Imagine stepping out into your backyard on a hot Texas day and diving into your very own crystal-clear swimming pool. For many homeowners, this dream is within reach, but the question of cost often looms large.
At Leisure Living Pools, we’ve helped hundreds of families transform their backyards without unexpected financial surprises. Let’s dive into the real costs of inground pools in Texas, exploring the factors that influence pricing and how you can budget for your aquatic oasis.
How to Think About Pool Costs in Dallas‑Fort Worth
Adding a pool to a Dallas‑Fort Worth home is often pictured as a quick “backyard upgrade.” In reality the price tag isn’t a single number. A homeowner who wants a private swim spot has to juggle size, shape, material choice, local market quirks, and a suite of extra expenses that rarely show up in the first estimate.
What Really Sets Pool Prices?
The cost of a home pool basically comes from three things that overlap:
- Size and shape – Bigger circles or deeper edges mean more concrete, steel, or fiberglass. That pushes both material cost and labor up. A plain rectangle will usually be cheaper than a fancy free‑form pond because the odd shape needs more digging, extra forms, and longer design work.
- Material picked – There are three big options: concrete (often called gunite), fiberglass, and vinyl liner. Each sits in its own price band and comes with its own upkeep rhythm.
- Local price forces – Dallas‑Fort Worth’s hot housing market inflates demand for pool crews. When you add material availability and local labor wages to that, the numbers can jump a lot compared to other Texas towns.
Which Pool Type Matches Your Wallet?
Below is a quick look at the three main ways to build a pool in Dallas, TX, their usual price bands, and a few key traits:
Concrete / Gunite
- Cost: $50,000‑$100,000
- Custom: Unlimited – any shape, depth, finish you can imagine.
- Time: Long – 8‑12 weeks because of heavy formwork and curing.
- Durability: Top‑tier – holds up for decades.
Fiberglass
- Cost: $45,000‑$85,000
- Custom: Medium – limited to the pre‑made shells the factory offers.
- Time: Quick – 2‑4 weeks since the shell arrives ready.
- Maintenance: Low – smooth surface fights algae.
Vinyl Liner
- Cost: $25,000‑$45,000
- Custom: Low – liner patterns and pool shape set by the manufacturer.
- Time: Fast – 1‑3 weeks to finish.
- Life: Liner needs swapping every 5‑9 years, adding repeat cost.
Also Check Out: What Tiles Are Suitable For Swimming Pools: Expert Guide
Hidden Fees That Might Pop Up
Beyond the obvious pool shell, a handful of “secret” costs often appear mid‑project:
- Excavation & Site Prep – Soil type, rocks, and grading can push this from $5,000‑$15,000.
- Permits & Inspections – Dallas and Fort Worth both ask for several permits; fees sit near $1,500‑$3,000.
- Landscaping & Hard‑Scaping – Decks, walkways, lights, and plants can quickly top $10,000.
- Ongoing Upkeep – Chemicals, cleaning tools, and small fixes usually cost $1,200‑$1,800 a year.
Making the Dream Pool More Affordable
Smart planning and financing tricks can shrink the gap between what you want and what you can pay. Consider working with experts at Leisure Living Pools to explore your options.
- Use Financing Options
- Build in Phases
- Design for Future Use
- Balance Materials vs Life‑Cycle Costs
- Pick Off‑Peak Season
Rough Cost Breakdown by Pool Size
- Small (10 × 20 ft) – $35,000‑$55,000
- Medium (15 × 30 ft) – $50,000‑$75,000
- Large / Custom – $75,000‑$125,000
Making Your Dream Pool Without Busting the Bank
The big idea? Focus on the must‑have parts, hire a designer who knows the area, and choose value‑adding choices that give the most return. A well‑done pool can boost home resale value, add to daily fun, and build family memories.
In the end, knowing the many layers of cost empowers Dallas‑Fort Worth owners to make smart choices, budget realistically, and bring a personal oasis to life without draining the bank account.
Understanding the costs associated with inground pools is crucial for making informed decisions. From material choices to unexpected expenses, each factor plays a role in your final investment.
By considering these elements and working with experienced professionals, you can create a backyard paradise that fits both your dreams and your budget. Ready to take the plunge? Schedule a free consultation with Leisure Living Pools for personalized pool cost estimates and start turning your backyard dreams into reality.
