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Summer is coming, and if you’re like most homeowners, you’d love to add a pool to your backyard. For some, a traditional in-ground swimming pool simply isn’t an option, either due to cost or installation timeline.
In that case, an above ground pool may be a great alternative. But prospective buyers may be wondering: What’s the average cost of an above ground pool?
Here we’ll examine the average cost of the most popular types of above ground pools in various sizes and shapes.
By the end of this article, you should have a firm grasp on whether an above ground pool is suitable for you. Read on for our above ground pool cost guide.
What is the Average Cost of an Above Ground Pool?
The average cost of installing an above ground pool depends on the type and size. In general, above ground pool costs range from about $1,500 to $10,000, while installation can be an additional $1,000 to $4,000.
Why such a large price range? There are two different types of above ground pool you can install: a traditional above ground pool and a semi-buried or fully buried above ground pool.
The latter type has more sturdy wall panels to withstand the force of the ground pushing in on the pool. Installing a buried pool is also more labor-intensive. Overall, buried pools are considerably more expensive.
Average Cost of a Traditional Above Ground Pool
These are the pools you picture when you hear the phrase above ground pool. You can buy these above ground pool kits in specialty pool company stores or big box retailers and they’re great for most families.
These pools have steel or aluminum walls, metal or resin posts and top ledge for structural support, a vinyl pool liner, and a pump and filter for the water.
Traditional above ground pools are usually round or oval shaped. Diameter can range from 12 feet to 32 feet wide. Generally these pools are about 4 to 5 feet deep.
While you can find mini pools that are basically glorified baby pools for as little as $200, a full-sized above ground pool generally costs between $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the size.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be installed in 1 day. | No deep end. |
| DIY installation is feasible. | Pre-installation site prep required. |
| Can last 20 years if well-maintained. | Vinyl pool liner can leak if not properly maintained. |
| Average Cost of a Traditional Above Ground Pool |
Average Cost of a Semi-Buried or Fully Buried Above Ground Pool
A buried above ground pool more closely resembles a traditional in-ground pool. As the name indicates, these pools are fully buried or semi-buried into the ground.
For this reason, they have stronger wall panels to withstand the force of the ground. These pools come in a variety of sizes and shapes beyond the usual round and oval, including the “freeform” type of pool shapes you see with in-ground pools.
Due to the sturdier construction and labor costs to install, these pools are significantly more expensive and can cost up to $10,000 plus the price of pool professional installation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick install. | Higher price. |
| Should last many years. | Pro installation required. |
| Can have a deep end. | Difficult to move. |
| Average Cost of a Semi-Buried or Fully Buried Above Ground Pool |
Final Thoughts
After reading this article, we hope you have a better understanding of the cost to build an above ground pool. Above ground pool installations can vary widely in price depending on your needs and wants.
So whether you have a pint-sized budget or a whale-sized one, we’re confident you’ll be able to find an above ground pool that works for you.
