How much does it cost to build a pool in Austin, TX? Cost Factors and Designing a Pool on a Budget
by Jeb Eubank
Pool Sharp Co-Owner
Sales & Design Director
As a pool builder and designer, I get asked about pool costs frequently—by friends, family, strangers who happen to spot me in my company truck, and potential clients. It seems like it should be a simple question, but the reality is more complex.
New pool construction can range from $55,000 to over $200,000. Unfortunately, a range this wide isn't very helpful for homeowners trying to budget for a new pool.
I hope this guide helps you understand the often overlooked factors that influence the cost of building a new concrete (gunite or shotcrete) pool in the Austin area. Knowing what drives costs is crucial to making the most of your investment. If you’re on a budget, I’ll provide tips on how to design and build cost-effectively.
Soil Conditions
Soil conditions in and around the Austin, Texas region are unique compared to other regions of the state. If your property is located west of I-35 in areas such as South Austin, Dripping Springs, Belterra, Wimberley, Bear Creek, Rollingwood, Tarrytown, West Lake Hills, Lakeway, South Manchaca, then our backyard likely has a thin layer of topsoil over limestone bedrock.
Excavating through limestone is time-consuming and requires heavy machinery capable of jackhammering through stone. This cost factor is built into most pool builder’s pricing in our area. You’ll see higher excavation costs in Austin compared to most locations across the state.
While most pools we build contain this necessary rock base, some properties east of I-35 (i.e., East Austin, Onion Creek, Riverside, Buda, Kyle) could likely sit in expansive clay soil. These soils expand when wet and contract when dry, leading to potential ground movement.
If your property is in an area with expansive clay soil, excavation might be easier. However, clay’s expansive nature requires careful management to prevent shifting and cracking in the pool structure. Builders often use stabilization techniques or enhanced engineering solutions to ensure long-term durability.
Of course, you have no power over the soil conditions of your property, but the extra costs incurred because of our geography is something unique to our area.
Slope
Every backyard I visit has some sort of slope but most have a relatively significant slope. Chances of finding primarily level backyard in the Texas Hill Country are few and far between. Your average Hill Country home will have an elevated foundation with a set of stairs and several steps leading down to the backyard.
It may be tempting to build a pool that is level with your existing patio; however, this will increase costs significantly. Structures that are built high above grade will require more forming, reinforcement, concrete, and time. I’ve had people tell me that they think building above ground means we shouldn’t have to excavate as much and that it should offset costs - it’s simply untrue. Any concrete pool structure needs to be anchored down into rock. In general, build a pool as close to your existing grade as possible if you want to decrease costs.
A significant slope can also create the need for retaining walls, which can also drive costs higher. In general, building on the flattest section of your backyard will help keep costs down.
Build this:
Not this:
Design
Design is the primary way in which you will influence your project's price tag. During our consultation and design phase, we’ll discuss the features most important to you. Collaborating during the design process allows us to focus on how to get the most out of your pool at a price that fits within your budget.
Size, Shape, and Depth
Larger pools are obviously more expensive. Be sure to consider not only the size of the swimming pool itself, but also the size of any surrounding pool decking or pool patio areas to be built.
A larger pool also usually requires a larger deck or patio built around the pool.
Complex shapes can add to the overall complexity and cost of a project.
A deeper pool is a larger pool. The deeper the pool, the more excavation, reinforcement, concrete, material, and labor. Consider a maximum pool depth of 4’ to 6’ for a more cost-effective decision.
A plunge pool is a smaller pool with a smaller price tag.
Features and Complexity
Expect a higher price tag if you desire a project with complex shapes, infinity pool edge (aka, negative edge), waterfalls, deck jets, pergolas, slides, fire bowls, outdoor kitchen, or other pool upgrades and features.
Adding a spa (aka, inground hot tub) to your pool design will typically cost around $20,000.
A pool bubbler is a cost-effective pool water feature. A bubbler is a simple water feature that only costs a few hundred dollars. Bubblers will create the ambient moving water sound that many pool owners enjoy and help keep your pool cooler in the heat of summer.
Factor in the cost of a pool deck or pool patio, if necessary
A pool deck or pool patio is the area directly adjacent to your pool, giving you access and ease of enjoyment. Concrete pool decks can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to $20,000+. Pool decks that are simple and smaller in size will naturally cost less. Large decks with stairs, step lighting, stamped overlays or stone overlays can increase costs significantly.
Again, the further your pool deck sits out of the ground and elevated above grade, the higher the cost.
Composite decking will typically cost more than a concrete deck or patio.
Consider the costs for any handrails for stairs or railing that could be needed if your patio is elevated.
My number one tip for anyone designing a pool on a budget is to keep it simple.
Equipment
Pool equipment typically costs anywhere between $7,000-$15,000. Costs vary mainly based on whether you decide to heat your pool. Heating your pool not only requires a heater added to your equipment set (~$4,000), but also requires running a gas line from your house’s meter to the pool equipment set (typically ~$3,500).
If you build a spa, then obviously a heater is a must. Luckily, the swim season here in Austin and surrounding Texas Hill Country can run from March-November, so a pool heater is usually not a necessity.
Other Cost Drivers
Permit costs typically add anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars to your overall project costs, depending on your property’s jurisdiction. If you live within the City of Austin, expect permitting costs to be on the high end, especially if you have specific restrictions on your property such as protected trees.
Property accessibility can also factor in. Backyards that have tight access or are difficult to reach could incur higher labor and equipment costs.
So… How much Does It Cost To Build A Pool In Austin, TX?
There’s no firm answer without consulting a local Austin pool builder. The cost to build a pool in Austin depends on the slope of your property, pool size, deck/patio size, equipment required, and upgrades and features you desire. A small plunge pool to a mid-size pool can cost between $65,000 and $85,000. Projects that include pool decking or pool patios and a few upgrades like a spa or waterfall typically range from $85,000 to $130,000. If you opt for all the bells and whistles, you’re likely to spend upwards of $150,000+.
Building a pool is a significant investment, but understanding the factors that influence costs can help you make informed decisions. At Pool Sharp, we collaborate with you during the consultation and design phase to create a pool that meets your needs and fits your budget. Contact us today to start planning your dream pool!