Baseline Cost of a Lap Pool
The cost of a lap pool depends on several factors, but as a starting point, our standard-sized lap pools typically begin at $55,000 for a 10-metre by 3-metre pool with a depth of 1.5 metres. This base price covers:
However, this is just the starting point.Â
It’s rare for us to build a lap pool without additional features or site-specific adjustments.
We’ve built lap pools for as much as $200,000 due to a client’s specific needs and property layout.
It’s important to read the rest of this article, so you understand the factors that will determine the cost of your lap pool based on your unique needs and site conditions.
Factors That Affect the Total Cost of a Lap Pool
Understanding the variables will help you plan your budget more effectively. We hope this guide helps you identify key cost factors when finalising your lap pool design.
Remember, the figures below are price ranges based on our personal experience working with clients. Your individual needs or site conditions may result in higher or lower costs, depending on excavation challenges, material choices, or additional features.
Size, Design and Construction
The dimensions and shape of your lap pool will significantly impact the total cost.Â
As we mentioned in the introduction, a standard 10-metre by 3-metre concrete lap pool typically starts at $55,000, but as size and design complexity increase, so do material, labour, and engineering costs.
Pool Length & Width (Starting from $3,500)
Adding more length and width to your lap pool requires additional excavation, reinforcement and materials.Â
On average, expect to pay around $3,500 for every extra metre in length you add. Â
Something to keep in mind however is that once a pool reaches a certain length, the required steel reinforcement doubles. This will dramatically increase the price. It’s difficult to explain when this occurs in a blog post so we recommend you discuss this directly with your local pool builder.   Â
Custom Shapes and Features (Starting from $3,000)
A straight rectangular design is the most cost-efficient and structurally simple option.Â
Adding additional design features such as built-in ledges, seating areas, rounded edges, infinity edges, or curved walls requires more labour, custom formwork, and engineering, adding anywhere from $3,000 to $25,000 to the total cost.
Site Conditions and Excavation
The condition of your site is one of the biggest factors affecting the total cost of a lap pool.Â
While a flat, easily accessible block keeps costs lower, more complex sites can require additional excavation, engineering, and labour.Â
In our experience, this will add anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000+ to the overall price.Â
Here are the most common site challenges we encounter and how they can impact your total pool cost:
Accessibility Challenges (Starting from $5,000)
If your property has limited access—such as narrow side passages, steep driveways, or obstacles like trees and retaining walls—your pool builders may need to use a mini excavator instead of standard machinery, increasing labour costs.
If you anticipate accessibility challenges, relocating the pool to your front yard could be a cost-saving alternative.
Sloping or Uneven Blocks (Starting from $5,000)
If your property has a slope, excavation must compensate for the height difference. This can involve:
to level the area, increasing excavation costs ($5,000 to $20,000) depending on the site.
to stabilise the site, can cost $5,000 to $20,000 per square metre, depending on material and design.
for sloped sites, adding $5,000 to $20,000, depending on engineering needs.
Soil Type and Unforeseen Ground Conditions (Starting from $5,000)
Not all soil is the same, and difficult ground conditions can require extra work:
If hard rock is found beneath the surface, specialised rock-breaking equipment is needed, adding $5,000 to $20,000, depending on depth and volume.
Certain soil types expand and contract with moisture, requiring deeper footings and additional reinforcement, which can add $** to $** to the build.
If excavation reaches water, de-watering systems or drainage solutions may be necessary, increasing costs by $5,000 to $20,000.
Properties on canals, rivers, or waterfronts often have strict engineering and council requirements, which can add $5,000 to $20,000+ to the total cost. Extra measures like soil retention, drainage, and structural reinforcement may be required to ensure stability. Council regulations also restrict how close you can build to the water, and if a pool is planned within the boundary setback, a Relaxation Application is required. This process costs $3,000 to $5,000 and can take up to 12 weeks for approval, so it’s important to factor this into your timeline and budget.
Existing Structures or Underground Utilities (Starting from $1,000)
In some cases, private stormwater or sewer pipes may need to be redirected, adding $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the complexity and distance of the pipework.
Note: We can redirect private pipework (stormwater and sewer), but city council lines or inspection points cannot be diverted. There is a minimum required setback, which must be considered in your pool design.
If demolition or removal of concrete, old paving, or existing structures is required, additional costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000+, depending on the scope of work.
Interior Finishes, Landscaping & Fencing
Beyond the pool itself, the interior finish, surrounding landscape, and fencing all play a crucial role in the overall look, functionality, and compliance of your concrete lap pool.Â
These elements can add anywhere from $4,500 to $50,000+, depending on the materials, design complexity, and council regulations.
Choosing the right interior finish affects durability and maintenance, while landscaping and fencing ensure your pool integrates seamlessly into your outdoor space while meeting safety requirements.Â
Below, we break down the key costs and considerations for each:
Interior Finish Options for Concrete Lap Pools (Starting from $6,000)
Pebblecrete:
Pebblecrete has come a long way—no more sore feet after a swim! Modern pebble finishes provide a smooth yet durable surface, making them a great choice for any concrete lap pool.
At Aqua Living Pools, we offer two types of Pebblecrete finishes:
While New Zealand White Pebblecrete is included in our base price, if you’re comparing quotes, be sure to ask your local pool builder what their standard interior finish includes.
Tiled Interior:Â
A premium finish where the entire pool is lined with ceramic, porcelain, or glass tiles, creates a smooth, high-end look. It’s long-lasting, non-porous, and reduces algae buildup, making maintenance easier. However, it comes at a higher upfront cost and requires more labour for installation. Pricing is around $22,000 extra for this finish for a 10m x 3m x 1.5m lap pool.
Heating (Starting from $4,500)
Choosing the right heating system depends on your budget, climate, and how often you plan to use your pool.Â
Heating starts at $4,500 for a 6x4m pool and you can choose between the following options:
Uses roof-mounted solar panels to absorb heat from the sun and transfer it to the pool. This is the most energy-efficient and cost-effective option in the long run, but performance depends on sunlight and weather conditions.
Extracts heat from the air and transfers it to the pool water. It’s more reliable than solar, as it works in various weather conditions, but has higher upfront costs and requires consistent electricity use.
Uses natural gas or LPG to rapidly heat the pool, making it ideal for on-demand heating. While it’s the fastest way to heat a pool, it has higher ongoing costs compared to solar or electric options.
Fencing (Starting from $250 per metre)
Pool fencing is a legal requirement in Australia and plays a key role in safety and aesthetics.Â
The cost depends on the material chosen, with frameless glass providing a sleek, modern look, while aluminium options offer a more budget-friendly alternative. You can choose between:
A premium choice that provides unobstructed views and a modern finish.
The most cost-effective option, offering durability and compliance at a lower price.
A contemporary design that adds a stylish, architectural feel to the pool area.
If you’re looking to achieve a high-end finish while managing costs we recommend using glass for key areas and aluminium for less visible sections.
Exterior Tiling (Starting from $645 per m²)
Extending the tiling beyond the pool’s edge enhances both functionality and aesthetics, creating a seamless transition between the pool and the surrounding area.
The cost of extended coping is calculated at $645/m², which includes the supply and installation of a concrete slab, with a tile allowance of $85/m². Most homeowners choose to install 2–3 rows of tiles around the pool, providing comfortable walking space and ensuring ease of movement along the water’s edge.
For added functionality, many clients opt for a paved pad at one end of the pool, creating a dedicated space for umbrellas, lounge chairs, or seating areas.
Landscaping (Depends)
we don’t offer landscaping services for things such as grass, plant and decking installation, so we’re unable to provide specific cost estimates.Â
When we work with clients who are looking for additional landscaping, we have a range of trusted landscapers who we have worked alongside in the past and who we are happy to refer you to.Â
If you’re located outside Brisbane, the Gold Coast or the Northern Rivers and planning to include landscaping in your project, we recommend consulting a local landscaper for your project. They can help you explore design options, materials, and pricing based on your site and vision.
Looking to install a lap pool? Let us Help You Bring your vision to life
As you’ve probably realised reading this article, if you’re looking into building a lap pool, it’s probably easier if you call your local pool builder so they can give you more personalised advice,
If you live in Brisbane, the Gold Coast or the Northern Rivers, we’re award-winning pool builders who pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality pool designs and construction.Â
We can help you customise your lap pool to suit your space, lifestyle, and budget, ensuring a seamless design and build process.
Fill out our online form and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your vision.
