Many Arizonans rely on swimming pools, waterparks, and lakes to find reprieve from our famously hot summers. Outdoor activities can be few and far between with the season in full swing, so swimming becomes an obvious choice for entertainment and exercise. For some, especially those of us living in Phoenix, owning an in-ground pool is a huge life goal and part of our American dream. That said, there’s a lot to know before diving in.
The cost of building a pool is dictated by a number of factors. Most reputable builders will offer free consultations in order to educate the customer on these very topics. It is incredibly important to take advantage of these services when pricing your own in-ground pool.
On average, a basic professionally built in-ground pool will run about $20,000-$30,000. However, with certain features, many Phoenix homeowners spend up to $80,000. The price is dependent on quality of materials used, options, and features. These could include pool lighting, upgraded tiles, diving boards, slides, and more. Pools at the top end of the spectrum will possess more extravagant features, such as waterfalls, private grottos, elevated hot tubs, etc. Any reputable builder will assist you in maximizing your budget and getting the most out of your purchase.
Taking care of your pool is incredibly important to protecting your investment. There are countless resources and instructions available to turn any homeowner into a bonafide pool technician. For the DIY crowd, basic upkeep will run between $500 and $750 per year, but repairs and utilities may increase the annual cost. With the price of materials, learning, and time involved, many homeowners find value in hiring professionals to maintain the pool year-round. This service will generally run between $80-$150 per month, depending on the company and services included. Fortunately, our arid climate means we don’t need to winterize our pools.
There are additional costs to consider when building your in-ground pool. The average annual cost of running a pool pump comes to $300, while running a heater can cost $125-$150 per month. Additionally, the cost of filling your in-ground pool is much lower than many people think. With the exception of large, resort-style pools, in-ground pools will cost under $100 to fill with water. These points are worth discussing when consulting with your potential builder.
Many individuals moving to Phoenix are surprised to find that it’s easier to find a home with an in-ground pool vs. without. 7 out 10 homes above $300,000 come with a pool and 8 out of 10 homes above $500,000 come with a pool.
A personal in-ground pool can provide countless hours of fun and exercise while also increasing the desirability and value of your property. Desert living is a unique challenge, but having our own personal oases allow us to make the most of it.
