Thinking about installing a pool, but worried that particular logistics might drive up the cost?
If you're in Charlotte, NC or Upstate SC, you're probably already thinking ahead about things like red clay soil, sloped yards, or limited access. These site-specific factors can definitely affect your budget. But here's the great news: even if your backyard isn’t exactly set up for an "easy pool installation," there are still smart ways to save, without sacrificing the quality of your dream pool.
Here’s a clear, trustworthy breakdown of the best ways to build a pool that’s smart, stunning, and budget-conscious.
6 Ways to Save Money on a Pool Installation
1. Be Strategic About Extras—Some Can Wait, Others Can’t
It’s easy to get swept up dreaming about waterfalls, underwater LED lights, deck jets, bubblers, and automation systems, and they’re all awesome, but they can also add thousands to your initial install. The good news is that some elements you can add later on. What matters most up front is getting the core of the pool right, things like the shell, plumbing, and structural integrity.
Here’s the thing: Above-ground water features like cascades can be added afterward, if you plan for them now. It’s worth discussing with your installer during the planning phase if these are features you see yourself having in the future.
Other features, like in-floor lighting, bubblers, or certain types of deck jets, require plumbing or electrical work that needs to happen during the initial build. Trying to add those later can be difficult, expensive, or in some cases, not feasible at all without tearing things up.
Think of it like building a house: you can always upgrade the furniture later, but rewiring the electrical after the drywall’s up? That’s a whole different ballgame.
Local Insight: In Charlotte and Upstate SC, landscaping alone can make a basic pool feel premium. And it can always be modified after the pool is installed. Save the fancy features for year two, once the heavy lifting (and invoices) are behind you
2. Choose a Simpler Shape
Freeform pools are beautiful, but rectangular or classic Roman-style pools often cost less to install. For some builders, these shapes are faster to level, easier to tile, and require less trimming of coping and decking.
Bonus: They’re also automatic cover compatible.
3. Use Concrete or Pavers Strategically
Decking is one of the biggest line items in a pool budget, but it’s also one of the easiest to scale creatively. Stamped concrete is a budget-friendly choice for pool decking, especially compared to premium pavers or natural stone.
Want to elevate the look without blowing the budget? Try mixing materials:
- Stamped concrete around the pool
- Pavers or flagstone in a smaller lounge or fire pit area
- Gravel or mulch for landscape paths
Thoughtful choices in just the right places can make your pool area look polished—without overspending.
4. Limit the Decking (for Now)
You don’t have to go with 1,000 square feet of decking right away. Start with enough space to walk, sit, and move comfortably. You can always expand later once the dust (and budget) settles.
5. DIY Select Features (But Be Smart About It)
Rolling up your sleeves and handling parts of the project yourself can shave off some costs, but only if you stick to the right tasks. Landscaping, fencing (if installed to code), outdoor lighting, and patio furniture are all good candidates for DIY if you’re handy or enjoy a weekend project.
But a quick word of caution, don’t DIY anything structural, safety-related, or code-specific. Plumbing, pool leveling, and drainage systems need to be done right the first time. Fixing them later? That gets expensive fast.
6. Finance Smart, Not Fast
Pool loans can make your project possible, but they shouldn’t push you beyond your comfort zone.
Look for low-interest financing options that allow early payoff with no penalties, and don’t feel pressured to say yes to “all-in-one” packages loaded with upgrades you didn’t ask for. They often look like a deal, but add thousands in extras you might not need.
In the Carolinas, where slope, soil, and access can drive costs, a custom plan that fits your yard (and your budget) is always the smarter move than forcing a pre-set bundle to fit.
What Not to Cut Corners On:
Some parts of your pool project are not worth skimping on. Cutting costs here could lead to expensive repairs, or safety issues, down the road.
- Pool Shell Quality
- Site Prep and Drainage
- Permitting and Code Compliance
- Licensed, insured contractors
Saving a few grand upfront on a cheaper installer or DIY shell can cost thousands more later in repairs, rework, or drainage nightmares, especially in hilly parts of the Carolinas.
*Important Note: River Pools fiberglass pools are not available for purchase for DIY projects.
The Bottom Line on Budget-Friendly Pool Building
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to pool planning
, especially when you're trying to make smart financial decisions along the way. Every backyard, every budget, and every family’s priorities are a little different.
If you’re sorting through options, comparing quotes, or just trying to figure out how far your dollars will stretch, we’re here to help make sense of it all. We’ll talk through what’s worth investing in, where you can save, and what makes the most sense for your space.
Meet the Author: Frank Llaneza, River Pools® of the Carolinas
Hi, I’m Frank Llaneza, owner of River Pools of the Carolinas, and around here, I go by The Lord of Poolishness. I’ve been in the fiberglass pool industry since 2020, after learning the hard way just how expensive and frustrating a pool renovation can be. That experience led me to fiberglass, and ultimately to helping other families build smarter from the start.
Since then, our team has completed hundreds of fiberglass pool projects across the region, and one thing we’ve seen time and again: pool eyes are often bigger than financial stomachs. That’s why I wrote this article: to help homeowners plan wisely and know what to prioritize during installation and what can wait until later.
Here's the big takeaway: You don’t have to do everything at once. With the right plan, you can build a beautiful, high-performing pool now and leave room to grow into the extras down the road.
Read more about Frank and the River Pools Carolinas team here.
Message from the River Pools Manufacturing Team:
Whether you're in the early planning stages or actively comparing options, budgeting for a pool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At River Pools, we partner with independent installers across the country who want to help you make confident, informed decisions around the backyard pool you've always wanted.
Let's connect you with someone in your area who can guide you through the process and help bring your backyard vision to life.
Ready to start the conversation?
