How Much Does It cost to build a Pool with a luxury look in 2026?

Have you ever imagined yourself swimming in your own luxury swimming pool on a hot summer night under dim LED lights, with the decking of marble around, maybe even a waterfall or a spa section? If so, then you are not the only one. But before you let the vibes take over, you need to inquire: What is the price of this dream going to be in 2026?

Let’s unpack it, with real‑world numbers, what’s possible, and smart budgeting tips from the team at ConstructEm (think of us as your trusted residential & commercial construction cost estimator in the USA

What “Luxury Pool” Even Means — And Why It’s Costlier

“Luxury pool” isn’t just a deeper hole with water. A luxury pool generally consists of the following: top-notch materials (Gunite/concrete, high-end tile or stone finishes), decking or patio with decorative pavers or stamped concrete, built-in spa/hot tub or waterfall features, fancy lighting or even automation (heating, pumps, filters), landscaping around the pool, and sometimes a pool house or pergola. Naturally, more materials, more work, more cost.

As a construction estimator in the USA, ConstructEm always tells clients: the price tag depends heavily on choices. More customization, more bells and whistles = more money.

What You’ll Pay (2025–2026 Prices as Reference)

Inground pools differ a lot in price; a number of factors, such as their size, materials, and the extent of luxury that you want, dictate the price of pools. Here’s a rough estimate of what to expect.

The cost is influenced by numerous factors such as the pool’s size and shape, the choice of vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete as the material, the work needed for site preparation, plumbing, electrical, heating, filtration, decking, landscaping, lights, and any additional features such as hot tub, a waterfall, smart features, or a pool house.

Most pools made in 2025, on average, have prices from $44,500 to $87,500, however, really custom luxury pools do not have a limit and can go up to $140,000 or more with no problem at all. If you are considering a totally custom concrete pool with decking, lighting, a spa, and landscaping, it’s safe to set aside $100,000 to $200,000.

 What Drives the Cost Up (or down) — Breaking It Down

What increases cost

1. Material choice: Concrete/Gunite is more expensive than vinyl or fiberglass but stays longer and has a better look.
2. Size and depth: Larger, deeper pools consume more concrete, more digging, more water, more plumbing, and more decking.
3. Custom design & shape: Non-standard forms, infinity edges, spa/hot tubs, built-in seating, water features, steps, tanning ledges, etc.
4. Decking & landscaping: Paver decks, decorative stamped concrete, stone patios, landscaping, privacy walls/fences; all together cost thousands.
5. Equipment & systems: Pumps, heaters, automation, filtration, lighting, safety covers; every additional system brings more expense.

What can help contain costs?

• Choosing simpler materials (like vinyl or basic fiberglass) — but at the cost of longevity or luxury feel.
• Keeping the pool size moderate — smaller pools, smaller budget.
• Doing phased upgrades (e.g., build the pool first, landscaping later) so you spread the cost over time.
• Getting multiple quotes — costs vary by region, contractor availability, local permit fees, soil type etc.

What It Looks Like in Different States

If you build in a state like Florida (where many luxury pools exist), recent data shows that mid‑range inground pools with decent materials cost roughly $48,000 – $72,000.

For large or high‑end pools (custom finishes, large deck/patio, maybe a spa), you might see prices on the higher end of the national range (toward $100,000+), especially if you add a pool house, detailed landscaping, or hurricane‑resistant construction in some zones.

So if you live in FL and want that “luxury backyard resort” vibe, then definitely plan for $70,000 to $150,000+, depending on ambitions.

Why Using a Professional Residential Construction Cost Estimator in the  USA Matters?

At ConstructEm, we believe a professional estimator is key because:

• Many pools quote only cover the shell and not decking, electrical, landscaping, permits, or add-ons. That surprises many homeowners.
• We help forecast hidden costs, which include permits, inspections, soil condition, excavation challenges, utilities relocation, deck, drainage, etc.
• For luxury pools especially, there are so many choices (materials, depth, shape, spa, waterfall, automation), a detailed estimate helps avoid budget overruns.
• We can tailor estimates for residential or commercial depending on property type, size, and need.

If you ask, “How much will this cost me with these finishes and site conditions?”, a professional construction estimators provides realistic budget projections, not just vague ranges.

 Final Thoughts — Is a Luxury Pool Worth It?

If you’re dreaming of a backyard oasis with a luxe inground pool and spa, elegant finishes, decking, soft lighting, and maybe a pool house, make no mistake: it’s a significant investment.

But with smart planning, realistic budgeting, and a thorough estimate from a trustworthy residential construction cost estimator USA like ConstructEm, it can become a much more manageable project.

FAQs

Which companies offer affordable pool installation quotes nearby?

Request at least 3–5 local licensed pool builders and compare detailed quotes, including materials, labor, decking, and landscaping costs.

How much does it cost to build an inground pool in the US?

A standard inground pool in 2026 typically costs between $30,000 and $90,000, depending on size, materials, and additional features.

What additional expenses should I consider when budgeting for a pool?

Include permits, excavation, plumbing, electrical, decking, landscaping, lighting, pool automation, chemicals, and potential utility cost increases in your budget.

How much does it cost to build a pool house?

A basic pool house can cost $20,000–$50,000, while a full guest suite with utilities easily reaches $60,000–$120,000.

How much does it cost to build a pool in FL?

In Florida, mid-range inground pools cost $48,000–$72,000, while luxury pools with spa, landscaping, and premium finishes may exceed $150,000.

What is the average cost of an inground pool?

Nationally, homeowners pay roughly $45,000–$66,000 for a standard inground pool without luxury extras or extensive landscaping.

Can I get an inground pool for $40,000?

Yes, if you choose a smaller pool, basic materials like fiberglass or vinyl, and minimal features, it can fit a $40,000 budget.