Should I Buy an In-ground or Above Ground Pool?

Having a swimming pool in the backyard is a dream for many homeowners. When the decision is made to install a pool, then becomes the next biggest decision: in-ground or above ground?

Personally, as far as aesthetic value, I like the look of an in-ground pool. There is a luxurious feel of coming out of the house into a backyard with a long sparkling pool that spans the length of the yard, complete with slide and diving board, surrounded by tables and chairs with umbrellas. Drinking a glass of tea or an ice-cold margarita out there—with a tiny umbrella thrown in—gives the feel of an upscale hotel. 

Sure, in-ground pools are great in themselves, but they do bring with them a lot to consider. They do require a lot of upkeep. Generally larger than above ground pools, in-ground pools take more time to fill with water (and more expense!) as well as more time to clean and more chemicals to keep them clean.  If you don’t have a lot of time to put into pool maintenance and can’t afford a pool boy, then you might opt for the above ground pool.

 Filling up and maintaining an in-ground swimming pool isn’t the only expense, of course. The up-front expense of digging up the yard and installing a pool is considerably more than setting up a pool on the ground. While you can get an above ground pool for only a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, an in-ground pool can cost in the ballpark of $20,000! 

Whew! That amount of money makes me rethink this whole luxurious hotel feel. The above ground pools really do outdo the pools of old. There really are some attractive (and decent-sized) above ground pools out there. They are much more advanced than a kiddie pool, and come with options for slides, too. Sure, they aren’t as deep, and a diving board would be dangerous, but they still offer a refreshing break from the summer heat.

 Another big consideration is how long you plan to stay in your home. If you move, you’ll leave behind a huge investment with an in-ground pool. Plus, this type of pool can be a detriment to selling your home to people who have small children or pets or who simply don’t want the responsibility and upkeep of a pool. With an above the ground pool, you can dismantle it and take it with you.