Building a Pool for Under $100K in California: A To Budget-Friendly Swims

Dreaming of a backyard pool in California but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. The price tag for an inground swimming pool can easily climb into six figures, especially with luxury features. However, with a budget of $100,000 (or even considerably less), it’s absolutely possible to install a great pool – if you plan wisely. This consumer-focused guide will walk you through affordable pool types, cost-cutting strategies, and smart choices to help you build a pool for under $100K in the Golden State. We’ll compare in-ground vs. above-ground options, different materials, and how size and features impact cost, so you can maximize value while staying on budget.

In-Ground vs. Above-Ground: Which Is More Affordable?

One of the first decisions is whether to build an in-ground pool or opt for an above-ground pool. The difference in cost is significant, and each has its pros and cons:

• Above-Ground Pools: These are by far the more budget-friendly option. The average above-ground pool costs around $3,500 installed​

  with many basic models in the $1,000 to $6,000 range​
  Even large, top-of-the-line above-ground setups (with sturdy metal frames or resin walls, and perhaps an attached deck) typically max out around $15,000 – $20,000​

  Above-ground pools are cheaper because there’s no heavy excavation or complex construction – essentially, the pool kit is assembled on your prepared ground. This also means they can be installed much faster. Trade-offs: Above-ground pools usually don’t last as long (the liner and walls might need replacement after ~10-15 years), and they add less to home resale value (often they’re considered personal property, not a permanent home improvement). Aesthetically, an above-ground pool with a nice wraparound deck can be appealing, but it likely won’t have the same “luxury” look as an in-ground pool nestled into your yard.

• In-Ground Pools: These are permanent structures made of concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl-lined walls below ground level. In-ground pools are more expensive, but also tend to last longer and yield a higher-end appearance and home value boost. In California, a basic inground pool can start around $35,000 for a no-frills vinyl or fiberglass unit​
• whereas custom concrete (gunite) pools often start around $50,000+​

  The average cost to install an inground pool nationally is about $65,000​
  ​
  but California tends to run higher due to labor and material costs. It’s not uncommon for inground pool projects in Southern California to range from $85,000 to $150,000 for moderate to high-end designs​ cuttingedgeoutdoorliving
  . Why so much? Inground pools involve extensive excavation, steel reinforcement, plumbing, electrical work, and custom finishing – all of which add cost. However, they have advantages: they’re longer-lasting (especially concrete pools that can last decades), often look more integrated into the landscape, and are considered a permanent value-enhancing improvement to the property.

So, can you get an in-ground pool for under $100K? Absolutely – $100,000 is a healthy budget in most cases. In fact, many standard backyard pools (say a 300-400 sq ft pool without extravagant add-ons) can be built in the $50K–$80K range in California​

The key is managing the variables that drive cost, which we’ll dive into below. If your budget is very tight (under $20K), an above-ground pool might be your only option for now – but if you’re aiming under $100K, you have flexibility to choose an in-ground design with mindful planning.

Choosing Pool Materials: Concrete, Fiberglass, or Vinyl?

The construction material of your pool is a major factor in cost. Here’s a comparison of the three main in-ground pool types and how they impact your budget:

• Concrete (Gunite) Pools: Concrete pools (also called gunite or shotcrete pools) are the traditional custom option. They are the most expensive to build, typically starting around $35,000 for very small or basic ones and often running $50,000 to $120,000 or more depending on size and features​. For example, a mid-sized concrete pool might easily cost $70k-$90k in California. The upside is they are extremely durable (lifespans of 50+ years​
• with proper maintenance) and can be built in any shape or size. You can incorporate spas, tanning ledges, waterfalls, etc., into the structure. If you want a truly custom pool and have a larger budget (closer to that $100k mark), concrete is the way to go. To stay under $100k with concrete, you may need to limit the size or high-end finishes (more on that later).

• Fiberglass Pools: Fiberglass pools come as prefabricated shells that are installed into the excavated hole. They are moderately priced – generally $20,000 to $85,000 installed depending on size​
  . Many fiberglass pool projects (with installation) end up in the $40k-$70k range for a normal size pool, making them a popular middle-ground choice. Fiberglass shells are smooth, low-maintenance, and quick to install (often just a few days for the shell placement). They have decent longevity (25+ years before you might consider resurfacing)​
• though not as long as concrete. The main limitation is shape/size; you’re restricted to the manufacturer’s available molds, which means less custom flexibility (for instance, you can’t usually get a very deep deep-end or a truly large fiberglass pool, as transport becomes an issue). But if you find a shape you like, fiberglass can offer a relatively fast and cost-effective route to an in-ground pool under $100k.
• Vinyl-Liner Pools: These pools have walls (often steel or polymer panels) put in place, with a custom vinyl liner covering the interior. They are typically the cheapest inground option, with installation costs roughly $20,000 to $40,000 for a basic setup​
  . Vinyl pools are common in many parts of the U.S., though in California they are less popular than concrete or fiberglass (partly due to the prevalence of concrete/gunite pool builders in the region and perhaps concerns like ground movement). The liner will need replacement about every 7-12 years at a cost of a few thousand dollars, so there’s a recurring expense to consider. If keeping initial costs low is paramount, a vinyl pool can get you swimming for well under $100k (even under $50k easily). Just be sure to budget for liner replacements down the line. The longevity of the structure can be good if maintained, but the liner is the wear surface.

Cost Comparison Example: According to data compiled from home improvement sources, a 14’ x 28’ pool (average family pool size) might cost on the order of $20k-$50k for vinyl, $30k-$60k for fiberglass, and $50k-$100k for concrete (varies by region)​

. These ranges overlap, but it illustrates that material choice can tilt your project into a higher or lower budget category. For a California build under $100k, fiberglass and vinyl are often the go-to for savings, whereas concrete is chosen if customization is a priority and the budget can stretch to accommodate it.

Size, Features, and Their Impact on Cost

The size of your pool and the features you choose are where your budget can really expand or contract. To stay under $100k, you’ll want to be strategic about these elements:

• Pool Size: Simply put, bigger pools cost more. They require more excavation work, more materials (concrete/vinyl/fiberglass, rebar, plumbing), and more labor hours. Costs tend to scale with area. A small pool (e.g., 200 sq ft surface area) might be feasible in the $30k-$50k range, whereas a large pool (600+ sq ft) can easily exceed $100k. As a rough guide, expect about $50 to $125 per square foot for an inground pool in California​

  . That means a 20’ x 40’ (800 sq ft) large pool could run $40k on the extreme low end (unlikely in CA) up to $100k+ on the high end. If your budget is capped, consider sizing down slightly: even a difference of a few feet in length and width can save thousands. Think about how you’ll use the pool – if it’s mostly for cooling off and backyard entertaining, a moderately sized pool (~300-400 sq ft) might be plenty. You can also opt for a plunge pool or spool (small pool/spa combo), which gives the enjoyment of a pool with far less water volume and construction footprint, thus cutting costs.

• Depth: Deeper pools require more excavation and reinforcement. A pool that is 8’ deep at one end will cost more than a uniformly 4’ or 5’ deep pool. If diving isn’t a priority, consider a sports pool design (shallow on both ends, moderate depth in the middle) or a consistent depth. This not only saves on initial cost but also on water and heating costs later.
• Custom Shapes: Freeform or kidney shapes can be beautiful, but elaborate shapes may require extra labor and wasted materials (cutting curves, etc.). A simple rectangular pool is generally the most cost-effective shape to build. Many modern designs embrace rectangles for their sleek look – and they’re friendly to automatic covers (which are easiest on rectangular pools). If you do choose a freeform shape, keep it gentle; tight curves or unusual contours might bump up the price.
• Surface Finishes: The interior finish can vary from basic plaster (usually the cheapest) to aggregates like pebbles or glass beads, to fully tiled interiors (very expensive). To save money, you might stick with standard white plaster, which does the job and keeps costs low. Upgrading to a pebble finish adds durability and style but could add a few thousand dollars. All-tile pools are typically only found in ultra-high-end projects (and would likely blow a $100k budget just on the finish). Consider compromising with tile accents or a waterline tile, which give a high-end look without tiling the entire pool.
• Water Features & Add-ons: Features like waterfalls, fountains, integrated spas, beach entries, or swim-up bars are exciting but each can add thousands or tens of thousands to the cost. For instance, adding a attached hot tub spa to your pool might cost an extra $10,000–$15,000, and rock waterfalls could range from a few thousand for a small feature to $10k+ for elaborate grotto designs. To stay under budget, prioritize only the features you truly want. Perhaps you skip the waterfall but keep the LED lighting (which is a relatively low-cost feature that adds ambiance). Maybe you forgo a built-in spa (you can always add a standalone hot tub later) and instead invest in heating the pool itself for year-round use. It’s all about trade-offs. Make a “wish list” and a “must-have list,” and be willing to trim the wish list if pricing comes in high.
• Surrounding Deck/Patio: Don’t forget the cost of finishing the area around the pool. Pavers, concrete, or decking will be needed to make the space usable and prevent dirt from washing into the pool. A basic concrete deck might cost a few thousand dollars, whereas travertine or premium pavers over a large area could add $10k-$20k. To save money, you could finish a smaller perimeter immediately (just enough for a comfortable walkway) and leave extra space as grass or gravel to be upgraded later when more funds are available. Also, plan landscaping with budget in mind – new sod or plants around the pool can be kept simple initially (you can always enhance landscaping over time as additional budget allows).

Tip: When designing your pool, ask your pool builder to show you how different choices impact price. They can often provide options (like “What if we make it 5 feet shorter?” or “What if we omit the jacuzzi?”) along with cost differences. This allows you to make informed decisions to stay under $100k while still getting the pool you want.

Smart Strategies to Cut Costs

Building a pool on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all the fun. It just means being smart and intentional. Here are some cost-cutting strategies to help keep your project affordable:

• Get Multiple Bids: Prices can vary significantly between contractors. Obtain at least 3 quotes from reputable pool builders. Ensure each is bidding on the same pool design/specs so you can compare fairly. A lower bid might reflect efficiencies a particular builder has with your pool type. Just be cautious of any bid that seems too low – it could be a red flag for later add-on costs or quality issues.
• Build in the Off-Season: If your climate and schedule allow, consider scheduling construction in the fall or winter. Some builders offer off-season discounts when their calendars are lighter. In California, construction can happen year-round; an offseason build might shave some costs or at least get you more attention from crews than during the summer rush.
• Simplify the Design: As discussed, opting for a rectangular shape and moderate size can save a bundle. Also, keep the design straightforward – for example, use a standard 6-inch waterline tile (which is necessary to protect the plaster at the water’s edge) rather than fully tiling big areas. Use integral steps and benches rather than fancy custom-built ones (many fiberglass pools come with molded steps/benches included, which is a cost saver). Each custom element you remove simplifies construction and cuts cost.
• Prioritize Must-Have Features: Identify what you absolutely want versus what’s nice-to-have. If you must have a saltwater system or a heat pump, include that, but maybe skip the deck jets or colored LED controller upgrade. You can also plan future additions: for instance, have the plumbing lines stubbed out for a water feature or slide, but don’t install it until later when you have more budget. Planning ahead in construction (leaving provisions) can be much cheaper than retrofitting after the pool is finished.
• Use Standard Materials: Unusual materials can spike costs. That beautiful glass tile from Italy will cost a lot more than a domestically made porcelain tile. High-end stone coping (the border around the top edge of the pool) like travertine or flagstone looks great, but brushed concrete or precast coping stones are more economical. There are plenty of attractive yet affordable material options these days – stamped concrete or textured concrete can mimic stone at a lower cost for your deck, for example. Work with your builder to find budget-friendly finishes that still achieve the look you want.
• Owner Participation (Where Possible): Some handy homeowners save money by doing parts of the project themselves or separately. Examples include doing your own demolition of an old patio, performing some of the site preparation, or handling the landscaping and fencing after the pool is built. If you have the skills (or a willing family/friend network), sweat equity can trim labor costs. Important: Leave the core pool construction (plumbing, electrical, pool shell) to licensed pros – those are not DIY-friendly and mistakes can be very costly. But painting a fence or planting shrubs yourself, for instance, could save you paying the contractor’s markup on those tasks.
• Financing Wisely: If you need to finance part of the pool, shop for the best rates and terms (more on financing below). A lower interest loan won’t cut the upfront construction cost, but it will reduce your overall out-of-pocket expense over time compared to a high-interest option. Sometimes pool companies have promotions or partnerships with financing companies – just be sure to compare those with independent options (banks, credit unions) to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Finally, maintain a bit of a contingency fund (around 10% of the project) if you can, even on a tight budget. This is in case of any unexpected issues (like hitting a rock while digging, or needing a retaining wall if the yard is sloped). If everything goes smoothly, you might use that remaining money to add one of your wish-list features at the end or just keep it as a buffer.

Financing Your Pool Project

Paying for a pool under $100k might involve a combination of savings and financing. Here are common financing options and tips to consider:

• Cash or Savings: The least expensive way to pay is from savings, since you avoid interest. If you’ve been planning for a pool and have funds set aside, you can pay the contractor in stages (typically a down payment and installments at different milestones of construction). Always keep some cash reserve for unexpected changes as noted.
• Home Equity Loan or HELOC: If you have equity in your home, a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC) can be a smart way to finance a pool. Interest rates for these are often lower than unsecured loans because your home is collateral, and the interest may be tax-deductible as it’s used for home improvement (consult your tax advisor). With a HELOC, you can draw the money as needed for the project. With a home equity loan, you get a lump sum. These typically offer multi-year repayment (10-15 years is common), spreading out the cost.
• Cash-Out Refinance: This essentially replaces your existing mortgage with a larger one, giving you cash in hand for the difference. This can make sense if current mortgage rates are favorable and you were considering refinancing anyway. It means you’ll pay off the pool over the life of the mortgage (30 years, for example), which makes monthly costs low but you’ll pay more interest in the long run.
• Personal or Pool Loans: There are lenders (like specialty pool financing companies or general personal loan providers) that offer unsecured loans for home improvement. These can fund quickly and don’t require home equity or collateral. The downside is interest rates can be higher based on your creditworthiness. Some companies advertise pool loans up to $100,000 with terms like 7–15 years​

  ​If you go this route, compare offers: a difference of even 1-2% in interest can mean thousands saved in interest over the life of the loan. Look out for any origination fees or prepayment penalties as well.

• Manufacturer/Builder Financing Deals: Occasionally, pool manufacturers (especially for above-ground setups or fiberglass shells) or pool builders run financing promotions. For example, you might find 0% interest for 12 months if you qualify and use their financing partner. These can be worthwhile, just ensure you can pay it off in the promotional period or understand the rate after it expires.
• Payment Schedule: Whichever financing you choose, coordinate the loan disbursement with the payment schedule your builder requires. Most builders will ask for a deposit, then payments at stages like after excavation, after plumbing/electrical, after gunite or shell installation, and a final payment at completion. Make sure your financing provides funds accordingly (some loans give a lump sum, others can pay the contractor directly in stages).

Remember, financing increases the total cost of your pool due to interest. Try to choose a plan that balances comfortable monthly payments with the least interest over time. If you can accelerate payments (e.g., pay extra when possible), you’ll cut down the true cost of that pool significantly.

Maximizing Value While Staying on Budget

Building a pool under $100k in California can be a fantastic investment in your lifestyle – and if done thoughtfully, it can add value to your home as well. Here’s how to maximize the value you get out of your pool project:

• Think Long-Term: Saving money is great, but sometimes cutting a certain corner could cost more later. For example, investing in a quality circulation pump and filter system now will save you headaches and money on utilities down the road. Many California utilities offer rebates for variable-speed pumps (as mentioned, $200-$500 rebates in many areas), which can tilt the decision to upgrade. An energy-efficient pump not only might come with a rebate, but it can save you up to 50-70% on electricity costs for pool operation compared to an old single-speed pump​

  ​That adds value in terms of lower ongoing expenses. Similarly, a good pool cover can save water (minimizing evaporation, important in drought-prone CA) and keep heating costs down if you heat the pool. Consider these value-adding components as part of your budget allocation.

• Safety and Legal Requirements: California has strict pool safety laws. Your new pool must have certain barriers (fencing, alarms, etc.). Investing in a proper fence/gate and possibly a pool alarm or safety cover not only keeps everyone safe but also avoids any issues during home inspections if you sell later. It’s an aspect of value because a safe, code-compliant pool is more attractive to future buyers (and to insurance companies). Don’t skimp on safety features – they’re relatively low cost and high benefit.
• Landscaping and Aesthetics: You can enhance the value and enjoyment of your pool area with smart but affordable landscaping. Rather than expensive hardscape everywhere, maybe use grass or gravel sections with stepping stones to complement the pool deck. Plant drought-tolerant plants or buy smaller trees that will grow in. A well-designed yard around the pool makes the whole space feel like a resort. Many of these touches can be done economically (or in phases). The result is a higher perceived value for your property – a buyer sees a beautiful backyard retreat, not just a pool.
• Avoid Over-Building for the Neighborhood: While you want a nice pool, be mindful of your home’s value relative to the neighborhood. If yours is the only house for miles with a rock grotto and a lazy river, you might not get that money back in resale. But a well-built standard pool in a neighborhood where pools are common will generally hold its value. Essentially, aim for a pool that suits your home’s style and area. This way, you maximize the resale value portion of the investment. (In California real estate, a pool can add anywhere from a modest amount up to tens of thousands in home value, depending on location – e.g., in Los Angeles a pool added an average of ~$95k to home value​

  but that’s a high-end case. In more average markets it could be a smaller bump or just a desirability factor.) The goal is your under-$100k pool feels appropriate and appealing to someone looking at homes in your price range.

• Enjoyment ROI: Lastly, remember that value isn’t only monetary. Consider the years of enjoyment, family gatherings, and relaxation you’ll get. That has its own return on investment in quality of life. When you stay on budget, you’ll enjoy the pool more knowing it didn’t put you in financial strain. And a well-maintained pool can be a selling point if and when you choose to move – maybe not dollar-for-dollar return, but possibly the feature that makes your home sell faster in a competitive market.

Final Thoughts

Building a pool for under $100,000 in California is definitely achievable with careful planning. By selecting the right type of pool, managing size and features, and taking advantage of cost-saving measures, you can create your backyard oasis without overspending. Always do your homework: research contractors, check references, and ensure all necessary permits and safety measures are in place. With a clear budget and priorities in mind, you’ll be splashing in your new pool knowing you made savvy choices that maximize value. Here’s to many years of enjoyment ahead – all while having kept the project on time and on budget!