Inground VS Above Ground Pools: Pros, Cons & Costs

Adding a pool to your backyard isn’t just about beating the summer heat. It’s a major investment that affects your property, your lifestyle, and your long-term home value. And before you dive in, you need to decide: inground or above ground?

Both have their advantages. One offers luxury and permanence. The other offers flexibility and lower cost. At Green Side Up Contracting, we’ve helped homeowners across the GTA design and build outdoor spaces around both types, and we know the decision isn’t always straightforward.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the pros, cons, and costs to help you choose the pool that fits your space, your budget, and your goals.

Related Article: Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Pool in Ontario

What’s the Difference?

The names say it all, but there’s more to it than where the pool sits.

Inground pools are built into the ground through excavation. They’re permanent structures that become part of your landscape. These pools are often made with concrete, vinyl, or fibreglass, and offer complete flexibility in size, shape, and features. Think built-in steps, custom lighting, and integrated landscaping. They’re designed to last decades and typically become a central feature of your backyard.

Above-ground pools, on the other hand, sit fully above the ground’s surface. They’re usually constructed with metal, resin, or wood frames, paired with a vinyl liner. Installation is faster and doesn’t require digging or heavy machinery. While more affordable and easier to remove or replace, they’re considered semi-permanent and usually come in standard shapes like round or oval.

The differences go well beyond structure. These two options vary in terms of:

• Aesthetics: One blends into the yard; the other stands out.
  
• Durability: One is built to last decades; the other may need replacing in under 15 years.
  
• Maintenance: In-ground systems may have more complex plumbing, while above-ground setups are simpler.
  
• Value: In-ground pools often increase home value; above-ground pools typically do not.
  

Understanding these distinctions will help you choose a pool that fits your long-term plans, not just your summer wishlist.

Inground Pools: Pros, Cons & Costs

Inground pools are a permanent, high-end option that many homeowners dream about. They offer the most flexibility in design and typically add the most visual appeal and property value. But they also come with higher costs and longer build times. Here’s what to expect.

Pros

1. Long-Term Value
An inground pool can increase your property’s resale appeal. When professionally built and maintained, it becomes a lasting feature.

2. Aesthetics
Inground pools look sleek and seamless. You can choose shapes, finishes, and landscaping that complement your home and backyard layout.

3. Customization
You can add built-in steps, waterfalls, tanning ledges, lighting, and heating systems. You can choose between concrete, vinyl, or fibreglass shells.

4. Durability
Properly built inground pools last decades with routine care. They handle weather changes, wear and tear, and heavy use better than most above-ground options.

Cons

1. Higher Upfront Cost
Inground pools are more expensive, often significantly. The excavation, plumbing, permits, and finishing work add up quickly.

2. Longer Installation Time
Expect several weeks or more from start to finish. Delays due to weather, inspections, or customization are common.

3. Ongoing Maintenance
They need consistent upkeep: skimming, vacuuming, balancing chemicals, and seasonal opening/closing. Maintenance contracts or equipment upgrades can add costs.

Cost Estimate

In the GTA, a professionally installed inground pool typically costs between $60,000 and $120,000+, depending on:

• Size and shape
  
• Material (vinyl, concrete, fibreglass)
  
• Features (heating, lighting, automation)
  
• Landscaping and deck work around it
  
• Access to the site (tight spaces = higher labour)

Related Article: Labour Costs of Above-Ground Pool Installation

Above Ground Pools: Pros, Cons & Costs

Above-ground pools offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy summer without a major construction project. They’re quicker to install, easier to maintain, and ideal for families who want flexibility. But they come with trade-offs in design, durability, and long-term value. Let’s break it down.

Pros

1. Lower Cost
The biggest advantage: price. Above-ground pools can be 80% cheaper than inground pools. You can have a full setup, including filtration and decking, for under $15,000 in many cases.

2. Faster Installation
Most above-ground pools can be set up in just a few days. There’s no need for excavation or complex permitting.

3. Less Commitment
If you’re not sure how long you’ll stay in the home or want to test the waters before going all-in, this option gives you flexibility.

4. Easier Repairs and Removal
Leaks, pump issues, or frame problems are typically easier and cheaper to fix. You can also take the pool down completely if your plans change.

Cons

1. Shorter Lifespan
Even high-quality above-ground pools last 10–15 years on average. Cheaper models may last only 5–7 years before needing replacement.

2. Limited Customization
Most models are round or oval, and while you can add a deck around them, you won’t get the same design freedom as an inground pool.

3. Aesthetic Limitations
They tend to stand out in the yard and not always in a good way. While modern models have improved, they often lack the “wow” factor of an inground pool.

4. Lower Property Impact
Above-ground pools don’t typically add value to your home. In fact, they may need to be removed before selling, depending on the buyer.

Cost Estimate

A good-quality above-ground pool setup in Ontario generally costs between $4,000 and $15,000, including:

• Pool kit (frame + liner)
  
• Pump and filter system
  
• Optional heater
  
• Partial or full surrounding deck
  
• Electrical and setup costs

Additional Costs to Keep in Mind

Regardless of the type you choose, don’t forget to factor in these ongoing or hidden costs:

• Permits and inspections (especially for inground pools in urban zones)
  
• Fencing and gates (required by law for safety)
  
• Water delivery or fill-up
  
• Chemicals and water testing kits
  
• Electricity for pumps and heaters
  
• Seasonal maintenance or professional pool service
  

A well-designed pool area also needs landscaping and hardscaping. That’s where Green Side Up can help tie it all together — adding interlock, pathways, garden beds, lighting, and custom fencing around your pool for a polished, functional space.

Related Article: Top 5 Swimming Pool Water Features You Need

What About Semi-Inground Pools?

There’s a growing middle-ground option: semi-inground pools. These pools are partially buried and often surrounded by decking, giving a sleek look without full excavation costs.

• Cost: Around $15,000–$30,000
  
• Lifespan: Longer than above ground but usually shorter than fully inground
  
• Ideal for: Sloped yards or properties where a full dig isn’t practical
  

They offer a balance of visual appeal and affordability, but may still lack the full design flexibility of inground options.

Which Pool Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your goals, space, and budget. Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide:

Choose an inground pool if you want:

• A long-term investment
• Complete design freedom
• A seamless, luxury finish
• Increased property appeal
• More room to swim and entertain

Choose an above-ground pool if you want:

• A budget-friendly setup
• Fast installation
• A temporary or seasonal option
• Easy repairs and lower upkeep
• A pool without changing your yard permanently

Still unsure? A consultation with our team can help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific yard, timeline, and family needs.

Build a Backyard That Works for You

A pool isn’t just a summer feature; it’s the centrepiece of your outdoor space. Whether you’re leaning toward an above-ground model or dreaming of a full inground oasis, your choice should fit your lifestyle, your property, and your plans for the future.

At Green Side Up Contracting, we don’t just install decks and fences, we help design outdoor spaces that work together. If you’re adding a pool, we can help with:

• Surrounding decks and safety rails
  
• Privacy fencing and gates
  
• Stonework and wooden retaining walls
  
• Softscape and garden design
  
• Lighting, storage, and more
  

From consultation to construction, we build it right the first time—on time and on budget. Contact us today to book a consultation and get your backyard summer-ready.