How much does a pool cost? 2025 cost guide

In the hot Aussie climate, pools are an absolute must for many homeowners. However, the fear of how much they will cost is often enough to put this dream firmly on the back burner. 

But just how much does a pool actually cost? Is it really as expensive as you think? In the guide below, we go through all the details so have a better idea of what to expect.

Pool Types Cost Breakdown

Swimming pools typically start at $5,000 and end close to $100,000 depending on the type of pool, size and a number of other variables. 

Within your quoted pool installation price, you can typically expect the inclusion of essential elements like planning/design, permits, site excavation, pool construction, installation of a basic filtration system and standard finishes. 

Safety features, like pool fencing and a basic electrical setup for the pump and filtration, are also generally covered. However, heating systems, advanced filtration, luxury features (like spas or waterfalls), extensive decking and high-end finishes are not usually included in the base price.

Below, we’ve detailed a range of pool types and their average costs for comparison as well as a table outlining the costs associated with the most common upgrades for these. 

Common Upgrades & Costs 

Maintenance & Longevity

When deciding on which pool type is best for your needs and budget, we also suggest taking into account the ongoing maintenance costs involved and how durable the pool will be. 

The following is a summary of the expected lifetime, maintenance needs, and potential repair costs for each pool type:

1. Concrete Pool 

Expected Lifetime: 50+ years with proper maintenance.

Maintenance Needs: Moderate. Annual costs around $2,000 to $3,000 for cleaning, chemicals, and equipment upkeep. Requires resurfacing every 10 to 15 years ($10,000 - $15,000).

Potential Repair Costs: Crack repairs can cost $500 to $2,000. Structural repairs, if needed, can be upwards of $10,000.

2. Fibreglass Pool 

Expected Lifetime: 25 to 30 years.

Maintenance Needs: Low to moderate. Annual costs around $1,500 to $2,500 for cleaning and maintenance. Gel coating may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years ($5,000 - $8,000).

Potential Repair Costs: Minor surface repairs cost $300 to $1,000. Major repairs, like cracking, can range from $5,000 to $10,000.

3. In-Ground Vinyl Liner Pool

Expected Lifetime: 20 to 25 years for the structure; 7 to 10 years for the liner.

Maintenance Needs: Moderate. Annual costs around $1,500 to $2,500. Liner replacement is needed every 7 to 10 years ($3,500 - $6,000).

Potential Repair Costs: Liner patch repairs can cost $200 to $500. Full liner replacements are a significant expense costing between $4,500 to $6,500. 

4. Above-Ground Pool

Expected Lifetime: 10 to 15 years.

Maintenance Needs: Low. Annual costs around $800 to $1,500. Maintenance includes cleaning, chemicals, and equipment.

Potential Repair Costs: Liner replacements range from $1,000 to $3,000. Structural repairs can cost $500 to $2,000 depending on damage.

5. Plunge Pool

Expected Lifetime: 25+ years (depending on materials used).

Maintenance Needs: Moderate. Annual costs around $1,500 to $2,500. Maintenance involves regular cleaning and chemical balance.

Potential Repair Costs: Repairs depend on the material—fibreglass or concrete—and can range from $500 to $3,000 for cracks or surface damage.

6. Infinity Pool

Expected Lifetime: 30 to 50 years (primarily concrete construction).

Maintenance Needs: High. Annual costs around $3,000 to $5,000 due to complex filtration, pump systems, and edge maintenance.

Potential Repair Costs: Edge repairs and levelling adjustments can cost $5,000 to $15,000. Pool structure repairs can range widely.

7. Lap Pool

Expected Lifetime: 30+ years (typically concrete or fibreglass).

Maintenance Needs: Moderate. Annual costs around $2,000 to $3,000. Regular cleaning and chemical balance are required.

Potential Repair Costs: Cracks or leaks can range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on severity.

How Where You Live May Influence Pool Pricing

It’s worth noting that pool costs in Australia can vary significantly across states due to factors like climate, local regulations, and labour costs. 

In warmer states like Queensland and Western Australia, pools are more popular, which can drive prices down due to higher competition among builders. Conversely, states such as Victoria and Tasmania where cooler temperatures can occur, may experience increased costs for heating systems necessary for extending pool usability. 

Additionally, stringent local regulations in states like New South Wales, which require permits and adherence to specific safety standards, can also add to the overall expense. 

Lastly, variations in labour costs can play a crucial role, too, with urban areas like Sydney and Melbourne generally having higher labour rates than rural regions.

Additional Swimming Pool Costs and Safety Measures

An essential add-on to any swimming pool is fencing. By law, every pool in Australia must have the appropriate fencing and a CPR instructional poster within sight. Australian Standard AS 1926.1-2012 provides the relevant information on this and states that fences must be at least 1.2 metres in height with no gaps exceeding 100mm. 

You may also be required to obtain council approval before building a pool – this can be checked on your local government website. To avoid any unexpected costs, it is important to discuss all inclusions and requirements with your chosen pool installer before proceeding. 

Considerations When Preparing for a New Swimming Pool

As mentioned, safety is a primary consideration when planning for a new swimming pool. You should ensure you are prepared to meet all legislated safety measures to ensure your pool can be certified as compliant.

Next, you will need to decide on the size and shape. You may refer to how much room your property has, whether you are using the pool for training or leisure and how often you expect to be in it. 

The best way to ensure a stress-free and seamless pool installation is to hire an expert pool builder who can guide you through the process and handle all details on your behalf. 

Hiring a Swimming Pool Builder

Finding the right swimming pool builder within your area doesn't need to be complicated. Jump on to Service.com.au and browse through a range of local options, all qualified and approved for the task. 

Depending on your needs, the right swimming pool builders can install a new pool or resurface/renovate or repair an existing pool. 

We recommend getting several quotes when searching for a good swimming pool builder and avoiding the temptation of taking the lowest quote you are given. You should always opt for the more reputable provider and check qualifications, licences, insurance and references. It is also advisable to only work with those who will provide a written quote detailing all costs and inclusions and who can provide examples of past work. 

Pool builders that quote a higher price often have the credentials, experience and reputation to do so. You will pay more for a premium service which includes a faster completion time, assurance of the highest quality workmanship and likely smooth sailing. 

Find out more from local pool installation specialists today

Further Reading

• How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Pool? | Cost Guide
• How Much Does Glass Pool Fencing Cost | Cost Guide
• How to Hire the Best Swimming Pool Cleaner

All the costs quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are to be used as an AUD cost guide and may vary locally, and are subject to market changes.