The Real Cost of Owning a Pool in Arizona
If you live in Arizona, you’ve probably considered building a pool at least once. When summer arrives, and it’s 110 degrees outside, having a backyard pool feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity.
However, many homeowners don’t realize right away that building a pool is not just costly at first; it also requires a long-term financial and time commitment that often catches people off guard after they’ve already agreed.
Let’s explore what owning a pool in Arizona is really like…
What It Actually Costs to Build a Pool in Arizona
When most people first start looking into pools, they are surprised by how high the costs are.
In Arizona, a basic in-ground pool typically starts around $60,000 to $80,000, and that’s before adding any custom features. If you consider larger pools, upgraded finishes, heaters, or landscaping repairs, the total is often over $100,000.
It's not only about money; it’s also about time. Building a pool usually takes three to six months. It can take even longer if permits or inspections are delayed. This means weeks or months with construction crews, noise, dirt, and a disrupted backyard before anyone can actually swim.
The Monthly Cost Most People Forget About
Think you can relax your wallet once the pool is finished? Think again.
In Arizona’s heat, pools need constant attention. Chemicals burn off faster, equipment works harder, and water evaporates quickly. With professional pool service, chemicals, higher electricity bills, and increased water usage, many homeowners spend $200-$1,000 per month just to keep the pool maintained.
Even if you decide to clean it yourself, you’re still paying for chemicals, tools, repairs, and the time it takes to manage everything properly.
The Hidden Costs No One Mentions Upfront
What really catches people off guard are the repairs.
Pool equipment doesn’t last forever, especially in Arizona, where pools run nearly year-round.
Your pump fails. That’s $500-$1,000 on average.
Your filters wear out. That’s $200-$500 on average.
Your heaters stop working. That’s $1,000-$5,000 on average.
And resurfacing, which most pools need every 10 to 15 years, can cost tens of thousands of dollars on its own.
These aren’t “maybe someday” expenses. They’re inevitable parts of owning a pool, and they usually show up when you least expect them.
The Time Commitment Is Real
Your time is valuable. If you are installing a pool for your family, you don’t want to leave them constantly cleaning and maintaining it.
The whole point of a pool is to create backyard memories with your family. Every hour you spend filling the pool, cleaning, adding chemicals, replacing filters, fixing pumps, or doing repairs is time that could (and should) be spent with your family enjoying the pool.
The Resale Value Isn’t What You Think
Many homeowners justify the expense of building a pool by thinking, “It will add value when we sell.” While this seems reasonable, the reality is more complex.
In Arizona, pools can make a home more appealing to some buyers but also deter others. Families with young children, retirees, or buyers concerned about upkeep often view a pool as a liability instead of a benefit.
Even when a pool helps a home sell faster, it rarely recoups the cost of construction. A pool that costs $80,000 or $100,000 to install may only boost a home’s value by a small amount, particularly if it's several years old, needs resurfacing, or has outdated equipment.
A More Flexible Way to Enjoy a Pool or Spa
That question explains why options like pool and spa subscriptions have gained popularity in Arizona.
Rather than tying themselves to years of ownership, families can use a pool or hot tub for the months they truly want it. They avoid construction, high upfront costs, and long-term maintenance worries. Everything is taken care of for them, from setup to care to removal.
This approach makes it easier and more flexible to enjoy your backyard as you wish.
Final Thoughts
Owning a pool in Arizona isn’t just about the build price. It also involves ongoing costs, time, repairs, and long-term responsibility. When you add everything up, the “dream pool” can easily cost much more than most people expect.
Before you commit, take a step back and consider what truly fits your lifestyle right now. For many families, flexibility and simplicity are often more valuable than ownership.
