This isn't a cost. It's an investment.
The figures on this page are real and we don't hide them — that's how AE operates. But we want to be honest about how to read them. Your pools & spas project isn't a line-item expense; it's an investment in your home's value, your family's daily experience, and a space you'll use for the next twenty to thirty years.
When you compare bids, compare what you're investing in — the spec, the crews, the warranty, the company that will still be standing in year ten — not just the price tag. The lowest bid is almost always the most expensive build over time.
How much does it cost to build a pool in Phoenix?
Straight ranges from a Peoria-based design-build team that builds pools across the Valley. Published pricing, no 'call for quote.'
Educational estimate, not a quote. Ranges shown are Arizona-market planning estimates. Final pricing depends on site access, size, materials, engineering, drainage, utilities, permits, equipment access, existing conditions, and final scope. Binding pricing is only valid in a written proposal signed by an AE representative.
By project size (turnkey, permit-pulled)
- Entry pool (small play pool, ~10x20, standard equipment, minimal deck): $65,000–$85,000
- Typical family pool (~14x28 with attached spa, travertine deck, LED lights): $85,000–$120,000
- Larger pool w/ spa + water features + shade structure: $120,000–$180,000
- Resort-scale (large freeform, Baja shelf, fire, custom coping, extensive decking): $180,000–$300,000+
- Spool / plunge pool (~8x12): $55,000–$75,000
What's included in the investment
- Engineered structural shell (rebar, gunite/shotcrete, waterproofing)
- Interior finish (Pebble Tec / Pebble Sheen family or plaster upgrade)
- Coping and tile line (natural stone, porcelain, or glass tile options)
- Deck (travertine, pavers, or broom-finish concrete — priced per material)
- Equipment pad (Pentair / Jandy / Hayward — variable-speed pump, cartridge filter, salt or chlorine sanitizer)
- LED lighting, plumbing, autofill, and skimmer
- Permits, engineering, ADEQ compliance, and inspections
- Barrier / pool fence per Arizona code before final water fill
- AE workmanship warranty + manufacturer equipment warranties
What drives the price up
- Attached spa with dedicated blower + heater: +$15,000–$28,000
- Water features (sheer descents, scuppers, bubblers): +$1,500–$8,000 per feature
- Fire features (fire bowls, fire pit integrated into deck): +$3,500–$12,000 each
- Baja shelf, benches, sun ledge tanning: +$4,000–$10,000
- Large travertine or paver decks (>800 sq ft): +$18–$28/sq ft over base concrete
- Difficult access (crane over house, narrow side gate): +$5,000–$25,000
- Rock or caliche encountered during excavation: hourly change order
- Automation (ScreenLogic / iAquaLink / Omni), remote control: +$2,500–$6,000
Payment schedule (canonical AE pool contract)
Every new pool build uses the same 5-milestone schedule so cash outflow matches actual work in the ground: • 15% deposit at contract signing • 25% at dig • 25% at shotcrete • 25% at decking • 10% before interior finish We do not accept 'remainder due at completion' contracts. This schedule protects both sides.
Timeline
- Design + engineering + permit: 3–6 weeks (varies by jurisdiction)
- Construction from dig to first swim: 8–14 weeks weather-dependent
- Total contract-to-swim: typically 4–6 months
Common questions.
Plan before you sign anything.
Get your real pool number
Answer 6 quick questions and we'll send an honest investment range for your yard, plus 3 examples of pools we've built at that size in the Valley.
Start My Project PlanWhy this is an investment, not a cost.
An AE backyard is engineered to add daily livability and long-term home value. We publish honest ranges and build to code with a licensed and bonded Arizona crew. AE provides project-specific workmanship and manufacturer-warranty information in the signed agreement. Website summaries are for planning only.
- Licensed, bonded & insured in Arizona. ROC 340966 (R-62) · ROC 341002 (R-3) · ROC 347738 (KA-5) · ROC 211530 (CR-21). Most Arizona contracting work valued at $1,000 or more — or requiring a permit — must be performed by a properly licensed contractor, subject to statutory exemptions. Verify the legal entity, license status, and classification with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
- Real ranges, itemized scope. You see materials, finishes, equipment models, and a line-item budget before you sign — not a one-line "pool — $90,000."