If you're getting quotes for an inground pool in Texas, here's the honest picture: most homeowners end up spending considerably more than the number they first had in mind — not because builders are dishonest, but because the advertised "starting at" price rarely includes the things people actually want.
Base price ranges in 2026
A custom gunite (concrete) pool — the most common build in Texas — typically runs $50,000 to $100,000+ in the major metros. Compact designer pools start around $60,000 in Dallas–Fort Worth, while estate-level projects with spas, water features, and outdoor kitchens regularly pass $150,000–$200,000.
A fiberglass pool (a pre-molded shell installed in an excavated hole) usually lands between $40,000 and $85,000 installed. Fiberglass installs faster — often 2–6 weeks instead of 2–4 months — and needs less ongoing chemical maintenance, but you're limited to the manufacturer's shapes and sizes (typically maxing out around 16x40 feet).
Vinyl-liner pools are the budget option at roughly $35,000–$60,000, but they're uncommon in Texas: liners need replacing every 7–10 years, and most Texas builders specialize in gunite.
What moves the price
The big variables: size and depth (excavation and gunite are priced by volume), your lot (sloped hill-country lots in Austin can add tens of thousands in retaining and engineering; tight access that prevents heavy equipment adds labor), finishes (standard plaster vs. PebbleTec-style aggregate can swing $5,000–$15,000), and extras — a spa adds $15,000–$30,000, tanning ledges $3,000–$8,000, water features $2,000–$20,000, and outdoor kitchens are effectively a second project.
Hidden and ongoing costs
Budget beyond the contract: decking beyond the included perimeter, fencing (Texas municipalities require barriers around pools), landscaping repair after heavy equipment crosses your yard, possible electrical panel upgrades, and higher homeowner's insurance. Ongoing, expect $3,000–$6,000 per year in chemicals, electricity, and service — or more with a heater running through a Texas winter.
How to get an accurate number
Get at least three written, itemized quotes from builders who work in your specific city — soil, permitting, and access vary even between suburbs. Compare what each quote actually includes (decking square footage, finish grade, equipment brand, warranty terms) rather than just the bottom line. You can browse builders by city across Texas right here in the directory.