What Pool Size Is Right for You? Find Out With Our Guide
Chiyacat
If you're after one of the best backyard upgrades, a pool fits the bill. Whether you're after a great best above-ground pool or a larger in-ground version, knowing which size and depth of pool to choose can be challenging.
There are a handful of popular and common pool sizes to know before purchasing one, as some will be better suited for your space based on what you're looking for.
Whether you're interested in popular styles like in-ground and above-ground pools or after something more dramatic like a lengthy lap pool or nature-inspired natural pool, knowing the standard sizes of these options will help guide your decision.
This guide will break down everything you need to determine the best pool size for you, including expert-backed tips and guidance.
Meet the Expert
Kyle Lobe is the founder, CFO, and pool expert at GL Pools, a pool cleaning, repair, and maintenance company in San Diego.
Fast Facts
18,000-gallon in-ground pools, lap pools, and above-ground pools are the most popular.
Plunge pools are slightly smaller and work well for more compact backyards.
Olympic-size pools are the largest and not as common.
Pool Sizes Chart By Type
Pool Type | Common Depths | Common Sizes |
In-Ground Pool | 3 ft.–7 ft. | Sizes vary between 10 ft. W x 20 ft. L and 20 ft. W x 40 ft. L |
Above Ground Pool | 3 ft.–5 ft. | 15 ft. to 30 ft. circumference |
Olympic Pool | 7 ft.–10 ft. | 164 ft. L (widths vary) |
Lap Pool | At least 4 ft. | 45 ft. L (widths vary) |
Plunge Pool | 4 ft.–8 ft. | 8 ft. to 12 ft. W and L |
Natural Pool | At least 4 ft. | Varies; 269 sq. ft. and bigger |
Above Ground Pool Dimensions
As their name suggests, above-ground pools sit on top of the ground rather than within it, making them a pretty quick addition to your yard (perfect when summer is quickly approaching). There are several above-ground pool circumferences to choose from.
The most popular shapes are circles and ovals and range between 15 to 30 feet. Kyle Lobe, founder, CFO, and pool expert of GL Pools, notes that depths also vary, typically from three to five feet.
"Above-ground pools are very popular, although much less common in the sunbelt states where it's possible to swim year-round without winterization," Lobe says. "They can save money by being temporary, but do not provide the same longevity as an in-ground pool."
In-Ground Pool Dimensions
In-ground pools are the opposite of the aforementioned above-ground pools and are installed into the ground. There are a few types of materials they can be constructed of and costs vary based on this and the size. They take more planning and a lengthier installation process—this isn't a place-and-go job.
"An 18,000-gallon pool-spa combo ranging from 3 to 7 feet is very commonly seen," Lobe notes.
There's much room for customization and the lengths and widths can be adjusted to what you're envisioning. In-ground pools also offer more creativity in terms of design. Colorful and unique tile configurations, curving steps, waterfalls, and painted bottoms are just a few possibilities.
Lap Pool Dimensions
For an extra-large option built for serious swimmers, you'll be looking at a lap pool. They're built for commercial races, says Lobes, so are typically 82 feet long.
"For a home lap pool, at least half that size is recommended as a minimum but can be larger," he adds.
Depth-wise, four feet is the minimum required so swimmers can safely and properly do underwater turns. Diving requires six feet of depth minimum. They're big pools and aren't a necessity if you're not training or competing frequently.
In many cases, bigger in-ground pools are perfect for casual swimming. Even still, this isn't the largest possible option, but is the largest option that's realistic for most homes.
Olympic Pool Dimensions
"Most homes do not have the space (or need) for an Olympic-sized pool," Lobe says, which really makes sense when you find out just what the standard dimensions are.
For a true Olympic-sized pool, you're looking at a shape that's 164 feet long and about 80 feet wide, accommodating 10 lanes that are each 8 feet wide.
Lobe adds these pools are at a minimum of 7 feet deep, ranging up to 10 feet, which allows for competitive swimming, diving, and water polo. If you're really into water sports and competing, a lap pool often does the same job without the mega space requirements this commercial pool requires.
Plunge Pool Dimensions
If you're after a pool built for relaxation and the occasional dip, you don't need to make space for an enormous lap pool. Plunge pools are built just for this.
"They're typically wider than a spa, and a bit deeper so the swimmer can walk, but also 'plunge' their whole body if they wish," Lobe says.
These are great for smaller homes to have a fabulous space for swimming, but can't fit other types of pools. Rather than a gradual downgrade, they tend to have one consistent depth ranging between 4 and 8 feet. Plunge pools are normally less expensive, too, and vary in size, usually 8 to 12 feet.
Natural Pool Dimensions
A natural pool won't have set dimensions and is very different from your usual swimming pool.
"As a natural pool acts like a river to sanitize the water, it needs a significant amount of space to allow for swimming and for filtering the water and sanitizing," Lobe explains. "These can be as large as an Olympic-sized pool and stretch across a large piece of land."
Depths will vary depending on the specific design you choose. Interestingly, natural pools are an eco-friendly choice, often blending into their surroundings and using plants instead of pool chemicals to keep them functioning.
Although unique, Lobe notes that their high maintenance requirements make them an "extra rare" addition to homes and an uncommon type of pool.
How to Choose the Right Size Pool for You
The right pool size for your home comes down to the space you have, what you'd like to use the pool for, your budget, and how much maintenance you're comfortable with. As Lobe points out, in-ground, plunge, and above-ground pools are the most popular.
Lap pools require a large amount of space but are ideal for serious swimmers, as are Olympic pools, the latter being unrealistic for most homes though. If an interesting swimmable addition is most important—regardless of maintenance—a natural pool can be an out-of-the-box choice. All in all, a pool is a great investment for your property that provides endless fun.
Read Next: 12 Swimming Pool Types to Consider
Read the original article on The Spruce.
