Pool prices by type and size
| Type | Small (about 12x24) | Medium (about 15x30) | Large (16x36 and up) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $50,000–75,000 | $62,000–92,000 | $75,000–115,000 |
| Vinyl liner | $38,000–60,000 | $50,000–78,000 | $62,000–95,000 |
| Gunite / concrete | $58,000–85,000 | $72,000–110,000 | $90,000–140,000 |
Our estimates for the pool, pump and filter, standard coping and start-up, built from 2025–2026 cost guides (This Old House, River Pools, Fixr) and checked against Lake Charles permit values. Checked November 2026. Deck, fence, permits and extras are separate. Your builder prices your yard.
The large row is our stretch of the guides' 16x32 figures. For a local check: custom gunite permits pulled by Sabine Pools in Lake Charles and Lafayette Parish in 2022–23 were valued at about $72,000–118,000 (BuildZoom).
Extras people add here
| Extra | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Attached spa (spillover) | $12,000–30,000 (estimate) | Cheapest when built with the pool, not added later |
| Concrete deck, 600–800 sq ft | $5,000–15,000 | Broom finish is cheapest; stamped or pavers cost more (Fixr) |
| Pool fence and self-closing gate | $3,000–10,000 | Aluminum runs $15–35 a foot installed (Fixr) |
| Screen enclosure | $12,000–30,000 (estimate) | Fixr's typical range is $10,000–30,000 (Fixr); Gulf wind loads push it up |
| Heater or heat pump, wired | $4,000–8,000 (estimate) | Units run $2,000–4,500 before the 240V circuit (River Pools) |
| Saltwater system | $1,500–3,000 | This Old House: $1,100–2,200 (TOH) |
| Permits and elevation survey | $500–1,800 (estimate) | Fees are often based on job value |
| Wet lot: pumping the dig | $1,000–5,000 (estimate) | Sump pit or well points; confirmed when they dig |
What pushes a Lake Charles price up
- Groundwater. Many lots here are wet within a foot or two in winter and spring (USDA), so the hole is pumped while the shell goes in.
- The dirt. A pool makes a lot of spoil. On flat, slow-draining ground it's often hauled away instead of spread.
- Wind. Enclosures and big shade structures have to be designed for hurricane winds.
- Access. A narrow side yard means smaller machines and more hand work.
Paying for it
Unsecured pool loans usually run 2–7 years at 6–36% APR, depending on credit. Home equity loans and HELOCs cost less and run longer, but they're secured by your house (NerdWallet). Many builders work with a lender. There are no pool rebates, so ignore any site that promises one.
Comparing two quotes
- Same size, depth and finish on both
- Who handles water in the dig, and is pumping included?
- Hydrostatic relief valve in the main drain
- What's in: deck square footage, coping, equipment brand, electrical run, permits, cleanup, start-up
- License number, payment schedule and warranty in writing
Sources & further reading
- This Old House: inground pool cost (updated Jun 2025). Prices by type and size; add-ons
- River Pools: what a fiberglass pool really costs (Dec 2025). Base package, patio, heat pump, salt
- River Pools: cost by pool type (2022). Turnkey ranges; concrete in the South
- BuildZoom: Sabine Pools permits, 2022–23. Local gunite permit values
- Fixr: pool enclosure, fence and deck costs (Jan 2025). Add-on prices
Editorial note: General planning information, not engineering or legal advice. Prices are estimates; confirm current rules with your local officials and a qualified pro.