Ever wondered why two pools that look almost identical in size and shape can have price tags that are thousands of dollars apart?
It’s confusing, right? We hear that from A LOT of homeowners like you, all the time. You think you’re comparing apples to apples, but the numbers don’t add up.
The truth is, that you are NOT comparing apples to apples, pool initial price and ownership costs are most determined by what you don’t see on the surface: equipment, "guts of the pool", engineering and warranties. In this article, we’ll break down why two pools can look the same but cost very different amounts, and how you can compare quotes with different "apples" to make the best long-term choice.
What’s Included (and Excluded) in Each Pool Company's Quote?
- Does one builder put the permit in your name or their own (you want it in the company's name), inspections, start-up service, pool school and weekly pool service while another leaves those out?
- Is one company listing product specific brands, types and sizes while another is using generic pool terminology like "cartridge filter", "infloor cleaning" or "automation"?
- Are hidden line items like pre-grading, engineering, dump zones or hauling dirt clearly listed?
How Does Pool Equipment Affect the Price Even If the Pools Look Alike?
Two pools may look identical, but what’s inside the system makes all the difference. A variable-speed pump, heater, or automation system can add more upfront—but save you hundreds in monthly energy costs. For example, the term "cartridge filter" is VERY generic...is it a type that is sized for handle a spa or cocktail pool or can it handle the pool you designed? The difference in "cartridge filters" can be hundreds in initial price but worlds of difference in ease of use, how often they need to be cleaned and how long they last. The same goes for automation (how the pool is controlled), lighting, and cleaning systems. A basic setup may cost less initially, but it can mean more maintenance and higher utility bills in the long run.
The easy comparison is understanding that one pool proposal has a heater and the other does not...the tougher and, more common, challenge is both proposals have heaters and finding out for yourself how they compare and what the "price" vs "cost" differences are.
How Do Materials and Finishes Change the Price of Similar Pools?
Two pools may look alike, but the materials beneath the surface tell a different story. Plaster is the most affordable option but wears down sooner (average replacement of 8 to 10 years). Quartz offers better durability, up to 12 years, and color variety, while pebble finishes last the longest and hide imperfections, if any —though they cost more upfront (can be as long as 15 to 20 years with good care). Even pebble finishes have different categories to choose from...one category may be considered "standard" while another could have glass beads or abalone shells added to the mix. The different finishes may have a few thousand-dollar variation that you may not care about at all OR it could mean all the difference to you in creating your own personal great escape.
Tile, coping, and decking upgrades can also increase cost, but they enhance your pool’s appearance and longevity. For many Arizona homeowners, investing in durable finishes pays off with fewer remodels and lower maintenance down the road.
How Permits, Engineering, and Local Conditions Affect Pool Price
Every pool project begins with the ground beneath it—and no two backyards are alike. Soil conditions, excavation access, and lot slope/elevation can dramatically impact how complex (and costly) your build becomes. Rocky or collapsable soil or limited access for excavation equipment can add labor and engineering expenses that aren’t obvious in early quotes.
Local regulations also play a major role. City permits, inspections, and HOA requirements can all influence your project timeline and total cost. Some builders include these fees up front, while others leave them out—making one quote appear cheaper, but not truly complete. To see how HOA rules and city codes can shape your project, check out our guide: Click here
WARNING: Watch out for companies that want to put your name on the permit; if something ever goes wrong, you will need to file a complaint with the State of Arizona against whoever's name is on the permit...you don't want that name to be yours
And for a closer look at how ground conditions can impact excavation and construction costs, watch this quick video:
How Backyard Features and Add-Ons Can Explain the Price Difference
Two pool quotes can look worlds apart depending on what’s included. Landscaping, lighting, decking, and outdoor features often add tens of thousands to the total cost. A built-in spa alone can add $10,000–$20,000, while waterfalls, slides, and fire features elevate the experience—but they’re rarely low-price add-ons.
Some quotes include a complete backyard package with BBQ islands, hardscaping, or turf, while others only cover the pool and equipment.
How Builder Quality and Warranties Influence Pool Pricing
Price differences often reflect more than materials—they reveal a builder’s experience, reputation, quality standards and overall confidence in the finished product. Established builders invest in skilled crews, top materials, and proven construction processes that ensure long-term reliability.
Warranty terms also matter. One builder might say "this is the best system" and offer only a one-year limited manufacturer warranty, while another provides 3 to 5 year warranty on components and structural lifetime warranty on the shell of the pool. A lower price today can mean higher repair costs later if corners are cut.
A good question to ask, in testing the confidence of the builder in what they are providing, is: "Does this warranty transfer to the next owner?"
How to Compare Two Pool Quotes Fairly
When reviewing multiple quotes, it’s not just about the final number—it’s about what’s included. Ask yourself:
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What equipment, finish, and materials are being used? Be specific (size, type, brand so you can look them up yourself - - AI platforms and Google are great for comparative research)
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What warranties or guarantees are included? Do the warranites transfer to the next home owner? If not, why don't they?
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Are landscaping, permits, or automation systems, as for specifics, apart of the price?
Line up each quote side by side and look past surface similarities. A lower price might exclude efficient equipment, durable finishes, or warranty protection. Always compare details, not just dollars.
🚩 Pro Tip: Be cautious of bids that seem “too good to be true.” Missing details or vague warranties are common red flags. Especially in such a inflationary economy...most pool companies prefer that you don't know the specifics of products or brands. One contractor admitted "if they don't know to ask for it, then I don't include it so my price looks great!"
What Matters More—Price or Value?
Two pools may look the same, but the truth is, what’s under the surface—equipment, finishes, soil conditions, builder reputation, and warranty—makes all the difference in cost and long-term value.
This may seem like a biased, obvious set-up question but it depends on your life situation. For example, if you know you are only going to be in your home for 2 years or less because of your job, maybe the "cheapest" is the most important so price matters most. If you are planning on being in the home for longer than 5 years, financing, or partially financing, the project and care about what your monthly payments are, including your utility bills, then value matters most.
Whichever is most important to you, a transparent builder who shows you the why behind the price and value will save you stress, surprise costs, and expensive repairs later. The approach should be at your pace and empowering so you have a total peace of mind about such a significant investment. Maybe stating the obvious, you do want to be careful about going with the "cheapest" as such a large and permanent investment can end up costing you thousands later.
At Shasta, we believe in complete, radical transparency. That’s why we offer free pool pricing consultations to help you compare quotes side-by-side and make the choice that’s right for your home.
