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U.S. Swimming Pool Statistics 2025: Insights for Homeowners & Buyers
Key Stats
(U.S.): 10.7 million pools nationwide; in-ground pool average cost: $65,000; pools can boost value up to ~7%; 379 child drowning deaths/year; 71% of such drownings happen at private residences.
Charlotte Highlight: In markets like Charlotte, NC, buyers increasingly search for backyard amenities, making well-maintained pool homes highly competitive among lifestyle-driven buyers.
Why Pools Still Matter in 2025
From lifestyle to long-term value, swimming pools remain one of the most requested home features in the U.S. Demand has stayed strong post-pandemic and continues to expand through new construction, renovations, and amenity-rich communities. For buyers comparing markets, pools are not only about leisure—they can influence resale appeal, neighborhood desirability, and overall lifestyle fit.
Charlotte Spotlight: In the Greater Charlotte area, pool demand trends align with national patterns but are amplified in family-friendly suburbs and established neighborhoods, where larger lots and outdoor living spaces are priorities. If you’re exploring Charlotte homes with pools, you’ll find options at a wide range of price points—from move-in-ready backyard retreats to luxury estates with resort-style amenities.
How Many Swimming Pools Are in the U.S.?
There are an estimated 10.7 million swimming pools across the United States, with ~10.4 million residential and ~309,000 public/commercial pools. That’s roughly one pool for every ~32 people—illustrating just how integrated pools are in American home life and recreation.
Key national ownership note: Approximately 8% of U.S. homes have a pool. Among residential pools, around 59% are in-ground and 41% are above-ground—a split that reflects both budget and lot suitability.
Table — U.S. Pool Count at a Glance (2025)
| Category | Count | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Total Pools (U.S.) | 10.7 million | 100% |
| Residential | ~10.4 million | ~97% |
| Public/Commercial | ~309,000 | ~3% |
Where Pools Are Most Common (and How Charlotte Compares)
Florida (~1.59M) and California (~1.34M) lead the nation in total pools, while Arizona has the highest pools per capita (about 1 pool per 13 people). States like New Mexico and Nevada also show strong per-capita ownership.
Charlotte, NC perspective: North Carolina sits mid-pack by total pool count, but Charlotte’s metro stands out for planned communities with excellent amenities (club pools, lap pools, splash areas) plus private backyard pools in suburbs like Weddington, Waxhaw, Huntersville, and Ballantyne. For buyers prioritizing outdoor living, the Charlotte submarket offers value relative to coastal metros.
Table — States Leading in Pool Ownership (select highlights)
| State/Market | Approx. Residential Pools | People per Pool (est.) | Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | ~1,590,000 | ~14 | High total and per-capita demand. |
| California | ~1,343,000 | ~29 | Large base; climate & lifestyle driven. |
| Arizona | ~505,000 | ~13 (most) | Top pools per capita. |
| North Carolina | ~157,000 | ~66 | Charlotte metro offers great value for pool buyers. |
Sources: PoolResearch.com
U.S. Pool Market Size & Growth (2018–2025)
The U.S. pool market has rebounded from 2020’s slowdown and is projected around $2.0B in 2025, up ~31% from pre-pandemic levels. Growth is supported by new builds, renovations, and material/labor inflation contributing to higher project values.
Table — U.S. Pool Market Value (2018–2025)
| Year | Market Value (USD) | Trend Note |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | $1.53B | Stable demand baseline |
| 2019 | $1.56B | Incremental growth |
| 2020 | $1.01B | Pandemic disruption |
| 2021 | $1.45B | Recovery begins |
| 2022 | $1.60B | Steady expansion |
| 2023 | $1.78B | Demand broadens |
| 2024 | $1.91B | Higher project valuations |
| 2025 | $2.00B | Projected new peak |
Sources: Statista.com, IBISworld
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Final Thoughts: Why Retire Near Charlotte, NC
Ready to Make Your Move? Work With Josh Finigan and The Finigan Group
How Much Do In-Ground Pools Cost?
The average in-ground pool in the U.S. costs around $65,000. Pricing varies by size, material (concrete, vinyl, fiberglass), site conditions, and finish level (decking, water features, spas).
Table — Cost by Size (Typical Ranges)
| Pool Size (ft) | Approx. Sq. Ft. | Average Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10×10 | 100 | $15,000–$22,000 | Small plunge/soaking |
| 12×24 | 288 | $22,000–$35,000 | Compact family size |
| 14×28 | 392 | $30,000–$48,000 | Popular mid-range |
| 15×30 | 450 | $35,000–$55,000 | Entertaining-friendly |
| 16×32 | 512 | $40,000–$65,000 | Common family size |
| 18×36 | 648 | $50,000–$80,000 | Spacious yard needed |
| 20×40 | 800 | $65,000–$100,000 | Full-size, high utility |
Table — Cost by Material
| Material | Build Cost Range | Longevity / Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete (Gunite/Shotcrete) | $65,000–$120,000 | Longest life; higher upkeep | Custom shapes, luxury builds |
| Vinyl | $40,000–$75,000 | Liner replace ~10 yrs | Budget-friendly installs |
| Fiberglass | $55,000–$100,000 | Low maintenance; durable | Faster timelines, standardized sizes |
Above-Ground vs. In-Ground: Cost & Longevity
Above-ground pools average roughly $4,000 to install and typically last 7–15 years. In-ground pools cost far more up front (averaging ~$65,000 as noted) but can last decades with proper care and offer better aesthetics, variable depth, and higher buyer appeal in many neighborhoods.
What Does It Cost to Maintain a Pool?
Annual ownership costs vary by size, equipment efficiency, usage, and climate. Expect ~$3,030–$5,995 per year for typical maintenance, utilities, and seasonal services.
Table — Annual Pool Ownership Costs (Typical Ranges)
| Upkeep Item | Typical Yearly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Service | $960–$1,800 | Cleaning, inspections, routine care |
| Chemicals | $175–$750 | Sanitizers, pH balance, algaecides |
| Electricity | $800–$1,200 | Pumps, heaters, lighting, automation |
| Water | $45–$245 | Top-offs, backwash replacement |
| Repairs | $400–$1,000+ | Equipment, surfaces, leaks |
| Open/Close (seasonal) | $650–$1,000 | Winterizing & spring start-up |
| Estimated Total | $3,030–$5,995 | Varies by size & equipment |
Do Pools Increase a Home’s Value?
On average, an in-ground pool can add up to ~7% to a home’s value. With a 2025 U.S. median home price around $435,500, that suggests a potential value lift of ~$30,485. While this doesn’t always offset today’s build cost (~$65,000 average), buyers frequently assign lifestyle value—especially in warmer climates or amenity-driven neighborhoods.
Charlotte, NC insight: In the Charlotte area, well-maintained pools can improve marketability, particularly in neighborhoods where outdoor living is a strong feature. The swimming pool real estate value equation often comes down to condition, safety updates, energy-efficient systems, and overall backyard design (patios, kitchens, shade structures).
Table — Estimated Value Add by Metro (Illustrative, based on national analyses)
| Metro | Typical Value Added | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | ~$95,000+ | High premium; lifestyle & climate |
| Austin | ~$52,000 | Strong buyer demand |
| Houston | ~$36,000 | Large inventory of pool homes |
| Charlotte | ~$35,000 | Competitive advantage in outdoor-living neighborhoods |
| Las Vegas | ~$30,000 | Climate driven demand |
| Tampa | ~$29,600 | Sunbelt lifestyle |
| Phoenix | ~$11,600 | High supply moderates premium |
Source: Angi
Safety & Swim Readiness: What Families Should Know
Pool ownership comes with serious safety responsibilities. Each year, an average of ~379 children (under 15) die in pool/spa-related drownings, with ~71% occurring at private residences. Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages 1–4 (aside from birth defects) and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for ages 1–14.
Actionable steps for homeowners:
Four-sided fencing and self-latching gates
Door/window alarms and pool covers
Designated water watcher during gatherings
Swimming lessons (formal lessons reduce drowning risk for ages 1–4 by ~88%)
Life jackets and CPR readiness
Should You Buy a Home With a Pool in Charlotte?
If your lifestyle includes outdoor entertaining, fitness, or stay-at-home leisure, a pool can be a high-utility addition. In the Charlotte market, buyers can often capture more backyard for the price than in coastal metros, and pairing a move-in-ready pool with covered patios, grilling stations, or play lawns can elevate daily living.
When the math works:
You value daily use (fitness, laps, kids’ activities).
The pool is well-maintained with updated equipment (energy-efficient).
Neighborhood comps show buyer preference for outdoor amenities.
You plan to stay long enough to enjoy and amortize the upfront cost.
The Finigan Group — Your Charlotte Pool-Home Partners
Buying a pool home is about more than the water. It’s about lot orientation, privacy, equipment efficiency, safety features, HOA rules, and the right neighborhood for long-term value. Our team combines local market expertise with hands-on guidance, from shortlisting the right properties to inspector referrals and vendor introductions for upgrades.
Ready to tour Charlotte homes with pools or explore pool homes in North Carolina more broadly? Schedule a consultation with The Finigan Group
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