Swimming Pool Installation Costs in Columbus, GA: 2025 Guide

The idea of stepping into your backyard for a refreshing swim on a hot day in Columbus, GA, is very appealing. But then the big question pops into your head: What is the actual pool installation cost that Columbus homeowners can expect this year? Getting a clear answer can feel frustrating because the numbers and pool costs can vary greatly depending on who does the work and where you live in the area. This cost guide will break down the average pool installation cost that Columbus residents should plan for in 2025.

What’s the Real Price Tag for a Pool in Columbus, GA?

First, the price you pay for a new swimming pool depends heavily on the type you choose. It’s the single biggest decision that will shape your budget and the total cost of the project.

An aboveground pool is the more affordable path, with a standard installation and initial price that is much lower. An in-ground swimming pool is a larger investment and a more permanent backyard feature, with projects often having a significantly higher cost. The price range for an in-ground swimming pool is wide, but it can also increase property value.

In-Ground vs. Aboveground Pools: The First Big Choice

Your vision for a backyard oasis and your budget will steer you to either an aboveground or an in-ground pool. Each one comes with its own set of costs and benefits. Thinking through this choice with a local swimming pool contractor is the best place to start your planning.

Aboveground Pools: A Faster, Friendlier Option

Aboveground swimming pools are popular for a reason. They typically cost significantly less and are much quicker to install than an in-ground pool. However, the sticker price isn’t the final price, as installation fees and site prep add to the budget.

In fact, you still need to budget for site preparation, which means getting the ground perfectly level. You have costs for electrical work to run the pump and filter, which a licensed electrician must handle. Many pool owners prefer to add a deck or small patio area, which will increase the cost. The materials for the pool walls are also important.

While they’re often considered smaller pools, they can easily accommodate family fun. Ultimately, these pools create a great space for cooling off without the extensive commitment of an in-ground project.

In-Ground Pools: The Backyard Oasis Investment

An in-ground pool truly transforms your property into a personal retreat and can increase property value. This is usually a permanent home improvement that adds real value. It’s also a serious construction project with a higher price tag that requires a professional pool builder.

The material you pick for your custom in-ground pool is a major cost driver. Here’s a general look at what you can expect from the three main types of in-ground pools:

• Concrete/gunite pools: A concrete pool or gunite pool offers complete design flexibility, but it’s the most expensive. These concrete pools can be built in any shape or size, from a lap pool to a custom infinity pool. Costs typically start around $55,000 and can easily exceed $100,000.*
  
• Fiberglass pools: A fiberglass pool is a factory-molded pool shell dropped into an excavated hole. Fiberglass pools have a smooth finish and are easier to maintain, with the average cost often falling between $45,000 and $85,000.
• Vinyl liner pools: Vinyl liner pools are often the most affordable in-ground option. A vinyl pool features a liner stretched over a metal or plastic frame. Expect costs from around $35,000–$65,000, but remember a liner replacement needs to be done every seven to 10 years.

*The pricing information in this article is based on our own data and industry research.

Key Factors That Affect Your Pool Installation Cost

The type of pool is just the start. Several other things will impact the final bill from your pool contractor. Being aware of these additional features helps you build a realistic budget for your pool.

• Decking and patios: The area around your swimming pool needs to be finished. A simple concrete deck is cheaper, while a custom paver patio or stonework will add considerably more to the pool cost. Thoughtful landscape design can tie the whole space together.
• Features and accessories: Do you want a diving board, a slide, or maybe a hot tub? Things such as a pool heater, automatic pool cover, and underwater lighting add to the experience, but also to the budget.
• Fencing: Local safety rules in Columbus require a fence around a pool. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, proper barriers are essential. This is a big but necessary expense for pool owners.
• Site prep: Excavation for an in-ground pool is a huge cost. If your yard has a steep slope or lots of trees to clear, the price will go up. These pools require extensive work before the pool shell can even be placed.
• Size and shape: A larger pool requires more materials and takes more labor to build. A complex, free-form shape with custom pool design will also cost more than a simple rectangle.

Beyond Installation: Understanding Long-Term Pool Costs

The initial cost is a major factor, but wise pool owners also consider the long-term cost of ownership. These ongoing expenses are a crucial part of the budget. Your total price will vary depending on the type of pool you choose.

Maintenance costs are a regular expense that includes cleaning supplies, chemicals, and testing kits. Concrete/gunite pools may require more chemicals and acid washing than fiberglass pools. Some owners prefer to hire a local swimming service for weekly maintenance, which adds to the recurring cost.

Utility bills will increase from running the pump and filter, and a pool heater will add to gas or electricity usage. Repairs are also inevitable. For pools with a liner, the most significant long-term expense is liner replacement, while concrete pools may need to be resurfaced after 10–15 years.

Can You Install a Pool Yourself?

It’s tempting to think about doing it yourself to save some money. But pool installation is a complicated job where a lot can go wrong. Choosing the correct pool for your space and installing it properly is a job for professionals.

An expert pool builder knows the local building codes in Columbus, inside and out. They can handle unexpected issues, such as hitting rock during excavation, and provide expert guidance throughout the process. Most importantly, a pro-built custom pool comes with a warranty. Hiring an experienced pool contractor is almost always the smarter financial choice for a project of this scale.

Aboveground vs. In-Ground Pools: Which Fits Your Budget?

Getting that dream pool in your backyard is a big step, but a rewarding one. The final pool installation cost Columbus families will pay is tied to the choices they make from the start. From the main types of pools to the style of the paver patio around it, every detail plays a part in the overall price.

Your best next move is to talk to several local pool builders for expert advice. Obtaining multiple quotes will help you understand the price range and determine what feels right for your home and budget. This research will give you a firm handle on the specific pool installation cost for your home in Columbus.