Many homeowners dream of lounging poolside in their backyard oasis—but the idea of installing an inground pool often feels out of reach financially. Fortunately, luxury doesn’t always require a high price tag. With a bit of creativity, smart planning, and the right materials, you can achieve an upscale look without overspending. Whether you’re coming up with inground pool designs from scratch or upgrading an existing pool, there are plenty of ways to get that resort-style aesthetic while sticking to a budget.
From clever design choices to affordable finishes that mimic high-end materials, it’s possible to blend affordability and elegance. The secret is knowing where to spend, where to save, and how to get the most visual impact for your money.
Choose a Smaller Footprint for a Big Impact
One of the most straightforward ways to cut costs is by downsizing the pool itself. A smaller pool means less excavation, fewer materials, and reduced labor costs. But smaller doesn’t mean less stylish. In fact, compact pools often feel more intimate and luxurious, especially when paired with lush landscaping or built-in seating.
Spools (small pool + spa hybrids) and plunge pools are gaining popularity for exactly this reason—they offer a sleek look in a more manageable size. When designed thoughtfully, even a modest pool can look like it belongs at a boutique hotel.
Go for Clean, Modern Shapes
Complex pool shapes with curves and custom edges can quickly drive up installation costs. Instead, opt for a simple geometric design—think rectangles or squares. These clean lines offer a modern, minimalist aesthetic that’s often found in high-end homes.
Not only are rectangular pools more affordable to install, but they also make better use of smaller spaces. You can elevate the look by surrounding your pool with inexpensive but elegant pavers or concrete decking, creating a refined frame around your water feature.
Use Budget-Friendly Finishes That Mimic Luxury
Natural stone, glass tiles, and premium decking materials can be beautiful—but they come at a price. Luckily, there are alternatives that offer a similar look at a fraction of the cost. Stamped concrete, for example, can mimic the appearance of stone or brick and is available in various patterns and colors.
Vinyl liners have also come a long way. Modern versions can imitate the rich textures of tile or stone without the high expense. When paired with good lighting and thoughtful design, these finishes can easily pass for their more expensive counterparts.
Upgrade the Surroundings, Not Just the Pool
Sometimes, it’s not the pool itself that makes the space feel luxurious—it’s everything around it. Simple upgrades like well-placed outdoor lighting, minimalist landscaping, or a few high-quality lounge chairs can make a world of difference.
Add a touch of ambiance with string lights, solar path lights, or LED underwater lighting. Planting ornamental grasses, low-maintenance shrubs, or even a privacy hedge can transform your backyard into a secluded escape. None of these enhancements have to cost much, but together, they can create a truly elevated atmosphere.
Incorporate a Water Feature—Affordably
Waterfalls and fountains add a resort-like feel to any pool, but custom-built features can be pricey. Consider prefabricated waterfall kits or simple scuppers that create a clean water flow into your pool. These elements are easier to install and much more budget-friendly.
Even the sound of moving water alone adds to the spa-like experience. By incorporating a modest feature into your design, you can boost the luxury factor without drastically inflating your costs.
Keep Maintenance and Longevity in Mind
A luxurious-looking pool isn’t just about appearances—it should also be practical to maintain. Choosing low-maintenance materials like vinyl or fiberglass helps keep your long-term costs in check. Saltwater systems, while more expensive upfront, can also reduce chemical expenses over time and feel more gentle on the skin.
By designing with durability and ease in mind, you’ll not only save money but also enjoy your pool with less hassle. And when a pool is easy to care for, it naturally feels more like a relaxing retreat than a chore.
Affordable Elegance Is Within Reach
Creating a backyard space that feels like a five-star resort doesn’t require a six-figure budget. With the right design strategies, smart material choices, and a little creative thinking, it’s absolutely possible to install a beautiful inground pool that feels luxurious without overspending.
The key is focusing on the elements that offer the most visual and sensory impact—like clean lines, modern finishes, and tranquil surroundings—while staying mindful of cost-saving options. So if you’ve been putting off your dream pool project because of the price tag, it might be time to take a fresh look. Luxurious doesn’t have to mean expensive—it just has to be well done.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
