Most homeowners pay about $47,000 on average for a fiberglass in-ground swimming pool, with prices typically ranging from $24,335 to $70,000. A small basic fiberglass pool installation could cost as little as $14,675, while a larger pool with several add-ons may reach a high-end average of $107,400.
Fiberglass in-ground pools are an attractive option due to their low maintenance costs and quick installation. Despite their limits in shape, design, and size, this pricing guide will highlight all the costs associated with installing this pool type, along with add-ons that can help spruce up your backyard.
On this page:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Pool Size
- Other factors that affect cost
- Add-Ons and Extra Services
- Fiberglass Pools Compared to Other Types
- Cost of Fiberglass In-Ground Pools Across the U.S.
- Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
- FAQ About Fiberglass In-Ground Pools
- When to Call a Pool Professional
Average Costs of a Fiberglass In-Ground Pool
| National average | $47,000 |
| Typical range | $24,335 – $70,000 |
| Extreme low-end | $14,675 |
| Extreme high-end | $107,400 |
Installing a fiberglass in-ground pool costs $24,335 to $70,000, with an average price of $47,000. A small-scale project such as a small fiberglass pool with no add-ons can have a low-end cost of $14,675, while a large-sized pool with lighting and other features can have a high-end cost of $107,400. This pool type costs less than concrete or shotcrete, but has fewer customization options.
Other positive attributes for fiberglass in-ground pools include:
- Low maintenance costs
- Quick installation
- Algae resistance
Many factors affect the fiberglass pool installation cost. Factors such as size, type, and pool location can have a significant impact on how much you spend at the end of the project. This pricing guide will help you determine what these factors are along with other related services.
Cost Estimator by Pool Size
The size of your pool is a major factor affecting the total cost of installation. As with any type of pool, increasing the size will raise the price due to high labor and material costs. On average, a fiberglass in-ground pool costs $132 per square foot.
A small 200-square-foot pool can cost about $26,400, which is lower than the national average. A large fiberglass pool that measures 800 square feet will bring the price closer to the high-end, costing homeowners about $105,600.
The table below summarizes the average costs of different pool sizes.
| Pool size | Square feet | Average cost |
| 10 x 20 | 200 | $26,400 |
| 12 x 24 | 288 | $38,016 |
| 15 x 30 | 450 | $59,400 |
| 16 x 32 | 512 | $67,584 |
| 16 x 40 | 640 | $84,480 |
| 18 x 43 | 774 | $102,168 |
| 20 x 40 | 800 | $105,600 |
Other Factors That Affect Cost
The size and design of fiberglass pools are not the only factors affecting the total installation cost. The pool’s location on the property, permits required to complete installation, and other factors incur additional charges.
Such factors include:
- Pool type
- Permit
- Pool location
- Pool maintenance
- Packages
- Increased insurance
- Increased property taxes
Pool type
In-ground pools generally come in various designs or shapes, affecting the overall cost of the fiberglass pool. The type of pool you choose to install will also determine the amount of long-term maintenance costs.
A complex design, such as a lagoon pool, generally costs more than getting a standard pool installed. This is mainly because complex pools with unique designs require more materials to construct, allowing pros to charge more and raising the overall cost of installation.
Permit
Most in-ground pools require a permit before installation, with prices varying between $475 and $1,900. The amount you spend on a permit depends on which city, county, or state you live in.
While pool builders might provide some information, it is generally your responsibility to determine the need for a permit.
Pool location
Before installing your in-ground pool, pool building professionals will need to excavate the land. Excavation can be quite expensive, adding a significant amount to the installation cost.
There are several examples of how your pool site could affect cost:
- If your property’s soil is rocky, it could damage the equipment used by pros to excavate the land. Such occurrences could lead to an increase in the cost of installation.
- If the installation site is in a hard-to-reach area, extra measures could be taken to transport the fiberglass pool shell and excavate the land. These extra measures could add more costs to the bill.
- Clearing the land when an existing landscaping is blocking the site. This could include tree removal costs ranging anywhere from $385 to $1,070 per tree.
- Sloping and grading if the pool site is located on a hill, leading to higher costs.
Pool maintenance
Fiberglass pools are the easiest to maintain. Generally, professional pool maintenance costs between $2,000 and $4,035 annually. Annual fiberglass pool maintenance is cheaper than other pool types, with prices varying between $375 and $600.
Packages
Pool companies sometimes pack pool installation and other related services into one package, allowing you to pay a flat amount rather than paying for each service separately.
Large package plans could seem quite expensive at first, but you end up getting the pool and several outdoor services at reduced rates. These outdoor services or installations can include pool decks or fences.
To learn more about package plans and the services they include, contact your local professional pool builders.
Increased insurance
Fiberglass pools can unfortunately cause swimmers to slip and fall, mainly due to the smooth surface. In fact, in-ground swimming pools can generally increase the risk of guests or family members getting hurt on your property. This type of increased risk on your property will raise your insurance costs.
Increased property taxes
Unlike above-ground pools, in-ground pools are a permanent installation on your property. It is also worth noting that this pool type can increase your home’s resale value, meaning that the added value will lead to an increase in property taxes.
Add-Ons and Extra Services
These additional services can really spruce up your property, particularly your backyard space. However, some of these add-ons can bring the total cost of pool installation closer to the high-end price.
Examples of these extra services include:
Pool decking
Pros typically charge between $3,600 and $15,733 to install a deck around your fiberglass swimming pool, with costs depending on its size and material. Pool decks will benefit your pool area by providing a sturdy foundation to get a tan, enjoy barbecues, and dry off without getting your feet dirty.
Pool fencing
Building a fence around your pool will improve your backyard’s privacy and security. A fence can also prevent children and pets from wandering dangerously close to the fiberglass in-ground pool, lowering the risk of drowning or other harmful outcomes. On average, installing a pool fence costs between $1,350 and $6,985.
Some common fencing materials include:
- Tempered glass
- Aluminum
- Plexiglass
- Chain-link
- Mesh
- Wood
- Ornamental designs
Pool lighting
Installing lights in your fiberglass pool has several advantages:
- Safely get in and out of the pool after dark
- Increase the pool’s visibility in the dark
- Set the mood for a relaxing evening outdoors
The typical price range for pool lighting is approximately $617 to $1,567. Fiber optics are generally priced much higher than LED lights.
Pool tiling
Pool tiles can give your fiberglass in-ground system a fabulous design that can rival any one of your neighbors’ pools. The most common pool tiles are porcelain, natural stone, and glass.
| Tile | Average cost |
| Porcelain | $2 – $50 per square foot |
| Natural stone | $5 – $30 per square foot |
| Glass | $7 – $50 per square foot |
Heater
As outdoor temperatures begin to drop, adding a heater to your fiberglass pool can lengthen the swimming season. A pool heater costs $1,718 to $4,426 on average.
Landscaping
You can revamp your outdoor in-ground pool’s landscape by installing a pathway, planting flower beds, or attaching a pergola.
| Landscaping service | Average Cost |
| Pergola installation | $2,100 – $6,000 |
| Gazebo installation | $5,365 – $9,025 |
| Pathway installation | $8 – $22 per square foot |
| Flower bed planting | $650 – $3,000 per flower bed |
| Tree planting | $25 – $3,000 |
| Sod installation | $0.87 – $1.76 per square foot |
| Retaining wall | $3,600 – $9,500 |
Saltwater conversion
Saltwater pools have become a popular choice. They are gentle on the skin and cheaper to maintain than conventional chlorine pools. Converting your chlorine pool to a saltwater system typically costs between $500 and $2,110.
Fiberglass Pools Compared to Other Pool Types
Fiberglass pools may cost higher than vinyl-liner pools, but their low maintenance and long-term costs may be enough to convince homeowners of selecting this pool type over the others. Concrete or gunite pools are generally more expensive than vinyl-liner and fiberglass pools, with prices ranging between $31,000 and $71,665.
| Material | Typical Range |
| Vinyl-liner | $24,000 – $44,000 |
| Fiberglass | $24,335 – $70,000 |
| Concrete | $31,000 – $71,665 |
Apart from their average installation costs, each pool type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Vinyl-liner
Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Soft to the touch
- Non-porous surface makes it resistant to algae
- Quick to install
Cons:
- High maintenance costs
- Thin; vulnerable to tears
- Least durable
- Steel walls not compatible with saltwater pools
Concrete/gunite
Pros:
- Raises your property’s resale value
- Comes in different shapes, sizes, and depths
- Resistant to moisture and chemicals
- Very durable
Cons:
- Difficult to repair or replace tiles
- High maintenance and resurfacing costs
- Slowest to install (up to 12 weeks)
- Most expensive material
- Not very resistant to algae
Fiberglass
Pros:
- Lowest maintenance and long-term costs
- Algae-resistant
- Quickest to install
- Pool shell requires little to no upkeep
Cons:
- Limits in shape, design, and size
- Crane required to lower shell into place
- Smooth surface makes it easier to slip and fall
- Difficult to recoat
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Installing a fiberglass in-ground swimming pool is not considered a DIY project. Taking on such a back-aching and detail-oriented project increases the risk of hurting yourself or damaging the property. To ensure a safe and precise installation, it is best to call a professional pool builder.
Cost of Fiberglass In-Ground Pools Across the U.S.
All the costs listed above are national averages. The price of your fiberglass pool and the labor costs associated with its construction will vary on a local scale. Pool companies and professional installers usually adjust their prices depending on the local demand for fiberglass systems.
FAQ About Fiberglass In-Ground Pools
Most professional pool builders and installers agree that you should never drain your in-ground pool. The weight of the water helps hold the fiberglass panel in place, and ignoring the professional’s advice could void the pool’s warranty. Pros will handle this complex task only if your pool requires major repairs or needs to go through draining and refilling every 5 to 7 years.
Generally speaking, fiberglass pools are the best choice for cold climates. With properly winterized plumbing, fiberglass pool owners should not worry when harsh weather conditions hit the area. The material itself has a high strength-to-weight ratio, so it’s quite durable and resistant to damage.
Despite their durability and low maintenance requirements, fiberglass pools can still be damaged if not properly taken care of. Imbalanced minerals or chemicals, too much chlorine, or high amounts of metallic objects can cause stains to appear, for example.
When to Hire a Professional Pool Builder
If you wish to build a swimming pool with quick installation, low maintenance costs, and a potential to increase your home’s resale value, then a fiberglass in-ground pool is the best choice for you. With an average cost of $47,000, this type of pool is a worthwhile investment that allows you to spend quality time with your friends and family.
Fiberglass pools may not be as aesthetically pleasing as concrete or gunite pools, but certain designs, such as infinity pools, can be just as stunning.
We’ll connect you to professional pool builders near you who can create your dream fiberglass in-ground pool.
Main Photo Credit: Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Note: PoolGnome may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
