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Cost for In-Ground Pool: What It Really Costs (and How to Allocate Your Budget Wisely)

  • Writer: Luis Magana
    Luis Magana
  • 8 hours ago
  • 3 min read

When homeowners search for the cost for an in-ground pool, they’re often expecting a single number.


What they quickly discover is this:the cost of a pool isn’t just about the pool — it’s about how the entire backyard is planned, designed, and executed.


A well-built pool can feel expensive and unfinished.A properly planned pool can feel intentional, balanced, and worth every dollar.


Let’s break down what actually influences the cost for an in-ground pool — and why 3D planning is one of the most important (and overlooked) tools in getting it right.


Luxurious outdoor pool area illuminated by vibrant blue lighting and accentuated with dramatic fire features, creating an inviting nighttime oasis.

What Is the Average Cost for an In-Ground Pool?

In general, the cost for an in-ground pool in Arizona typically ranges from:

  • $45,000–$70,000 for a well-built, entry-level concrete pool

  • $70,000–$100,000+ for larger pools with added features, automation, or custom geometry

These numbers usually include:

  • Excavation and structural shell

  • Steel reinforcement (rebar)

  • Shotcrete or gunite

  • Basic plumbing and circulation

  • Interior finish

  • One light and basic equipment

They do not always include decking, landscaping, shade, lighting, or privacy—where many homeowners overspend or underplan.

To understand why that matters, you need to understand how pools are built.


Why Pool Cost Alone Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

A common mistake homeowners make is spending heavily on the pool shell—then running out of budget for everything around it.

The result?

  • A beautiful pool surrounded by unfinished dirt

  • No shade, no privacy, poor lighting

  • A yard that looks “in progress” instead of complete

Luxury outdoor spaces aren’t about adding more features.They’re about allocating the budget where it matters most.


The Importance of a 3D Plan Before Building an In-Ground Pool


Modern outdoor kitchen and seating area by a pool, with a waterfall feature. Mountain view in the background under a blue sky.
3D Rendering of a completed project

A 3D design isn’t just a visual luxury — it’s a decision-making tool that directly affects cost, function, and long-term satisfaction.

Seeing Scale and Proportion Before You Build

On paper, a pool dimension can sound perfect. In reality, it may overwhelm the yard or restrict circulation.

A 3D plan allows homeowners to:

  • See how much space the pool actually occupies

  • Understand walking paths, seating areas, and transitions

  • Adjust size before excavation — not after concrete

This alone can prevent costly mid-project changes.


Visualizing Materials, Finishes, and Contrast

3D designs go far beyond shape. They allow you to preview:

  • Pool interior finishes and water color

  • Decking materials and pool edge detailing

  • Turf placement and pattern layouts

  • How light reflects off surfaces at night

Seeing these elements together helps homeowners make confident decisions instead of guessing.


Reducing Change Orders and Budget Creep

One of the biggest hidden costs in pool construction is late-stage changes.

3D designs allow you to:

  • Test ideas before construction begins

  • Eliminate guesswork between homeowner and builder

  • Lock in materials and layout early

The result is fewer surprises, fewer delays, and a smoother build.


Case Study: A Properly Allocated Luxury Backyard


The picture above is a real example from one of our projects


Budget Breakdown:

  • 💦 Pool: $60,000

  • 🔥 Fire feature: $6,000

  • 🍽️ BBQ island: $9,000 (appliances not included)

  • 🪨 Limestone decking: $7,000

  • 🌱 Turf + designed turf layout: $7,000

  • 🌳 Ficus hedge (privacy layer): $10,500

  • 💡 Smart lighting + smart irrigation: $8,000

This backyard works because:

  • The pool is properly sized—not oversized

  • Circulation, lighting, and access were planned from day one

  • Privacy and shade were treated as structural elements, not afterthoughts

  • Materials were selected for longevity, not trends

The yard feels finished because every dollar has a job.


The Real Cost of Skipping Planning

When homeowners skip proper planning, they often pay later in:

  • Reworked decking or turf

  • Added lighting that doesn’t integrate well

  • Features that feel out of place or unused

  • A yard that never feels “finished”

These are expensive lessons — and entirely avoidable.


Final Thought: Luxury Is About Allocation, Not Excess

When people ask about the cost for an in-ground pool, they often expect a number.What they really need is a strategy.

Luxury outdoor living isn’t about doing more.It’s about allocating better—so your backyard feels intentional, complete, and built to last.

If you’re considering upgrading your backyard this year—whether it’s a pool, landscape, or phased project—starting with a plan makes all the difference.


👉 Schedule a free consultation through our website and let’s design it right the first time.


Key Terms That Affect In-Ground Pool Cost (and Why They Matter)

Understanding these terms helps you avoid surprises and budget blowouts:


 
 
 

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