How Much Does a Pool Cost in Australia?

A fibreglass inground pool typically costs $25,000 to $75,000 installed in Australia, and a concrete pool $35,000 to $100,000. Above-ground pools start around $6,500. Then add fencing, landscaping and heating, plus $3,000 to $5,000 a year to run it. The pool is often only part of the bill.

Pool prices at a glance

Concrete (inground): Typical installed price: $35,000 to $100,000. Good to know: Any shape or size, longest build time.
Fibreglass (inground): Typical installed price: $25,000 to $75,000. Good to know: Faster install, set shapes and sizes.
Plunge pool: Typical installed price: $20,000 to $25,000. Good to know: Small footprint, suits courtyards.
Lap pool (15 m x 3 m): Typical installed price: $15,000 to $20,000. Good to know: Long and narrow, built for swimming.
Infinity edge: Typical installed price: $25,000 to $35,000+. Good to know: Needs a sloping site, often costs far more.
Above ground: Typical installed price: $6,500 to $25,000. Good to know: Cheapest way in, can be moved.
Vinyl liner (replacement liner only): Typical installed price: $3,500 to $5,000. Good to know: Liners wear out and need replacing.

Prices are typical ranges from Oneflare's pool cost guide, based on a 6 m x 12 m pool unless noted. Your site, soil and access can change the price a lot, so get at least three quotes.

The extras that add up

Pool fencing: $200 to $600 per metre
Decking: $3,000 to $12,000
Coping: $1,800 to $3,000
Tiles: $20 to $100 per m²
Pool cover: $1,400 to $4,000
Pump: $650 to $1,000
Electric heat pump: $1,500 to $3,000
Robotic or suction vacuum: $400 to $2,000

Council approval, excavation and landscaping also add to the cost, and vary a lot by site. A sloping block or rocky soil can add thousands to excavation alone.

Fencing isn't optional. Every state requires a compliant pool safety barrier, and many councils inspect it. Budget for it from day one.

How much does a pool cost to run?

Allow $3,000 to $5,000 a year for cleaning, chemicals, electricity and water, or about $80 to $150 a month for chemicals and basic servicing alone. Heating and a pump running for hours each day are the biggest drivers.

Ways to cut running costs:

Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation and heat loss.
Choose a variable-speed pump, which uses less power than a single-speed pump.
Go solar for heating if your roof suits it.
Test the water weekly so small chemical fixes don't become big ones.

Concrete or fibreglass?

Upfront cost: Concrete: Higher. Fibreglass: Lower.
Design: Concrete: Any shape or size. Fibreglass: Pre-made shells.
Build time: Concrete: Often 2 to 3 months. Fibreglass: Often a few weeks.
Upkeep: Concrete: Needs resurfacing every 10 to 15 years. Fibreglass: Smooth surface, fewer chemicals.

How to budget for a pool

Get three itemised quotes, each covering excavation, fencing, landscaping and approvals.
Add 10% to 15% for surprises, like rock in the ground or extra retaining walls.
Add a year of running costs to your budget, so the first summer isn't a shock.
Build in stages if you need to, for example the pool and fence first, landscaping later.

Paying for a pool

Most people pay for a new inground pool with savings or by refinancing their home loan, because the total is usually well above $20,000. Talk to your lender or a broker about what suits you.

For smaller pool costs, like a new pump, heater, fence repairs or an above-ground pool, a personal loan can help if the repayments fit your budget. Jingle's home improvement loans range from $500 to $10,000 with fixed repayments and no early repayment fees. Approval is not guaranteed.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an inground pool cost in Australia?

Usually $25,000 to $75,000 for fibreglass and $35,000 to $100,000 for concrete, before fencing, landscaping and heating.

What's the cheapest type of pool?

An above-ground pool, from about $6,500 installed. Plunge pools are the cheapest inground option for small spaces.

How much does it cost to maintain a pool each year?

Around $3,000 to $5,000 a year for cleaning, chemicals, electricity and water.

Does a pool need council approval?

Yes, in most cases. Approval rules and fees vary by council, and every pool needs a compliant safety barrier.

Does a pool add value to a house?

It depends on the area and the buyer. In some suburbs a pool helps a sale, while in others buyers see it as upkeep, so don't count on getting your money back.