5 Best Above-Ground Pools, Reviewed by Experts

Because above-ground pools could not be evaluated through hands-on testing in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, our experts reviewed product specifications, technical details, and available safety information to make their recommendations. To assess durability, we considered materials, construction methods, and warranty coverage, which can provide insight into a manufacturer's expectations for long-term performance. We also reviewed user manuals and instructional videos to evaluate assembly requirements and ongoing maintenance needs. Additional factors included features, such as filtration systems, ladders, and covers. Finally, we reviewed any relevant safety data, including checking that none of our picks have been involved in any product recalls.

If this is your first time buying a pool, our pros suggest doing some research first. “While not as complex as in-ground pools, there are a lot of considerations that come with putting an above-ground pool on your property,” said DiClerico. Here’s what to keep in mind:

✔️ Regulations and permits: DiClerico suggested doing your due diligence by checking with your community, building department, or local zoning board to confirm any zoning regulations before making a purchase. Many communities require a permit for installing a pool, too.

"First and foremost, make sure the pool will fit in the yard without violating any zoning regulations," he said. "These vary by community, but pools generally need to be five feet from property lines and a certain distance from the main house, maybe 12 or 15 feet." He also noted that there may be limitations on where you can place your pool in relation to power lines and underground utilities.

✔️ Location: You can’t just install an above-ground pool anywhere. “You need to make sure your yard’s landscape is suited to a pool,” DiClerico said. Before setting up your pool, make sure the ground is flat, even, and free of rocks or pebbles. “Does your ground slope, or are there large trees or rocks in the way? You will have to pay to have these removed or relocated,” he said.

DiClerico also pointed out that some communities have codes regarding tree removal, so be sure to double-check. Finally, soil stability could be a factor, depending on the size of the pool. “If the soil is very soft and sandy, you may need to amend it before putting in the pool,” he said.

✔️ Insurance: Consider getting insurance and find out how installing a pool will affect your rates. "In general, houseguests are covered for injuries that may occur while using the pool, but the pool itself is not covered by any damage that might occur," DiClerico said. "Many insurance companies will require you to put up a protective fence or childproof gate before they’ll even consider coverage."

✔️ Size: Once you've done your homework, measure your outdoor space and your desired location of the pool. You'll need to determine whether there is adequate room on each side of the pool to get in and out easily.

✔️ Shape: Much like in-ground pools, above-ground pools come in all shapes and sizes: oval, round, rectangular, and more. Pick the shape you like, but make sure to consider your outdoor space, what makes the most sense, and what you'll be using the pool for. Are you going to be swimming laps? Consider a rectangular shape for its longer length. If you think you'll use the pool for lounging or letting your kids play, a round shape might be fun. Also, keep in mind that bigger sizes and certain shapes cost more than others. "As you go up in price, pools get larger and more diverse in shape, including rectangular, oval, and hexagonal," DiClerico said.

✔️ Installation and ease of assembly: Some above-ground pools are much easier to install than others. Ask yourself whether you want a DIY project or don't mind bringing in professionals. Just don't forget to ensure the surface you're working on is flat (especially for larger above-ground pools), which might require the help of pros.

✔️ Filter and pump: You'll likely want a filter and pump to keep your pool water clean and avoid having to change it frequently, especially if you're opting for a pool with a large water capacity. Just keep in mind that the pump and filter need electricity to run.

"You must use a 110/20 amp dedicated line, and the pool must be bonded and grounded," DiClerico said. "Electrical requirements might be different if your pool is considered 'storable.' Check with the manufacturer and consult a professional electrician to make sure everything is safe and up to code."

✔️ Saltwater or chlorine: If you are not a fan of chlorine due to its scent, the level of maintenance it requires, or irritation of the skin, eyes, and hair, you may prefer a saltwater pool instead. Most above-ground pools are designed for chlorine use, but you can buy some saltwater options online. You can also buy a saltwater system like this one from Intex and add it to a compatible above-ground pool.

✔️ Extra features: Does the pool set come with accessories like a ladder, filter, pump, pool covers, and liners? You can also consider adding other features, such as underwater or floating lighting for summer nights, pool toys, and even a pool heater for year-round use if you live in a cooler region.

There are several types of above-ground pools, from inflatable to steel-frame to premium. Consider these picks:

✔️ Inflatables: If you're looking for the most inexpensive option, consider inflatables. "They're affordable and very DIY-friendly but not meant as a permanent solution, so you'll need to deflate and store the pool at the end of every season," DiClerico said. Many inflatables are shallow and geared towards children, but there are a few suitable for adults as well. You'll also have to be careful around sharp objects like rocks that could puncture the exterior.

✔️ Structured above-ground pools: If you have a bit more wiggle room, a structured above-ground pool is a great option. "A lot of pools in this category will have soft-sided plastic walls," DiClerico said. "They're more durable than an inflated pool, but might show signs of wear and tear after a few years."

✔️ Hard-sided pools: These pools, on the other hand, typically feature "frames made from durable, weather-resistant materials, like stainless steel or heavy-gauge, rigid PVC. A pool like that can easily provide a decade of service, though you may need to replace the liner at some point," DiClerico said.

✔️ Premium above-ground pools: If you really want a pool that can last a few decades (with the proper care and maintenance), opt for a premium above-ground pool. "Besides maximum size—25-foot in diameter or more—these pools will feature top-quality design and construction, so they will look better in the backyard and last a lot longer," he said.

Above-ground pools are more affordable than in-ground pools—and it’s possible to find models for under $1,000, depending on the size and the materials. If you’re ready to add a pool to your backyard, an above-ground model is a great way to get the same benefits without the hefty investment of a more permanent installation.

"The obvious advantage of above-ground over in-ground pools is cost,” said DiClerico. “As our round-up shows, you can find a quality blow-up pool for under $100. You’ll need to spend a couple of hundred dollars for a sturdier inflatable pool that’s designed to stay out all summer." One example is the Intex Easy Set inflatable pool.

Soft-sided plastic pools can often be purchased for less than $1,000—and sometimes for less than $500 in the case of the Intex Rectangular Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool.

Structured above-ground pools, such as the Intex Ultra XTR and the Bestway Power Steel Above Ground Swimming Pool, are more of an investment and typically cost $1,000 or more. These pools are a bit more of a permanent option (meaning they’ll stay in good condition for multiple summers), so the price is relatively affordable when compared with the $50,000 or more that most homeowners spend on an in-ground pool.

Although several above-ground pools include a filter pump to keep the water clean, you'll also need a few tools for general maintenance and upkeep.

"You'll want to purchase a skimmer to take out leaves and debris, a soft-bristled pool brush to clean the liner, and a pool test kit to make sure you have the proper balance of chlorine and other chemicals," DiClerico said.

Senior Reviews Writer and Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from consumer electronics to outdoor gear, appliances, travel, home, and fitness for the Good Housekeeping Institute. While she may not own an above-ground pool, she's been swimming since she could walk.

For this story, she worked closely with Dan DiClerico, the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, who has written about outdoor living for more than 20 years and has reviewed dozens of products from every leading brand. He also keeps up with the latest innovations by attending trade shows and industry events, like CES, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, and the National Hardware Show.