Nothing screams “Aussie summer” quite like cooling off in your very own backyard swimming pool. Whether you’re dreaming of lazy afternoon dips or a stylish addition to your outdoor space, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: how much does it cost to install a swimming pool?
The answer? Well, it depends! Factors like the type of pool, size, materials, and installation complexity all come into play. This guide will break down the costs of installing a swimming pool in Australia, helping you budget for your dream backyard oasis.
Do you go above or below ground?
In Australia, swimming pools typically fall into two categories: inground and above-ground pools.
Inground swimming pools
Inground pools are the most expensive option due to excavation and construction costs. According to trade marketplace HIpages, prices start at around $35,000 and can exceed well into $100,000, depending on factors like size, materials, and additional features.
If you’re considering a plunge pool, which is smaller and designed for relaxation rather than swimming, prices begin at around $15,000 for an inground model.
Above-ground swimming pools
Above-ground pools are generally more affordable, as they require minimal site preparation. Costs can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic modular kit to $50,000 or more for permanent structures, such as concrete above-ground pools. Smaller above-ground plunge pools start at around $8,000.
Cost breakdown of different pool types
Concrete pools
Concrete pools are the most expensive option, costing anywhere between $50,000 and $100,000 or more when everything is said and done. According to pool builders Blue Pool and Spas, the base cost alone of a 15-square-meter pool starts at around $24,000, with that rising to roughly $39,000 for a 36-square-meter pool.
Factors that influence pricing include:
- Size & shape – Custom designs add to the cost.
- Excavation complexity – Hard-to-dig soil or limited access increases expenses.
- Add-ons – Fencing, lighting, and decking all add to the final price.
Fibreglass pools
Fibreglass pools are a mid-range option, typically costing between $25,000 and $50,000 for an entry-level design, but Compass Pools says that can number can rise well past the $75,000 mark if buyers are after all of the bells and whistles.
They are faster to install (a few days vs. months for concrete) and require less maintenance than concrete pools. Their durability also makes them a popular choice among homeowners.
Vinyl-lined pools
Vinyl-lined pools are the cheapest inground option, starting at around $27,000 and climbing all the way up to $42,000 for the larger designs.
However, while affordable upfront, pool installer Leisure Pools does warn that vinyl liners wear out faster than fibreglass or concrete, so homeowners may be facing higher maintenance or replacement costs over time.
Plunge pools
Designed for relaxation rather than swimming, plunge pools typically measure between 2 to 6 metres long and around 1.2 metres deep.
- Above-ground plunge pools are easier to install and start at around $8,000.
- Inground plunge pools cost more, with prices beginning at $15,000.
What is impacting your pool installation costs?
Several key factors influence the final cost of your swimming pool, including:
- Pool size – The bigger the pool, the higher the cost.
- Above-ground vs. Inground – Inground pools require excavation, increasing costs.
- Pool shape – Standard rectangular pools are cheaper than custom shapes.
- Excavation costs – Soil type, access to your property, and excavation difficulty all impact costs. Blue Pools and Spas claims the average excavation ranges anywhere from $1,000 to $4,500 or more, depending on the depth.
- Pool liner type – Vinyl is the cheapest, followed by fibreglass, with concrete being the most expensive.
- Fencing & safety compliance – Pool fencing is legally required in Australia, adding extra expenses.
- Landscaping & extras – Decking, lighting, and pool furniture all contribute to final costs.
- Maintenance & running costs – Chemicals, filtration systems, electricity, and water bills must be factored in.
- Pool replacement – If you’re replacing an existing pool, removal costs need to be considered.
Ongoing pool maintenance costs
Once your pool is installed, keeping it clean and running smoothly requires ongoing investment. Expect to spend between $600 and $2,000 per year on:
- Water filtration – Servicing pumps and filters.
- Chemical treatments – Chlorine and pH balancers.
- Cleaning – Manual cleaning or built-in cleaning systems.
- Heating (if applicable) – Heat pumps add to running costs.
Many Aussie homeowners are turning to solar panels to help offset electricity costs for running their pools.
Other costs to consider
Besides installation and maintenance, there are extra expenses involved in setting up your swimming pool, including:
- Council approval fees – By law, your pool or spa must be registered with your local council.
- Decking & landscaping – Adds style and functionality to your outdoor space.
- Pool furniture & lighting
- Fencing & gates
How much does pool fencing cost?
Pool fencing is mandatory in Australia and should be included in your budget. Prices vary depending on the material:
- Timber fencing – From $200 per metre
- Glass fencing – From $600 per metre
Or, you can bust out the trusty aluminium fencing from Bunnings for around $50 a metre. As long as your fence meets Australian safety standards, the material choice is up to you.
What’s the cheapest type of pool to install?
If you’re on a budget, your most affordable option will be an above-ground plunge pool—perfect for cooling off without breaking the bank.
For those wanting a larger swimming pool, an above-ground fibreglass or resin pool is your best bet.
Cost estimates:
- Fibreglass pool shell – From $7,000
- Resin pool shell – From $3,500
- Installation, pump, and filter – Add a few extra thousand dollars
- Fencing & decking – If needed, budget at least $4,000
Is installing a pool worth it?
A swimming pool can be a fantastic addition to your home, potentially increasing its value—especially in Australia’s warmer climates. In places like Queensland, pool ownership is particularly high, with 24 per cent of regional Queensland residents and 19 per cent of Brisbane homeowners having a pool.
In Perth, around 17 per cent of homes feature a pool, while 15 per cent of Sydney residents enjoy their own backyard oasis. Cooler states, such as Victoria, Canberra, and Tasmania, have significantly lower rates of pool ownership, as heating costs become a major consideration.
Generally across the country though, the pool property price bump doesn’t look like it’s slowing down. ‘Swimming pool’ has been the highest-ranked search term on many property listing websites for the past four years, reinforcing their high demand from many prospective buyers.
Before taking the plunge, it’s essential to think about why you want a pool. If your main goal is to increase property value, researching recent house sales in your area can give you a good idea of whether a pool will provide a worthwhile return on investment.
As a general rule of thumb, property experts estimate the cost of building an inground pool is (roughly) added to the overall value of the property in hotter climate areas, making it a sound investment if you are planning to stay in your home long-term.
But for those who own short-term rental properties, a swimming pool can also enhance the property’s appeal and significantly increase bookings. In warmer locations, holiday homes with pools often command higher rental rates, making it a strategic investment for Airbnb or holiday homeowners.
