How Much Does a Custom Pool Cost in Scottsdale?
Custom pools in Scottsdale typically range from $80,000 to $300,000+, depending on size, features, terrain complexity, and premium finishes. Here's what you can expect:
- Traditional shapes (rectangle, kidney)
- Standard finishes (plaster, pebble)
- Basic equipment package
- Flat or gentle terrain
- Custom freeform designs
- Premium finishes & tile
- Integrated spa or water features
- Moderate hillside construction
- Infinity/negative edge design
- Premium stone & exotic finishes
- Multiple fire/water features
- Complex hillside engineering
What Determines Your Custom Pool Investment?
Understanding the $80K-$300K+ range: Here's exactly what you get at each investment level
$80,000 - $150,000
Perfect for homeowners wanting quality construction with essential features
- 300-500 sq ft pool – Ideal for family recreation
- Standard geometric or kidney shape – Classic pool designs
- Quality tile and coping – Durable, professional finishes
- Energy-efficient equipment – Variable-speed pumps, LED lights
- Flat or minimal slope terrain – Straightforward installation
- Standard plaster or pebble finish – Long-lasting surfaces
$150,000 - $250,000
Ideal for families seeking premium features and custom design
- 500-800 sq ft pool – Spacious entertaining area
- Custom freeform shape – Unique design tailored to your property
- Premium tile and finishes – Glass tile, imported stone options
- Integrated raised spa – Year-round hydrotherapy
- LED color-changing lighting – Dramatic nighttime ambiance
- Smart automation system – Control everything from your phone
- 1-2 custom water features – Waterfalls, deck jets, bubblers
$250,000 - $500,000+
The ultimate in architectural design and resort-style features
- 800+ sq ft pool – Expansive resort-style experience
- Infinity or perimeter overflow edge – Breathtaking visual effect
- Hillside/slope construction with engineering – Dramatic elevation changes
- Multiple integrated features – Spa, fire bowls, waterfalls, grottos
- Complete automation and app control – Premium smart systems
- Outdoor kitchen integration – Full entertainment area
- Custom rock work or architectural elements – Unique statement pieces
What Affects Pool Cost in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale's unique terrain and climate create specific factors that influence your pool investment
Hillside & Slope Construction
Paradise Valley and North Scottsdale properties often feature dramatic slopes requiring specialized engineering and construction techniques.
- • Retaining walls & grading
- • Additional structural engineering
- • Specialized equipment access
- • Drainage & erosion control
Permits & Engineering
Scottsdale requires comprehensive permitting, structural engineering plans, and compliance with local building codes.
- • Building permits & inspections
- • Structural engineering plans
- • Electrical permits
- • HOA approval process
Desert Terrain Challenges
Rocky desert soil, caliche layers, and limited equipment access can affect excavation costs and timeline.
- • Rock/caliche removal
- • Specialized excavation equipment
- • Access pathway construction
- • Haul-away for excess material
Timeline & Seasonality
Construction timelines typically range from 90-120 days, with optimal building seasons in fall and winter to avoid summer heat.
- • Best seasons: Oct-April
- • Permits: 2-4 weeks
- • Construction: 8-12 weeks
- • Finishing: 2-3 weeks
Premium Features & Add-Ons
Customize your pool with luxury features designed for the Arizona lifestyle
Infinity / Negative Edge
Vanishing edge design that frames mountain or city views. Requires additional hydraulics, catch basin, and engineering.
Integrated Spa
Connected spa with independent heating, jets, spillover effects, and separate equipment. Perfect for year-round use.
Water Features
Waterfalls, bubblers, deck jets, sheer descents. Natural rock or contemporary tile designs to match your style.
Fire Features
Fire bowls, sconces, fire pits integrated into pool design. Gas or propane with custom finishes and controls.
Swim-Up Bar / Baja Shelf
Entertainment-focused features including swim-up bars, tanning ledges, built-in seating, and umbrella sleeves.
Automation & Lighting
Smart controls via smartphone app, LED color-changing lights, automated cleaning systems, energy-efficient equipment.
Why Choose Innovative Custom Pools?
Our Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about pool costs in Scottsdale
What's the average cost of a pool in Scottsdale?
The average custom pool in Scottsdale costs between $120,000 and $200,000. This typically includes a medium-sized pool (400-600 sq ft), premium finishes, integrated spa, basic water features, and standard equipment. Properties with hillside terrain or infinity edge designs will be on the higher end of this range.
How much more does an infinity pool cost?
Infinity edge (vanishing edge) pools add $20,000-$50,000 to your base pool cost. This premium covers additional engineering, the catch basin and pump system, extra plumbing, and specialized construction techniques. Total infinity pool projects in Paradise Valley typically range from $150K-$500K+ depending on size and features.
What makes hillside pools more expensive?
Hillside construction in Paradise Valley and North Scottsdale requires specialized engineering, retaining walls, drainage systems, and challenging equipment access. Additional costs range from $15K-$50K+ depending on slope severity. However, hillside pools offer dramatic views and unique design opportunities that maximize your property's potential.
Are there financing options available?
Yes! Most homeowners finance their pool through home equity loans, HELOCs, or pool-specific financing programs. A luxury pool is a long-term investment that typically adds 7-15% to your home's value in upscale Scottsdale neighborhoods. We can recommend trusted financing partners during your consultation.
What's included in a pool remodel vs. new construction?
New construction starts from scratch with excavation, plumbing, steel, shotcrete, and finishes.Remodels ($25K-$150K+) update existing pools with new surfaces, tile, coping, equipment, and features. Extensive remodels can add infinity edges, spas, or complete redesigns. We specialize in transforming outdated pools into modern luxury retreats.
How long does pool construction take in Scottsdale?
Typical construction timelines are 90-120 days from permit to completion. This includes 2-4 weeks for permitting, 8-12 weeks for construction (excavation, plumbing, steel, shotcrete, decking), and 2-3 weeks for finishing (tile, coping, equipment installation, startup). Complex hillside projects or custom features may extend this timeline.
What should I watch out for with cheap pool bids?
Warning Signs of Low-Quality Pool Builders:
- • No structural engineer on file – Required for hillside construction and permits
- • Unlicensed or uninsured – Verify ROC license, insurance, and BBB rating
- • Unclear payment schedules – Legitimate builders follow standard milestone payments
- • No warranty coverage – Quality builders provide 1-3 year warranties minimum
- • Pressure to skip permits – Always pull proper permits to protect your investment
A pool is a 30+ year investment. Cutting corners on construction can lead to structural failure, costly repairs, and safety hazards. Choose builders with proven experience in Scottsdale's unique terrain and climate.
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