How Much Does it Cost To Build a Pool in California

Thinking about building a pool in your backyard? You’re not alone. For many homeowners in California, having an inground pool isn’t just about luxury—it’s about lifestyle. With long summers, mild weather in many regions, and a growing interest in outdoor living, it makes sense that so many people are asking what it really costs to get one built.

Whether you’re just exploring the idea or already budgeting for it, this guide will walk you through the real costs of building a pool in California, what factors play the biggest role in pricing, and what to keep in mind before getting started.

What Affects the Cost of a Pool in California?

If you’ve been researching pool construction, you’ve probably noticed that prices can vary—a lot. You might hear one neighbor say they paid $45,000, while someone just a few blocks away spent closer to $100,000. So what gives?

The truth is, no two pool projects are exactly the same, especially here in California. Your final cost depends on a combination of choices you make and conditions unique to your property. Materials, design, soil, permits, even how easy it is for equipment to access your backyard—all of these influence your bottom line.

Permits

Expect permits to cost $200 to $300. California has specific state rules, county building rules, and local permit needs. You’ll likely need detailed plans, and someone may need to inspect your property.

Size and Shape

A rectangular shape is best for swimming laps and most affordable, usually $35,000 to $50,000.

Kidney-shaped or curved pools cost more, typically $40,000 to $55,000.

Freeform or irregular shapes generally cost the most, from $45,000 to $60,000.

These prices are rough estimates for standard sizes without extras. They can change based on size, depth, digging needs, materials, and your location in California.

Amenities

Amenities can add $25,000 to $50,000+ to your inground pool cost. These include:

• Landscaping ($100 – $45,000)
• Water Features
• Decks
• Spas / Hot Tubs
• Fire Features
• Outdoor Living Areas
• Backyard Kitchens
• Lighting
• Waterslides

Construction

This phase is about adding the material that will hold water in your pool. Your choice of material affects both building and maintenance costs. Overall, expect this phase to cost from $500 to $5,000.

Different Materials for Inground Pool

There are three main materials for pool construction: vinyl liner, fiberglass shell, or concrete.

• Vinyl: The cheapest option, a vinyl-lined pool installation costs about $3,000 to $6,000. You’ll need to replace the liner every 6-15 years, costing $300 to $4,000.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass pools are quick to install and easy to maintain. They last about 25-30 years. The price is in the middle, ranging from $28,000 to $50,000, including installation. Expect maintenance costs of $5,000 to $15,000 every 10 years.
• Concrete: Concrete pools are the most attractive, expensive, and long-lasting option. They offer the most customization and are often best for larger pools. Installation should cost between $45,000 and $100,000+, with maintenance averaging $27,500 every 10 years.

Maintenance

Chemicals and equipment are ongoing costs to consider. You can expect maintenance to cost about $300 to $27,500 every ten years. This is a wide range, because it covers all inground pool types, and different materials definitely have different maintenance needs. 

Equipment like a skimmer net and vacuum will fall within the range of $700 to $1200, and will need replacement eventually, but how long each piece of equipment can be expected to last will be unique to each make and model.

Don’t Forget About Ongoing Maintenance

Once the pool is built, it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it feature. Pools come with regular upkeep, and if you’re budgeting for construction, you’ll want to understand the ownership costs, too.

Typical yearly maintenance includes:

• Cleaning, balancing chemicals, replacing filters
• Pool service (if you’re not doing it yourself)
• Utility costs, especially if you run a heater or pump often
• Estimated yearly costs: $1,200 to $1,800 on average

Some homeowners save with solar heating or energy-efficient pumps, but that depends on your climate and pool use.

Is Building a Pool in California Worth It?

For a lot of families, the answer is yes. In warmer areas of the state—think the Central Valley, Southern California, or parts of the Bay Area—having a pool can make your home more appealing to buyers and improve your daily lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting family, exercising, or just enjoying quiet time in your own backyard, the investment often pays off in ways beyond dollars.

That said, if you’re in a cooler climate or your home is in a neighborhood where few houses have pools, it may not offer much of a return on resale. It’s always worth checking with a local real estate professional if resale value is a key concern.

Final Word: Start With the Right Plan

There’s no one-size-fits-all price for pool construction. But having clear goals, a realistic budget, and a contractor who knows California building codes can make the entire process easier from day one.

If you’re serious about building a pool, the best first step is to talk with a licensed contractor who’s familiar with your area. At Top Home Builders, we work with homeowners all over California—from San Jose to Santa Clara and beyond—to design and build pools that feel like a natural extension of your home.

We’ll help you explore options, understand the full cost (upfront and long-term), and get the permits handled the right way.

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