Feel like your backyard’s going to waste? Or perhaps you want to install a pool but don’t have a lot of room to work with?
A plunge pool could turn that unused space into the best part of your home, a place to cool off, relax, and add long-term value.
More affordable than full-size pools and perfect for smaller blocks, plunge pools are quickly becoming the go-to choice for Aussie homeowners.
If you’re wondering, “How much does a plunge pool cost?” Here’s what you need to know and how to get it right from the start.
Average Plunge Pool Cost in Australia
If you’re planning a plunge pool project, the cost is likely one of your first questions.
While prices can vary depending on design, site access, and inclusions, our standard-sized concrete plunge pools typically start at $45,000 for a 6x4m pool with a deep point of 1.8m on a flat, accessible block.
This base price covers:
However, this is just the starting point.
It’s rare for us to build a pool without additional features or site-specific adjustments.
We’ve built 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 pool based on your unique needs and site conditions.
Factors That Affect the Total Cost of a Plunge 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 plunge 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
Even with plunge pools, size and shape still play a major role in the total cost.
While many plunge pools start at around a 6×4 metre pool with a deep point of 1.8 metres, increasing the size or opting for a more complex design will raise material, labour, and engineering expenses.
Pool Length & Width (From $3,500)
Extending your plunge pool’s length or width means more excavation, concrete, and steel, which all add up.
As a rough guide, you can expect to pay around $3,500 for every additional metre in length.
It’s also worth noting that once your pool reaches certain dimensions, steel reinforcement requirements can double, which can cause a sharp increase in cost.
Because this depends on site-specific factors, it’s best to discuss this directly with your local pool builder.
Custom Shapes and Features (From $3,000)
Keeping the shape simple, like a straight rectangle, is the most cost-effective option.
Design elements such as built-in bench seats, curved walls, spa zones, or infinity edges require more time, specialised formwork, and custom engineering.
These types of pool features can add anywhere from $3,000 to $25,000 to your overall build cost.
Site Conditions and Excavation
Site conditions are one of the most important cost factors when planning a plunge pool.
While a flat, accessible block keeps pricing down, more challenging sites can quickly increase excavation, engineering, and labour costs.
In most cases, this adds between $3,000 and $10,000+ to your overall budget.
Here are the most common site challenges and how they affect pricing:
Accessibility Challenges (From $5,000)
If your property has limited access, narrow side gates, steep driveways, or obstacles like trees or retaining walls, your builder may need to use smaller machinery or carry out manual labour.
This increases time and cost, sometimes adding $5,000 or more to the project.
In some cases, shifting the plunge pool to a front yard location can reduce costs caused by tight access.
Sloping or Uneven Blocks (From $5,000)
On sloped sites, builders must level the area before construction begins. This can involve:
Our team is highly experienced in building pools on sloping blocks and can help provide practical advice on how to best work with your site’s natural gradient.
Soil Type and Ground Conditions (From $5,000)
Not all soil is created equal. Problematic ground can drive up costs:
Existing Structures or Underground Services (From $1,000)
If private sewer or stormwater pipes are in the way, they may need to be relocated. This typically costs $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the layout.
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 any demolition is needed, such as removing concrete, decking, or old structures, expect an additional $1,000 to $5,000+ to the total spend, based on the size and materials.
Interior Finishes, Landscaping & Fencing
Once the shell is sorted, it’s the finishes that really bring your plunge pool to life.
These choices aren’t just about looks; they’ll impact how your pool feels to swim in, how easy it is to maintain, and how well it fits into your backyard.
Depending on your choices, the finishes can add anywhere from $4,500 to over $50,000 to your total pool cost.
Here’s how we guide our clients through these decisions, and what you might expect.
Interior Finish Options for Concrete Plunge Pools (From $6,000)
The interior finish affects both the visual effect and how your pool feels underfoot.
While concrete plunge pools allow for greater flexibility than fibreglass, the cost will vary based on the material you choose.
Below, we break down the key costs and considerations for each:
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 pool.
At Aqua Living Pools, we offer two types of Pebblecrete finishes:
Soil Type and Unforeseen Ground Conditions (Starting from $5,000)
Not all soil is the same, and difficult ground conditions can require extra work:
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 pool.
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.
Below, we break down the key costs and considerations for each:
Interior Finish Options for Concrete 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 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
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 6m x 4m pool from 1.2-1.8m deep.
Heating Options (From $4,500)
Pool heating is something more and more of our clients are adding, especially if you want to get more use out of the pool during cooler months. For a 6x4m plunge pool, heating starts at around $4,500.
Here’s a quick overview of the most common options:
If you’re unsure which is best, we’ll talk you through what suits your usage, site and power setup.
Pool Fencing (From $250 per metre)
Pool fencing is a legal requirement in Australia and plays a key role in safety and aesthetics.
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:
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 (From $645 per m²)
We always recommend tiling 2 or 3 rows beyond the edge of your plunge pool.
It gives you a safe, slip-resistant space to walk around the pool, and visually ties everything together.
Extended tiling is calculated at $645 per m², which includes a concrete slab and a tile allowance of $85 per m².
We also have clients who choose to create a tiled pad at one end of the pool for lounge chairs or umbrellas.
Landscaping (Variable)
We don’t do landscaping in-house, but we work with a great network of local landscapers we’re happy to refer you to.
That includes turfing, garden beds, decking, and anything else you want to complete your backyard.
If you’re planning a big transformation, we can help you coordinate timing so everything flows smoothly from the pool build to the final landscaping.
Looking to install a plunge pool on the Gold Coast? We can Bring your Vision to Life
As you’ve probably realised reading this article, if you’re looking into building a pool, it’s probably easier if you call your local pool builder so they can give you more personalised advice.
If you live on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane, we’re award-winning pool builders who pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality pool designs and construction.
We can help you customise your plunge 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.
