Every number below comes from a named source listed at the bottom of this page. National figures are labeled as national; they are not Houston quotes. Checked October 23, 2026.
The three pool types side by side (national)
| Type | Install cost[6] | Upkeep per year[6] | Typical life[7] | Build time[8] | Houston builders that list it |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl liner | $40,000–$75,000 | $1,100–$1,700 | Most last 8–15 years; the liner needs frequent replacement (about 6 years in a best case, with light use) | Custom-designed, so no set time; about 2 weeks after excavation is "a safe bet" | 3 builders |
| Fiberglass | $55,000–$100,000 | $500–$1,500 | 30+ years; no replaceable liner | Preassembled; installed in 1–2 days once permits and excavation are done | 3 builders |
| Concrete / gunite | $65,000–$120,000 | $2,700–$4,000 | Concrete usually 50+ years, resurfaced every 10–15; gunite 30+ years | Longest: concrete needs about 30 days or more to cure; 3–6 months in total with finishes | 23 builders |
All figures are Angi's national numbers, not Houston quotes. Local prices by type, where published: in-ground pool cost in Houston.
What the sources say about each
- Vinyl: Angi calls vinyl-lined in-ground pools the least expensive in-ground option but the shortest-lived; sun, heavy use and chemicals wear liners down[7].
- Fiberglass: Angi says fiberglass needs very little maintenance and has no replaceable liner[7], and has the shortest installation timeline because it comes preassembled[8]. A large shell may need a crane[8].
- Concrete / gunite: Angi says the concrete structure outlasts its finish, which needs resurfacing (plaster, quartz, exposed pebble or glass bead)[7]. Our sister site covers that: plaster vs quartz vs pebble.
Frequently asked questions
Is fiberglass or gunite cheaper?
On Angi's national ranges, fiberglass runs $55,000–$100,000 to install and concrete $65,000–$120,000; yearly upkeep is $500–$1,500 for fiberglass and $2,700–$4,000 for concrete[6].
Which pool type lasts longest?
Angi says concrete pools usually last 50+ years (with resurfacing every 10–15), gunite and fiberglass 30+ years, and most vinyl-lined pools 8–15 years[7].
Which pool type is fastest to build?
Fiberglass: Angi says it can be installed in 1–2 days once permits and excavation are done, versus about 2 weeks after excavation for vinyl and 3–6 months in total for concrete[8].
Resurfacing or replastering an existing pool instead of building one? See our sister site, Houston Pool Resurfacing Guide (same operator, same scoring rules).
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More guides
- In-ground pool cost in Houston (2026)
- Fiberglass vs gunite vs vinyl
- How long it takes to build a pool
- Texas pool permits and HOA approval
- Houston pool building cost and licensing guide (2026)
- Best pool builders in Houston