The 18 best aboveground pools to cool off in this summer, according to experts

In-ground pools are money pits, so why not invest in the next best thing: a great aboveground pool. From shallow, inflatable options to those with built-in benches to large metal-framed models that can fit the whole family plus a few neighborhood pals, aboveground pools are not as complicated as their in-ground siblings, but considerations should still be made before deciding if they’re right for your home, says Dan DiClerico, home expert at HomeAdvisor, a site that sources local professionals for home projects.

To assess whether your home is ready for a splash zone any bigger than a blow-up baby pool, we looked to DiClerico for advice and rounded up some top picks from top-rated brands and bestsellers.

How to choose the right aboveground pool

First and foremost, DiClerico says, survey your space. “Make sure the pool will fit in the yard without violating any zoning regulations,” he says. These will vary by community, but according to him, pools generally need to be at least 5 feet from property lines and a certain distance from the main house, maybe 12 or 15 feet. Plus, proximity to power lines and underground utilities is a factor, and many communities require permits for installing a pool.

“You need to do all the due diligence, checking with your local zoning board and building department, before making any kind of purchase decision,” DiClerico advises.

Once you’ve figured out the municipal logistics, you also must consider whether your landscape is suited for a pool. “Does your ground slope or are there large trees or rocks in the way?” DiClerico says. “You may have to pay to have these removed or relocated.”

And remember, some communities have codes regarding tree removal. Soil stability may also be a factor, depending on the size of the pool you’re considering. “If the soil is very soft and sandy, you may need to amend it before putting in the pool,” he says.

Aboveground pool insurance

We’re just being thorough here, but the installation of a pool — even an aboveground one — may affect your homeowner’s insurance. Check with your carrier about coverage, restrictions and rates. “In general, houseguests are covered for injuries that may occur while using the pool, but the pool itself is not covered by any damage that might occur,” DiClerico says. “Many providers will require you to put up a protective fence or childproof gate before they’ll even consider coverage.”

The cost of an aboveground pool

“The obvious advantage of aboveground over in-ground pools is cost,” says DiClerico. According to HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide, most people spend between $1,000 and $5,900 on aboveground pools — $3,400 on average — compared with an average of $64,700 for an in-ground pool, the costs of which can easily run into the six figures if you add luxury features like a hot tub and waterfall.

For an aboveground pool, the lower end, budget-wise — up to about $1,000 — will limit your size and shape. “For $1,000, you’re not going to get more than a basic 12-foot round with zero add-ons or accessories,” DiClerico says. “As you go up in price, pools get larger and more diverse in shape, including rectangular, oval and hexagonal.” The largest, higher-end aboveground options, measuring in the neighborhood of 20 feet by 40 feet, can cost more than $4,500.

And just how much do you need to spend? Think about how you want to use the pool, DiClerico recommends. “If you just want a personal place to relax and cool down, a basic round will do,” he says. “If you want it for entertaining or for the kids to play in, you’ll need a larger pool with a surrounding deck for lounging and additional safety features, including a fence and removable ladder to keep unattended children from accessing the pool.”

As you’re figuring out your budget, factor in some of the add-ons — pool kits, liner, sides, edging, pump and ladder — that may bump up the total price.

How to install an aboveground pool

The above costs don’t include installation, which, if you hire a professional to do it for you, may run you upwards of $1,000, DiClerico advises. An experienced DIYer may be able to handle installation with the help of a few handy friends, possibly in a few hours or a day, depending on the size and scope of the pool.

Decide beforehand if you want someone else to do the install, and ask up front about terms and costs. If you’re having the pool installed, make sure you’re clear on the terms.

However, if you want to go the DIY route, there are a couple common steps you should follow, though it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

Types of aboveground pools

Under-$500 aboveground pools

“At this price point, you’re dealing with inflatables — think kiddie pools for grown-ups,” DiClerico says. “They’re affordable and very DIY-friendly but not meant as a permanent solution.”

That means at the end of swim season, you will need to deflate and store the pool. (Inflatable hot tubs have the same problem.) And watch out for sharp objects, including small rocks kicked out by your lawn mower, that could cause permanent damage to a less pricey option.

Under-$1,000 aboveground pools

“Spending up to $1,000 gets you into the category of structured aboveground pools,” says DiClerico. “They’re more durable than an inflated pool but might show signs of wear and tear after a few years.”

Aboveground pools over $1,000

“As you move into this range, you see more hard-sided pools, with frames made from durable, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or heavy-gauge, rigid PVC,” DiClerico says. “Pools in this range can easily provide a decade of service, though you may need to replace the liner at some point.”

And once you get to $2,000, besides maximum size — 25-foot diameters or more — DiClerico says pools in this price range will “feature top-quality design and construction, so they will look better in the backyard and last a lot longer, a few decades even, with proper care and maintenance.”

Pool toys for aboveground pools

Once you’ve got your pool set up, let the games begin.