How much does an inground pool cost in Canada?
The average cost of installing an inground swimming pool in Canada ranges between $60,000 and $120,000, depending on materials, size, depth, terrain, and location. For small pools, prices may start at $45,000, while large pool projects with landscaping, decking, and additional features like hot tubs or fire pits can climb well beyond $150,000. Keep in mind, this doesn’t include utility bill increases or ongoing maintenance costs, which will greatly affect long-term expenses.
Here’s a quick snapshot of national averages for 2025:
| Pool Type | Starting Cost | Average Cost | Max Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Liner Pool | $45,000 | $60,000 | $85,000 |
| Fiberglass Pool | $55,000 | $80,000 | $110,000 |
| Concrete Pool | $70,000 | $100,000 | $150,000+ |
These estimates include pool install, standard pool decking, automatic pool cover, and basic water features, but costs may rise with specialized equipment or if sewer or electrical lines need relocation.
Inground Pool Cost Per Square Foot
When it comes to determining how pool size impacts the final cost, it’s all about cost per square foot. In 2025, Canadian pool installation costs range from $175 to $300 per square foot, depending on pool materials and location-specific labor costs.
For instance, a 12×24 foot vinyl liner pool might cost around $50,000, while a 20×40 foot concrete pool can run you well over $120,000. Fiberglass pools sit comfortably in between, with quicker installations and more predictable budgets. The cost per square foot includes materials, excavation, plumbing, and a basic finish — but doesn’t cover luxury water features or pool decking upgrades.
Homeowners in colder provinces often ask about deeper pools, but more excavation, stronger structure, and deeper equipment add to the price. On top of that, installing in high water table areas — such as in parts of Southern Ontario or near lakes — can trigger the need for drainage systems and sump pumps.
Here’s a breakdown of average per-square-foot costs:
- Vinyl pools: $175–$225/sq ft
- Fibreglass pools: $200–$275/sq ft
- Concrete pools: $250–$300+/sq ft
As fence builders and fence contractors know, even a 2-foot adjustment in dimensions can mean major shifts in structure, permits, and overall cost. Make sure your pool project accounts for these margins early in the planning process.
Pool Type and Materials Cost — Vinyl, Fiberglass, or Concrete?
The pool materials you choose are one of the biggest factors driving your pool costs. Each type comes with trade-offs in durability, maintenance, and price.
Vinyl Liner Pools: Budget-Friendly Flexibility
Vinyl liner pools are the most budget-conscious option for Canadian homeowners, especially in regions with freeze-thaw cycles. Their flexible design allows for customization, and they typically cost between $45,000 and $75,000. However, liners may need replacement every 8–12 years, with costs around $4,000–$7,000 per replacement.
Fiberglass Pools: Low Maintenance, Mid-Range Cost
Fibreglass pools are popular for their quick installs and smooth surfaces. They’re pre-molded, so design options are limited, but they’re durable and easy to clean. Expect to pay $55,000–$95,000 on average. These are great for families who want lower regular maintenance demands and fewer issues with pool chemicals.
Concrete Pools: Custom, Durable, Premium
A concrete pool can take months to build but offers maximum flexibility for pool design and depth. Ideal for homeowners creating a true backyard oasis, they also come with a higher price tag, typically $75,000–$150,000+, depending on location and complexity.
When clients ask us which to choose, we look at how they plan to use the pool, their budget, and how much time they want to spend on maintenance. The pool installer you choose should walk you through all three options in detail and explain how the materials react to local regulations and weather conditions.
Pool Size and Depth Cost
Many homeowners in the GTA and surrounding areas begin with a vision of a backyard oasis, but quickly realize that pool size and depth are some of the most significant cost drivers. Whether you’re planning a lap pool, a splash zone for the kids, or a multi-level entertainment hub with a hot tub, the dimensions affect everything — from permit requirements to how much chlorine or salt you’ll need to add every month.
Here’s a breakdown of estimated pool installation costs based on standard pool sizes and depths:
| Pool Size (ft) | Depth | Material Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 x 20 | 4–5 ft flat | Vinyl liner pool | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| 12 x 24 | 4–6 ft slope | Fiberglass pool | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| 14 x 28 | 4–7 ft slope | Fiberglass pool | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| 16 x 32 | 6–8 ft slope | Concrete pool | $85,000 – $110,000 |
| 18 x 36 | 8–10 ft deep | Concrete pool | $110,000 – $135,000 |
| 20 x 40 | 10 ft deep | Concrete w/ hot tub | $135,000 – $165,000 |
It’s important to note that depth adds complexity. Want to dive in? A 10-foot-deep end means extra excavation, reinforced structure, more pool materials, and specialized equipment to manage water pressure and balance. This isn’t just a cosmetic choice — it can add 15%–25% to your overall installation costs. And deeper pools also require larger filters, stronger pumps, and often automatic pool covers to protect them through winter.
Water Features and Landscaping Cost
When people think about their dream pool, they usually picture more than just water in a rectangle. They imagine waterfalls, fire pits, ambient lighting, and maybe even a swim-up bar. These additional features turn a basic install into a backyard oasis, but each comes with its own cost structure.
Water Features
A waterfall can cost between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on materials, plumbing, and design. A spa spillover or integrated hot tub can range from $7,000 to $25,000, depending on whether it’s built-in or freestanding. Deck jets or laminar streams (those elegant water arcs) cost roughly $800–$2,000 each, including plumbing.
Landscaping and Pool Decking
Landscaping around the pool area can include interlocking stone, stamped concrete, or wood-style decking. These costs can vary depending on square footage and design, but typically range from $10,000 to $30,000. Clients often ask us to coordinate with fence contractors or decks specialists to complete the overall look and keep the property in sync with fencing, gates, and automatic locking systems (brands like Schlage, Master Lock, or Weiser are common in Canada).
Here’s a look at what some of these popular features and upgrades might cost in 2025:
| Feature / Add-On | Estimated Price (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Custom Waterfall | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Integrated Hot Tub / Spa | $7,000 – $25,000 |
| Deck Jets / Laminar Streams | $800 – $2,000 each |
| Fire Pit (poolside-safe) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Swim-Up Bar | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Pool Lighting (LED/Smart) | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| Upgraded Pool Decking | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Retaining Walls / Stonework | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Outdoor Shower or Rinse-Off Area | $1,200 – $4,000 |
Average Cost of a Pool Installation
The average cost to install an in ground pool in Canada has steadily increased over the past few years — and in 2025, homeowners should expect a starting point of $60,000, with premium builds going as high as $150,000 or more. These estimates vary depending on factors like pool type, design complexity, soil conditions, water table, and even access for excavation equipment.
Most pool installers will quote a base price for a new pool, but your overall cost rises once you start adding water features, custom lighting, integrated spas, or upgraded pool decking. A well-designed, mid-size fibreglass pool will usually land somewhere between $70,000 and $95,000, which includes basic decking and equipment.
| Installation Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Entry-level vinyl pool | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| Mid-range fibreglass pool | $70,000 – $95,000 |
| Custom concrete pool | $90,000 – $150,000+ |
| High-end “dream pool” build | $150,000 – $250,000+ |
What Factors Influence The Cost of An Inground Pool
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to pool pricing. The truth is, pool costs vary depending on a range of elements — some obvious, some hidden beneath the surface (literally). From soil conditions to sewer or electrical lines, your lot can have a major influence on how complex and costly the build becomes.
The most influential factors include:
- Pool size and shape: Larger pools require more materials and labour. Irregular shapes add time and complexity.
- Material type: As discussed earlier, fibreglass pools offer value and speed, but concrete pools allow for maximum customization at a higher price tag.
- Site accessibility: If heavy machinery can’t easily access your yard, excavation becomes more expensive.
- Water table levels: High water tables demand additional structural support and drainage systems.
- Zoning and permits: In some cities, such as Oakville or Vaughan, permit requirements and inspections are more rigorous and costlier.
- Pool design features: Waterfalls, infinity edges, tanning ledges, and water features all add thousands to your overall cost.
- Landscaping and extras: Want that dream pool framed by stone planters or multi-tiered gardens? These upgrades will significantly increase the final bill.
Other Inground Pool Costs to Consider
Even after the last concrete layer is poured and the water is crystal clear, the costs don’t stop. Many homeowners are surprised by how many ongoing expenses they face once they’ve added a pool to their own backyard. Let’s break down the most common ones.
Home Insurance
Adding a new pool usually means updating your home insurance policy. Expect an increase of $150 to $400 annually, depending on coverage, location, and whether safety measures (like fencing or covers) are in place.
Utility Bills
Running pumps, heaters, filters, and automatic pool covers will increase your utility bills. A typical Canadian pool owner spends $700 to $1,500 per season in electricity alone — and that doesn’t factor in gas heating or solar supplements.
Upkeep and Maintenance
Plan to spend $1,200 to $2,500 per year on regular maintenance, including chemicals, shock treatments, testing kits, skimmer replacements, and cleaning tools. If you hire professional maintenance, it could cost up to $300 per month during open season.
Winterization
Canadian winters aren’t kind to unprotected pools. Winterization — draining lines, installing a cover, and protecting filters — costs around $500 to $1,200 annually, depending on your system complexity and whether you hire out the service.
Tips to Save Money on Installation Costs
Building your dream pool doesn’t always mean stretching your wallet to its limit. There are plenty of ways savvy pool owners reduce costs without sacrificing quality — especially if you know where to look and what to avoid.
- First, consider timing. Pool installations in late fall or early spring often cost less because pool contractors have fewer jobs scheduled. Booking in the off-season may shave 5–10% off your labor charges. And if your site is already prepped — for example, from a recent landscaping or fencing job — you could save thousands in excavation and cleanup.
- Second, streamline your pool design. A rectangular fibreglass pool without complex curves or attached spas is not only cheaper to install, but also faster. You’ll avoid hidden costs that come with customized forms, specialty finishes, or reworking utility lines.
- Third, plan your pool decking and landscaping separately. While it’s convenient to bundle everything together, sourcing decking or fencing through a dedicated fencing company can lead to better pricing, especially on materials. Bonus tip: use locally available stone or pavers to save money on delivery and setup.
- Finally, talk to your installer about material alternatives. For example, you can often use a manual pool cover instead of an automatic one to save $2,000–$5,000, or skip the spa addition until later.
Saltwater or Chlorine Pool—Which Costs More?
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make in the planning process is choosing between a saltwater pool and a traditional chlorine pool. While both offer pros and cons, the pool costs involved can shift your decision based on long-term budgeting.
Initial Cost
Saltwater pools typically have a higher price tag upfront due to the installation of a saltwater generator, which costs around $2,000 to $3,000. On the other hand, chlorine pools have a lower startup cost, with a basic chemical setup ranging from $500 to $1,200.
Maintenance Cost
Over time, saltwater systems require fewer chemicals, translating to annual savings of $300–$600. However, salt can corrode some materials, meaning more frequent part replacements — especially for heaters, ladders, and fixtures.
| Feature | Saltwater Pool | Chlorine Pool |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Setup Cost | $2,000 – $3,000 | $500 – $1,200 |
| Yearly Maintenance | $300 – $600 | $600 – $1,200 |
How Profesional Pool Contractors Can Help?
Choosing the right professionals can make your pool installation Toronto experience smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Skilled pool contractors help you navigate tricky permits, site preparation, and even unexpected challenges like high water tables or underground utility lines. With expert insights into pool design and material selection, trusted contractors ensure your dream pool suits both your lifestyle and budget.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free estimate. Let’s talk timelines, costs, and design ideas that fit your vision
