How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost in San Antonio?
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into your own backyard oasis, you’ve probably wondered how much it costs to make that dream a reality. Building a pool is a big investment, and understanding the cost of pools in San Antonio can help you plan wisely.
At Varsity Pools & Patios, we believe that a well-built pool isn’t just about swimming; it’s about creating a lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into swimming pool prices for inground pools and how to budget for your perfect backyard retreat.
What Affects the Cost of an Inground Pool?
No two pools are the same, and several factors influence the total inground pool cost in the San Antonio and New Braunfels area.
1. Pool Type and Material
The material you choose has a major impact on cost and maintenance.
Gunite (Concrete) Pools: Highly customizable and durable, gunite pools are a popular choice in Texas. They tend to be the most expensive upfront but offer the longest lifespan.
Fiberglass Pools: These come pre-molded and are faster to install, often costing less than gunite but with limited shapes and sizes.
Vinyl Pools: More affordable initially, but liners may need to be replaced every 7–10 years.
2. Size and Shape
A larger pool or a custom freeform design will naturally cost more due to added materials and labor. Compact rectangular pools are generally more budget-friendly.
3. Features and Finishes
Adding premium features can elevate your pool’s look and functionality, and affect price:
Waterfalls or fountains
Tanning ledges and benches
LED lighting
Energy-efficient equipment
Built-in spas or hot tubs
4. Landscaping and Hardscaping
A pool isn’t complete without the surrounding space. Features like custom patios, outdoor kitchens, and decking enhance your backyard but also add to the overall inground pool cost.
Average Cost of Inground Pools in San Antonio and New Braunfels
In the San Antonio region, including New Braunfels, homeowners can expect inground pool costs to start around $60,000 to $120,000+, depending on the design and features.
Basic pool builds with minimal add-ons start near $60K.
Mid-range pools with added features like lighting, tanning ledges, and upgraded finishes typically range from $80K–$100K.
Luxury custom pools with advanced automation, stonework, and integrated spas can exceed $120K.
Every project is unique, which is why Varsity Pools provides custom estimates based on your vision, property layout, and design preferences.
Additional Expenses to Consider When Building a Pool
When planning your pool budget, it’s important to look beyond construction. There are additional expenses that contribute to your overall inground pool cost and help keep your pool in top shape for years to come.
1. Pool Equipment
Essential components like pumps, filters, and heaters are key to maintaining clean, comfortable water. Upgrading to energy-efficient systems may cost more upfront but can lower long-term operating costs.
2. Pool Maintenance
Owning a pool comes with regular upkeep, cleaning, water chemistry balancing, and equipment checks. Many San Antonio homeowners choose professional pool maintenance services to save time and ensure proper care.
3. Pool Covers and Fencing
Safety features such as automatic covers or fencing are often required by local codes and are an important part of protecting your investment.
4. Utilities and Water Usage
Filling your pool initially and keeping it running year-round adds to your water and electricity bills. Energy-efficient equipment can help reduce these ongoing costs.
5. Permits and Inspections
Depending on where you live, including San Antonio or New Braunfels, local regulations may require building permits or inspections, which can add to the total project cost.
By factoring in these additional expenses early, you’ll have a more accurate understanding of what your inground pool will cost from start to finish.
Why Work With Varsity Pools?
As a trusted San Antonio pool builder, Varsity Pools & Patios specializes in high-quality, custom-built pools designed to fit your lifestyle. Our team walks you through every step, from design and materials to financing and maintenance — so you can make informed decisions about your investment.
Whether you’re in San Antonio or New Braunfels, we’re here to help you bring your backyard vision to life with transparent pricing and expert craftsmanship.