<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=304391163577334&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">
Skip to main content

«  View All Posts

Underground vs Aboveground Pools: Costs and Comparisons

April 4th, 2012

2 min read

By Marcus Sheridan

generic-pool.jpeg

With the summer upon approaching rapidly, many folks out there are debating whether or not they should go with an underground pool (aka “in-ground”) or one that sits on top the ground.

So for the sake of all you out there that are having this debate, here are some points to consider:

  • Cost
  • Size
  • Maintenance
  • Longevity

 

Underground Pools vs. Above-ground Pools

Underground (in-ground) pools cost $30k–$70k, including a patio, and can last for decades. Above-ground pools cost $4k–$12k, not including a deck, and last 7–15 years. Both types can offer the same swim area, but above-ground pools usually have a uniform depth. Without a deck it's hard to clean an above-ground pool.

 

In-ground vs. Aboveground Pool Cost

In most cases, in-ground pools—be it vinyl, concrete, or fiberglass—are going to cost, on average, between $30k–70k.

Although this is a very big range, it’s an honest and realistic one.

You may have seen an underground pool advertised for “$14,999!” in your local paper. I can assure you that anyone doing this is being very, very dishonest in giving you a true picture as to what to expect.

In other words, although the pool body itself may just cost $14,999 to be installed, I can assure you the following is not included:

  • Patio/decking around the pool
  • Electrical hookup
  • Grading/landscaping/etc.
  • Accessories (salt chlorine generators, heaters, covers, etc.)

Obviously, the size, options, and type of pool are going to greatly impact where you fall in this “average” range, but $30k–$70k is a good start.

When purchasing an above ground pool, there are 3 main cost areas:

  1. The price of the kit itself (normally $3k–$7k)
  2. The price of the installation (typically $1k–$5k)
  3. The price of the pool surround/decking (if any)

In other words, most above ground pools, installed, cost $4–$12k, not including any decking at all.

And as you might imagine, decking often times will cost more than the pool itself, especially if you’re looking to surround much of the structure itself.

 

In-ground vs. Above-Ground Pool Size

Believe it or not, an above ground pool can be every bit as large, if not larger, than an in-ground pool.

For example, a 30’ round above ground pool actually has more area than a 18x36 in-ground pool.

Notwithstanding, with an above ground, you’re generally limited to one uniform depth throughout.

 

In-ground vs. Above-Ground Pool Maintenance

When comparing the two types of pools and their required maintenance, there really isn’t much difference.

If you don’t have a deck around your above ground pool, that makes it much harder to get around and vacuum.

 

In-ground vs. Above-Ground Pool Longevity

The average above ground pool will last 7–15 years before the structure gives out. Their liners will last 5–9 years before they have to be replaced.

For an in-ground structure, the longevity really is contingent on the type of pool.

For example, fiberglass should last well over 20 years.

Vinyl pools should have a structure that lasts, but their liner needs to be replaced on average every 5–9 years.

As for concrete, their structure should also last a long time, but keep in mind they need to be resurfaced every 10–15 years. That can get very, very expensive.

Well, I hope this article helps a bit when comparing the two types of pools.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them below in the comments section.

Buying a fiberglass pool in 2025? GET OUR COMPLETE POOL BUYER'S GUIDEBOOK pricing, sizes, designs, maintenance, and more... CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR EBOOK NOW!

Up Next:

What Type of Inground Pool Is Best for Me?


Editor's note: This blog article was updated on February 20, 2019.

Marcus Sheridan

River Pools® manufactures fiberglass pool shells and does not install pools. Pools are installed by locally owned and operated dealers and franchisees. The relationship between the dealers and franchisees to River Pools® is that of an independent contractor. River Pools Franchising LLC (Franchising) provides independently owned and operated River Pool franchisees with the right to market the River Pools brand of pool shells as a franchisee. Franchising does not manufacture pool shells. Due to the unprecedented and historic growth of the River Pools brand, this website contains an abundance of information that has been created over the last decade. Some of the content on this site may reflect prices, perspectives, processes, entities, and names that were relevant at the time but may not be as relevant today.

Consumers should consult their local installer (independent dealer or franchisee) for the most accurate and updated information based on the unique conditions of their property. Consumers should verify specifications with the installing dealer rather than relying on the information on this website, which is not intended to be a final specification.