If you’ve been considering installing a pool and are using Google to determine the cost, stop right there. Most of what you’ll find online is either outdated or wildly unrealistic for today’s market.
Pool prices have changed, and if you’re using numbers from five years ago, you’re going to be in for some serious sticker shock.
At Azalea Pools and Outdoor Living, we believe that honest information is the best place to start. Whether you’re just starting to dream or seriously planning, here’s what you need to know to budget for a pool in 2025 without the guesswork.
Outdated Info Will Throw Off Your Whole Pool Budget
Let’s get this out of the way first: national average articles and old videos won’t help you plan your pool today.
Labor, materials, permitting, and supply chain changes have significantly affected the industry in recent years. What used to be a $60,000 project might now cost well over $100,000. You might even find “starter pool” pricing still listed as $40K to $50K online. That’s simply not the case anymore, especially not for concrete pools.
If you’re in North Carolina or the surrounding region, your budget needs to reflect current market conditions, not outdated clickbait. For a look at how these factors influence the design and permitting process, visit our Property Survey Before Building a Pool blog.
Realistic Starting Budget for a Concrete Pool
If you’re planning to build a custom concrete pool, expect a realistic starting point around $150,000 for a basic project. Once you start adding the elements most homeowners want, such as upgraded decking, automation, a spa, or outdoor living features, that number can increase quickly.
Where your investment often goes:
• Pool structure and interior finish
• Decking (travertine or porcelain tile)
• Permitting and inspections
• Retaining walls or grading (if needed)
• Water features
• Equipment and plumbing
• Automation systems and in-pool upgrades
Keep in mind, this does not include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, or extensive landscaping. Those are considered separate projects.
Your Yard Can Change the Price
Even with a solid budget, your property itself can shift the numbers. Steep slopes, difficult access for construction equipment, or poor soil conditions can all increase costs.
Common factors that add expense:
• Sloped or uneven yards requiring retaining walls
• Limited access for construction vehicles
• Rock or clay soil that needs additional work
• Drainage issues or stormwater requirements
• HOA or city permitting restrictions
Two pools with identical layouts can vary by thousands of dollars depending on these site-specific conditions. That is why having an experienced pool builder in Raleigh assess your property early in the process can save you time and frustration.
Talk to a Builder Before You Start Designing
Many homeowners fall in love with a Pinterest-perfect design before ever talking to a builder. The problem is that the dream pool they saved might cost $200,000, while they were only planning to spend $90,000.
You do not need a final design to start budgeting. What you do need is an honest conversation with a builder who will look at your yard, listen to your goals, and help you understand what is realistic for your budget. From there, you can start prioritizing what matters most, such as size versus features, decking versus water elements, and long-term value versus immediate upgrades.
Let’s Talk Real Numbers
Building a pool is a major investment, both financially and emotionally, and the best way to protect that investment is to start with accurate information.
If you are in the Raleigh, Wake Forest, or Cary area and want to explore what a custom pool might look like for your home, reach out to our team. We will walk you through current pricing, timelines, and options so you can make confident, informed decisions every step of the way.
Azalea Pools and Outdoor Living is a trusted pool builder in Raleigh dedicated to helping families create outdoor spaces that bring people together for years to come.