How Much Does a Pool Cost in Texas?

A simple answer to how much does a pool cost in Texas is between $45,000 and $100,000 for a standard-sized inground pool. On average, expect to spend at least $35,000 to $55,000 for an inground pool and $2,000 and up for its above-ground alternative.

Key Points:

• The average cost to build a pool in Texas ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 for an inground pool. Above-ground pools are more affordable, starting at around $2,000.
• The total cost of the project will depend on the pool shape and size, the material of your choice, and additional features like pool lighting or water slides.
• Installing a pool is a long-term commitment: you will need to perform cleaning and basic maintenance tasks on a regular basis, spending $100 to $500 per month.
• Multiple financing options are available to help you cover your pool purchase. These include pool loans, home equity loans and lines of credit, and retail financing.

Inground Pool Cost in Texas

The cost of installing a basic inground pool in Texas is around $35,000 to $55,000. However, it can quickly increase to $100,000 or more if you go for a custom-shaped pool, install multiple water features, or choose expensive materials and finishes.

Texas Inground Pool Cost by Material

In the state of Texas, most inground pools are made with either vinyl liner, fiberglass, or concrete. As a rule of thumb, concrete pools are the most expensive, followed by fiberglass pools. Vinyl liner inground pools often present the most affordable option.

• Vinyl liner: $25,000 to $145,000. Vinyl liner is cheap to produce and easy to install, which makes vinyl liner pools relatively inexpensive. However, the vinyl liner is not the most durable material: it will likely need to be replaced in under 10 years.
• Fiberglass: $30,000 to $85,000. Fiberglass pools come in pre-engineered shapes, which makes the installation quick and easy. Plus, fiberglass pools are easy to maintain in the long run.
• Concrete: $50,000 to $100,000. Concrete is a relatively durable material that allows for great customization. While concrete may crack in cold temperatures, it is not likely to happen in warm and sunny Texas.

Texas Inground Pool Costs by Size

The typical cost range for an inground pool across the U.S. is $28,000 to $55,000. In comparison, the same cost range for the state of Texas is $35,000 to $55,000, with a slightly higher starting point. This means that how much does a pool cost in Texas by size will likely be a tad higher than the following national averages:

• 10’ x 10’ pool: $17,500
• 12’ x 24’ pool: $25,200
• 14’ x 28’ pool: $34,000
• 15’ x 30’ pool: $39,400
• 16’ x 32’ pool: $44,800
• 18’ x 36’ pool: $56,700
• 20’ x 40’ pool: $70,000

Texas Inground Pool Costs by Shape

When choosing your pool design, it is worth to consider how the shape will affect the final cost of the pool. A pool with a custom shape and design, such as a geometric or a freeform pool, will automatically cost tens of thousands of dollars more.

If you wish to save money on your pool installation, opt for a standard-shaped pool with curved edges instead. Circular, oval, and kidney-shaped pools allow for a greater swimming area while keeping the perimeter footage at a minimum. And lower perimeter footage means lower costs associated with excavation, installation, and pool finishing.

The per-square-foot cost of square or rectangular pools is slightly higher than that of pools with curved shapes. Nonetheless, rectangular pools are considered “standard” and are incredibly popular.

Inground Pool Installation Costs in Texas

When estimating the total installation cost of your Texas inground pool, the first thing to keep in mind are residential pool permit fees. It is a legal requirement in Texas to obtain a pool permit prior to starting the swimming pool construction work. The associated fees can set you back anywhere from $50 to $200.

From there, you can begin the following pool installation tasks:

• Site preparation: up to $20,000. If your terrain is level and free of trees or large rocks, you are in luck! Otherwise, you would have to spend up to $20,000 in site preparation costs.
• Labor and excavation: $8,000 to $30,000. Depending on how you calculate the labor cost, it can range from $8,000 for installation work alone to $30,000 for everything including electrical, plumbing, and carpentry work.
• Pool equipment: $2,500 to $6,000. Any pool must have a water filtration system, which can cost between $500 to $3,000 depending on its type and model. In addition, you will need to purchase a cleaner, a pool pump, and a chemical feeder, which will set you back another $2,000 to $3,000. An optional saltwater chlorinator will add another $2,000 to $3,000 to the total installation cost.
• Water delivery: $80 to $1,200. To get your pool up and running, you will need to fill it with water. Depending on whether you decide to use a garden hose or bring in the water by a truck, you can spend anywhere between $80 and $1,200 on this task.

Texas Inground Pool Accessories and Add-Ons Costs

Once you install the pool on your property, you must notify your home insurance company of the changes. As a result, your monthly home insurance payments may increase by anywhere from $25 to $75.

Moreover, there are other additional costs that can drive your Texas pool installation total up:

• Pool heater: $1,700 to $3,100. While the state of Texas is relatively warm all year round, the pool water temperature can get cool in the winter. A typical pool heater can help to prolong the swimming season, setting you back $1,700 to $3,100.
• Fencing: $25 to $40/ft. Every pool in Texas must be enclosed by a fence. The average fence cost in the state ranges from $25 to $40 per linear foot.
• Decking: $20/sq. ft. The pool deck is an optional, yet popular, pool add-on. Expect to pay an average price of $20 per square foot.
• Lighting: $500+. The cost of pool lighting starts at around $500 but can be much higher, depending on the number and type of lights.
• Landscaping: $3,000 to $5,000. Standard pool landscaping will add $3,000 to $5,000 to the total project cost. More advanced designs with palm trees, water fountains, and masonry paths can cost up to $20,000.
• Add-ons (steps, covers, waterfalls, etc.): $500 to $10,000+. The cost of add-ons like a pool cover, steps, fountains, waterfalls, water slides, and more starts at $5,000 and often reaches $10,000 and more.

Inground Pool Maintenance Costs in Texas

Regular maintenance of an inground pool in Texas will cost you anywhere from $100 to $500 on a monthly basis. The exact cost can vary depending on the material and size of your pool. As such, fiberglass pools are the cheapest to maintain, followed by vinyl liner pools and concrete pools.

On average, general pool maintenance in Texas will cost you $180 per month, with additional pool cleaning costs of up to $165 per month.

Above-Ground Pool Costs in Texas

The cost of a basic above-ground pool in Texas starts at $2,000 but can go up for larger pools with more complex designs.

Texas Above-Gound Pool Costs by Shape and Size

When it comes to above-ground pools, circular and oval shapes are the most popular options. However, some homeowners choose to install rectangular above-ground pools in an attempt to replicate the look of the inground alternative.

Just like with any other pool type, smaller above-ground pools cost less than larger pools with similar features.

• Round pools. Round above-ground pools can be either 12’, 15’, 18’, or 24’ in diameter. The cost starts at around $2,000 for smaller sizes.
• Oval pools. The structure of an oval pool requires more parts, which leads to a slightly higher cost. Typical oval pools measure 12’ by 18’, 15’ by 24’, or 18’ by 33’ and cost $1,000 to $2,000 more than similarly-sized circular pools.
• Rectangular pools. Rectangular above-ground pools require relatively complex structural support, which drives the cost up. Common sizes of rectangular above-ground pools include 12’ by 24’, 15’ by 30’, and 18’ by 36’.

Texas Above-Ground Pool Costs by Material

Aside from very affordable (but not very durable) inflatable pools, common materials for above-ground pools in Texas include a combination of a resin, aluminum, or steel frame and a vinyl liner. Steel frames are usually the most budget-friendly, followed by resin frames and aluminum frames. 

Resin above-ground pools are among the most popular options because they are the strongest, longest-lasting above-ground pools you could find in Texas.

Above-Ground Pool Installation Costs in Texas

In the state of Texas, anything larger than a hot tub requires a pool permit, which will cost you between $50 and $200.

In addition, you will incur the following costs when installing your above-ground pool:

• Pool package: $2,000 to $4,000. An average above-ground pool package will cost you between $2,000 and $4,000. This cost will include the liner, the pool frame, and all the necessary pool equipment, such as a water filter and a pump.
• Electrical and plumbing: $500 to $1,000. You would also need to dig a trench to run piping and electrical cables to your new pool. This will cost between $500 and $1,000 on average.
• Labor: $800 to $1,200. Getting your above-ground pool up and running will cost you between $800 and $1,200 in labor costs. However, you can save on labor costs if you are able to install the pool yourself.

Above-Ground Pool Liner Cost in Texas

Your above-ground pool kit will likely include a pool liner. However, it can tear and will likely require replacement in the future. A new pool liner will cost between $100 and $600 for a standard above-ground pool, depending on the style of liner you decide to go with. For example, overlap liners are the easiest to install and, as such, cost the least. However, overlap liners are not as durable as beaded or unibead liners, for example.

Each style of pool liner also varies in thickness. While a thicker liner can cost you $300 to $400 more in upfront expenses, it usually lasts longer and ends up being more affordable in the long run.

Above-Ground Pool Add-On Costs

The great thing about purchasing an above-ground pool in Texas is that your pool kit will include all the must-have pool equipment, such as a water filter or a pump. Nevertheless, there are still a few additional costs you must account for:

• Fencing: $25 to $40/ft. According to Texas safety regulations, even above-ground pools must be fenced in. Installing a fence will cost you around $25 to $40 per linear foot.
• Landscaping and lighting: $500. Typical above-ground pools only require minimal lighting and landscaping. Nonetheless, you should still set aside around $500 for both tasks.
• Pool deck: $20/sq. ft. An elevated pool deck can give your above-ground pool a more high-end appearance. Installing the deck will cost you around $20 per square foot on average.
• Pool heater: $1,600 to $3,800. To keep your above-ground pool warm all year round, it is recommended to install a pool heater. This will cost you between $1,600 and $3,800.

When budgeting for your above-ground pool, you should also keep in mind that pool installation will automatically increase your homeowner insurance premium. Most of the time, this increase will range between $25 and $75 per month.

Above-Ground Pool Maintenance Costs in Texas

Maintaining an above-ground in Texas will cost you between $100 and $500 per month, similar to an inground pool. This includes $180 spent on general pool maintenance and up to $165 spent on pool cleaning. Keep in mind that even if you choose to perform pool maintenance tasks yourself, you would still incur regular costs associated with purchasing pool chemicals and increased utility bills.

Plunge Pool Costs in Texas

An inground plunge pool can cost anywhere from $14,000 to $25,000, with a national average of $20,000. While the exact data for plunge pools in Texas is not readily available, it is safe to assume that the price range would be similar.

Plunge or cocktail pools are typically used for entertainment purposes and aren’t suitable for serious swimming or doing laps.

Texas Plunge Pool Costs by Shape and Size

Plunge pools are smaller than traditional pools but tend to cost more for the same swimming area. As such, you can expect to pay between $125 and $200 per square foot of a plunge pool, as compared to the $50 to $125 cost range for a regular family pool.

Most plunge pools are rectangular or square, measuring 8’ by 4’, 9’ by 9’, or 10’ by 6’. Circular and kidney shapes are also available, even though they will cost more than simple square or rectangular pools. Finally, custom-shaped or free-form plunge pools will cost you the most.

Texas Plunge Pool Costs by Material

While it is possible to purchase an above-ground plunge pool, most cocktail pools are built in-ground. This means that the material choices will include concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liner. In Texas, concrete plunge pools are the most expensive option, with vinyl liner pools being the most affordable. Fiberglass pool cost in Texas falls somewhere in between. 

Plunge Pool Installation Costs in Texas

When building an inground plunge pool in Texas, you can expect most installation costs to be similar to a traditional family pool:

• Pool permit: $50 to $300
• Site preparation: up to $20,000
• Labor: $8,000 to $30,000
• Pool equipment: $2,500 to $6,000

However, because plunge pools are much smaller than regular pools, you will likely spend less on excavation and water delivery.

Inground vs. Above-Ground Plunge Pool Cost

Installing an above-ground plunge pool instead of an inground one can be an excellent way to save a few thousand dollars.

The cost of an above-ground plunge pool in Texas starts at $2,000, as compared to the $14,000 starting cost for the inground type. In general, inground pools require additional excavation and more complex installation, which leads to higher costs and longer project timelines. On the other hand, above-ground plunge pools can be installed in a DIY manner in as little as 3 days.

Plunge Pool Add-On Costs

The typical cost of plunge pool add-ons will also be similar to other types of above- or inground pools. For example, an above-ground plunge pool will cost you $500 in landscaping and lighting costs, while an inground plunge pool will cost $3,000 to $5,000 in landscaping costs alone.

Decking and fencing costs will be similar for inground and above-ground plunge pools and will depend on the size of the pool. Finally, a plunge pool will likely increase your homeowner insurance premium by $25 to $27 per month, just like any other type of swimming pool would.

• Insurance: $25 to $75
• Landscaping and lighting: $500+
• Decking: $20/sq. ft
• Pool heater: 1,700 to $3,100
• Fencing: $25 to $40/ft

Plunge Pool Maintenance Costs in Texas

Any type of pool will need the same regular maintenance, which includes removing dirt and debris, testing water, and adding pool chemicals. The average pool maintenance cost in Texas can range from $100 to $500 per month, depending on the pool size and whether you choose to outsource the task.

On top of that, you would need to regularly purchase pool chemicals and pay higher water and electricity bills.

Infinity Pool Costs in Texas

An infinity pool is likely the most luxurious type of pool you could install in your Texas backyard. In a nutshell, an infinity pool is a regular inground pool with a “vanishing” or “disappearing” edge, which creates an illusion that the pool drops off into a waterfall.

This vanishing edge has quite a complex structure, which automatically increases the cost of the pool by 20% to 50%. In addition, most infinity pools come with extensive add-ons, such as sitting ledges, custom lighting, water fountains, and more.

Across the U.S., the typical cost range for an infinity pool is $55,000 to $130,000, with an $80,000 average. The cost of an infinity pool in Texas is likely to fall within a similar range as well.

Texas Infinity Pool Costs by Size

Starting at around $80 per square foot, the per-square-foot cost of an infinity pool can reach up to $130 once you factor in additional features and custom installations. A large infinity pool with a beautiful mosaic tile finish and a full pool enclosure will cost up to $300 per square foot.

As with other pool types, the cost of an infinity pool increases with its size:

• 12’ x 24’ pool: $18,700 to $46,800
• 16’ x 32’ pool: $33,300 to $83,200
• 20’ x 40’ pool: $52,000 to $130,000
• 24’ x 44’ pool:  $68,600 to $171,600
• 28’ x 52’ pool: $94,600 to $236,600

Texas Infinity Pool Costs by Material

Infinity pools are built in-ground, which means your material choices will include vinyl liner, fiberglass, and concrete. Based on the fact that a vanishing edge will add 20% to 50% to the total pool construction cost in Texas, the infinity pool costs by material can be estimated as follows:

• Vinyl liner: $32,500 to $58,500
• Fiberglass: $23,400 to $84,500
• Concrete: $37,700 to $78,000

Infinity Pool Installation Costs in Texas

The typical costs of installing an infinity pool will be similar to the installation costs of a regular inground pool of the same size and with the same features. On top of that, you will need to add another 20% to 50% of the total project cost to account for the construction of the vanishing edge.

• Pool permit: $50 to $300
• Site preparation: up to $20,000
• Labor and excavation: $8,000 to $30,000
• Pool equipment: $2,500 to $6,000
• Water delivery: $80 to $1,200
• Vanishing edge: 20% to 50% on top of total project costs

Infinity Pool Landscaping Costs in Texas

The typical landscaping cost associated with building an inground pool ranges from $3,000 to $5,000. However, because infinity pools are meant to make a luxury statement, they often come with elaborate landscaping, which can easily reach $20,000 in cost. These complex landscaping designs might include water fountains, masonry paths, and custom shrubbery.

Infinity Pool Add-On Costs

Many infinity pools include stunning fountains, waterfalls, and other luxurious features and accessories. For example, while a basic pool cover might cost around $800, an automatic pool cover might be more suitable for an infinity pool, setting you back $12,500.

Another popular feature for infinity pools in Texas is a glass viewing wall, - or at least a glass viewing window. A small window with a 15-square-foot area will cost you $16,000. The cost of a full glass wall can easily reach $100,000.

• Glass wall: $100,000
• Glass window: $16,000
• Pool cover: $800 to $12,500
• Pool heater: $1,700 to $3,100
• Fencing: $25 to $40/ft
• Decking: $20/sq.ft
• Lighting: $500+
• Water slide: $1,500 to $20,000
• Fountain: $600 to $20,000
• Waterfall: $1,500 to $5,000
• Diving board: $300 to $5,000 

Infinity Pool Taxes and Maintenance Costs in Texas

The maintenance of an infinity pool will be similar to the basic maintenance of a regular inground pool, with monthly expenses ranging from $100 to $500.

Because of its vanishing edge, an infinity pool will have a slightly higher evaporation rate, which means you will need to check water chemistry more frequently. The disappearing edge feature also means that you will have to give the pool’s lower catch basin a little extra care on a regular basis.

An infinity pool uses slightly more water and electricity, which will lead to higher utility bills. Due to the complex construction of the vanishing edge, potential pool repair expenses will also be on the rise. Finally, an infinity pool will considerably increase your home’s value, leading to higher property taxes.

Pool Financing Options in Texas

If the answer to “how much does a pool cost in Texas” leaves you financially stranded, don’t worry - not all is lost! There are numerous pool financing options to choose from, - just make sure to carefully review each loan’s rates and terms to find the optimal solution for your situation.

• Credit card or line of credit. Of course, the simplest option would be to pay for the pool installation with a line of credit or a credit card. However, this financing option often comes with relatively high interest rates, so you would need to make sure to repay the loan in a timely manner.
• Personal loan. Dedicated “pool loans” or regular personal loans are another option to get the necessary funds for your pool. There are numerous great lenders to choose from, including Best Egg, Discover, and Upgrade.
• Retail financing.  Reach out to the pool company of your choice to see whether they offer retail financing. With this option, you would be able to pay the pool company in installments, slowly but surely paying off your pool purchase.
• Home equity loan or line of credit. Finally, if you have accumulated some equity in your home, you might be able to take out a home equity loan or line of credit to cover your pool installation.

Final Word

If you are curious to find out how much does a pool cost in Texas, the answer is: it depends. The rough estimate of the cost of a standard-sized inground pool is $45,000 to $100,000, but this number can range significantly based on the pool type, size, shape, materials, features… The list goes on. Your best option is to contact several pool contractors in your area to get a more accurate quote. Good luck!