How Much Does a Swimming Pool Cost in Birmingham? (Price Guide + Real Examples)
How much does a pool cost in Birmingham?
Most in-ground swimming pools in the Birmingham metro cost $45,000–$125,000+, depending on whether you choose fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl, plus any custom features like tanning ledges, waterfalls, spas, or premium decking.
Fiberglass pools: $55,000–$95,000
Concrete/gunite pools: $80,000–$150,000+
Vinyl liner pools: $45,000–$70,000
Luxury add-ons: $5,000–$40,000+
If you’re planning a pool for next spring or summer, winter is the best time to design and reserve your installation spot.
Why pool pricing varies so much in Birmingham
Most homeowners ask, “What determines the price of a new pool?” The biggest factors include pool type, size, soil conditions, slope, access, and custom features. Excavation costs also vary across Hoover, Vestavia, Mountain Brook, and Chelsea due to elevation changes and clay-heavy soils.
Top cost factors include:
- Material (fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl)
- Size & depth
- Excavation difficulty
- Add-ons (tanning ledges, spas, waterfalls, LED lighting)
- Surrounding hardscaping (patios, decks, retaining walls)
- Permits & inspections
- Equipment upgrades
- Drainage or grading needs
Let’s break down each pool type with pricing, examples, and when each makes the most sense.
What Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Birmingham?
Short answer: $55,000–$95,000+ installed
Fiberglass is one of the most popular pool types in Birmingham because it installs faster, requires less maintenance, and offers a sleek, modern look.
Why Birmingham homeowners choose fiberglass
- Quick installation (often 1–3 weeks)
- Smooth, low-maintenance surface
- Built-in benches, tanning ledges, and steps
- Great for small or sloped backyards
- Works well with premium hardscaping designs
Cost breakdown
- Shell: $25,000–$45,000
- Excavation & installation: $20,000–$35,000
- Decking & hardscaping: $8,000–$25,000
- Upgrades: $3,000–$20,000
Real local example
A 14’×32’ fiberglass pool with a paver patio and LED lighting in Hoover recently cost $78,000. A similar installation in Chelsea with extra access challenges cost $88,000.
What Does a Concrete (Gunite) Pool Cost in Birmingham?
Short answer: $80,000–$150,000+
Concrete pools are the most customizable and ideal for homeowners who want a luxury, resort-style backyard.
Why homeowners choose concrete
- Fully custom design
- Infinity edges, beach entries, and unique shapes
- Ideal for luxury outdoor living areas
- Excellent for large or uneven backyards
Cost breakdown
- Excavation & shell: $50,000–$90,000
- Plumbing & electrical: $10,000–$20,000
- Decking & hardscaping: $15,000–$40,000
- Upgrades & finishes: $10,000–$40,000
Real local example
A custom concrete pool with an oversized spa and natural stone decking in Mountain Brook cost $138,000. In Trussville, a similar design with simpler finishing cost $105,000.
What Does a Vinyl Liner Pool Cost in Birmingham?
Short answer: $45,000–$70,000
Vinyl pools are the most budget-friendly option but require liner replacement every 8–12 years.
Why homeowners choose vinyl
- Lower upfront cost
- Smooth surface
- Custom shapes available
- Great entry point for first-time pool owners
Cost breakdown
- Structure & liner: $25,000–$35,000
- Installation: $10,000–$20,000
- Decking: $7,000–$20,000
- Upgrades: $2,000–$10,000
Real local example
A basic vinyl pool with a brushed concrete deck in Alabaster recently cost $52,000.
How Much Do Pool Add-Ons Cost?
Most homeowners in Birmingham upgrade their pool with at least one premium feature. These upgrades not only enhance appearance but also increase overall home value.
Common upgrades & pricing
- Tanning ledge: $2,500–$10,000
- Spa: $12,000–$25,000
- Waterfall: $5,000–$15,000
- Fire bowls: $3,000–$12,000
- LED lighting: $800–$3,500
- Automatic cover: $8,000–$20,000
- Heater: $4,000–$9,000
- Premium paver or stone pool deck: $12,000–$40,000
Pool Decking & Surrounding Hardscaping Costs
Your deck often adds 25–50% to the total project cost, but it significantly transforms your outdoor living space.
Common materials & pricing
- Brushed concrete: $7–$12 per sq. ft.
- Stamped concrete: $14–$22 per sq. ft.
- Pavers: $18–$35 per sq. ft.
- Natural stone: $30–$55 per sq. ft.
If your backyard is sloped — common in Vestavia, Mountain Brook, and Hoover — you may also need:
- Retaining walls: $4,000–$30,000
- Grading: $1,500–$8,000
- Drainage systems: $2,500–$12,000
Which Pool Type Is Best for Your Home?
Here’s the fast version:
Choose fiberglass if you want:
- Fast installation
- Lower maintenance
- Clean, contemporary designs
Choose concrete if you want:
- A fully custom, luxury pool
- Unique shapes and features
- A long-term high-end investment
Choose vinyl if you want:
- The lowest upfront cost
- A basic, functional pool
- A simpler design option
How to Budget for a Pool in Birmingham (Step-by-Step)
1. Decide on the pool type
This sets your baseline budget.
2. Choose the shape and size
Bigger = more cost in every category.
3. Plan your hardscaping & deck
This is what makes the pool usable for entertaining.
4. Consider long-term maintenance
Fiberglass = lowest
Concrete = highest
Vinyl = medium but requires liner replacements
5. Get a site evaluation
Slope, access, and soil conditions can change pricing significantly.
6. Start design in winter if you want a spring install
Builders book up quickly.
Ready to Build the Perfect Pool or Outdoor Living Space?
Let’s Get Started.
If you’re thinking about adding a pool, upgrading your outdoor living space, or starting a major hardscaping project, now is the best time to plan.
J & M Landscapes creates custom pools, patios, retaining walls, and luxury outdoor areas designed for long-term beauty and value. Our team handles everything from design to excavation to final finishing, making the process smooth and stress-free.
Call today to schedule a free consultation and get a custom quote for your Birmingham, Hoover, Vestavia, Homewood, or Chelsea home. Your dream backyard starts with one conversation — let’s bring it to life.
