How Much Does a Semi-Inground Pool Cost?

Average Cost of a Semi-Inground Pool

Semi-Inground Pool Cost Factors

Your pool’s materials, brand, landscape, location, and permits are the biggest price factors. 

Above-Ground vs. In-Ground Pool

There are two ways you can install a semi-inground pool:

• Sinking an above-ground pool: Less expensive, but with less durability and visual appeal.

• Raising an in-ground pool: More expensive, but with better durability and visual appeal.

Materials

The method you choose will affect your options for pool materials. Materials for an in-ground pool will cost $25,000 or more. Above-ground pool installation costs vary depending on which material you choose:

Above-Ground Pool Materials

• Steel: $800–$3,000

• Resin: $1,000–$3,000

• Aluminum: $1,000–$4,500

In-Ground Pool Materials

• Vinyl liner: $21 per sq. ft.

• Fiberglass: $35–$66 per sq. ft.

• Concrete: $55–$72 per sq. ft.

Brands

Different pool brands vary in quality, and higher-quality pools tend to cost more than low-quality pools. Only some above-ground brands make pools suited to work semi-inground. Check with each manufacturer to see the unit’s capabilities before trying to place part of it underground, and talk with a semi-inground pool dealer to find the cost for each brand.

Pool Size

The bigger your pool, the higher your costs due to the increase in materials and labor required to excavate and install. If you’re looking to save, try converting a small above-ground pool kit or opt for a smaller in-ground style.

Landscape Preparation 

If part of your property’s terrain makes installation difficult for the type of pool you’ve selected, your pool installers may need to adjust the slope or grade of your yard to get the ground properly prepared. Semi-inground pools tend to work well in sloped yards, with the slope adding to their visual appeal.

Location 

If the site where you want to build a pool is difficult to access, it will be harder for your installation pros to get the work done. This will increase the time required, as well as your labor costs, especially if your pro needs special equipment such as a crane to complete the job.

Permits

Chances are, you need a permit to install a semi-above-ground pool. Check with your local government to learn about required permits for this project and how much building permits cost.

Additional Costs

Total semi-inground pool prices range from $7,000 to $24,000, including materials and labor. This includes the price to excavate land, install the pool, wire electricity, pour cement, and add decorative elements such as lights, heaters, water features, retaining walls, bar space, stamped concrete, stonework, and more. These can push the price of your project toward the higher end.

Additional Cost Factors

To get a more accurate estimate for your partial in-ground pool cost, consider the costs of the following factors specific to your project.

Maintenance Costs

Chemicals, cleanings, and professional pool services will cost around $115 per month. Costs vary depending on the frequency of cleaning and whether you have a raised in-ground pool or a sunken above-ground pool. The average pool owner spends $1,080 to $1,800 per year on professional pool services, but you can save if you do pool maintenance as a DIY job.

Add-Ons

Apart from the pool itself, you can pay more for a few add-ons and create a relaxing retreat around your pool. Some common semi-inground pool add-ons include:

• Decking: $10–$30 per sq. ft.

• Lighting: $620–$1,570

• Heater (Above-Ground Pool): $170–$2,200

• Heater (In-Ground Pool): $1,840–$6,490

• Fencing: $1,700–$8,140

• Enclosures: $200 per sq. ft.

Landscaping

You can use a variety of landscaping techniques to create the perfect backyard space around your semi-inground pool. Some common landscaping installation costs around pool areas include:

• Retaining Walls: $4,030–$8,720

• Pathways: $10–$30 per sq. ft.

• Pergola: $2,220–$8,960

• Gazebo: $5,370–$9,030

• Flower Beds: $650–$3,000

• Trees and Bushes: $25–$3,000

• Outdoor Kitchen: $5,060–$17,280

• Sod Lawn: $0.90–$1.80 per sq. ft.

DIY vs. Pro

Labor alone for a semi-inground pool installation is $3,000 to $7,000 or more, on average, so you could save thousands doing the project as a DIY. However, a semi-inground pool should never be a DIY project unless you have specific training and experience with the heavy machinery required. 

Even with experience, hiring a pro remains the wisest option; the work is highly labor-intensive, and mistakes can cause major property damage. 

DIY Costs

Although not recommended, if you do wish to attempt a DIY semi-inground pool installation, you’ll need to cover the cost of the pool materials, equipment rental, and landscaping for your project. You’ll also need to account for the time you’ll spend digging out the hole, assembling the pool, and backfilling your yard. These costs can add up quickly, which is another reason it’s a better idea to hire a professional poll installer.