What's Included in a Base New Pool Package?

One builder says their “base pool package” starts at $45,000 and another comes in at $75,000. Both claim it includes “everything you need.” So, what does that actually mean?

At Shasta, a new base pool can cost anywhere from $40,000–$85,000. This depends on your yard, access, and layout. What catches most homeowners off guard is base price rarely is the final price. The confusion arises from the fact that the  “base pool package” isn’t a universal standard. One builder may include automation, lighting, and upgraded materials. Another may call it “base" only to make every feature an upgrade.

In this guide, we’ll break down what’s typically included in a base pool package. Next, you'll learn what commonly costs extra and how to avoid surprises. You will leave with the confidence to end up with the pool you actually want.

Table of Contents

• What's Actually Included in a Basic Pool Package

• How Customizing Effects Your Pool Package?

• Why Planning Your Pool Package Upgrades Matters?

• Next Steps for Your Pool Project

What's Actually Included in a Basic Pool Package

A basic pool package includes everything required to make the pool structurally complete and swim-ready. What counts as “basic” varies by builder.

A base pool package should include:

• The shotcrete pool shell
• Plumbing runs from the pool to the equipment pad
• Electrical connection from the main panel to the equipment
• A circulation pump and filter
• A basic cleaning solution (vacuum line or robot allowance)
• A standard interior finish
• A base allowance for decking

As Shasta Pools Designer Scott Powers explain, you’re not paying for “a hole with water” — you’re paying for the systems that allow the pool to function safely and reliably.

What Core Equipment Makes a New Pool Work?

Every basic pool package includes the mechanical systems that keep your pool clean and safe. You'll get a high-efficiency pump and filter system that circulates water and removes debris. Think of these as the heart and lungs of your pool.

You'll also get:

• The pool shell structure
• PVC plumbing connections throughout
• Entry and exit features like steps and benches
• Full automation systems in most cases

That last point matters more than you might think. Pool automation used to be a luxury upgrade. Now most builders include it because homeowners expect to control their pool from their phone.

What Interior Finish and Basic Lighting are Included in a Basica Package?

The visual elements are part of the standard package too. Most base options include a Pebble Quartz or Pebble Tech interior finish with several color choices. These aggregate finishes last 7-12 years for quartz and 10-20 years for pebble varieties, which beats traditional plaster.

For lighting, expect at least one PAL color LED light. Professional designers space lights about every 8 feet around the pool at 9-12 inches below the waterline to avoid hot spots or dark areas. Basic, but functional.

Are Permits and Site Work included in a Base Pool Package?

Here's where a good builder saves you serious headaches. Quality builders handle all the paperwork as part of their base package:

• City permits and engineering requirements
• Excavation and grading
• Required safety inspections
• Property surveys if needed

The permitting process alone can involve building permits, electrical permits, and plumbing permits. Having this included means you don't have to figure out which permits you need or when to apply for them.

What does "Swim-Ready" Actually Means?

A proper base package creates a pool that's 100% ready for use. Fill it with water, and you're swimming. No additional equipment to buy. No extra installations needed.

That's the difference between a complete base package and a budget quote that nickel-and-dimes you later.

Now that you’ve seen what a true base pool package includes. The next question is how that fits your budget. Read our article on Why Your Pool Budget Matters Before You Ever Meet with a Builder?

What's Not Included in the Base Pool Price?

Here's where things get tricky. You've found a base package you like, but that quoted price might not cover everything you're expecting.

Most builders are upfront about major exclusions, but some items catch homeowners off guard. After building pools for 60 years, we've learned that educated customers make the most satisfied pool owners. That's why we're transparent about what typically falls outside a base package.

What are Common Exclusions That Surprise Homeowners?

Your base pool quote probably doesn't include:

• Landscaping restoration - If construction damages your grass, plants, or irrigation system, fixing that costs extra
• Electrical work beyond standard distance - Running power from your electrical panel to the pool area has limits
• Demolition work - Removing existing decks, patios, or structures isn't part of the base price
• Rock removal - Hard soil or rock deposits mean additional excavation costs
• Extra concrete work - Anything beyond the immediate pool deck area
• Fencing and safety barriers - Required by most cities but not included in pool pricing

What are Popular Features That Cost Extra?

Those stunning pool photos you see online. They usually include upgrades.

Water features like waterfalls, fountains, and deck jets require additional plumbing and equipment. Fire features, premium lighting systems, and integrated spas fall into the upgrade category. Specialty materials like designer tile, natural stone coping, and high-end interior finishes also cost more than standard options.

What "Pools Starting At" Really Means?

When you see "pools starting at $45,000," that price assumes ideal conditions:

• Flat, easily accessible property
• Standard soil without rock or drainage problems
• Utilities close to the pool location
• Builder-selected standard materials
• No custom design elements

If your property doesn't fit these assumptions, the final price will be higher.

The key is asking upfront: "What could make my actual cost different from this base price?" Good builders will walk your property and identify potential extras before you sign a contract.

Understanding what’s not included is just as important as knowing what is. Items like landscaping repairs, fencing, heating, and upgraded equipment don’t just affect your upfront cost. They also influence what owning a pool costs month after month. If you want a clear picture of what comes after construction. Read our article on The True Cost of Owning a Swimming Pool in Phoenix.

How Customizing Effects Your Pool Package?

Once the base structure is defined, nearly every homeowner customizes something. As Shasta’s Pool Design Scott Powers sees daily, the real question isn’t if you’ll customize, but which upgrades make sense for your yard. How can a pool builder access your property? Also, don't forget what is most important which is how you plan to use the pool.

Customizations typically fall into three categories:

• Functional upgrades (automation, sanitation, cleaning systems)
• Design upgrades (steps, benches, Baja shelves, lighting)
• Site-driven upgrades (additional decking, access constraints, demolition, layout adjustments)

What surprises many homeowners is that customization isn’t always about luxury. Limited access, existing landscaping, or soil conditions can affect labor and timelines. This happens even if the pool size stays the same.

How Upgrading Standard Features Effects the Base Pool Package?

Start with the features you know you'll use every day.

Interior finishes make one of the biggest visual impacts. Glass tile creates stunning reflections when sunlight hits the water, but it also adds $5,000-$15,000 to your project. Pebble finishes cost less but still give you that resort-style look.

Lighting upgrades pay off if you plan to swim at night. Color-changing LED systems let you set different themes for parties or holidays, though they typically add $1,500-$3,500. Standard single-color LEDs cost less but still illuminate your pool safely.

Energy-efficient equipment costs more upfront but saves money over time. A variable-speed pump might add $800-$1,200 to your package, but it can cut your pool's energy usage by 50-70%.

How Add-Ons for Comfort and Style Make a Difference in Final Pool Project Price?

Tanning ledges have become popular for a reason. These shallow areas (typically 9-12 inches deep) give you a place to relax in the water without fully swimming. They typically add $3,000-$8,000 depending on size.

Water features range from simple to elaborate. Deck jets cost $1,000-$2,500 and create elegant arcs of water. Waterfalls start around $2,000 but can reach $25,000 for custom rock formations. The key is choosing features that match how you actually plan to use your pool.

Fire elements create dramatic focal points for evening entertaining, while automated covers increase safety and reduce maintenance. Both represent significant upgrades but serve different priorities.

Customizing your pool is where design choices turn into real dollars. Features like finishes, lighting, and water features directly influence the total project cost. If you want a clearer understanding of how these choices impact pricing, read: Breaking Down the Cost of an Arizona Pool.

Why Planning Your Pool Package Upgrades Matters?

Upgrades don’t just change how your pool looks. They determine how well it fits your lifestyle and your property. As Shasta designer Scott Powers sees every day, most cost surprises don’t come from the base pool itself. They come from unplanned upgrades added late in the process. A pool that starts in the $60,000 range can climb quickly once heating, finishes, automation, lighting, or water features are added.

How to Plan Your Budget Beyond the Base Pool Price?

Set aside contingency funds for potential upgrades or unexpected issues. Even with the best planning, you might discover drainage problems, hit rock during excavation, or decide you want that tanning ledge after seeing the pool take shape.

Smart builders help you plan for this. They'll outline what could add costs and give you realistic expectations about your total investment.

The goal is a pool that exceeds your expectations, not a budget that spirals out of control.

Planning upgrades early also explains why pool bids can look wildly different. Two pools may appear similar on paper. Although, differences in materials, engineering standards, and access assumptions dramatically change the final price. If you’re comparing multiple proposals, checkout our guide on Why 5 Pool Bids Can Look Very Different.

Next Steps for Your Pool Project

If there’s one, it’s “base pool package” is not a finished pool. It’s the start of a smart conversation. A quality base package should give you everything needed to swim safely and reliably. The final pool is shaped by your yard, access, soil, and how you plan to use the pool.

Most homeowners don’t spend more because they were “upsold.” They invest more because once they understand their options, they make informed choices. The difference between a stressful build and a rewarding one isn’t the lowest starting price. It’s working with a builder who is transparent upfront and helps you plan realistically.

At Shasta Pools, we’ve been doing exactly that for decades. Our designers don’t start with a template or a price tag. They start by understanding your property, your goals, and your budget. We guide you through what makes sense and what doesn’t. We are not afraid of why.

Key Takeaways

Understanding what's included in a base pool package helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises during construction.

• Base packages include everything swim-ready: pool shell, pump/filter system, automation, lighting, interior finish, permits, and site preparation
• Expect exclusions like landscaping restoration, electrical beyond standard distance, rock removal, fencing, and premium features like waterfalls
• Many homeowners invest $65,000-$90,000 total with upgrades, significantly more than base prices of $40,000-$85,000
• Work with experienced design consultants who provide transparent quotes and help balance your vision with budget reality
• Plan for customizations early - adding features like LED lighting ($1,500-$3,500) or water features ($1,000-$25,000) after construction costs more

The key to a successful pool project is understanding that "pools starting at" prices represent the minimum investment under ideal conditions, while most families enhance their packages to create personalized backyard retreats.

FAQs

Q1. What is typically included in a base pool package? A base pool package usually includes the pool shell, high-efficiency pump and filter system, automation, standard lighting, interior finish, necessary permits, and basic site preparation. This ensures the pool is swim-ready upon completion.

Q2. How much does a basic inground pool cost? The cost of a basic inground pool can vary but typically ranges from $40,000 to $85,000. However, most homeowners end up investing between $65,000 and $90,000 with upgrades and customizations.

Q3. What are some common exclusions in a base pool package? Common exclusions in a base pool package often include landscaping restoration, extensive electrical work, demolition of existing structures, rock removal, extra concrete work beyond the immediate pool deck, and fencing or safety barriers.

Q4. Can I customize my pool beyond the base package? Yes, you can customize your pool beyond the base package. Popular upgrades include premium interior finishes, advanced lighting systems, water features, tanning ledges, and fire elements. These customizations allow you to create a personalized backyard retreat.

Q5. How important is working with a pool design consultant? Working with a pool design consultant is crucial. They evaluate your property, understand your needs, and help balance your vision with budget constraints. A good consultant acts as an advocate for your project, ensuring you get the pool that best fits your lifestyle and home.