How Much Does a Small Inground Pool Cost?

When considering adding an  inground pool to a smaller backyard, one of the first questions that likely comes to mind is, “How much does a small inground pool cost?” After all, you want to ensure your dream pool fits both your space and budget. Let’s break down small  inground pool costs so you can make an informed decision that brings your vision to life without breaking the bank.

Why Consider a Small Inground Pool?

Forget “go big or go home.” You may be right at home with a small inground pool. Small pools are an ideal choice for many homeowners for various reasons: perhaps you have a small family, are a light user who travels frequently, or have limited backyard space and want to make the most of it with a  creative design. You also might simply prefer the  lower maintenance of a smaller pool.

Small pools are flexible, easy to incorporate into an array of backyard landscapes, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They do not accommodate large crowds and are typically not as deep. You should note that this doesn’t mean a workout is out of the question. Some small pools are perfect for a rope and jet swim system, and you can get a small flat-bottomed pool for water aerobics. 

 How Much Does a Small Inground Vinyl Liner Pool Cost?

HomeGuide’s 2024 pricing guide states that vinyl liner pools average $123 per square foot. A small pool, between 200 and 400 square feet, would average $24,600 to $49,200. It’s important to remember that this price refers to only the cost of installation and does not factor in variables such as features, design, and exact size. Nor does it consider the lifetime costs associated with vinyl liner pools, such as liner replacements, chemical usage, cleaning, electricity, and more.

How Much Does a Small Inground Gunite (Concrete) Pool Cost?

As with vinyl liner pools, pricing will vary by factors, including features, design complexity, and the actual pool size. However, a smaller gunite pool requires less material to build, lowering the overall price. According to the renovation calculator site,  renotag, gunite pools average $175 per square foot, giving small gunite pools an average cost between $35,000 and $70,000 for a 200 to 400-square-foot pool. As with any inground pool, concrete pools also have lifetime maintenance costs you must consider on top of this initial cost, such as acid washing, replastering, chemical usage, cleaning, electricity, etc.

How Much Does a Small Inground Fiberglass Pool Cost?

Fiberglass inground pools are often estimated by calculating linear feet. Fiberglass pools average initial starting costs run approximately  $2K per linear foot. For example,  our Sea Turtle design, measuring 19.5′ long, that equates to $39000, and for our 27′ 5.5″ L’il Bob, the estimate would be $55K based on the formula. This estimate doesn’t include things like decking, spa add-ons, and maintenance. Unlike the other inground pool types, fiberglass pools are prefabricated in a controlled environment and delivered to your yard for installation. While you don’t have the customization options you would have in a vinyl liner or gunite pool, you don’t have installation complexities or extra expense for custom-added features as they are already incorporated into the design you choose. 

It’s important to note that though fiberglass pools require less maintenance than the other inground pool types, it is a misconception that they require little to no maintenance. Any inground pool requires cautious care to keep it in top shape, so remember to include regular maintenance costs when budgeting for a fiberglass pool. Fiberglass pool maintenance costs include cleanings, chemical usage, electricity, etc. 

What are Some Small Fiberglass Pool Designs?

We’re glad you asked. We are a fiberglass pool manufacturer, and we like sharing options. Here are some descriptions and images of our fiberglass pool designs. If you see one you like, we can connect you with an independent pool installer in your area for a  design consultation.

Despite being a bit under 20 feet in length, the  Sea Turtle is giant on fun. It’s a medium-depth pool with a rectangular design with bench seating flanking the entry steps. It’s a fantastic choice for the homeowner who wants to enjoy the pool, have a good conversation, and relax in comfort. The 4’6” flat-bottom depth throughout maximizes the game-playing and socializing potential of Sea Turtle so that you can take your (small) party into the pool. The elongated benches make a cozy spot to sit and visit. Sea Turtle is a swimming jet system-ready, so if you want to turn your backyard oasis into your own personal swim spa and get some great exercise, Sea Turtle is a great small pool.

Sun Day’s flirty curves will beckon you to come outside and play. The 12-inch deep sun shelf gives you a luxurious spot for soaking your cares while the adventurers in your group can swim laps and play games in the large open area.

Aspen gives you the best of both worlds–plenty of room to swim and play and a dreamy, spacious tanning ledge to unwind. The 12-inch-deep tanning ledge has plenty of room for two ledge loungers, leaving space for little ones to splash on the ledge next to you. The courtesy ledge around the deep end gives you a sweet spot to stand with water up to your shoulders while socializing. 

 Titus is a freeform-shaped pool, and its curvy shape adds a playful element to your backyard oasis. Titus is ideal for water aerobics, offering a fantastic alternative to the stuffy gym on a hot summer day. And the beverage bench will soon become your favorite post-workout spot to reward yourself and take a well-deserved moment to relax.

Answers To Your Cost Questions

The figures we’ve shared are simply ballpark estimates. Book  a design consultation with a pool builder for the most accurate estimate. They will be most familiar with all the factors affecting prices in your location. Or, if you’re still in the earlier stages of your research, consider trying a pool cost calculator that considers more of the items you’re looking for in a pool and gives you a ballpark range. Try the free Thursday Pools  pool cost calculator if you are interested in our fiberglass pools.