Building an inground pool is a significant investment that promises years of leisure, entertainment, and increased property value. However, one of the most frequently asked questions from homeowners and pool enthusiasts alike is: what’s the most expensive part of building an inground pool? The answer may surprise you — it’s not always the largest visible component. Let’s break down the costs, dive into the details, and reveal what part of an inground pool installation tends to bite the hardest into your budget.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown
The cost of building an inground pool can vary widely based on several key factors, including:
- Pool Type (Concrete, Fiberglass, Vinyl Liner)
- Pools Size and Shape
- Location and Local Regulations
- Excavation Challenges
- Additional Features (Waterfalls, Heaters, Lighting)
- Labor Costs in Your Area
Each of these plays a vital role, but when you analyze construction bids and compare estimates from multiple contractors, a single component consistently dominates the budget.
The Pool Shell: The Largest Contributor to Cost
The most expensive part of building an inground pool is the pool shell itself. Often referred to as the “structure” or the “pool basin,” the shell is the physical enclosure that holds the water and forms the foundation of any pool. But the price varies significantly based on the material used to create it:
Concrete (Gunite or Shotcrete) Pools
Concrete, commonly used as either Gunite or Shotcrete, is the most customizable and expensive material for pool shells. Its flexibility allows homeowners to design freeform shapes, incorporate intricate designs, and install walls at various angles. It’s also the most durable but can be complex and labor-intensive to install.
The average cost breakdown for a concrete pool shell includes:
| Cost Element | Percentage of Total Build Cost |
|---|---|
| Excavation | 10–15% |
| Structural Rebar | 10% |
| Shotcrete Application | 20–25% |
| Tile, Coping, and Surfaces | 15–20% |
When all costs associated with the shell are factored in, concrete shells often consume 40–50% of the total buildup of the pool. This high percentage comes from its material cost, labor demands, and installation complexity.
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pool shells are pre-manufactured and dropped into place, reducing the labor and timeline required. However, they also carry a hefty upfront cost.
The price is mainly dictated by the brand, shell size, and additional customizations available in some installations. Because these pools are manufactured off-site, many costs are consolidated, leading to a relatively flat price per shell.
Despite the streamlined process, the fiberglass shell alone often accounts for 30–40% of the total project cost, especially in larger or premium configurations.
Vinyl Liner Pools
Vinyl liner pools are typically less expensive at first glance, but understanding the cost components is crucial. While the vinyl shell costs less than concrete, the structural framing (usually steel or aluminum), the underlayment, and the liner replacement every 8–12 years can affect long-term costs. In the initial build phase, the vinyl liner component accounts for 20–30% of the project, making it a key cost center without being the biggest upfront expense.
Why the Shell Dominates the Budget
The central reason the pool shell demands the largest portion of the budget is complex construction logistics and material-specific installation costs. Let’s explore a few key underpinnings.
Installation Complexity
Regardless of material, installing the pool shell accurately involves:
- Digging or excavating based on the design footprint
- Reinforcement of the wall and floor structures using rebar
- Precise application of concrete or installation of preformed shells
- Plumbing work for water flow integration and drainage
- Floor leveling and grading for optimal circulation
These stages often require skilled professionals, heavy machinery, and project-specific timeframes — all contributing to high labor and overhead costs.
The Role of Custom Design
Pools built with custom shapes or built-in features like beach entries, tanning ledges, or spas integrated into the shell will naturally increase the cost. For example, a custom concrete pool shaped to flow with the contours of a backyard and designed with multiple depth zones and elevated features can easily add $30,000 to $50,000 to the overall project just in shell-based construction.
The ability to create unique shapes is a huge plus for concrete but comes with an expensive trade-off.
How Pool Type Affects Shell Cost
Whether the pool is made of fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl impacts not just the longevity and maintenance but also the upfront shell cost. Below is a breakdown based on industry averages for a 16×32-foot pool:
| Pond Type | Estimated Shell Cost | Total Average Build Cost | Shell % of Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | $60,000–$90,000 | $170,000+ | ~45% |
| Fiberglass | $25,000–$40,000 | $70,000–$100,000 | ~40% |
| Vinyl Liner | $15,000–$30,000 | $50,000–$80,000 | ~30% |
Concrete pools consistently hold a larger percentage of the budget due to the shell’s material, labor, and customization demands.
Additional Factors that Influence Shell Cost
Though the shell is typically the most expensive component, several other factors often affect its cost, increasing or decreasing depending on local conditions and preferences.
Excavation and Soil Conditions
Difficult terrain or rocky soil can dramatically increase excavation costs. If the ground is hard to dig, requires rock removal, or involves the relocation of tree roots or underground utilities, the excavation expense rises — which ultimately raises the cost of installing the shell (rebar, prep work, etc.) proportionally.
Soil erosion and drainage conditions may also necessitate special precautions like waterproofing membranes, which affect both the installation and shell longevity. This additional structural consideration can inflate the shell cost in overall project terms.
Reinforcement Requirements
Pool shells must be reinforced to withstand earth pressure, temperature shifts, and water weight. Steel rebar plays a critical role in this process — especially with concrete pools — and any requirements stemming from seismic risk, high water table, or local building codes will increase material and installation costs.
Plumbing Layouts
The plumbing system inside the shell, including returns, drains, skimmers, and jets, contributes to the overall structure. While not technically part of the shell, these elements are embedded and connected directly to it. The amount of plumbing complexity involved — especially for larger pools with water features — often elevates the final shell cost.
Comparing Shell Costs Across Regions
Where you live has a substantial impact on how much the pool shell contributes to the total cost of your new inground pool.
High-Density Urban Areas
In bustling regions like Los Angeles, Austin, and Washington DC, concrete shells cost more due to:
- Higher labor costs
- Tight backyard access requiring specialized equipment
- Stricter zoning and building code enforcement
All of these push the shell cost into the $50,000–$90K+ range more swiftly than more rural regions.
Rural and Suburban Areas
In locations with open backyards and lower contractor labor rates, the same 18×36 concrete shell could cost $15,000–20,000 less, depending on the size.
Fiberglass and vinyl installation prices also skew lower where there’s good access and local economies of scale in materials and logistics.
Cost-Saving Options to Consider
While homeowners may not be able to entirely avoid the shell’s hefty price tag, there are ways to manage the expense.
Opt for a Smaller Pool
A smaller shell equals reduced material usage, excavation cost, and labor hours. A 12×24-foot pool can cut shell costs significantly and still provide good recreational value.
Choose Fiberglass Over Concrete
For those wanting the luxury of a fully reinforced, permanent pool without the ongoing maintenance or high customization cost, fiberglass is a smart alternative that keeps the shell cost and project cost more predictable.
Stick to Standard Shapes
When designing concrete pools, opting for square or rectangular designs rather than curved, beach-entry designs can save thousands in shell construction and plumbing complexity.
Planning Ahead to Minimize Costs
Smart planning early in the project lifecycle will help avoid unexpected escalations to the shell cost.
- Get multiple quotes from licensed contractors
- Compare shell options based on durability, cost, and long-term savings
- Plan water features before shell installation begins
- Consider pool automation and equipment early to prevent retrofitting later
Doing so not only keeps shell costs under control but also ensures a balanced budget across filtration systems, decks, and electrical infrastructures.
Final Thoughts: The Shell as the Keystone Investment
There’s no doubt about it — the pool shell is the most expensive part of building an inground pool. Whether built from concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl, the structural base you choose will set the tone for the entire project’s cost. It’s not only about the money spent upfront — it also dictates future maintenance, lifespan, and customization potential.
Focusing on this cost center first helps plan a budget that brings your backyard dreams to life without unpleasant surprises.
Now that you’re equipped with the facts, you can enter the pool-building journey informed and ready to make smart, long-term investments.
What is the most expensive part of building an inground pool?
The most expensive part of building an inground pool is typically the installation of the pool structure itself, which includes excavation, materials, and labor. This phase requires heavy machinery, skilled professionals, and careful planning to ensure proper placement, drainage, and stability. The type of pool—whether it’s concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl—also plays a major role in the overall cost, with custom concrete pools usually being the most expensive due to their flexibility in design and durability.
Beyond the structure, a significant portion of the cost is attributed to the required support systems such as plumbing, electrical work, and the foundation. These systems are essential for proper filtration, heating, and water circulation, which are necessary for safe and efficient pool operation. The complexity of these systems increases with the size and design of the pool, which can substantially affect the overall price tag. Working with reputable contractors who offer a detailed breakdown of costs can help homeowners understand where their investment is going and avoid unexpected expenses.
Why is excavation one of the costlier steps in pool installation?
Excavation is a critical and expensive part of building an inground pool because it involves removing large amounts of earth, shaping the hole according to the pool design, and ensuring the site remains stable and safe. The cost varies depending on the size of the pool, the type of soil, the topography of the yard, and whether any obstacles—like trees, rocks, or underground utilities—need to be removed or worked around. These variables often require specialized equipment and expert labor to navigate safely.
In some cases, additional services like soil testing, erosion control, or dewatering pumps can be required, adding to the costs. Accessibility to the backyard is also an important factor—if heavy machinery can’t reach the site easily, the excavation must be completed manually, which increases labor time and cost significantly. Proper planning and site evaluation before beginning excavation can help reduce unanticipated expenses and ensure the process goes as efficiently as possible.
How does the type of pool affect the overall cost?
The type of inground pool you choose has a major impact on the overall construction cost. Concrete pools offer the greatest flexibility in design and can be customized to any shape, size, or finish, but they are more labor-intensive and require multiple layers of construction—such as steel rebar, Shotcrete or Gunite application, and plastering—leading to higher material and labor costs. Concrete pools also take longer to complete, which affects labor charges and potential timing-related expenses.
Vinyl liner pools are generally the least expensive option but may require more maintenance and eventual liner replacement every 5–9 years. Fiberglass pools fall somewhere in the middle, offering a relatively quick installation time and lower long-term maintenance costs, but they come with shape and size limitations since they are pre-manufactured. Each type also carries different repair and longevity considerations, so homeowners should weigh their options carefully based on budget, design preference, and long-term expectations.
Why does the pool shell installation contribute significantly to the total cost?
The pool shell installation is a crucial and costly component of the construction process because it forms the foundation of the pool’s structure and longevity. For concrete pools, this includes forming the structure with steel reinforcing, applying the concrete surface, and finishing with a durable plaster coat. Fiberglass pools require professional installation of the pre-molded shell, which involves careful placement and backfilling to avoid damage. These steps demand precision and expertise to ensure safety, durability, and water retention.
Labor-intensive techniques, specialized materials, and the time required to complete this phase elevate the expense. Additionally, any custom features—like benches, tanning ledges, or unique contours—further increase the complexity and cost. Since the shell forms the core of the entire pool, corners cannot be cut without risking future issues like leaks, cracks, or costly repairs, making this one of the most critical and expensive phases of construction.
Are pool additions like decking and lighting worth the added cost?
Pool additions such as decking, lighting, and fencing can significantly enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and safety of your pool area, making them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners. Premium decking materials like natural stone or pavers can elevate the visual appeal and provide a durable, slip-resistant surface. Pool lighting, particularly LED options, not only improves nighttime usability but also adds ambiance and energy-efficient illumination. High-quality fencing ensures safety while complementing the overall design.
However, these features can add thousands of dollars to the project’s total cost. Depending on the materials and design complexity, these elements can cost as much as the shell itself. It’s essential to prioritize based on your lifestyle, property value goals, and budget constraints. While basic options may suffice for functionality, investing in high-quality materials can improve enjoyment and increase the return on investment if you ever sell your home.
How does pool equipment like filtration and heating systems impact the budget?
Pool filtration, heating, and circulation systems are essential for maintaining clean, safe, and comfortable water year-round, and these systems can constitute a substantial portion of the overall budget. High-quality filtration systems, including saltwater chlorinators or advanced cartridge filters, improve water quality and reduce chemical needs, but they come at a higher upfront cost. Similarly, choosing a gas heater, heat pump, or solar heating system will significantly affect the comfort level and usability of the pool, especially in cooler climates.
Energy-efficient or smart pool systems that allow remote control and automation can further increase costs. However, these technologies often result in lower long-term operating expenses and greater convenience. Investing in reliable, well-known brands can reduce maintenance costs and downtime. Homeowners should consider not just the initial cost, but also the expected performance, durability, and operational savings these systems can provide over the lifespan of the pool.
Can the location of the home influence the cost of building an inground pool?
Yes, the location of your home greatly affects the overall cost of building an inground pool due to differences in labor rates, material availability, zoning regulations, and permitting fees. Building a pool in high-cost-of-living areas like large metropolitan cities or exclusive suburbs naturally increases construction and labor charges. Additionally, areas with challenging topography—such as hills, rocky soil, or frequent water tables—may require extra engineering work, increasing excavation and structural costs.
Local building codes and permit requirements vary by region, which can extend timelines and increase paperwork or inspection fees. If a property has limited access for construction equipment or is located in a heavily regulated area (e.g., HOA-controlled neighborhoods), this can also lead to higher costs. Homeowners should consult local contractors and building officials early in the planning phase to understand the specific limitations and expenses tied to their location and ensure a smooth, compliant pool installation process.