How Much Does It Cost to Build a Natural Pool?

Average Cost

Estimating Costs

The cost to build a pool of this type is split between materials, excavation, machinery use, and labor. You'll also need to factor in permits and a monetary buffer in case the project costs more than anticipated. 

Materials

The cost of materials ranges from $33,000 to $68,000 for a standard 600-square-foot pool. This equates to $55 to $113 per square foot and includes excavation, the cost of the liner, the gravel, the plants, the pipes, and the pump. The cost of materials varies so much because the cost of the material lining the pool is so different. For example, a standard budget-friendly liner starts at $0.25 per square foot while a fiberglass pool costs $113 per square foot.

Labor

For a 600-square-foot pool, expect to pay a local inground pool installer between $27,000 and $38,000 for labor alone. Per square foot, natural pool installation costs between $45 and $65 and includes excavation and ground prep, the pool build, filling with water, and planting up the regeneration zone.

Overages

It's a good idea to leave about 10% of the project total aside for unexpected expenses. For example, while excavating, if the contractor encounters extremely tough rock, you'll need to pay for blasting to get it clear, which can cost up to $7,000.

Permits

Just like building a regular inground pool, you'll need appropriate permits that will cost between $200 and $300. 

Cost by Material

The cost range for natural pool materials is vast, starting at just $0.25 per square foot for a thin, budget-friendly traditional pool liner and, at the upper limit, $113 per square foot for a high-end fiberglass liner. Concrete is a common choice as it's more affordable than fiberglass but more durable and aesthetically pleasing than a traditional liner.

Traditional Pool Liner

Pool liners cost $0.25 to $1.20 per square foot, so you'd be looking at a cost of $150 to $720 for the materials to line a 600-square-foot pool. They're not the most attractive, although black liners work well to conceal themselves and create a natural once the pool is full of water. The black coloring also helps to warm the pool earlier.

Clay

Bentonite clay pool lining costs $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. Lining a 600-square-foot pool with bentonite clay will cost between $300 and $900, for materials only. You can choose a clay liner or have the clay applied directly to the prepared and compacted soil to seal it, which is a more affordable option than purchasing a pre-fabricated clay liner. The application of clay directly to the soil also creates a more unique, natural look and feel compared with a manufactured liner.

Gravel

Gravel costs $1 to $2 per square foot, but it isn't a lining material, as such. However, it is an essential addition to the regeneration zone of your pool, as it's part of the natural filtration system. In the regeneration zone, the pool contractor adds a layer of gravel around 6 inches deep and helps to keep the water clean and healthy. 

Concrete

A concrete pool costs $55 to $70 per square foot. That puts the price of a 600-square-foot concrete pool at $33,000 to $42,000 for materials only. Concrete is robust and durable and is one of the most customizable options in terms of size, shape, and depth. With a natural pool, homeowners often choose to have the concrete painted black, which makes the pool look more natural.

Fiberglass

A fiberglass natural pool costs $100 to $113 per square foot. Fiberglass pools are highly customizable and inhibit algae growth. They're also popular because of their beauty and easy maintenance.

Cost Factors 

Aside from the pool installation itself, there are other elements you need to budget for, ranging from essentials like a pump to nice-to-haves such as fish, landscaping, or water features. 

Pump

Swimming pool pumps cost between $300 and $1,200, depending on the type of pump and its capacity. The pump circulates the water between the swim zone and the regeneration zone. Pumps are vital to the health and safety of a natural pool because water movement helps to discourage the growth of unwanted microorganisms.

Retaining Wall

The cost to build a pool retaining wall is $20 to $25 per square foot, all-in. You can choose any material you like, including brick, but most people opt to maintain the natural aesthetic by having a concrete retaining wall with a stone veneer. 

Pool Sand

Pool sand costs anywhere from $15 to $30 per ton and is a common addition to natural pools, to create a lakeside beach feel. It's also a frequent addition to the regeneration zone as part of the natural filtration system.

Waterfall

Adding a waterfall costs between $250 and $15,000, based on size and style. For this type of pool, a natural-looking waterfall cascading over rocks is a good option and costs from $2,000.

Lighting

Pool lighting costs between $450 and $1,200. Built-in lights cost $100 to $300 per 50-watt bulb. LED strip lighting is an affordable, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing choice, and floating LED lights add a splash of magic to your pool after dark.

Fish

You can include fish, such as koi, the price of which starts at $10 per fish, in your natural swimming pool. However, this increases maintenance and cleaning needs and costs because you'll need to remove the fish excrement. 

Landscaping

Landscaping around the pool costs anywhere from $100 to $50,000, depending on what you want. Landscaping can be as simple as reseeding some lawn or as elaborate as adding an outdoor kitchen and dining area, building and filling flowerbeds, rewilding the area around the pool, and adding walkways. 

Maintenance Costs

Maintenance costs for natural pools are minimal once the pool is field and the plants are established. There's no need to open and close the pool. Instead, let it freeze and thaw naturally, then just run the pump for a few weeks after the thaw before you start swimming. You will need to vacuum occasionally to remove sediment and skim the top to remove debris from time to time. The other key part that may need a little TLC is the pump, which may need servicing or tuning up to keep it working at peak efficiency.

FAQs

Are natural pools safe?

Yes, natural pools are safe as long as the regeneration zone contains enough gravel, sand, and plants, and providing the pump is running to keep the water moving. 

Can natural pools be heated?

Yes, you can heat natural pools. Solar pool heaters are the model of choice for natural pools as they're eco-friendly and minimize your pool's carbon footprint.

Can I use a natural pool year-round?

Depending on where you live, and if you choose to heat your pool, then yes, you can use a natural pool year-round.