An inground pool is one of the largest outdoor projects a homeowner can take on, and published prices vary enough that two articles can look like they describe different products. The difference is usually what is included: the shell only, or decking, fencing, equipment and landscaping. This guide compares what named sources report and shows where the spread comes from.
Updated November 2026
Inground pool installation cost by type
All figures are typical ranges reported by the named sources on the dates shown, in US dollars. They are not quotes. Get at least three written estimates for your own project.
| Pool type | Reported range | Source and date |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl liner, 12 x 24 ft | $38,000 to $70,000 ($130 to $240 per sq ft) | This Old House, page updated June 2025 |
| Fiberglass, 12 x 24 ft | $50,000 to $95,000 ($175 to $330 per sq ft) | This Old House, June 2025 |
| Concrete (gunite or shotcrete), 12 x 24 ft | $58,000 to $100,000 ($200 to $350 per sq ft) | This Old House, June 2025 |
| Any 12 x 24 ft inground pool | $38,000 to $100,000 ($180 to $350 per sq ft) | This Old House, June 2025 |
| Vinyl liner | $60,000 to $100,000 or more | HGTV, updated March 2026 (quote from America's Swimming Pool Company) |
| Fiberglass | About $60,000 for small pools, up to $100,000 or more for larger | HGTV, March 2026 |
| Concrete | $75,000 to over $150,000 | HGTV, March 2026 |
| Inground pool, overall | $60,000 to over $125,000 | HGTV, March 2026 |
The two sources agree on the pecking order: vinyl liner is the least expensive to install, fiberglass sits in the middle, and concrete costs the most. They disagree on levels. This Old House prices a standard 12 by 24 foot pool (288 square feet) at $38,000 to $100,000 for installation only, excluding decking, fencing and other extras, while HGTV‘s overall range starts at $60,000. HGTV also notes that its article title references 2024 prices, so its figures may lag current costs. A smaller pool, an easy site, and a bare-bones package can land at the lower figures; a larger custom concrete pool with finishes lands at the upper end.
What is usually not in the pool price
- Decking or patio: a concrete or paver surround can add thousands. Our concrete cost guide gives a sense of slab pricing.
- Fencing and safety barriers: often required by local code. See fence cost and use our fence calculator for materials.
- Equipment: pumps, filters, heaters, covers and automation.
- Permits and inspections.
- Utilities: electrical lines, gas for heaters, and drainage.
- Landscaping and restoring the yard after heavy equipment.
The TOH figures explicitly exclude decking, fencing and other extras. Budget for them separately and ask each contractor for an all-in written price.
DIY kits: a very different price point
Pro Pools, a Tennessee supplier, says a vinyl liner kit with equipment can be bought and delivered for under $9,000, and estimates a further $6,000 to $12,000 of installation budget on top (excavation $800 to $1,500, gravel backfill $700 to $1,000, bottom material, electrical panel and wiring $300 to $500, and labor if hired out). Those figures are undated, based on the company’s own middle Tennessee experience, and cover a small DIY-style kit pool, so do not compare them directly with contractor-built pools. Digging, electrical work and codes make this a serious project even in kit form.
What drives the price
- Material: vinyl liner, fiberglass or concrete, as above.
- Size and depth. Water volume matters for chemicals and heating; check yours with our pool volume calculator.
- Site conditions: slope, rock, high water table, access for a crane or excavator.
- Features: tanning ledge, spa, lighting, automation, salt system, heater.
- Local labor, permit costs and soil.
Ongoing costs to plan for
A pool continues to cost money after it is built: electricity for the pump, chemicals, water, repairs, insurance changes and eventually resurfacing or a new liner. The sources above focus on installation, so ask contractors for estimated yearly operating cost for the exact pool and equipment you are buying, and check with your insurer before construction.
How to save
- Get at least three itemized quotes, with the same pool size and equipment list.
- Compare what is included: decking, fence, electrical, permits, startup chemicals, warranty.
- Choose a smaller footprint or a simpler shape; each upgrade adds cost.
- Schedule construction in the off-season if your contractor offers a discount.
- Skip optional features at first. Lighting, automation and heaters can often be added later, though it may cost more to retrofit.
- Check the contractor’s license, insurance and references before paying a deposit.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an inground pool cost to install?
HGTV (March 2026) reports $60,000 to over $125,000 overall. This Old House (June 2025) lists $38,000 to $100,000 for a 12 by 24 foot pool, excluding decking, fencing and extras.
Which type of inground pool is cheapest?
Both sources rank vinyl liner as the least expensive, fiberglass in the middle and concrete as the most expensive.
Does the installation price include the fence and deck?
Often not. This Old House says its figures exclude decking, fencing and other extras, so ask for an itemized quote.
Can I install a pool myself?
Kit pools exist; Pro Pools says a vinyl liner kit with equipment is available for under $9,000 plus its estimate of $6,000 to $12,000 for installation, but excavation, electrical work and permits make it a major undertaking.