If you’re investing in a new luxury home in Florida, specifically the St. Petersburg area, you may be considering a new custom pool to augment your outdoor living space. So, how much does it cost to build a custom pool in Florida? The answer: It depends on how you plan to use the pool and how you want your custom pool to complement your “Sunshine City” lifestyle.
What custom features do you want for your new pool? Are you looking for a more “natural” water escape with natural stone ledges and waterfalls? Or do you envision a more modern design with glass tile mosaics? These features, along with your home’s design and landscaping, can all impact pricing for design and construction.
There are also pool maintenance costs to consider. At Winway Pools, we specialize in designing add-on features that can reduce your long-term costs, such as high-efficiency pumps, filters, and advanced automation technology that reduce energy costs and maintenance expenses.
In this blog, we’ll look at considerations impacting the cost of building custom pools in Florida, including typical installation costs, material pricing ranges, and variances in pool types and features.
Typical Costs for Luxury Pools in Florida
According to the industry experts Pool Magazine, the cost to build a custom inground pool can range anywhere from $60,000 to $100,000. As we noted above, there is a wide range of pool types and styles that can impact your pool’s cost. And there are geographical considerations.
If you live on the coast in Florida, you may want your pool to have beach access. Pool Magazine estimates that it costs homeowners about $50 to $125 per square foot to construct a beach entry, such as a gradual descending slope. Your custom pool’s materials will directly impact the cost. Industry experts at the Home Design and Remodeling Show® advise looking at the short-term and long-term cost considerations, such as:
- Vinyl: Vinyl pool liners are the cheapest type of material for lining an inground pool, with prices starting as low as $25,000 to install. But vinyl has a limited shelf life and it lacks the visual aesthetics one would expect in a luxury pool construction.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass is considered a budget-friendly choice for homeowners who want to reduce pool maintenance costs. They are a popular choice with homeowners with a pool budget of $35,000 or more.
- Concrete: Traditionally, concrete is popular for homeowners wanting a custom shape for their pool and who have a budget of $60,000 or more. Concrete requires more maintenance than vinyl or fiberglass, but it can last 50 years or more.
There are also more customized, high-end luxury pool materials that cost more than concrete, but that can enhance your overall outdoor experience. For example, glass tile is a durable and luxurious option for pool interiors. Design options range from monochromatic to vibrant mosaics. At Winway Pools, we can use tiles to create stunning visual effects, such as artistic designs with sealife motifs or even glow-in-the-dark tiles that can make nighttime swimming a magical experience.
Pool Types and Features That Impact Cost
Costs Vary by Custom Pool Type
There are multiple ways you can customize your pool to fit your lifestyle and design preferences. Lap pools are popular with athletes and health-conscious swimmers who want to swim long distances in their own backyards. The cost to install a lap pool can range from $40,000 to $75,000, according to Pool Magazine. Transforming your pool into a backyard lagoon can cost you between $50,000 and $150,000, but it could also turn your backyard into your own private resort. This level of customization can also save on entertainment and travel when you consider how much more time your family can spend in your backyard aquatic escape. Integrating a hot tub or spa into your new pool means you’re likely to spend anywhere from $50,000 to $75,000 for your pool’s installation. If you wait until after your new pool is built, expect to pay in the $7,000 to $15,000 range to add a hot tub.
Popular Water Features for Luxury Pools in Florida
Water features can add to the cost of your custom pool, but they can also add to the enjoyment and value of a new luxury home. Here are some of the most requested pool features we get at Winway Pools for homes in the Pinellas County area, especially in St. Petersburg.
- Waterfalls and water curtains: Also known as water descents, water curtains can make your pool feel like a natural lagoon. A sheet of cascading water provides a soothing sound to enhance relaxation.
- Built-in features: From Baja shelves and partially-submerged tanning decks to built-in stairs and ledges, these add-ons create opportunities for lounging and more family socializing. Fire pits and bubblers can further elevate your pool’s appeal.
- LED lighting: LED lights can improve safety for nighttime swimming and set the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Pool parties can extend well into the night hours with custom LED lighting.
The Long-Term Value of a Custom Pool Investment
Ask any high-end real estate agent in Florida, they’ll likely tell you that a pool is a desirable selling point for a luxury home. This is especially the case in St. Petersburg, where pools help homeowners enjoy their custom homes all year round. A custom, luxury pool can even increase your home’s value by as much as 7% to 15%.
There are also potential health benefits of investing in a new custom pool. For example, a saltwater pool is a popular alternative to a traditional chlorinated pool. While chlorine is an effective way to disinfect pools, chlorination can lead to a buildup of chloramines that can irritate eyes and skin, and can even cause respiratory issues. Saltwater pools don’t require chlorine, and they require less maintenance to ensure water quality and safety.
Get Cost Transparency and Value for Your Custom Pool in Florida
Unlike some Florida pool contractors, Winway Pools works with you to get the best value from your custom pool investment. We’re committed to transparent pricing, from your pool materials to custom water features and add-ons.
After finalizing your pool’s design, our design consultants can provide a transparent and detailed quote that breaks down the entire project scope. You’ll get a clear understanding of:
- Material and equipment costs
- Construction fees, including labor
- Optional features and pool upgrades
- Permitting and inspection costs
- Estimated pool construction timeline
We also work with leading financial institutions to help you get financing for your luxury pool in the St. Petersburg area.
Contact Winway Pools today to schedule a consultation for your free quote and learn why Winway Pools is known in the St. Petersburg area for our transparent quoting and pricing.
