This is Not a Legal Survey
Contributing Writer | Architecture & Design Writer
Are you looking for a way to transform your home and backyard?
Well, the cocktail pool might be the solution you need.
The cocktail pools are smaller than regular pools, which makes them a perfect choice for homes that have limited outdoor space. Because of their size, they have lower costs and less maintenance, which makes them very attractive for many homeowners.
If you’re interested in creating a place where you can relax and escape hot summer days, stay with us, as we’ll discuss cocktail pool prices, ideas, and designs, and make sure you get all the knowledge before starting a cocktail pool project.
A cocktail pool or a “spool” is a small pool that can be a combination of spa and pool, and it’s usually used for relaxation rather than swimming because of its compact size.
Their size ranges from 400 to 600 square feet, no deeper than 4 feet. They include cooling, heating, built-in seating, and jets. Cocktail pools are space-efficient and can be customized with features such as LED lighting or waterfalls.
They can be installed outdoors or indoors, as above-ground or inground pools, and are a great option for small backyards or urban spaces.
Having a cocktail pool is a great home addition, but before starting the project, let’s discuss the cost and prices for cocktail pools.
The average price for a cocktail pool is around $26,000, and the more customized features you add, the more expensive the pool will be.
The cost of a cocktail pool depends on numerous factors like size, features, location, and materials, so understanding the prices is important before starting the process.
A small cocktail pool can cost $5,500 or more if you use cheaper materials and do lots of work alone. The high-end cocktail pool can cost up to $55,000 with professional installations.
A full-sized fiberglass pool and a vinyl liner pool can cost less than $55,000, but you need to consider the maintenance cost and resale value.
The good thing about a cocktail pool is that you’ll spend less time cleaning it because of its size, and use less electricity and water. Maintenance can cost around $1,700 per year, but the price can be as low as $950.
Here’s a table showing the cocktail pool cost breakdown.
| Type / Range | Estimated Cost | Notes |
| Basic DIY Cocktail Pool | From $5,500 | Uses cheaper materials, self-installed |
| Average Cocktail Pool | Around $26,000 | Mid-range price with some customization |
| High-End Cocktail Pool | Up to $55,000 | Professional installation, premium features |
| Annual Maintenance | $950 – $1,700/year | Lower due to smaller size; includes water, electricity, and cleaning |
| Comparable Fiberglass/Vinyl Pools | Under $55,000 | May be larger but involve higher maintenance and space requirements |
Table 1: Cocktail pool cost breakdown
Let’s discuss the factors that influence the cost of a cocktail pool in more detail.
Caption: Understanding the factors that affect the cocktail pool cost can help homeowners make informed decisions about their project
If you’re planning your budget for a cocktail pool project, you need to know all the factors that can influence the overall cost, such as size, shape, installation cost, material, labor, permits, land preparation, landscaping, and the addition of any special pool features.
Understanding these factors is the key to proper estimation of the project and keeping your budget safe during the process.
A cocktail pool is a pool that is not intended for swimming or diving, as it does not have a depth of more than 4 feet. This type of pool is meant for relaxation and is usually between 168 square feet and 300 square feet.
The shape of a spool pool will affect the overall cost and installation price.
Homeowners can choose the shape, from L-shaped, custom, or simply round pools, so it can fit their needs and the surrounding area. Square-shaped and rectangular pools are the easiest and least expensive to install.
The price of installing a cocktail pool depends on the accessibility of the location of the pool.
Difficult-to-access locations will be more pricey, and so will the type of pool being installed. Installation kits for above-ground cocktail pools can cost from $500, while inground cocktail pools have more expensive installation kits.
A great thing about cocktail pools is that they can be installed indoors as well.
The average cost of an indoor cocktail pool is around $25,500. It’s a luxurious home addition that can make the space even more appealing.
An indoor plunge pool for a single person can cost around $6,000, while having a cocktail pool with different additions, such as having an endless swim system, heater, water features, remote control, and additional seating, can cost over $52,000.
The table shows installation location & cost factors for cocktail pools.
| Location/Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
| Above-Ground Cocktail Pool Kit | From $500 | Kit only; installation extra |
| In-Ground Cocktail Pool Kit | Higher than $500 | Requires excavation and professional installation |
| Indoor Cocktail Pool (Average) | Around $25,500 | Ideal for year-round use |
| Small Indoor Plunge Pool (1-person) | Around $6,000 | Basic setup |
| High-End Indoor Cocktail Pool | Over $52,000 | May include heater, jets, seating, endless swim system, etc. |
| Hard-to-Access Installations | Varies (adds cost) | Labor-intensive access increases the installation price |
Table 2: Cost factors and installation location
Building materials for a cocktail pool cost, on average, somewhere around $22,000. Copper, steel, and concrete are more expensive material options, while fiberglass, vinyl, wood, or repurposed materials have more affordable prices.
Vinyl and wood prices range between $6,000 to $12,000 for a 300-square-foot pool, while copper can make the price go up to $55,000.
Labor cost is around $6 per square foot. Labor is usually more expensive in urban areas with dense populations, as they have a higher cost of living compared to rural areas. For the installation of a cocktail pool, you need to have a pool permit, which can range from $300 to $1,200.
To get a permit, you’ll need to obtain a site plan, an essential document that will outline the placement of the pool on your property. Keep in mind that building without a permit can cause legal issues, so make sure you check your local building department’s requirements.
When you get all the permits and a green light to start the project, the area where the pool will be installed needs to be prepared. Cocktail pools are smaller than normal-sized inground pools, so the excavation cost is less expensive. The price range for land excavation goes from $500 to $1,600.
There are a lot of extra features that can be added to your cocktail pool. You can add different water elements that will make the pool experience even better, such as bubblers, waterfalls, jets, and fountains.
A cocktail pool can even be turned into a spa with additional seating, a heater, an air pump system, and a whirlpool. Adding these features can cost around $18,000 without the labor.
Besides water features, you can add more elements such as steps, lighting, a ladder, an underwater bicycle or a treadmill, a cover, an infinity edge, a saltwater system, remote phone control, etc.
As we can see, there are endless options and possibilities, but keep in mind that they can increase the overall price to over $60,000.
Cocktail pools can have different landscaping design plans, which can range from $3,500 to $5,500 or $5 to $13 per square foot. The addition of flowers, trees, plants, and shrubs can make the pool area look more aesthetic and appealing. A retaining wall costs about $5,500, while landscaping rocks cost around $750.
Now let’s dig into cocktail pool types and materials in more detail.
As we already mentioned, cocktail pools can have different styles and designs with various materials. Every homeowner should consider the type of material they want to use for a pool.
In the following table, let’s see some of the most popular material types for a 300-square-foot cocktail pool.
| Cocktail pool material | Average price (labor and materials) |
| Cedar (6-foot diameter) | $5,500 |
| Concrete or gunite | $24,000 |
| Copper | $52,000 |
| Fiberglass | $17,000 |
| Steel | $28,000 |
| Vinyl | $12,000 |
Table 3: Popular material types for cocktail pools and their price
Cedar cocktail pool costs around $5,200 as cedar is a budget-friendly material. It is usually used for DIY cocktail pool installation, but is limited to round pools only. A cocktail pool made from cedar doesn’t last as long as a pool made from other materials.
A cocktail pool made out of concrete or gunite can be designed in any shape. For a 300-square-foot pool, the cost is around $24,000. Cedar is prone to algae growth, so it requires good maintenance, but overall is a durable material.
Copper is one of the most expensive materials that requires regular maintenance and costs around $52,000 for a 300-square-foot pool.
Fiberglass material is very durable and compatible with a saltwater system, with low maintenance. It costs around $17,000 and is a budget-friendly option compared to other cocktail pool materials.
Cocktail pools made out of steel cost around $28,000. It’s a great material, but it tends to corrode from pool chemicals and salt. This is a very popular material for above-ground cocktail pools.
Vinyl cocktail pools are very customizable, and they are a great budget-friendly option as they cost around $12,000. The only downside of this material is that its lifespan is only between 5 to 10 years.
After seeing different material types and options for the cocktail pool, let’s explore design ideas and options that can increase the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a cocktail pool.
Caption: Cocktail pools have a wide range of design possibilities and ideas for creating your perfect piece of paradise
There are numerous ideas on how to make your cocktail pool more appealing. The options to customize your swimming pool design are nearly limitless.
Here is a list of a couple of ideas you can add to your cocktail pool:
In the following text, see some more ideas for small pools, above-ground pools, and pools with hot tubs.
A cocktail pool is a perfect solution for small yards as it offers both functionality and a spot for relaxation. To maximize the space, try having a pool with built-in seating, and rectangular and sleek designs that will create a cozy environment even in an area with limited space.
Above-ground cocktail pools are easier and faster to install than in-ground pools. They are a cost-effective option with typical costs ranging from $5,500 to $15,500, while inground pool cost ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 or more.
You can enhance the look of your above-ground cocktail pool by adding a modern railing, surrounding deck, or landscaping.
Cocktail pools with hot tubs create a perfect oasis for relaxation. Adding a hot tub with heated jets will be a great addition that allows you to have hydrotherapy in your own home.
After exploring various ideas about cocktail pool designs and looks, let’s see whether it’s possible to DIY the cocktail pool project alone or whether it’s better to hire a pro to do the job.
Installing a cocktail pool is not an easy task. Only highly experienced individuals can do the project alone, as it requires a lot of knowledge, such as excavating and labeling land, as well as plumbing and electrical work.
To save money on materials, you can buy a DIY cocktail pool kit, which costs around $5,500. DIY can save money, around $6 per square foot on labor costs, or $1,700 for a 300-square-foot pool.
Check out the DIY expenses in the table below when building a cocktail pool.
| DIY cocktail pool expenses | Average cost |
| Excavation equipment | $2,500 per week |
| Materials | $500 to $21,000 |
| Building permits | $300 to $1,500 |
Table 4: DIY expenses
If you decide to DIY the project, you will need more time to install a cocktail pool. Although the DIY installation saves money, improper installation can lead to many mistakes requiring expensive fixes or even pool removal.
The cost of pool removal, whether partial or complete, is a costly process that ranges from $3,000 to $20,000.
By hiring a professional to do the job, you can be sure that the job will be done correctly and efficiently. It takes around 4 to 12 weeks for a professional pool installation company to install the cocktail pool. The installation process depends on the size, location, and type of the pool.
We can conclude that hiring a professional ensures proper installation, adherence to rules, regulations, and building codes, safety, and high-quality work.
Now let’s see together all the cocktail pool advantages and disadvantages so you can make an informed decision before starting the cocktail pool project.
In the table below, let’s see the pros and cons of having a cocktail pool.
| Cocktail pool advantages | Cocktail pool disadvantages |
| They are very practical and easy to maintain | They have limited swimming space |
| They are much more affordable than traditional inground pools | Custom features and materials come at higher costs |
| They are a great backyard addition for relaxation | There’s not enough space to have big gatherings and pool parties |
Table 5: Advantages and disadvantages of cocktail pool
Although there are a few disadvantages to having a cocktail pool, still they can still be a great addition to your home. You can always add different features to make your cocktail pool better, more functional, and unique.
Let’s answer some of the most asked questions regarding cocktail pools.
Yes, cocktail pools can be heated with heating systems, which makes them great for year-round use, even in colder climate areas.
The ROI (Return on Investment) of a cocktail pool is between 15% and 25%, depending on factors such as pool size, quality, and location. In areas with high pool demands, a cocktail pool can be a great investment that can boost the property value and enhance its overall aesthetics.
A cocktail pool can fit 4 to 6 people, depending on the size. Larger cocktail pools can maybe accommodate more people, but this type of pool is designed rather for relaxation than active swimming.
Cocktail pool addition is a great investment in your home’s value and quality of life, and to ensure a smooth installation process, don’t forget to obtain a site plan for permits.
This way, you’ll be sure that your cocktail pool project complies with local zoning laws and regulations.
Also, using 3D rendering during the design and planning phase can help you visualize the layout and final look of your cocktail pool, so you can be sure the pool meets your needs before the construction process begins.
In case you need assistance with obtaining a site plan, feel free to contact us. Our team is here to answer all your questions and make sure you have a smooth and successful cocktail pool installation process.
Learn more about our contributor:
Contributing Writer | Architecture & Design Writer
During my career, I’ve written articles on interior design, home remodeling, and renovation with an emphasis on money-saving tips and DIY ideas. It’s been a rewarding journey and I am thrilled to continue helping others bring their architectural visions to life.
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