Pool structure (concrete, fiberglass, vinyl): $15,000 – $50,000
- Decking and landscaping: $5,000 – $25,000
Additionally, pools usually require fencing and adherence to local regulations, adding another $2,000 to $10,000 in some cases.
Natural Pool Construction Costs
Constructing a natural pool involves a complex design process due to its natural filtration systems, plants, and pond-like structure. Building a natural pool often costs more upfront.
A basic natural pool installation (60m² / 650 sq ft total area) can range from:
- Digging and waterproofing the basin: $20,000 – $35,000
- Plant and filtration systems: $5,000 – $12,000
- Pumps and circulation devices: $3,000 – $6,000
- Construction of visual and ecological zones: $5,000 – $20,000
- Additional features (landscaping, stone, walkways): $5,000 – $30,000
Initial natural pool investments typically fall in the $40,000 to $80,000 range — sometimes stretching into six figures when customized with luxury elements.
Comparing the Base Costs
So, is a natural pool cheaper to build than a traditional pool? In many cases, no—especially for the average backyard. The cost for a natural pool construction is usually comparable or higher than that of a concrete pool due to complex ecological systems, pond-like designs, and extensive landscaping.
However, the real value equation is not just about the initial cost — it’s about long-term savings and overall sustainability.
Maintenance Costs: The Long-Term Financials
One of the primary concerns for pool owners is ongoing pool maintenance. This section outlines how natural and traditional pools differ in day-to-day upkeep, energy use, and associated maintenance costs.
Natural Pool Maintenance
Natural pools typically have lower electricity and chemical costs because they clean themselves using plants, gravel filtration layers, and circulation systems. However, they still require maintenance:
- Brushing and cleaning the basin: 1–2 times monthly depending on debris levels.
- Plant care: trimming, replanting every 5–10 years, and monitoring for pests.
- Water clarity tests: occasionally needed when algae levels increase.
The main trade-off with natural pools is that they are more labor-intensive when it comes to ecological balance, but they are significantly cheaper when it comes to chemicals.
For example, traditional pool owners typically spend:
- Chlorine and algaecide: $50 – $150 per month
- Water testing and pH balance chemicals: $20 – $50 monthly
- Pump and filter energy usage: $50 – $200+ monthly
In contrast, natural pool owners might spend only $10–$40 monthly, mainly for biological pump maintenance and occasional plant replacement.
Is a Natural Pool Cheaper to Maintain?
The short answer is yes, in time and chemicals. But it requires vigilance. Natural pools trade chemical and filter dependence for ecological maintenance and seasonal adaptation.
Summary: A natural pool reduces electricity and chemical usage by up to 60–70%, but requires seasonal balance adjustments to prevent unwanted algae growth and water clarity issues.
Longevity and Durability of Natural Pools
Natural pools, when well-constructed, can be highly durable. Many of the early versions of natural pools built in Europe in the 1990s are still operational today — meaning they can have a 25- to even 30-year lifespan.
Material Comparison: Liners vs. Concrete
Natural pools often use rubber or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) liners, which are less durable than concrete but often last 15–20 years — especially if installed professionally.
Traditional concrete pools, on the other hand, can last 40+ years with proper waterproofing, resurfacing every 10–15 years. Fiberglass pools last up to 25–30 years with fewer upkeep demands.
Although the longevity of a natural pool is slightly less than a concrete pool, their eco-friendly benefits and lower maintenance costs even out the comparison over two to three decades.
Property Value and ROI: Is a Natural Pool a Worthwhile Investment?
This is where many potential buyers and homeowners weigh aesthetics, lifestyle appeal, and real estate economics.
Appreciation in Home Value
Studies and trends from Zillow and real estate agents indicate that a swimming pool can add between 5%–10% to a home’s resale value, depending on design and location.
However, not all pools are valued equally. Here’s how natural and traditional pools compare:
| Pool Type | Average Increase in Property Value | Likely Perceived Appeal to Buyers | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Pool | ~7% increase | High (especially in warmer climates) | Proven design, easier maintenance for non-ecological buyers |
| Natural Pool | ~5–10% increase | Moderate–High (depending on buyer eco-interest) | Aesthetic appeal, environmental awareness, luxury appeal |
Natural pools tend to attract eco-conscious buyers and those who appreciate the aesthetics of a blended water feature. If you live in a progressive or luxury market, this design might offer higher or equivalent ROI to that of a traditional pool.
Natural Pools Can Be Showpieces
A well-landscaped modern natural pool with elegant stonework, native plants, and artistic design can be a focal point in outdoor living and dramatically increase a home’s overall curb appeal — a point not lost on real estate agents.
Bonus Feature: Because of their lack of chemicals, natural pools are pet-safe, eco-friendly, and even support natural wildlife like dragonflies and frogs, enhancing their appeal for nature lovers.
What Are the Major Cost Variables?
To truly answer, is a natural pool cheaper, you need to understand the variables that influence cost:
1. Size of the Pool
Natural pools often need to be larger to accommodate both the swimming zone and the regeneration zone. A 12’x24’ concrete pool might be feasible in some backyards, but a natural pool would need at least a 400–650 square foot surface area.
2. Design Complexity
The more you customize features like:
- Rock waterfalls
- Lush wetlands
- Swim-up bars
- Luxury decking
…the more the natural pool option becomes expensive.
3. Choice of Filtration System
Hybrid natural pools include mechanical biofilters, UV clarifiers, or submerged plant beds. These increase performance but can add $2,000–$7,000 in initial costs, as well as slight energy inputs every month.
4. Climate and Local Environment
Natural pools perform best in sunny areas with proper plant balance. In regions with less sun, plant-based filtration is weaker, potentially requiring back-up mechanical systems — pushing up operating costs.
A colder climate may also require additional winterization or winter pond coverings, while pools in areas with high rainfall may need overflow management designs.
When is a Natural Pool More Cost-Effective?
While they generally cost more upfront, natural pools can actually be cheaper in the long run — especially under the right conditions.
1. In Cold-Climate Areas With High Energy Costs
Natural pools often do not require heated water systems — the human body adapts to the cooler temperature compared to chemically heated pools. This can result in massive reductions in electricity bills.
Also, the ecosystem and plant growth can generate microthermal effects that help maintain consistent water temperature.
2. For Those Seeking Long-Term Sustainability
If your goal is to live off-grid or achieve a near-zero carbon footprint in your backyard, a natural pool requires less energy, no toxic chemical waste, and creates fewer water replacement needs.
3. For Health-Conscious Homeowners
For people with sensitive skin, chlorine in traditional pools can irritate or cause allergic reactions. Natural pools eliminate this with eco-filtration — which could reduce personal healthcare or skincare costs.
4. In Areas With Restrictive HOA or Environmental Regulations
In some communities, pools with chemical discharge or higher water consumption come under scrutiny. Natural pools, with their ecosystem integration and low water waste, are often preferred under such regulations, potentially saving you permitting fees or disputes.
Disadvantages to Consider Before Choosing a Natural Pool
Despite their benefits, natural pools are not always the optimal choice. Consider the potential drawbacks:
1. Algae Growth Requires Vigilance
Algae problems can develop if the balance between plants, sun exposure, and swim volume isn’t ideal, often requiring adjustments in design or plant population.
2. Time to Mature
Natural pools take several months to a year before they become fully balanced biologically, which means a waiting period before you can enjoy the water.
3. Limited Swimming Depth
Most natural pools are designed for recreational swimming but may lack the deep ends required for diving or lap swimming.
4. Higher Skill Level Required
Maintaining balance in a living ecosystem requires knowledge of plant habits, water flow, and aquatic life cycles — not just routine skimming and vacuuming.
Key Takeaways: Is a Natural Pool Cheaper?
To answer the question directly:
- In upfront cost, a natural pool is generally more expensive than a basic traditional pool due to the added costs of biological zones and landscaping.
- In terms of long-term maintenance, natural pools are generally cheaper to operate and much more eco-friendly with drastically reduced chemical use.
- In total lifecycle cost (15–25 years), especially when factoring in chemicals, energy, and health impacts, a natural pool can either break even or even be more cost-effective than a traditional pool.
- In terms of lifestyle and property value, the unique design of natural pools enhances sustainability, aesthetics, and overall outdoor appeal, which can increase your home’s value as well.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your lifestyle goals, budget flexibility, and environmental values.
For those who wish to blend recreation and ecology with lower long-term expenses and health benefits, a well-planned natural pool might just be the better investment — even if it costs more to build initially.
Ready for the Right Choice? Research Your Builders and Climate
If you’re seriously considering a natural pool, start by researching natural pool consultants or designers in your area. Evaluate your local climate, get quotes, and consider hybrid designs that blend mechanical filtration with a more natural ambiance.
Remember: the cheapest route is not always the best, and what sets natural pools apart is not just economics — it’s the creation of a habitat that enhances your backyard, nurtures nature, and gives your family an incredible swimming experience.
Contact a local natural pool builder today and compare a full proposal of costs, benefits, and project feasibility.
What is a natural pool and how does it differ from a traditional pool?
A natural pool, also known as a natural swimming pool or eco-pool, uses plants and biological filters to clean the water instead of chemicals like chlorine or salt systems. These pools are designed to mimic the clean, clear environment of a natural pond, combining a swimming area with a regeneration zone filled with aquatic plants that filter contaminants and maintain water quality.
Unlike traditional pools, which rely on mechanical filtration and chemical treatments to keep water safe, natural pools integrate with the surrounding landscape and function more like an ecosystem. While they offer an environmentally friendly alternative, their design, construction, and maintenance needs can differ significantly from conventional pools, influencing overall cost and suitability for different environments.
Are natural pools generally cheaper to install than traditional pools?
In most cases, natural pools are not cheaper to install than traditional pools. The construction of a natural pool is often more complex, requiring specialized design, excavation for both the swimming and regeneration zones, and the installation of advanced biological filtration systems. Additionally, natural pools may need expert landscaping to support the aquatic plants that keep the water clean, increasing labor and material costs.
A traditional pool installation typically involves standard materials like concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass, with more readily available contractors and established construction processes. While the upfront cost of a natural pool is usually higher, some homeowners find the long-term environmental and health benefits, as well as potential savings in chemical and energy costs, to be worth the initial investment.
What are the ongoing maintenance costs for a natural pool compared to a traditional pool?
Natural pools generally require less chemical maintenance than traditional pools, which can lead to lower costs for water treatment. However, they demand more attention in terms of biological filtration and plant care, which may include pruning, managing aquatic life, and ensuring proper water circulation and aeration. These tasks can be time-consuming and sometimes require professional expertise, especially in the early stages of the pool’s operation.
In contrast, traditional pools need regular chemical balancing, filter cleaning, and pump maintenance, which can be expensive over time. While these tasks can often be handled by the homeowner, the cumulative cost of chlorine, pH adjusters, algaecides, and occasional equipment replacements adds up. Some natural pool owners report similar or slightly reduced annual maintenance costs, but this depends on climate, design efficiency, and upkeep practices.
Can natural pools save money on energy bills compared to traditional pools?
Yes, natural pools may offer energy savings compared to traditional pools. They typically use lower-powered pumps and rely on natural processes like plant filtration and sunlight control to maintain water clarity, which can reduce electricity consumption. Additionally, because they don’t require chemical heaters or complex sanitization systems, the operational energy demands are generally lower.
However, the energy efficiency of a natural pool can vary based on its size, the climate it’s located in, and the systems used to circulate and clean the water. In regions where freezing temperatures occur, additional energy or insulation measures may be necessary to preserve the ecosystem. Still, for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy usage, natural pools often provide a meaningful advantage over conventional pool systems.
Do natural pools have a longer lifespan than traditional pools?
Natural pools can have a comparable or even longer lifespan than traditional pools, especially if they are well-maintained and properly designed. Because they use biological systems rather than heavy chemical exposure, some pool components—like liners and filters—may experience less wear and tear over time. Additionally, the integration of natural elements can reduce the likelihood of certain structural issues seen in traditional pools, such as algae buildup or harsh chemical degradation.
That said, natural pools may face other challenges like invasive species, sedimentation, or plant overgrowth that could affect functionality and require repairs or redesigns over the years. Traditional pools, especially those made from concrete, are known for their durability and are often easier to resurface or repair using familiar techniques. The longevity of either pool type ultimately depends on proper maintenance, construction quality, and environmental factors.
Are there additional features or landscaping costs associated with natural pools?
Natural pools often require additional landscaping to support the regeneration zone, which houses aquatic plants that help filter the water. This can mean higher costs for soil preparation, plant selection, and integration with the surrounding environment. It’s also common to include features like rock formations, micro-ponds, or wildlife-friendly habitats, which contribute to the pool’s natural aesthetic but add to the overall project budget.
Furthermore, the unique design of a natural pool may demand skilled professionals in ecological landscaping and water filtration, which can be more expensive than hiring standard pool contractors. While these additions enhance the beauty and functionality of the pool, homeowners should be prepared for added expenses in design, installation, and ongoing ecological management compared to the more standardized process of traditional pool construction.
Is a natural pool a better investment than a traditional pool for homeowners?
Whether a natural pool is a better investment depends on the homeowner’s priorities, including environmental values, maintenance preferences, and aesthetic desires. Natural pools can increase property appeal to eco-conscious buyers and eliminate the need for costly chemicals, potentially offering long-term benefits. However, the initial higher installation cost and the specialized knowledge needed for upkeep can be barriers for some.
Traditional pools offer more predictability in terms of cost, maintenance, and resale value, especially in areas where they are common and expected. While they might incur higher chemical and energy expenses, they also benefit from widespread contractor availability and established repair systems. For homeowners seeking sustainability and a unique outdoor space, a natural pool can be a worthwhile investment despite the higher upfront cost.