What Does a Dip Pool Cost? Let’s Just Tell You Straight

There’s a reason you’re here. Maybe it’s that dream of soaking in your own backyard oasis after a long day. Maybe you’re thinking smaller space, less maintenance, more lifestyle. But before the Pinterest boards, there’s always the big question:

“How much is this actually going to cost me?”

At Nashville Dip Pools, we get this question on just about every call. And honestly? We love when people ask it. Because too many pool builders avoid the money conversation. They dodge it, sugarcoat it, or bury it under “custom quote” language.

We’re not about that.

Let’s walk through the real numbers - what you’re actually going to pay, what drives the price up or down, and how to plan smart so there are no ugly surprises.

First - What Is a Dip Pool, Exactly?

You might’ve heard them called plunge pools, cocktail pools, or even inground hot tub.

Whatever name you use, here’s the deal:
Dip pools are compact, stylish, and built for soaking - not swimming laps or hosting a cannonball contest.

Our typical dip pools:

• Size: 7’ x 7’ up to 10’ x 20’

• Depth: 3’ to 5’

• Use: Lounging, chilling, heating, cooling, enjoying year-round

Think: big upgrade from a hot tub, way less chaos than a full-size pool.

How We Break Down Pricing: Fixed vs. Variable Costs

To make this simple, we break every project into two buckets:

Fixed Costs - Getting the Pool Installed

This is your foundation. These are the essential steps to get a functioning pool in your yard.

It includes:

• Your pool shell (in this case, we are talking fiberglass)

• Excavation + hauling away the dirt

• Gravel base and backfill

• Plumbing (returns, drains, skimmer, light)

• Equipment (pump, filter, chlorinator)

• Electrical hookup

• Coping around the pool edge

What it typically costs:

• For smaller pools (7’ x 10’): ~$60,000

• For larger ones (10’ x 20’): ~$90,000

What drives that number up or down?

• Size of the pool

• How hard it is to access your yard

• How far your utilities are from the pool site

• Whether we need cranes or other special equipment

We call these “fixed” costs because they don’t vary based on style—they’re just what it takes to install the pool safely and professionally.

Variable Costs - Finishing the Dream

Here’s where your personality shows up. This part is totally flexible, and totally up to you.

Think of it like building a house. The fixed cost is the structure. The variable cost is the hardwood floors, the countertops, the backyard firepit.

Variable upgrades might include:

• Pool heater + gas line

• Auto cover or Foldable cover

• Automation

• Water sanitation upgrades

• Patios (natural stone, concrete, composite)

• Landscaping (trees, sod, flower beds)

• Fencing (privacy, aluminum, wood)

• Retaining walls

• Lighting

• Drainage fixes

• Artificial turf

What this adds:
Some clients add $5,000. Others add $50,000+. It all depends on your taste and priorities.

No two projects are the same—and that’s the point.

A Real-World Starting Point

When we quote a $60K–$90K base range, here’s what we assume:

• Your yard is fairly flat and no retaining walls are needed

• We can get equipment into your backyard without removing structures

• Utilities are accessible

• No major grading, retaining walls, or zoning curveballs

If your site’s more complex, we’ll tell you upfront. No fluff. No games. Just facts.

Why We Don’t Play the Pricing Games

Some builders will give you a low number just to get you in the door—and then start stacking on change orders. That’s not us.

We’d rather be the builder who earns your trust from the jump—even if that means we lose a few tire-kickers who just want the cheapest quote.

When you get a bid from Nashville Dip Pools, it’s built around your actual site and your actual goals. And we walk through it all with you - line by line - before you ever sign anything.

Budgeting Smart: Two Questions to Ask Yourself

Here’s how we recommend thinking about your budget:

1. What can I comfortably invest in the pool itself?
   (Fixed cost + variable cost)

2. What do I want the whole backyard to feel like when it’s done?
   (Patio, plants, privacy, lighting, lifestyle)

Once we know both, we can help you make tradeoffs, explore phased installs, or build a plan that works long-term.

So… What Will Your Dip Pool Cost?

Every project’s unique—but here’s your high-level takeaway:

• Fixed costs: Usually $60K–$90K

• Variable upgrades: You control how far you take it

• 2025 Average project range: $110,000

Want real numbers for your yard? We’ll come out, take a look, and map it all out together.

Ready to Talk?

At Nashville Dip Pools, we believe informed buyers make the best clients. That’s why we lead with transparency—not hype. If you’re early in the process, we’d love to walk your property, talk through options, and help you decide what’s right for your budget and your life.

Let’s put real numbers to your dip pool dream. Click here to schedule a site visit.

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