Building an inground pool in your house sounds like a great plan, but the question is, How Much Does A 12×24 Inground Pool Cost? Well, it cost me almost $82,000 to build one in my backyard. However, a 12×24 inground pool may cost you between $45,000 and $100,000, depending on your pool type, location, and some other features.
Today, I’ll give you a complete breakdown on what is the 12’x24 inground pool cost, its types, what factors you should keep in mind, important tips, and which one will be the best for you. So, let’s get started.
How Much Does A 12×24 Inground Pool Cost In 2025?
12×24 is usually a small pool that can fit well and will look stunning in your luxurious backyard landscape. Building this inground pool is no doubt a major investment that can also increase your property value. In my scenario, installing a 12×24 concrete inground pool cost me almost $82,000 in my Texas home. Below is the complete breakdown of the total costs when installing it.
1. Site Clearing and Preparation
The first crucial step in installing an inground pool is the site preparation, which demands some challenging tasks like clearing the terrain, including steep slopes, or rocky soil. The excavation process cost me around $2,500. However, it may cost you between $500 and $10,000, depending on your yard conditions.
2. Pool Construction
Next, the pool structure installation is the major cost. I preferred installing a concrete pool, so it cost me more compared to other pool types like fiberglass or vinyl. It cost me around $45,000.
3. Pool Equipment Installation
Pool equipment and systems, like electrical, plumbing, and filtration, are important for maintaining a clean and functional pool. The estimated cost of installing these systems was around $7,500. However, it may cost you between $5,000 and $20,000.
4. Installing Optional Features
Installing optional features may increase your inground pool cost, but will enhance the pool experience. I installed features like LED lighting, heaters, covers, and waterfalls, costing me around $17,000. You may install other features too, like a hot tub, diving boards, fountains, and more. Installing any of these features may cost you from $1,000 to $40,000.
5. Pool Paver Installation
To enhance the overall look and functionality of the pool area, pool decking or pool paver installation is a must. I used simple concrete for this. Its installation and pool deck painting cost me around $10,000. However, there are many other materials and designs available in the market to choose from, which may cost you between $3,000 to $50,000.
6. Permission & Inspections
One important thing that I would like to mention here is, always secure permits from your local regulatory authorities before starting the construction work for inground pools. I’ve already got the permission for that, costing me another $500. These permits cost differently depending on your location.
Depending on the factors like your location, pool type, features, material, and other equipment, installing a 12’x24′ inground pool may cost you between $35,000 and $100,000, and sometimes even more.
What Factors Affect The Cost Of Building A 12′ x 24′ Inground Pool?
Several factors, such as location, type, materials, and features, impact the cost of building an inground pool. So, it’s important to consider the following factors when installing inground pools.
1. Location
Location matters a lot when it comes to pool costs. Permit costs, labor rates, and material availability can vary significantly depending on where you are. Northern states with harsher weather conditions can lead you more costs due to more robust materials, difficult site access, challenging terrain properties, shorter construction seasons, and higher transportation costs.
Site conditions, such as soil type and yard leveling needs, can also impact costs. Urban areas also have higher labor costs and local regulations. For example, constructing a 12×24 inground pool may cost $25,000 to $90,000 in Texas, $35,000 to $95,000 in New Jersey, $50,000 to $170,000 in California, $25,000 to $90,000 in Florida, and $30,000 – $85,000 in Arizona.
2. Pool Type
The pool material has a huge impact on both the initial cost and ongoing maintenance expenses. For example, a concrete pool will cost you more compared to those of vinyl liner and fiberglass pools.
3. Permits
Sometimes, you need permissions from the local regulatory authorities. These permissions may cost you from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on your location. This fee covers plan review, code compliance, and site inspections.
4. Water Type
It’s better to convert a traditional chlorine pool to a saltwater system, as they require lower maintenance and are gentler on skin and hair. This feature may cost you between $800 to $2,800.
5. Depth
Pool depth directly affects its construction costs. Deeper pools, especially those over 9 feet, require more cost due to the additional structural support, more excavation, and increased water volume, while shallower pools typically range from 6 to 7 feet deep and cost less.
6. Maintenance Cost
Inground pools require covering and maintenance work like chemical balancing, cleaning, seasonal opening and closing, depending on your pool size, material, and its complexity. This cost may cost you between $50 to a few hundred.
7. Water Features
Water features like waterfalls, diving boards, slides, and fountains can enhance the beauty of your pool. These features may cost you, from a $50 basic fountain and a $500 diving board to a $15,000 complex waterfall design and $7,000 pool slides.
Diving boards and slides can be a blast for swimmers of all ages. Diving boards typically cost between $439 and $980, while pool slides range from $1,464 to $5,764. Both options provide entertainment value, but proper installation is key for safety and durability. There are various designs and materials to choose from, so you can find something that fits your pool and style.
8. Heating Systems
Heating systems are usually required where the temperature falls to extreme temperature conditions. You may use costly electric heaters or cheaper gas heaters to keep the temperature bearable. These systems cost between $200 and $8,000.
9. Pool Covers
Pool covers are always necessary as they keep debris out, help with heat retention, and provide safety. There are options to use, like budget-friendly solar covers that can cost from $200 to $2,000, while costly automatic covers will cost you over $5,000.
10. Pool Filtration Systems
Pool filtration systems are also very useful as they keep the pool clean and clear water. Its cost ranges between $200 to $3,000, depending on your inground pool size, water clarity, and maintenance preferences. You have options like cartridge filters, which provide finer filtration, and cost-effective sand filters, which need regular backwashing.
11. Pool Landscaping
To enhance the beauty of your pool area, consider landscaping around it. Its cost is measured according to your pool size per square foot, which ranges between $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your choice of materials, design, and scope.
You can also consider constructing a pool house cabana, place some coz, clean outdoor cushions, plant aloe vera and other outdoor plants and flowers to make this place to perfect retreat.
12. Hot Tub
If you want a spa-like feel with your inground pool, consider adding a hot tub. You may install it during your pool construction, which may cost you between $4,000 to $35,000, or even install a standalone hot tub, costing you between $5,000 and $50,000. Also, keep in mind that these tubs also result in extra energy usage.
Costs Of Different Inground Pool Types
When considering installing an inground pool, it’s important to choose its material or type as it may impact your pool budget too much. Below is a short comparison of prices for different types of inground pools.
1. Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are known for their low maintenance and higher durability as they have a non-porous, smooth surface, which resists mineral buildup and algae. This ability makes it a perfect option for pet-friendly homeowners.
Installing inground fiberglass pools will cost between $30,000 and $125,000. Once installed, they are tough to change. They are available in pre-molded, so you have limited design and size options.
2. Vinyl Liner Pools
Vinyl liner inground pools are known as budget-friendly inground pools, as they range between $25,000 to $110,000. They also have a smooth surface that resists algae growth and are quick to install. They also offer some design flexibility and customization options for shapes.
However, the vinyl liner pools are less durable than other options. Additionally, the liners need to be replaced every 7 to 15 years, as they can be prone to punctures and fading.
3. Concrete/Gunite Pools
Inground concrete pools cost between $50,000 to $200,000 but have great benefits. They require a little more maintenance, like resurfacing every 8 to 15 years and acid wash treatments, which may cost you an additional $5,000 to $15,000, but offer durability for over 50 years.
They have a smooth surface, a quick installation process, and ultimate customization with size, shapes, and other features like waterfalls and tanning ledges.
Important Tips When Installing Inground Pools
To lower your inground pool installation budget, consider these important tips. First, decide on a realistic budget that covers both installation and ongoing maintenance costs, including upfront expenses and the long-term costs. Consider adding features as per budget. Once your pool is installed, do regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs.
Which In-Ground Pool Type Is Best For You?
There are three different pool options, including concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl are available for you to choose from. However, each of them has its own pros and cons. As far as my experience goes, I would recommend you to go with gunite, as it offers customization options in shape and size and is the best in areas with mild winters.
The fiberglass offers a smooth surface and durability. However, if you’re looking for a lower upfront cost, consider installing vinyl liner inground pools.
Bottom Line
Installing an inground pool not only enhances the beauty of your yard and house style by providing a fun space for relaxation and entertainment, but also is a great investment for your home and lifestyle.
On average, installing a 12×24 inground pool can range from $25,000 to $95,000, depending on various factors, like pool type, location, and features. If you’re thinking of getting a pool, consulting with reputable contractors can help you find the perfect fit for your budget and vision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is The Cost Of A 12×24 Inground Pool?
An installed 12×24 fiberglass pool ranges between $30,000 to $125,000, while vinyl liner pools cost between $25,000 to $110,000, and concrete pools commonly cost between $50,000 to $200,000.
How Do I Reduce The Overall Cost Of Installing An Inground Pool?
Consider installing a smaller inground pool or a vinyl liner pool to save money. You can save by doing some tasks yourself or installing it during the off-peak season.
What Are The Hidden Costs Of Pool Installation I Should Be Aware Of?
The hidden costs when installing a pool include heating, plumbing, and lighting systems. Plus, water features, landscaping adjustments, and safety features also impact your budget.
Can I Install Part Of The Pool Myself To Save On Costs?
You can save money by making the site ready for the pool to be installed. You can also save some by doing it in the off-season.
How Does The Choice Of Pool Material Affect Long-Term Maintenance Costs?
Concrete pools require regular resurfacing and more chemical treatments, while fiberglass pools tend to be low-maintenance due to their non-porous surface. However, vinyl liner pools need new liners every 8 to 15 years.