Overall ranges from published sources
| Source | Range | Average / note |
|---|---|---|
| Angi, Houston (updated Aug 2026)[1] | $51,832 – $100,605 | $75,337 average |
| NailThePrice, Houston[2] | $34,420 – $93,430 | $63,930 average |
| PriceAPool, Houston[3] | 500 sq ft base pool | Gunite ~$73,000, fiberglass ~$54,000, vinyl ~$43,000 |
Each source uses a different method, which is why the numbers don’t match. Use them to sanity-check quotes, not as a price promise.
By pool type (Angi)
| Type | Range |
|---|---|
| Concrete / gunite | $65,000 – $120,000 |
| Fiberglass | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Vinyl | $20,000 – $40,000 |
Source: Angi.[1] Angi also cites about $50–$120 per square foot nationally.
What adds to the base price
- Decking, spa and features. PriceAPool says a complete project typically adds $20,000–$50,000 to the base pool.[3]
- Soil. Angi notes that Houston’s expansive soils mean extra steps during excavation.[1]
- Labor. Angi estimates labor at 25%–50% of the total.[1]
- Permits. Inside the City of Houston, the Health Department pool plan review alone is $127.56 with the admin fee. Building permit fees are separate.[4] See permit steps.
- Site-specific items. In unincorporated Harris County, excavated fill must be removed or permitted, and floodplain lots need extra paperwork.[5]
Ongoing costs
Angi puts pool maintenance at $30–$260 per month.[1]
How to compare quotes fairly
- Ask each builder to itemize excavation and haul-off, shell, plumbing and equipment, interior finish, coping and decking, fence and gate work, electrical, and permits.
- Compare the same size, depth and features. A low bid often leaves out decking or the spa.
- Get the payment schedule and warranty in writing, and confirm who pulls the permits.
Frequently asked questions
What's the average cost of a pool in Houston in 2026?
It depends on the source. Angi's Houston page (updated August 2026) lists an average of $75,337, with most homeowners paying $51,832 to $100,605. NailThePrice lists an average of $63,930.
Is fiberglass cheaper than gunite in Houston?
Usually, by Angi's figures: fiberglass typically runs $25,000 to $60,000 and concrete or gunite $65,000 to $120,000. Size, features and site conditions can change that.
How much are Houston pool permit fees?
Inside the City of Houston, the Health Department residential pool plan review is $127.56 including the admin fee, as of October 2026. Building permit fees are separate and vary by project.
Does HTX Backyard set prices?
No. HTX Backyard is a free matching service. Builders set their own prices, and participating builders pay us a fee for introductions.
Sources
- Angi: In-Ground Pool Cost in Houston (updated Aug 2026)
- NailThePrice: Inground Pool Installation Cost in Houston, TX
- PriceAPool: Pool Cost in Houston
- Houston Permitting Center: Swimming Pool Plan Review Fee (HHD1011)
- Harris County Office of the County Engineer: Swimming Pool permit
Sources checked October 2026. Rules, fees and prices change. Confirm details with the agency, HOA or builder before you commit.
How we make money: HTX Backyard is free for homeowners. Participating builders pay HTX Backyard a fee when we introduce them to a homeowner. We are a matching service, not a contractor, and we do not perform, supervise or guarantee any work.