Every pool (and its associated costs) is different because every backyard is different. The following will influence the final price of your pool and can be used to create a rough estimate of costs, but a professional pool builder in League City is your best resource for understanding the price of a pool in your area.
1. Pool Material
The material of your pool impacts everything from cost to maintenance and longevity. In League City, homeowners typically choose between concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl, each offering distinct advantages depending on priorities like customization, durability, and budget.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools offer buyers the most freedom when it comes to design. Concrete pools–also called gunite pools–are built on-site, allowing for fully custom shapes and finishes. When properly maintained, they can last for up to 100 years. Anthony & Sylvan offers a Lifetime Warranty as a testament to their durability.
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools can be ready to use in a matter of weeks since they’re pre-manufactured and installed in one piece. However, their design choices are more limited, and they typically last around 25 years. They are similarly priced to concrete pools.
Vinyl Pools
Vinyl pools are made using a polymer or steel frame and vinyl liner. These materials offer the least durability and lowest lifespan of any pool type, and require the homeowner to replace the vinyl liner every 10 years.
2. Pool Size, Depth, and Design
The size and depth of your pool are major factors in determining its cost. As you can expect, the cost of a pool will typically increase in correlation to its size and depth. Most backyard pools are between 10-20 feet wide, 20-40 feet long, and 5-8 feet deep.
There are plenty of pool styles to fit different budgets and spaces, from fully customized designs to more classic options. Turnkey pools offer a timeless, elegant look with standard features and an efficient installation process, making them a budget-friendly choice. For those wanting a more tailored design, custom inground pools—whether geometric, freeform, or modern—allow for endless possibilities. If maximizing relaxation in a smaller space is the goal, plunge pools provide a refreshing escape, whereas swim spas combine the benefits of a pool and spa.
You can find inspiration for different pool sizes, shapes, and design via the Anthony & Sylvan pool gallery. To see pictures of pool designs by price range, refer to our Southwest Pool Pricing Page.
3. Leveling and Excavation
League City’s terrain is relatively flat, but its expansive clay soil presents unique challenges for pool construction. This type of soil expands when wet and contracts when dry, which can lead to ground movement that affects the stability of a pool over time. Proper soil stabilization techniques, such as reinforced foundations and effective drainage systems, are essential to prevent shifting and structural issues. While the level landscape generally simplifies excavation, erosion control measures may be needed to maintain long-term stability, especially in areas with poor drainage.
In addition to soil conditions, your Anthony & Sylvan pool builder will assess factors like backyard accessibility for excavation equipment, existing utilities that may need to be rerouted, and potential drainage issues to prevent water buildup around the pool. Local zoning laws, setback requirements, and HOA regulations will also be reviewed to ensure a smooth installation process.
Your Anthony & Sylvan pool builder will account for these factors, ensuring your pool is designed and built to withstand League City’s soil conditions for lasting durability and peace of mind.
4. Pool Add-ons and Features
When estimating your inground pool cost in League City, remember to factor in your desired pool and backyard features. Common pool and backyard include:
- Custom Lighting: LED lighting and fiber-optic pool lighting.
- Accessibility Features: Pool lifts, ramps, and beach-style access.
- Water Features: Laminar jets, water curtains, rock waterfalls, and fountains.
- Energy Efficient Features: High-efficiency pumps, LED lighting, intelligent filtration systems, and saltwater
- Landscaping: Artificial turf, native plants, and low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Outdoor Kitchens and Bars: Sunken pool bars, built-in grills, prep areas, and seating.
- Fireplaces and Firepits: Fireplaces, fire pits, and gas-powered torches.
- Outdoor Structures: Pergolas, cabanas, and retractable awnings.
- Safety & Privacy Features: Pool fencing, gates, pool covers, motion sensors, and alarms
An Anthony & Sylvan professional will work with you as you select features for your pool and backyard, helping you balance your vision, backyard layout, and budget.
5. Local Permits and Requirements
Installing a pool in League City, Texas, requires compliance with local permits and safety regulations. For example, League City mandates that all residential pools be enclosed by a fence at least four feet high, with no gaps or openings larger than four inches. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, and any doors providing direct access to the pool area must have alarms or self-latching mechanisms for added security.
Additional regulations include utility easement restrictions, proper drainage planning, structural requirements, and electrical and gas safety compliance. During construction, inspections will be required to verify that safety measures meet city codes.
At Anthony & Sylvan Pools, we are well-versed in League City’s permitting process and local regulations and will ensure that your pool project is fully compliant from start to finish. Permit costs and requirements can vary, so we recommend consulting with our team or local officials for the latest updates on regulations in your area.
5. Utilities and Maintenance
Having a pool requires upkeep and operational costs beyond the initial installation.
Utility costs:
- Initial Water Fill: Some builders, like Anthony & Sylvan, cover this cost, while others require homeowners to pay. Using a garden hose, filling a pool can take 12 to 72 hours, depending on size. Pricing varies based on local water rates, and continuous water circulation will add to your bill.
- Electricity Usage: Running the pump and filtration system will increase energy consumption.
- Saltwater Pool Maintenance: If opting for a saltwater system, budget for regular salt bag replacements.
Maintenance costs:
Routine maintenance is also essential for keeping your pool in shape. This includes balancing chemicals, cleaning, vacuuming to maintain water clarity, and pool opening and closing costs.
| Type of Maintenance |
Frequency |
Average Cost |
| Cleaning and chemical balancing |
Weekly |
$80-150 per month |
| Drain and filter cleaning |
Every 3-6 months |
$60-125 per session |
| Opening/closing the pool |
Biannually |
$150-$300 per event |
Additional Maintenance Considerations By Pool Type
- Concrete Pools: Resurfacing is recommended every 8 to 20 years to restore a smooth finish and address wear from prolonged water and chemical exposure.
- Fiberglass Pools: Gel coat applications may occasionally be required to repair scratches or fading.
- Vinyl Pools: Liners typically need replacement every 10 years.
6. Insurance and Taxes
Before construction starts, contact your homeowner’s insurance provider to update your policy. Premiums typically rise by about $50 per year, but coverage can help with pool-related damage and liability protection in case of accidents.
Adding an inground pool can raise your home’s value by 5-7%, but it may also increase property taxes. If the pool is installed for medical purposes, you could be eligible for a tax deduction on installation and upkeep costs.
