Have you ever dreamed of turning your backyard into a relaxing paradise? A fiberglass inground pool could be the perfect way to do it. But before you start digging, it’s important to know what it really costs.
This updated 2025 guide is your go-to swimming pool budget guide — it explains the average cost of building a pool, gives helpful pool financing tips, and shows how to be smart when setting a pool budget so you don’t spend too much.
Why Choose a Fiberglass Pool?
Fiberglass pools are becoming super popular—and for good reasons. They’re strong, easy to take care of, fast to install, and they look great in almost any backyard. They also give you great value over time when compared to other pool types like vinyl or concrete.
Want more reasons to go with fiberglass? Check out Top 10 Reasons to Choose Fiberglass Pools for Your Home.
How Much Should You Spend on a Swimming Pool?
Here’s the big question: “how much should you spend on a swimming pool?” The answer depends on things like size, design, where you live, and who you hire to build it.
Average Cost Breakdown (2025)
| Pool Feature | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Base fiberglass shell | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Installation labor | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Excavation & backfill | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Electrical & plumbing | $2,500 – $7,000 |
| Patio or decking | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Water features or lighting | $1,500 – $8,000 |
| Pool cover/heating system (optional) | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $41,000 – $101,000 |
As you can see, the total cost can change a lot. Most people end up spending between $55,000 and $75,000 for a full fiberglass pool built by pros.
Key Factors That Impact the Cost of Building a Pool
Not all pools cost the same. Here are some things that can raise or lower your budget:
Pool Size and Shape
Bigger or special-shaped pools cost more to make and install. A simple rectangle shape is usually cheaper, while fun shapes like lagoons usually cost more.
Site Conditions
If your yard has rocky soil, steep slopes, or is hard to get to, digging and building will cost more. But if your yard is flat and easy to access, you’ll save money.
Add-Ons and Custom Features
Cool extras like sunbathing ledges, slides, or colored lights look amazing, but they add to the price. Think about what you really want now, and what you can add later.
Permitting and Local Regulations
You might need building permits or inspections. Depending on where you live, this could cost $500 to $2,000, so don’t forget to include it in your plan.
Setting a Pool Budget: Tips for Success
Here are some helpful steps for setting a pool budget that won’t cause stress:
Set a Realistic Price Range
Know how much money you can really spend and share that with your pool builder. A good builder will help you make smart choices to stay on track.
Include Hidden Costs
Remember extras like fixing up your yard, higher water bills, changes to insurance, and future repairs. Add 10–15% more to your plan just to be safe.
Use Pool Financing Wisely
If you’re going to borrow money, compare different loan options. You can check out home equity loans, personal loans, or pool-specific financing.
Pool Financing Tips: Making It Affordable
Getting your dream pool doesn’t have to empty your wallet. Here are some great pool financing tips to think about:
Home Equity Loan or HELOC
If you already own a home and it’s worth more than you owe, this is a great choice. It usually has low interest rates and some tax perks.
Unsecured Personal Loan
You can get approved fast, but interest rates are higher. This works best for smaller amounts or if you plan to pay it off quickly.
Manufacturer Financing
Some pool companies give you financing through their partners. Sometimes they offer special deals, but always read the fine print first.
For practical pool safety tips and best practices for families, see this helpful guide.
Saving for Pool Installation: Smart Strategies
If you want to save money instead of borrowing, here are smart ideas for saving for pool installation:
- Open a special savings account: This helps you see how much you’re saving and keeps it separate from other money.
- Automate deposits: Set up automatic transfers from your regular account every payday.
- Cut non-essentials: Spend less on things like takeout and subscriptions, and save that money for your pool.
When Is the Best Time to Install a Fiberglass Pool?
Believe it or not, the time of year you install your pool can affect the cost. Fall and winter are often cheaper because builders are less busy. You may also get better deals and faster service. But be careful—if you live in a cold state like New York, don’t build when the ground is frozen.
Choosing the Right Pool Builder
Getting the right builder is super important. It can save you money and stress. Talk to at least three builders, ask for reviews, and make sure they’re licensed and insured.
Need help picking the right one? Read our blog post on How to Choose the Right Pool Builder for Your Dream Pool for a step-by-step guide.
Cost-Saving Tips for Fiberglass Pool Installation
Want to cut down the cost of building a pool without giving up on quality? Try these tips:
| Tip | Estimated Savings |
|---|---|
| Go with a standard pool size | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Use concrete pavers instead of stone | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Skip luxury add-ons (for now) | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Install during off-peak season | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Bundle landscaping & fencing | $2,000 – $4,000 |
Final Thoughts: Plan First, Splash Later
Putting in a fiberglass inground pool costs a lot—but it also brings tons of fun, makes your home more valuable, and changes your backyard into a cool hangout spot.
If you follow this swimming pool budget guide, know how much you should spend on a swimming pool, and use good pool financing and budgeting tips, you can make smart choices and still get the pool you want.
If you’re in Western New York and want to know more about prices there, visit How Much Do Inground Pools Cost in Buffalo, NY? A Complete Guide.
Ready to dive in? Just make sure you plan well, stick to your budget, and hire the right people—and soon you’ll be relaxing by your pool with a big smile and a cool drink in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The cost of building a pool in 2025 depends on things like where you live, how big your pool is, and what special features you add. Most people spend between $55,000 and $75,000 for a full fiberglass inground pool. If you want a big or fancy pool with extra features, the price can go over $100,000.
To make a good swimming pool budget guide, start by writing down the must-haves. That includes digging the hole, getting permits, the fiberglass pool itself, the cost of labor, and extras like a deck or fence. Don’t forget to add 10–15% more for surprise costs. Always talk to at least two or three pool companies to get fair price estimates.
If you're wondering, "how much should you spend on a swimming pool?" — experts suggest keeping the cost within 10–15% of what your house is worth. That way, you’re not spending too much, and your house value stays strong if you ever want to sell it.
Some smart pool financing tips include comparing different types of loans. These could be HELOCs (loans based on your home’s value), personal loans, or financing offered by the pool builder. Also, check your credit score before you borrow, and try to find lenders that focus on pool projects to get better deals.
Definitely! Saving for pool installation is a great idea if you don’t want to pay interest on a loan. Set up a savings account just for your pool money, schedule automatic deposits each month, and spend less on extras like eating out or unused subscriptions. If you start saving 12 to 18 months early, you’ll be in a good spot.
Ready to Make a Smart Investment in Your Backyard?
Understanding the swimming pool budget guide and knowing the real cost of building a pool is just step one. If you’re thinking about installing a fiberglass inground pool in 2025, why not work with the top experts?
We’ve been building pools for over 10 years and are known all around Buffalo for doing amazing work. Our team is here to help turn your dream pool into a reality—on time, on budget, and with great service from start to finish.
Call us today at +1 (716) 300-2773 or visit kdpoolbuilders.com to start designing the perfect pool for your home. Let’s build your dream pool—beautiful, functional, and within budget.
