How Much Does Above Ground Pool Removal Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $475 - $2,500
The average cost of above ground pool removal ranges from $475 to $2,500, with a national average of $900. Budget more if you need a deck, fence, or stairs removed, too.
Above ground pool removal costs anywhere from $300 to $5,000, but most homeowners will pay an average of $900. Several factors can affect the cost of pool removal. For instance, larger pools will cost more to remove than smaller ones. And if your pool has any add-ons, like a deck, it will drive up costs. If you installed a pool that you're ready to part with, learn everything you need to know about the cost to get rid of an above ground pool and restore your yard to working order.
- Average
- $900
- Low end
- $300
- high end
- $5,000
Above Ground Pool Removal Cost Factors
Much like the cost to install a pool, several factors can affect the cost of taking down an above ground pool when the time comes. Your pool's size is an important factor, but its location and any add-ons can also impact costs. Given the cost to install an above ground pool is already high, you’ll want to consider all the important factors for removing on as well.
Size
Your pool's size can significantly impact your costs. Generally, the larger the pool, the more you can expect to pay for removal since large pools have more parts and take longer to dismantle than smaller ones.
Location
A pool's location doesn't typically affect costs very much provided it's easily accessible. However, if your pool is in a hard-to-reach location or very far from the road, your pro might charge extra since it will take more time to complete the removal.
Pool Draining
If your pool is full of water at the time of removal, your pro will need to drain it before starting the removal process. Pool draining typically costs between $175 and $225, but professionals often include draining costs in the overall removal cost.
Labor
Labor is the biggest cost factor to consider since it's where most of your money will go. Labor costs for pool removal can range anywhere from $300 to $5,000, depending on the pool's size and features, as well as if you need any additional services, like landscaping.
Landscaping
Since above ground pools eliminate landscaping, you might want to hire a local landscaper to beautify the area where the pool used to live. The cost of landscaping usually ranges from $4 to $10 per square foot.
Excavating
Excavation isn't often necessary for above ground pool removal, but if your pool sits low in the ground, it's a good idea to budget for it. Residential excavation costs usually range from $50 to $200 per cubic yard.
Backfilling
Backfilling isn't always relevant to above ground pools, but similar to excavating, if your pool sits slightly below ground level, you'll need to fill your pool with dirt to get it level with your yard. Filling a pool costs between $2,000 to $20,000, depending on the backfilling materials and pool size.
Additional Materials to Remove
If there are existing accessories or features surrounding your pool, you’ll also need to pay to demo or repair them. Talk with your pro on if it’s more cost-effective to remove or maintain some of these features.
Deck
If your above ground pool has a deck, you'll need to pay extra to remove it. Removing the deck usually adds an extra $700 to $1,700 to pool removal costs, depending on the deck's size and materials. If you just have a simple concrete pool patio, concrete removal costs average around $1,200.
Fence or Enclosure
Any enclosure or fence around your pool will also affect your costs if you decide to remove it. To remove an enclosure, you'll want to budget for an extra $800 to $2,000 depending on its size and materials.
Stairs
Pool stair removal is typically included in pool removal costs and doesn't greatly impact the overall cost of pool removal. However, generally speaking, the more materials you need to remove during this project, the longer it’ll take and the more it will cost. If you have large, heavy pool stairs, your pro may charge a little more to take them away.
Dumpster Rental
Once your pro removes your pool, they'll need to properly dispose of it. One option is to rent a dumpster and put it near your home for easy removal. The cost to rent a dumpster ranges from $300 to $500, based on size and type.
Disposal Fees
If you don't want to rent a dumpster, you can pay a junk removal service to get rid of your pool and any debris. Junk removal costs range from $60 to $600, depending on how much you need to remove. For an above ground pool removal, it's a good idea to budget for around $300 in junk removal costs.
Cost to Remove an Above Ground Pool Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
While you can save yourself anywhere from $300 to $5,000 in labor costs to remove an above ground pool yourself, it's a fairly extensive project that's usually best left to the pros.
Local pool removal professionals will have the appropriate skills and all of the proper tools and equipment needed to get the job done right. They'll also have insurance that can help protect you and your home in the event something doesn't go according to plan.
It takes about a week to build an above ground pool and depending on the size of the removal just as long to remove it. A pro will have the availability to focus on this time-intensive project.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to get rid of an above ground pool, one option is to hire a pool removal service to disassemble and dispose of it. However, you might also be able to sell it depending on the pool's condition and age, as well as the demand in your area.
Above ground pools can last anywhere from five to 15 years or more depending on the pool's materials and quality. Inflatable pools tend to have the shortest life span, while aluminum pools usually last the longest thanks to their durability and weather resistance.
Your above ground pool might technically be able to stand without water, but you shouldn't consider it stable. Above ground pools need the weight of water to provide adequate stability and prevent the walls from collapsing in. Be sure to fill your pool with water as soon as possible after installation.
It's not a good idea to drain an above ground pool into your yard since the pool water's chemicals can harm your plants and the surrounding ecosystem. Instead, it's best to drain the pool into an appropriate sewer so it can be processed at a water treatment plant. You might also be able to drain it into your storm drain, depending on your region. Check with your city to learn about any relevant regulations.