Planning
Budgeting for your Swimming Pool Project: A Detailed Breakdown
What Does a Complete Pool Project Really Cost?
Story Highlights
For many homeowners, the idea of building a pool brings visions of a beautiful backyard retreat where family and friends can gather. But while most people understand that creating this oasis involves a significant investment, the actual cost of a complete pool project often comes as a surprise. At Outdoor Dreams, we believe in full transparency so our clients can make informed decisions without unexpected expenses down the line.
A basic, swim-ready pool project typically starts in the $175,000–$225,000 range, which includes essential components like the pool structure, decking, equipment, and necessary utilities. However, most of our projects go beyond the basics, with designs that incorporate features such as custom masonry, upgraded finishes, and integrated outdoor living spaces. For these more comprehensive projects, costs usually begin between $250,000 and $350,000.
In this guide, we’ll break down the various elements that contribute to the total cost of a pool project—from structural engineering to landscaping—so you can see how each part contributes to creating a stunning, long-lasting pool environment.
What do you mean by "Complete" pool project?
What's included...
At Outdoor Dreams, our definition of a "complete" pool project typically assumes around 11 different costs, including:
Pool Structure (Fiberglass or Custom Gunite & Plaster)
Pool Coping
Pool Tile
Pool Equipment, Lighting, & Automation
Fence or Automatic Pool Cover
Utilities (Electrical and/or Gas)
Pool Startup & Chemicals
Pool Decking
Drainage & Lawn Repair
Landscaping, Irrigation, & Outdoor Lighting
Site Work (Trenching, Grading, Soil Removal, Etc.)
Check out this...
Proposed Budget
This budget provides a great example for a project featuring a medium-to-large fiberglass or gunite swimming pool.
Component | price range |
|---|---|
Pool Structure | $85,000 - $95,000 |
Pool Tile | $8,000-$9,500 |
Pool Coping | $6,500 - $10,000 |
Pool Equipment, Lighting & Automation | $20,000 - $27,000 |
Fence or Automatic Pool Cover | $10,000 - $25,000 |
Utilities (Electrical & Gas) | $20,000 - $25,000 |
Pool Startup & Chemicals | $500 - $4,500 |
Pool Decking (500-1000 square feet) | $15,000 - $40,000 |
Drainage & Lawn Repair | $3,500 - $5,000 |
Landscaping, Irrigation, & Outdoor Lighting | $0 - $20,000 |
Site Work | $14,000 - 17,000 |
TOTAL | $182,500 - $278,000 |
Looking for more than just a swimming pool?
Adding Features
To increase the use of the space, many homeowners consider adding more features to the project scope. The budgeting below illustrates how additional features add to the base pool project outlined above.
COMPONENT | PRICE RANGE |
|---|---|
Base Pool Project (from above) | $182,500 - $278,000 |
Outdoor Kitchen | $25,000 - $55,000 |
Cover Structure (Pergola --> Pavilion) | $10,000 - $35,000 |
Fire Feature (Fire Pit --> Fireplace) | $4,500 - $25,000 |
Water Feature | $8,500 - $25,000 |
Retaining or Sitting Walls | $10,000 - $30,000 |
Additional Patio Space (500-1000 square feet) | $15,000 - $40,000 |
Additional Landscaping & Outdoor Lighting | $10,000 - $20,000 |
Additional Site Work & Drainage | $2,500 - $5,000 |
TOTAL | $268,000 - $513,000 |
Please Note: All prices presented on this page are provided as examples for budgeting purposes and not a guarantee. Final pricing for every project is based on site conditions, design choices, and material selections.
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Cascading Curves - A Case Study
Cascading Curves - A Case Study
This homeowner approached Outdoor Dreams while relocating from Hawaii into their newly built custom home. With a fresh start in Virginia, they envisioned a poolscape that would feel both welcoming and grounded—a space that blended seamlessly with the architecture of their home while also reflecting the rustic, natural warmth of the Midwest.
Sculpting Fire - Custom Curved Fire Features
Sculpting Fire - Custom Curved Fire Features
When it comes to building a luxury poolscape, a swimming pool is just the beginning. The real magic happens in the details—the elements that transform a backyard into an unforgettable retreat. For the Cascading Curves Project, that magic came in the form of two fully customized, curve-driven fire features that now anchor the space with drama, warmth, and unmistakable personality.