How Much Does it Cost to Add a Pool to a Custom Home Build?

December 22, 2025

Adding a pool to a custom build does wonders for your property value and your overall enjoyment of your home. Despite all the perks of adding this amenity, it is a major expense, and one that we can factor into the cost of the entire new home build.

How much it costs to add a pool to a custom build mostly depends on the type of pool you choose to install. Concrete pools are the most expensive, running you up to $120,000 or more, but they will also last much longer. Vinyl liner pools are the cheapest option, but they still cost tens of thousands of dollars.

At Blythe Custom Homes, we install our own custom concrete pools for our clients during the build process. And we also can add travertine pavers, stamped concrete sidewalks/patios, and other poolside/patio amenities. Many clients like to include outdoor kitchens near the pool, as well.

Begin planning your custom build with us by going to Blythe Custom Homes’ website today.

How Much Do Specific Pools Cost to Add to a Custom Build?

Different pools cost different amounts, both in initial investment and long-term maintenance. Cost is typically calculated by square foot, making size a huge determining factor. We’ll cover all the different types of pools there are and the cost ranges, just for reference.

Concrete

Concrete pools require the biggest upfront investment, but they also last the longest out of all pool types. Concrete pools are versatile and customizable, with unique footprints that range from $50,000 to $120,000, depending on the type of outdoor oasis you want to create. These are the types of pools our clients prefer, hands down.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are a very popular choice and provide for relatively easy installation compared to pouring concrete. Fiberglass pools may add up to $60,000 to the total cost of a custom build, and their easy maintenance makes this a good option all around. That’s the average cost of pool construction and installation, not necessarily including decking and landscaping.

Vinyl Liner

Pools with vinyl liners are the least expensive in-ground pools to add to a custom build, ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, depending on specifics. Vinyl liners need to be replaced every seven to 15 years, depending on water chemistry, sun and weather exposure, and maintenance.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Adding a Pool to a Custom Build?

In addition to the type of pool you install, more factors influence the cost of adding a pool to your new custom build.

Site Work

Site work is one of the biggest costs associated with adding a pool. Soil must be excavated and moved, concrete must be laid, or the pool’s fiberglass shell must be installed, and all of this takes time and careful preparation. You may even have to remove trees, add retaining walls, and level soil for pool installation.

Pool Features

The pool’s specific features also influence price. Adding waterfalls, lighting, sun decks, and “beach entry” or walk-in pool features can enhance the overall ambiance of this outdoor space, making it more appealing to future buyers and further boosting property value. Many of our clients love to add waterfall or fountain features, tanning decks, and beautiful lighting for nighttime.

Pool Size

Smaller pools are less expensive, even if they are the most durable type: concrete. An “empty nester” pool is on the smaller side, but still large enough for owners to enjoy and entertain with. Larger pools require more planning, site preparation, labor, and building materials, all of which cost more.

Decking and Fencing

It’s also important to factor in the costs of everything surrounding the pool, including decking, fencing, and landscaping. The finished product should be just that, finished, so you don’t have ongoing work that needs to be done after moving into your custom build. Fencing is a mandatory safety feature, and especially important for families with young children. And also, most homeowner’s insurance requires secure fencing around pools.

Permits

Adding a pool to a property is a massive undertaking that requires numerous permits and zoning approvals. Permits often cost hundreds of dollars, and homeowners risk incurring thousands in fines for performing unpermitted work. Electricity, plumbing, fencing, and pool-specific permits are generally required.

FAQs About the Cost of Adding a Pool to a Custom Build

Is Adding a Pool to a Custom Build Worth the Cost?

Adding a pool to a custom build is worth it if you have the budget for it, live in a warmer climate like South Carolina, enjoy entertaining, or personally love swimming and lounging in the sunshine.

What Are the Biggest Costs of Adding a Pool to a Custom Build?

The highest costs of adding a pool to a custom build are typically excavation, labor, plumbing and electrical work, and decking and fencing, which we can factor into your budget from the get-go.

What Are the Hidden Costs of Adding a Pool to a Custom Build?

Some hidden costs of adding a pool to a custom build include landscaping, maintenance, utilities, pool covers, and winterization.

What is the ROI on Adding a Pool to a Custom Build?

Adding a pool to a custom build can yield an ROI of 50% or more in warmer climates like South Carolina, depending on the house’s location, pool size, and type.

What is the Range in Costs of Adding a Pool to a Custom Build?

The possible range for adding a pool to a custom build is $25,000 to $120,000 or more, largely dependent on whether you choose a concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl-lined pool.

How Much Can I Customize the Pool I Add to My Custom Build?

You can customize your pool just as you would your new home and add all the unique features and elements you want to create the perfect oasis in your backyard.

When Should I Decide Whether to Add a Pool to My Custom Build?

You should decide whether to include a pool in your new build very early in the process, as this will have a significant impact on your overall residential construction budget. Pool installation also takes a good amount of time, and we can factor that into the total construction schedule so you can better estimate your move-in date.