13 Types of Swimming Pools to Consider for Your Backyard

With advancements in construction technology, more and more different types of swimming pools are gaining popularity in the U.S. While swimming pools aren’t cheap, they offer lots of benefits ranging from fun and entertainment to stress relief and exercise. More importantly, by buying the right swimming pool for your property, you can significantly increase the resale value of your home.

Key Points:

• There are many types of swimming pools to choose from, - each with its own price point, features, pros, and cons.
• Above-ground pools are generally more affordable, while inground pools are more expensive but look higher-end.
• Certain types of swimming pools like architectural or infinity pools often need to be designed at the same time as the house is built, - so make sure to plan ahead!
• When finalizing the type of pool to install, make sure to do your research, think about your landscape, consider the budget, and find the right pool loan for your needs.

1. Above-Ground Pool

A symbol of attainable pool ownership, above-ground pools sit on the surface of your backyard, sometimes surrounded by an elevated deck or patio. Most such pools are constructed with resin, aluminum, or vinyl liners and steel sidings.

Popular Design Options and Features

Common types of above-ground pools include hard- and soft-sided designs. With added features like lights and jet sprays, hard-sided above-ground pools can look much like more expensive in-ground options. It is also common to add an elevated frame or deck around the outside of the pool to make pool access easier and help it blend better into the landscape.

Advantages of Above-Ground Pools

• The most affordable type of pool
• Some options can be disassembled during off-season or when moving
• Suitable for small backyards
• Can be installed in a DIY fashion
• Minimize the risk of slipping and falling in

Disadvantages of Above-Ground Pools

• Can be difficult to disguise in a backyard landscape
• Shape and size limited to the designs offered by the manufacturers
• Relatively short lifespan - vinyl liners need to be replaced every five years
• Require filtering, cleaning, and maintenance of water chemistry

Tips for Choosing an Above-Ground Pool

• Above-ground pools are great for backyards with difficult access, as they can be brought in piece by piece.
• Choose a soft-sided option if you live in a cold climate and might wish to disassemble the pool in winter.
• If you wish to achieve a higher-end look, opt for a hard-sided option surrounded by an elevated deck.

Average Cost

Above-ground pools cost between $1,850 and $5,000 to install, even though you can spend as much as $20,000 if you would like to include add-ons like built-up decking.

2. Inground Pool

Inground pools are ideal for multi-use recreational purposes. They are permanently installed within the ground and come in several types, with fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl-liners being the most popular options.

Popular Design Options and Features

Inground pools come with a variety of features and accessories available, such as slides, diving boards, water fountains, water games, and specialty lighting.

Advantages of Inground Pools

• Can be incorporated beautifully into the landscape
• Can be designed to fit any size or shape of backyard
• A variety of accessories and features to choose from

Disadvantages of Inground Pools

• Can take a long time to install
• Relatively expensive
• Pose a greater fall risk for pets and young children

Tips for Choosing an Inground Pool

• If you are looking for a low-maintenance option, opt for a fiberglass inground pool.
• If you aren’t afraid of a higher price tag, go for a concrete pool. It can be built to any specifications and will last you the longest! Dedicated swimming pool loans are available to help you cover the costs.
• A vinyl liner pool is the most affordable option among inground pool types but is not as durable.

Average Cost

Expect to pay between $28,000 and $55,000 to install a typical inground pool. If you wish to go for a more expensive concrete pool, don’t be surprised by a price tag of $100,000 or more.

3. Plunge Pool

Plunge pools are small, cold-water pools that are used for quick plunges after a sauna or spa session or a heated workout. Such pools typically measure 8 by 16 feet and are 4 to 8 feet deep.

Popular Design Options and Features

Plunge pools can be either attached to a larger inground pool or built separately. While they do not need to have any advanced features, they can be equipped with elements like a sitting ledge, stairs, or a splash pad.

Advantages of Plunge Pools

• Great for athletes or alternative health enthusiasts
• Suitable for small backyards
• Can be built as an addition to a traditional swimming pool

Disadvantages of Plunge Pools

• Aren’t suitable for recreational swimming

Tips for Choosing a Plunge Pool

• While plunge pools are typically small, you can install a larger one if it will be used by more than one person at a time.
• Opt for a smaller pool if you wish to save on maintenance costs.
• Plunge pools can take any shape, with a rectangular version being the most space-efficient.

Average Cost

Plunge pools installation costs ranging from $14,000 to $25,000 across the U.S.

4. Natural Swimming Pool

Natural pools are self-cleaning pools that combine natural water gardens with swimming areas. Most such pools are lined with rubber and further reinforced with polyethylene. Natural pools also contain a separate “regeneration” zone equipped with aquatic landscaping and plants. This part of the pool acts as an organic cleaning system, making pool maintenance so much easier.

Popular Design Options and Features

A natural swimming pool can be designed in a rustic style with waterfalls and boulders or have a more sleek and modern look. Natural pools can contain a variety of plant life, making them appealing to gardeners and green advocates.

Advantages of Natural Pools

• Greener alternative to chlorine pools
• Easier maintenance due to the natural “regeneration” zone
• Offers a beautiful natural aesthetic and can be incorporated seamlessly into the landscape

Disadvantages of Natural Pools

• The “regeneration” area takes up additional space
• If the pool is overcome with algae, it can be difficult to recover
• High upfront costs
• Can take a long time to install

Tips for Choosing a Natural Pool

• If you are thinking about installing a natural pool, consider the amount of space available. Keep in mind that you will need one area for swimming and one similar-sized area for “regeneration.”
• Keep your design simple, stick to a box shape, and go with a flat bottom. This will drastically reduce the cost of your natural pool, while still offering the same attractive appearance.

Average Cost

While the regular maintenance of a natural pool costs less than for chemically treated ones, the upfront installation is expensive, running from $50,000 to $100,000 across the nation.

5. Saltwater Pool

A saltwater pool is not a special style or design of the pool. Instead, it is any type of pool that employs an alternative method of water filtration and purification - salt. Saltwater pools contain a saltwater chlorine generator, which converts bulk salt into natural chlorine to kill algae and bacteria.

Popular Design Options and Features

A saltwater pool can have all the same design options and features as a chlorine pool, depending on the specific swimming pool type.

Advantages of Saltwater Pools

• Do not require the use of chlorine or other chemicals
• Saltwater is gentler on the skin
• Lower maintenance costs

Disadvantages of Saltwater Pools

• Complex saltwater chlorine generator system means that professional help is needed even for minor problems
• Salt can damage some materials

Tips for Choosing a Saltwater Pool

• A saltwater chlorine generator can be added during the construction of the pool or afterward, - you can easily convert an existing pool into a saltwater one!
• If you have an above-ground pool, opt for a special above-ground saltwater chlorine generator.
• Make sure to check that your pool liners, heaters, fixtures, and lighting are made from materials resistant to salt.

Average Cost

Building a brand-new saltwater pool will cost you anywhere between $12,000 and $67,000. At the same time, the cost of converting a chlorine pool into a saltwater pool can range between $600 and $2,200, depending on the model of the saltwater chlorine generator. 

6. Indoor Pool

An indoor swimming pool is simply a pool located inside, under a roof. Such pools typically have simple geometric shapes and are installed for swimming all year round, especially in colder climates.

Popular Design Options and Features

Most types of indoor pools are built inground, insulated by at least one wall of the home, and with a constructed glass enclosure on the other sides. Above-ground options are also possible, even though they are not as common.

Advantages of Indoor Pools

• Can be used all year round, even in cold climates
• Lower maintenance cost, as the pool is protected from the elements
• Minimized risk of sunburn while swimming
• Offers more privacy

Disadvantages of Indoor Pools

• Building a pool enclosure comes with additional costs
• Special equipment needed to control humidity levels around an indoor pool

Tips for Choosing an Indoor Pool

• While most indoor pools are inground, you can install an above-ground pool to reduce the costs.
• Installing the pool enclosure against your house rather than stand-alone will help to reduce the costs associated with construction and ongoing heating.
• Many indoor pool designs incorporate a spa for maximum functionality.

Average Cost

In the United States, a standard indoor pool costs range from $20,000 to over $500,000. In the case of an indoor pool, you would need to spend an additional $10,000 to $30,000 for a glass enclosure.

7. Infinity Pool

Infinity pools have what is known as a “vanishing” or “disappearing” edge, designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and highlight a spectacular view. Infinity pools are always custom-built and, if done right, will create an illusion of a sheet of water dropping off the property edge.

Popular Design Options and Features

Infinity pools are built to create an illusion that one edge of the pool drops off into a waterfall, even though the pool is fully contained. Aside from that, infinity pools can feature sitting ledges, water fountains, custom lighting, and more.

Advantages of Infinity Pools

• Custom-built to suit any requirements
• Beautiful look and unique designs
• Highlight the beautiful views of the property
• Increase the resale value of the home

Disadvantages of Infinity Pools

• Among the most expensive pool types
• Most often, the pool needs to be designed and built at the time of the home construction
• Only suitable for elevated properties with good views

Tips for Choosing an Infinity Pool

• Most of the time, an infinity pool should be built at the same time as your home, - make sure to discuss your options with your contractor or architect.
• An infinity pool will look its best on an elevated property with pleasant, unobstructed views. If you have a smaller land and not the best view, you can get away with a cheaper swimming pool type.

Average Cost

Due to the complicated structure of infinity pools, they are among the most expensive types of swimming pool systems you can find. The infinity illusion increases the total pool price by approximately 30%, bringing the total cost of an infinity pool to anywhere between $55,000 and $130,000 on average.

8. Lap Pool

Designed specifically for swimming laps, a lap pool takes a narrow, long, and typically rectangular shape. Most lap pools offer at least 40 feet of straight swimming space and can be as narrow as 8 feet.

Popular Design Options and Features

Lap pools are built to be used mostly for health and fitness purposes. Because they are relatively shallow and narrow, they don’t offer a great variety of additional features to choose from.

Advantages of Lap Pools

• Require minimal space and work well with small backyards
• Great for exercise
• Require lower maintenance due to the lower volume of water

Disadvantages of Lap Pools

• Serve a specific purpose and are not functional outside of doing laps
• Not a good option for families

Tips for Choosing a Lap Pool

• Lap pools can be either above- or inground. Choose what works best with your needs and budget.
• A typical swimming pool size for laps is 8 ft. x 40 ft. x 4 ft. If you expect more than one person to do laps at the same time, consider installing a wider pool.
• If you are interested in additional features like water slides or diving boards, it is recommended to opt for a standard inground or above-ground pool instead.

Average Cost

Above-ground lap pools can cost between $15,000 and $30,000. Inground lap pools are generally more expensive, ranging from $20,000 to $70,000 on average.

9. Kiddie Pool

Inflatable or plastic kiddie pools are at the lowest end of a swimming pool price scale. Such pools can be purchased in any department store and quickly installed whenever hot weather arrives and kids need a way to cool off.

Popular Design Options and Features

Kiddie pools can either present an inflatable device or a rigid plastic shell. Some inflatable pools come with built-in water slides. However, you won’t be able to install any advanced features due to the small size of the pool.

Advantages of Kiddie Pools

• Very cheap
• Easy to maintain
• Can be easily put away during the off-season

Disadvantages of Kiddie Pools

• Not big enough for adults or actual swimming

Tips for Choosing a Kiddie Pool

• Kiddie pools can be easily bought in any department store.
• Plastic kiddie pools tend to last longer than inflatable ones. However, they take up more storage space.
• Kiddie pools are cheap; but, if you are looking to save even more money, consider shopping for them at the end of the season.

Average Cost

Small kiddie pools typically cost between $15 and $30, while larger options can reach $150.

10. Architectural Pool

Architectural pools deliver more than just recreational functions. Instead, they are designed to look like an extension of the house and make a statement with their defined structure and streamlined lines. An architectural pool is typically sophisticated, geometric, and, as the name suggests, designed by an architect.

Popular Design Options and Features

Each architectural pool is unique, usually built at the same time as the house and reflecting the home’s overall look and feel. Such pools can be designed to suit any requirements and include features like special lighting, water fountains, and more.

Advantages of Architectural Pools

• Attractive appearance and one-of-a-kind designs
• Can be customized to suit any requirements
• Increase the resale value of the home

Disadvantages of Architectural Pools

• Among the most expensive types of inground pools
• Most of the time, needs to be constructed at the same time as the house

Tips for Choosing an Architectural Pool

• If you are thinking about installing an architectural pool, you will need to hire an architect to design it.
• The architect will be able to develop a pool concept that will perfectly meet all of your wishes and requirements.

Average Cost

The cost of an architectural pool will usually be included in the overall cost of the house construction and landscaping work. Expect such pools to add $100,000 or more to the overall cost of the work.

11. Hot Tub or Spa

Spas or hot tubs are small, heated pools intended specifically for hydrotherapy and relaxation. Inground models are typically called “spas,” while portable, above-ground options are referred to as “hot tubs.”

Popular Design Options and Features

Both hot tubs and spas typically come with in-built seating, water jets, and specialty lighting. Above-ground hot tubs can be incorporated into the landscape by installing a deck around the exterior, creating a more custom look at a relatively affordable price.

Advantages of Hot Tubs and Spas

• Require minimal space and work well with small backyards
• Less expensive than other types of pools
• Come in different sizes and can accommodate up to 12 people

Disadvantages of Hot Tubs and Spas

• Serve a very specific purpose - not suitable for swimming
• Not a good option for families with children
• Above-ground hot tubs can be difficult to incorporate into the landscape

Tips for Choosing a Hot Tub or Spa

• Above-ground hot tubs are most commonly chosen as a stand-alone option.
• Inground models, on the other hand, are commonly built in conjunction with an inground pool.
• Hot tubs and spas can accommodate anywhere between 2 and 12 people. Choose the size that will suit your needs best.

Average Cost

The average cost of a hot tub or spa can range from $3,000 to $10,000 for above-ground models and from $8,000 to $25,000 for inground ones.

12. Spool

As the name suggests, a spool is a clever combination of a spa and a pool. Smaller than traditional pools but larger than spas, spools are just big enough to soak and cool off on hot days or have a few drinks with friends. 

While some spools look like concrete inground pools, most often, they take the form of a large manufactured spa shell surrounded by a wide elevated deck.

Popular Design Options and Features

Even though spools are larger than typical spas, they offer much the same features, including seats, water jets, and specialty lighting. You can also buy a spool with a directional jet against which you can swim.

Advantages of Spools

• Suitable for smaller properties
• More affordable than traditional swimming pools
• Great for relaxation and entertainment
• Easier maintenance than with larger pools

Disadvantages of Spools

• Not big enough for intense swimming and exercise

Tips for Choosing a Spool

• Research local code requirements. Some spools are large enough to be considered a full-sized swimming pool, meaning you might be required to add protective fencing and meet other requirements.
• If you wish to be able to exercise in your small spool, consider installing a directional jet that will keep you in the same spot as you swim against it.

Average Cost

A typical cost of a spool can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the size of the deck you choose to install and any additional pool features.

13. Lazy River

Lazy rivers are long, shallow pools featuring a water current that is powerful enough to move inflatable rafts slowly along the “river”. While most often found in resorts and water parks, you can install a lazy river pool in your backyard, - given that you have enough space, of course.

Popular Design Options and Features

The one must-have feature of any lazy river pool is its current. The speed of the current can be just enough to get your raft floating or much stronger to resist you as you swim against it. Aside from that, the pool can feature special lights, water fountains, water slides, and much more.

Advantages of Lazy River Pools

• Resort-like look and feel
• Unique design
• Great for recreation and entertainment purposes

Disadvantages of Lazy River Pools

• Extremely expensive construction
• Costly maintenance
• Takes up a large amount of space

Tips for Choosing a Lazy River Pool

• If you wish to splurge, choose a real lazy river pool custom-built to match and complement your backyard landscaping.
• Alternatively, you can simply add a current-producing system to your existing pool at much more affordable prices.

Average Cost

While the idea of a lazy river is, without a doubt, attractive, the cost associated with this type of pool is definitely not. Experts estimate for a backyard lazy river to exceed $500,000 in construction costs! Luckily, you can install a current system to your existing backyard pool for much cheaper.

Final Word

If you are ready to upgrade your backyard and expand your at-home entertainment options, there is nothing better than a residential swimming pool. From cheap and simple kiddie pools to elaborate, custom-built inground pools with special features, the possibilities are endless. Luckily, with enough research and thorough consideration of each type of pool’s prices, pros, and cons, you will be sure to find something that fits your needs and budget perfectly.