Dive Into Affordable Luxury: Your Guide to Plunge Pool Costs and Options
Discover the benefits of plunge pools — compact, affordable, and low-maintenance. Learn about types, costs, and materials to find the perfect fit for your backyard.

Are you thinking about giving your backyard a little boost that's not just easy on the eyes but great for your health, too? Well, have you ever considered the magic of adding a pool? You might think, "Pools are pricey and gobble up space like there's no tomorrow!" But hold that thought because there's a perfect solution that might tick all your boxes—a plunge pool.

Plunge pools have become extremely popular over the past year. They offer a great way to enhance outdoor living, providing all the benefits of a backyard pool without the high maintenance and installation costs of a regular pool. With their compact size, plunge pools are perfect for homeowners with smaller lots and come at a much lower price, making them an affordable luxury.
This guide is all about unveiling the wonders of plunge pools. Stick by it, and by the time we're done, you'll be crystal clear on why a plunge pool could be the best backyard decision you've ever made.
Plunge Pool: What is it?
Plunge pools are the best alternative to regular large pools. They are small, deep pools focused on relaxation, in-home exercise, and hydrotherapy. In contrast to regular pools, plunge pools are ideal for water aerobics and relaxing with friends and family. Because of their depth, plunge pools are an excellent place to practice cannonball and relaxation. They are the best low-cost option for a small yard.
Dimensions and Sizes
The usual dimensions of plunge pools are 6 1/2 to 10 feet wide and 10 to 22 feet long, making them affordable and compatible. The depth of the pool is between 5 and 7 feet.

Cost and Maintenance
A typical plunge pool's price range, including materials and installation, is between $25,000 and $70,000. But still, if you want to make it a multipurpose pool or add other elements to give it a more exquisite aspect, it will cost more due to factors such as size, materials, features, and labor, among others.
When discussing pools in depth with our expert designers, we must evaluate the many plunge pool options and which one is ideal for building in your backyard, considering all the crucial elements, such as cost, maintenance, area choice, foundation level, and expense insured to create the ideal pool.
What are the Benefits of Plunge Pool
Let's now talk about the additional advantages that plunge pools offer. Here are the benefits that make plunge pools the ideal choice when selecting a pool.
- A multipurpose pool: A plunge pool offers a variety of other activities besides physical exercise. Benches and training ledgers provide a cozy spot to relax. Similarly, it can be equipped with a fully functional jet for swimming and customized to a mini cocktail pool.
- Compact design: The compact design makes them the best option for small yards and outdoor spaces. They provide enough space to add other complimentary items to the pool, which can be adjusted in terms of shape. Fire pits, lounges, and a grassy area for children complement the plunge pool and enhance your backyard's appearance.
- Economical: Their compact size makes them more budget-friendly than a full-fledged, colossal pool.
- Appealing enhancement: Plunge pools enhance the aesthetics of outdoor spaces by adding an appealing appearance that automatically gives off a relaxing vibe. They can be included in multiple landscaping schemes to create an attractive outdoor space.
- Relaxation: Plunge pools are a fantastic way to cool down in hot weather and provide a peaceful environment for relaxation and unwinding.
- Low Maintenance: Depending on the style of a plunge pool, it may require less water and cleaning time than larger pools. It is easy to install and maintain.
What are the Types of Plunge Pool
You have various options for installing a plunge pool. But each type is dependent on two main factors:
- Level of foundation
- Material
Level of Foundation
There are three possibilities for installing a plunge pool. Let’s explore them in detail so you can make the best decision for your backyard.

- In-Ground
This installation option's backyard appears more spacious and elegant, providing room for more items. Since an in-ground pool is underground, digging is necessary. Preparing the ground for this installation is a time-consuming procedure. It is costly among all and requires a skilled workforce to minimize mistakes that can ruin the pool.
- Above Ground
It is mainly for short-term setup and takes less time to install. They usually come in prefabricated kits that are put together on location and are built entirely above ground. The installation team prepares a fine ground.
The advantages of above-ground plunge pools over in-ground pools include lower installation costs and maintenance. They are ideal for transient or portable installations since they may be carried aside, moved as needed, and fit best in a small backyard.
- Semi-in-ground
A combination of above-ground and below-ground features is called semi-in-ground and provides both perks. It's safe to use around children. Although it requires less digging and has a boundary by its side, if you have kids, don't worry.
Material
Once you decide on the ground level of the building, the issue of the materials to be used in the pool's construction arises. Here are the popular material choices for plunge pool installation:
- Concrete Plunge Pool:
A concrete plunge pool is built on-site, requiring steel reinforcement, excavation, forming, and concrete pouring. A skilled workforce is needed for this task. Concrete pools are the best option when a durable and robust pool is required. Concrete pools can be modified according to the requirements. The most expensive full-option concrete plunge pool costs $70,000 to $85,000 and requires the highest level of craftsmanship.
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- Fiberglass Plunge Pool:
Another material option for the plunge pool is Fiberglass. They are usually delivered prepared for installation at the installation site. Excavation and ground preparation are the first steps in the installation process, after which the pool is fixed into the hole. Fiberglass plunge pools are a well-balanced combination of durability, affordability, and beauty. They are manufactured in pre-made molds, restricting design options.
Fiberglass plunge pools are installed more quickly and efficiently than other forms. They also come in various sizes and forms to accommodate a variety of areas, are low-maintenance, and are long-lasting.
Moreover, they usually provide a contemporary look and are simple to maintain. These prefabricated solutions are less expensive to install than custom concrete, but they still require an initial investment of $10,000 to $20,000, and after installation, a plunge pool will cost around $30,000.
What are Budget-Friendly Plunge Pool Options:
Affordable plunge pool options include:
- Stock Tank Pool
It is the most budget-friendly option for a plunge pool. Installing stock tank pools is a reasonable DIY project. You can easily customize an above-ground stock tank pool with features like seating, decking, and shade structures to enhance comfort and aesthetics.
The process includes maintaining a flat surface, adding a water supply system, and positioning the tank perfectly on the maintained surface. These pools are low-cost and portable and can be disassembled and relocated if necessary.
However, the cost varies based on the size of the pool and the materials used for installation; this plunge pool costs around $600 for the tank and basic installation supplies. But remember that the extra costs for pumps, filters, and materials for water treatment should be added.
- Hot Tubs
Another reasonably priced alternative to traditional plunge pools is hot tubs, which cost between $2,000 and $30,000. Soaking in a hot tub can be both enjoyable and therapeutic. The type and preferences of the homeowner determine whether a hot tub is built-in or portable.
Portable hot tubs are self-contained systems assembled on a suitable surface and plugged into a conventional electrical outlet. They make them simple to install and relocate as needed because they can be on-ground or in-ground. On the other hand, built-in hot tubs require more significant installation, such as electrical wiring and plumbing, which may include decking or landscaping.

Hot tubs offer many advantages of plunge pools, such as hydrotherapy, relaxation, and socializing with loved ones. They often have massage jets, heating, and filtration, giving users an excellent spa experience without paying the hefty price of a custom-built pool. Hot tubs come in a range of sizes, forms, and styles.
FAQs
What is the best temporary solution for plunge pools?
Overall, a well-made blow-up pool might be an excellent temporary solution for satisfying your need for a plunge pool while you work hard to save up for your ideal one. These tubs do not have the same durability or features as permanent plunge pools. However, they allow you to experience the benefits of having a personal, relaxed zone without spending much money.

Can plunge pools be heated?
Yes, plunge pools can have a heating system, allowing year-round use in many climates. Options include electric heaters, gas heaters, and solar heating systems.
How long does it take to install a plunge pool?
The time to install a plunge pool depends on the type of pool, site conditions, and local regulations. Fiberglass pools can be the quickest to install, often taking just a few days once the site is prepared. However, concrete pools may take several weeks to a few months.
Conclusion
A plunge pool in your backyard is about more than just fitting a pool into your space; it's about creating a personalized oasis that mirrors your style and respects your budget. Partnering with a BACQYARD designer means transforming your dream into reality with a tailored approach that considers every detail.
If you want to improve your outdoor area but avoid the expense and maintenance of a regular pool, a plunge pool is a great alternative. These pools still offer the same degree of fun and relaxation but with a smaller footprint, making them ideal for locations with limited space. Plunge pools combine functionality with style, allowing homeowners to build their little hideaway without breaking the bank.
So, elevate your backyard, get started today, and bring your dream to life! Reach out to a BACQYARD designer today and take the first step towards bringing your unique vision to life. From 3D models to dependable installation specialists, we'll assist you in turning your outdoor area into an oasis you'll like. It's not just about adding a pool; it's about your backyard retreat, where every detail reflects you.
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