How Much Does an Infinity Pool Cost?

Highlights

• An infinity pool typically costs between $55,000 and $130,000 to build, with homeowners across the country paying an average of $80,000.
• There are several factors that can affect the total cost, including the pool size and material, land preparation, and the cost of labor and permits.
• The main benefits of installing an infinity pool include versatility, eco-friendliness, aesthetics, increased property value, and additional recreation opportunities.
• Installing an infinity pool is a huge undertaking, which is why it’s advisable for most homeowners to hire a professional pool installation company to build the pool of their dreams.

Taking a long, cool, refreshing dip in the pool is a great way to escape the summer heat without fleeing into the confines of an air-conditioned home. An infinity swimming pool offers the same experience as a standard pool but does so with a significant upgrade to the aesthetic appeal. An infinity pool has the appearance of a pool with no edge but in reality is designed with one or more exposed walls with an edge that dips below the surface of the water, giving the illusion that the water extends infinitely.

According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, installing an infinity edge pool typically costs about $80,000, though the price can range from $55,000 to $130,000 depending on the material, size, local labor rates, and any additional features a homeowner wants to include. For instance, if a homeowner has the budget and wants a convenient place to change, store extra towels, and keep pool accessories, it may be worthwhile to put in a combined pool house–infinity pool. Homeowners can learn more about the various factors affecting installation and get a thorough breakdown of infinity pool cost with this informative guide.

Factors in Calculating Infinity Pool Cost

In order to put together a viable budget for this project, a homeowner will need to have a firm understanding of the factors involved when calculating the cost of a zero-edge pool. They’ll need to consider the size of the pool, material, land preparation, local labor rates, and the cost of permits in their area to help determine the infinity pool cost.

Pool Size

Determining the size of the pool is a key factor in determining the cost to build a pool. The bigger the pool, the more a homeowner will have to pay for materials, land excavation, and labor. So, before homeowners proceed with the project, it’s recommended that they measure the area where they want the pool to be installed to get a rough estimate of the size.

Infinity pool installation costs about $55 to $130 per square foot, including the excavation of the yard, the installation of the pool and catch basin, as well as the basic pool surround and finishes. However, if the homeowner wants a custom finish on their pool, then the cost per square foot can increase to as high as $300 per square foot. Some example costs are listed in the table below, for materials only.

Dimensions	Total Size	Average Cost
10 feet by 20 feet	200 square feet	$11,000 to $26,000
12 feet by 24 feet	288 square feet	$16,000 to $37,000
14 feet by 28 feet	392 square feet	$22,000 to $51,000
15 feet by 30 feet	450 square feet	$25,000 to $58,000
16 feet by 32 feet	512 square feet	<$28,000 to $67,000
18 feet by 36 feet	648 square feet	$36,000 to $84,000
20 feet by 40 feet	800 square feet	$44,000 to $130,000

Pool Material

Infinity pools can be made with fiberglass, tile, vinyl, or concrete—or a homeowner can even invest in a glass-walled pool. Whichever material a homeowner decides on for their infinity pool, they can expect to pay about $40 to $60 per square foot in materials. This typically works out to about 50 percent to 75 percent of the total cost of the project. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that the material costs can increase significantly if they opt for expensive extras, like a pool with glass walls to peer through underwater.

If a homeowner is looking to save on the cost of materials, then it’s a good idea to go with a small infinity pool design. Additionally, vinyl and fiberglass infinity pools tend to cost less than tile and concrete pools, so the homeowner may be able to keep the project on budget by selecting one of these less expensive material options.

Land Preparation

When a homeowner is coming up with the infinity pool cost of installation, it’s necessary to factor in the land preparation costs. If the yard is completely flat and wide open and doesn’t require grading or leveling, then a homeowner can expect to pay about $8 to $25 per cubic yard. However, if there are any obstacles or the land needs to be leveled for the pool installation, this can cost an additional $1.50 to $2 per square foot. Furthermore, if there are any trees that need to be removed, a homeowner could end up paying about $750 per tree, depending on the tree’s location, size, diameter, and condition.

Labor

The labor costs for pool installation can vary depending on where the home is located, but they will typically fall within a range of $20 to $40 per square foot or an average cost of about $30 per square foot. This is equal to about 25 percent to 50 percent of the total price of the infinity pool installation, so it’s recommended that homeowners shop around for the best rates in their area.

Researching and comparing quotes from at least three different pool installation companies can help a homeowner decide which pool installer is best for the job. Not only will this give the homeowner a clear view of the estimated cost of the project, but it will also make it easier to spot any potential issues with the companies being researched.

Permits

Anytime a homeowner is making significant changes to their home or property, it’s important to check the local guidelines to determine whether a permit is needed before the project begins. In most cases, a permit is necessary for the installation of an infinity pool and can range from about $450 to $1,800, depending on the home’s geographical location and the scope of the work.

Homeowners can speak to the pool installation contractor to determine who will be getting permits for the job. If the contractor is going to take care of getting them, homeowners will want to find out how much the permits will cost and if the cost of the permits will be included with the total cost of the installation.

Additional Costs and Considerations

The basic factors that affect the cost of the installation are generally limited to size, material, labor, permits, and land preparation. However, a homeowner may want to customize the appearance of the pool, add a pool deck, or pick up a pool cover. Costs for these extras—as well as the costs for ongoing maintenance, increased home insurance, and higher property taxes—can add up, so it’s a good idea for homeowners to factor these costs into their final budget.

Glass Wall Installation

Whether a homeowner is looking to install one full glass wall or more, or they just want a small viewing window, this addition to the infinity pool project can greatly increase the cost of the job. On average, a homeowner can expect to pay about $16,500 for a pool installation company to put in a 15-square-foot glass or acrylic viewing window.

Before a homeowner gets excited to peer outside the pool while they’re fully submerged, it’s important to keep in mind that windows are generally suitable only for parts of the pool that are above-ground. Otherwise they would simply be staring into the densely packed soil around the pool instead of getting any real value out of the window addition.

Pool Deck Installation

A common addition that can get overlooked when homeowners are planning the infinity pool installation budget is the cost to build a deck for the pool. The deck provides a smooth, clean surface for the homeowner and their guests to walk on, lie on, or set up outdoor furniture around the pool to soak up the summer sun. On average, the installation of a pool deck will cost about $3,000 to $12,000.

This rate can vary depending on the type of material used to construct the deck and the size of the deck. A new pool deck installation can cost as little as $3 per square foot for a deck made with pressure-treated wood, or it can quickly become as costly as $40 per square foot for luxury stone options.

Diving Board Installation

Adding a diving board to a pool is a fun option that can be enjoyed by most swimmers. However, a pool with a diving board needs to be at least 8 to 9 feet deep to avoid serious injury when someone is diving into the pool. To get the necessary depth for this installation, the pool installers will need to excavate deeper into the yard and use a greater amount of material to construct the pool.

Outside of the costs to increase the depth of the pool, the homeowner will also need to add about $300 to $5,000 to the total cost of the project to account for the price of the diving board installation. If they don’t want to commit to a pool with a depth of 8 or 9 feet, they could opt for a water slide instead. Pool water slides cost about $1,000 to $14,000, depending on the size and design.

Pool Lighting Installation

Another common addition to infinity pools is lighting. Pool lighting can give homeowners the option to take a few laps in the pool to get in their morning exercise before heading to work even before the sun comes up. Homeowners can also take advantage of pool lighting in the evening or at night, instead of swimming only during the day. Typically, pool lighting will cost about $150 to $300 per light. If a homeowner opts for hard-wired LED lighting, then the cost increases to as much as $1,000 per light. The average costs of different lighting per fixture is included in the table below.

Type of Lighting	Average Cost
Floating	$20 to $100 each
Standard	$150 to $300 each
LED	$750 to $1,000 each

Water Feature Installation

Turning a yard into a serene paradise is possible with a few upgrades to an infinity pool. Custom landscaping can change the space from a plain, suburban yard to a garden rich with colors and scents from various flowers and trees. To finish off the look, homeowners may want to consider investing in a water feature for the pool, like a fountain or an elaborate waterfall. Not only will this add a unique aesthetic appeal, but the continuous sound of water will also increase the peaceful ambience. However, this addition will generally cost about $1,500 to $30,000, so before getting too attached to the idea, homeowners will want to make sure that it will fit their budget.

Pool Cover

Purchasing a pool cover is a good way to protect the pool from the rain, wind, sleet, sticks, leaves, and anything else that could damage it. Depending on the type of cover, it could also keep the pool area safe, conserve energy, or even heat the pool without the need for homeowners to pay the price of a pool heater. If a homeowner is looking for a safety cover for the pool, they will need to spend about $800 to $2,500 for this accessory. Automatic pool covers can significantly increase the cost of the project, with an average price range of $3,000 to $12,500. However, if a homeowner doesn’t want to spend a lot on a pool cover, they can get a simple winter pool cover for $30 to $350 or a solar pool cover for about $30 to $150. The following table shows the price ranges for different types of pool covers.

Type of Cover	Average Cost
Winter cover	$30 to $350
Solar cover	$30 to $150
Safety cover	$400 to $2,500
Automatic cover	$3,000 to $12,500

Maintenance Costs

After a pool installation, homeowners will need to learn how to maintain a pool to ensure that it continues functioning properly for years to come. On average, ongoing pool maintenance costs range from about $30 to $260 per month, including weekly pool cleaning, water testing, heating, water delivery, and electricity. Additionally, if any part of the pool, pump, or filtration system gets damaged, breaks, or is otherwise faulty, homeowners will need to pay to repair or replace the faulty part. The average cost of pool maintenance is shown in the table below.

Type of Pool Maintenance	Average Cost
Pool cleaning and water testing	$80 to $150 per month
Closing the pool	$150 to $300 per year
Opening the pool	$150 to $400 per year
Water delivery	$60 per 15,000 gallons
Electricity delivery	$300 per year
Repairs	$650 to $900 per repair

Homeowners may choose to hire one of the best pool cleaning services to help take care of their pool.

Insurance and Taxes

Before deciding to put in an infinity pool, homeowners are advised to speak to their insurance provider to find out if the addition of a pool on the property will increase the cost of their insurance. In most cases, adding a pool to the yard will increase a homeowner’s insurance rates. The amount by which the rates increase depends largely on the insurance provider, so homeowners may want to take this opportunity to shop around for a new provider if the rates seem high. Additionally, an attractive, well-maintained infinity pool can increase the value of a home, leading to an increase in property taxes. Homeowners will want to keep this in mind when putting together the budget for this project.

Types of Infinity Pools

When a homeowner is considering installing an infinity pool for their home, one of the most important factors to consider is the type of infinity pool they want. Infinity pool types are differentiated by the material used to construct the pool, including concrete, fiberglass, tile, and vinyl.

Material	Average Cost
Concrete	$42,000 to $98,000
Fiberglass	$20,000 to $40,000
Tile	$75,000 to $150,000
Vinyl	$20,000 to $60,000

Concrete

Installing a concrete infinity pool is one of the more high-end material options available. For an average cost of about $42,000 to $98,000, a homeowner will get a tough, durable pool material that comes in a broad range of customizations. A concrete infinity pool will typically last about 10 years before it needs to be resurfaced, but as long as the homeowner keeps up with the resurfacing requirements, the pool can function for 20 to 30 years. However, homeowners will want to note that it can take months to build a concrete pool because the concrete needs enough time to properly set and cure.

Fiberglass

If cost is a primary factor in a homeowner’s decision-making process, then fiberglass will likely be at the top of their list for materials. Fiberglass pool costs are relatively low, with a fiberglass infinity pool averaging around $20,000 to $40,000, which makes it the lowest-cost option. Fiberglass pools also tend to be very long-lasting, so the homeowner won’t need to worry about replacing the pool for more than 30 years. Furthermore, fiberglass is nonporous, making it an ideal material for a saltwater pool. A problem with this material is that it can be so slippery that pool users may actually slip and fall.

Tile

Tile infinity pools are the most expensive option, ranging in cost from $75,000 to $150,000, depending on the type of tile and the size of the pool. If a homeowner isn’t worried about saving on the installation costs or has decided to just give in to their desire for a dream pool, then they can choose from a wide assortment of colors, patterns, and decorative designs for the tile pool.

After the pool is installed, it will generally last for about 20 years before the entire pool will need to be retiled. Installation can take a long time, however, which may increase labor costs.

Vinyl

Vinyl pools are another cost-effective option to consider alongside fiberglass. On average, a homeowner can expect to pay about $20,000 to $60,000 for the installation of a vinyl infinity pool. This type of pool is relatively easy to maintain due to the smooth, nonporous liner. The liner also provides a comfortable surface for pool users to stand on while they soak in the water. However, vinyl pools are the least durable option. The liner is susceptible to ripping, stretching, and tearing, so homeowners will need to replace the liner about once every 6 to 12 years.

Benefits of Choosing an Infinity Pool

Adding an infinity pool to a home is an excellent way to increase the property value, improve the appearance of the yard, and create a place where residents and guests can exercise, relax, or play. Infinity pools also offer a wide range of customizable options, including an eco-friendly design that helps save water and reduce energy use.

Recreation, Relaxation, and Exercise

There are few things that mimic the feeling of floating unhindered in a deep pool of water as the sun shines down, which is why the primary benefit of an infinity pool for most people is simple recreation, relaxation, and exercise. And getting out early in the morning or late in the evening to swim a few laps is a great way for residents to stay in shape without needing to drive to the gym.

If exercise just isn’t that appealing, an infinity pool can still be an excellent addition to the home for personal relaxation or for a place for the kids to jump, swim, have water-gun fights, and generally enjoy the outdoors.

Versatility

An above-ground pool can be a cost-effective option for adding a pool to the yard, but these pools are typically available only in circular or oval-shaped designs. When a homeowner commits to spending a significant amount of money for a pool installation, they want the finished project to be appealing, not just functional. Infinity pools have a natural aesthetic appeal because of the illusion of a vanishing edge, but they have the added benefit of being fully customizable. There’s no need to worry about being limited to circles and ovals; homeowners can work with the pool installers to get the exact design they are looking for to enhance the appeal of their yard.

Eco-Friendliness

Pools are often a source of ecological concern because they typically result in high water use, high energy use, and the use of harmful chemicals. While an infinity pool cannot solve all of these issues, there are some design options that can help to reduce the water and energy waste, such as a water pump that operates only when the pool is in use.

Additionally, the catch basin can collect water as it spills out of the pool, including water that’s forced out by splashing or waves created by jumping into the pool. As long as the filtration system is properly maintained, the water can then circulate back into the pool as needed, reducing overall water usage. Proper maintenance can also limit the need for harsh chemicals.

Aesthetics

One of the top reasons a homeowner may choose to pay for infinity pool cost over a standard inground pool cost is the sleek, modern design that is only enhanced by the illusion of water extending infinitely into the horizon. This unique aesthetic quality is what gives infinity pools their name. Adding an infinity pool to the yard can be the first step toward creating a peaceful, at-home meditation space, surrounded by the pleasant scent of nature, sounds of water spilling over the wall, and soothing sunlight—or even moonlight—as it shines down from overhead.

Increased Property Value

Installing an infinity pool for a home can help increase the value of the property. This means that while a homeowner will likely end up paying slightly higher property taxes, when they decide to sell the home, the aesthetic appeal of an infinity pool can increase the resale value. However, the value a pool can add to the home varies, so it’s a good idea for a homeowner to research local housing market trends and speak to a real estate professional to determine exactly how much or how little the installation of an infinity pool will affect their property value.

Infinity Pool Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

The average cost to put in an infinity pool is about $80,000. While that may be a minor investment to some people, others may be rushing to figure out how to tackle this job on their own without calling in the professionals. If a homeowner has the knowledge, skills, and experience to install an infinity pool for their home, they could save about 5 percent to 15 percent of the total cost, but they will still need to spend a large amount on the installation.

The drawback to handling this project on their own is that the homeowner is then responsible for every aspect of the job, including any problems that may occur or faulty material. In most cases, the best option is for a homeowner to hire one of the best pool installation companies in their area because even if it costs more, the project will be completed faster and at a higher quality than a homeowner could manage on their own. Hiring a professional may also mean that the work is guaranteed, though it’s important that a homeowner verify this with the company before hiring the pool installers.

How to Save Money on Infinity Pool Cost

A pool adds to the overall appeal of the yard and offers a place to exercise, unwind, or play under the sun. However, installing an infinity pool for the home is a costly endeavor that can range from $55,000 to $130,000 on average, so it’s important to find ways to save to ensure you stay on budget. Consider these methods for reducing the cost of the infinity pool installation project.

• Compare multiple quotes to find the best price. It’s recommended to get at least three quotes from local pool installation professionals to make sure you’re getting a fair price.
• Avoid expensive extras. Keep the total cost of the pool installation on budget by avoiding expensive extras like water features, diving boards, slides, or fancy lighting.
• Install the pool during the off-season. Pool installation companies tend to do most of their business during the summer months, so you may be able to save by scheduling the job for early spring or late fall.
• Choose a smaller pool design. Installing a smaller pool will reduce the amount spent on materials, labor, land excavation, and ongoing maintenance.
• Select affordable materials. A concrete or tile pool may seem like an attractive option, but if these materials put the project outside of your budget, it may be better to go with a vinyl or fiberglass design.

Questions to Ask About Infinity Pool Installation

While homeowners are researching infinity pool installation companies and contractors, it’s important to know what questions to ask before hiring a company or agreeing to an installation contract. It’s also a good idea for them to make a list of some key questions to ask before, during, and after the installation. To find the answers to the list of questions below, homeowners can check the company’s website, speak to the customer service staff, or ask questions directly to the pool installer.

• Are you insured?
• Can you provide references?
• How much experience do you have?
• How will progress or problems be communicated?
• Are you a member of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP)?
• What warranties are included in the contract?
• Do you provide workers’ compensation to your employees?
• Can I see a line-item estimate?
• Do you offer financing?
• Do you require a deposit up front?
• What kind of site preparation will be needed?
• Will you send someone to my house to inspect the area before I hire you?
• Do you subcontract any part of the project?
• How many gallons of water will this pool hold?
• How often will I need to change the water?
• How long will this pool last?
• Will I need a pool cover?
• Do I need to drain the water during the winter?
• Do you sell pool heaters, and if so, how much do they cost?
• What kind of guarantees are offered with this type of pool?

FAQs

While the cost to install an infinity pool tends to be higher than the cost to install a standard inground pool (though it can be lower than indoor pool costs), the attractive aesthetic appeal, versatile design, and enjoyment that an infinity pool can bring to a home are worth a homeowner’s serious consideration. Before drawing up a budget for this project, homeowners can take a look at the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about infinity pools to make sure they have all the information they need to proceed.

Q. How is an infinity pool different from a regular pool?

A standard pool is surrounded by high edges that keep the water from sloshing out of the pool, while an infinity pool has one or more exposed walls that sit just below the water level. This design creates an optical illusion of water extending infinitely. The water that passes over the low edge of the wall flows into a catch basin below. Infinity pools can be expensive to build, though, which may lead homeowners to reconsider an above-ground pool instead.

Q. How deep should an infinity pool be?

The depth of the pool is up to the homeowner. If the pool will be used by both adults and children, they may want to consider having a shallow area that sits at just 2½ to 3½ feet in depth. The other end of the pool can reach a depth of 3½ to 6 feet for the average adult swimmer to enjoy. If a homeowner is putting in a diving board, they’ll need to increase the depth to at least 8 or 9 feet.

Q. Is it hard to keep an infinity pool clean all the time?

An infinity pool is slightly more difficult to maintain than a standard inground swimming pool because the homeowner needs to ensure that calcium doesn’t build up on the outside wall of the pool where the pool water flows into the catch basin. Beyond this minor difference, infinity pool cleaning is relatively the same as standard pool cleaning.

Q. What’s the difference between an endless pool and an infinity pool?

An endless pool is a type of pool with a built-in propeller system that creates broad, nonturbulent swim currents with adjustable speeds. The purpose of this type of pool is to provide constant resistance, so swimmers can keep swimming endlessly in one direction without hitting the other side of the pool.
Infinity pools have one or more exposed walls that sit slightly lower than the water level to create the illusion that the water continues on infinitely. These pools do not have a propeller-created swim current. Additionally, endless pools cost less than infinity pools and typically take up less space. Another option for homeowners to consider is a plunge pool, which costs relatively little to install.

Q. Is it easy to fall off an infinity pool?

While the design of an infinity pool creates an illusion of a disappearing edge, there is still a wall in place to prevent swimmers from falling out of the pool. A swimmer would need to exert a significant amount of effort to climb over the edge of the pool.

Q. How long do infinity pools last on average?

The lifespan of an infinity pool largely depends on the material used in its construction. Vinyl pools can last more than 20 years, but the liner needs to be replaced about once every 6 to 12 years. Concrete pools will need to be resurfaced about once every 10 years but can otherwise last 20 to 30 years. Fiberglass pools can often last longer than 30 years, while a tile pool can last about 20 years.

Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, Aqua Blue Pools, Zagers Pool and Spa