Not every backyard needs a 40-foot pool. For many Main Line homeowners, a compact plunge pool delivers everything they want - a place to cool off, relax, and entertain - in a fraction of the footprint and cost of a traditional pool.
What Exactly is a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is a small, deep pool designed for cooling off and relaxation rather than swimming laps. Also called cocktail pools or spool pools, they typically measure:
- Length: 10-16 feet
- Width: 6-10 feet
- Depth: 4-6 feet (deep enough to submerge completely)
- Total footprint: 60-160 square feet
Despite their compact size, plunge pools are true inground pools with the same quality construction, equipment, and features as their larger counterparts.
Why Plunge Pools Are Trending
Fits Smaller Lots
Perfect for Main Line properties where space is limited or you want to preserve yard space for other uses.
Lower Cost
Typically $45,000-$75,000 vs $65,000-$130,000+ for full-size pools. Less excavation, decking, and equipment needed.
Faster Installation
Compact fiberglass plunge pools can be installed in as little as 1-2 weeks after permits are approved.
Lower Maintenance
Less water means less chemicals, less heating cost, and less time spent on upkeep.
Year-Round Use
Smaller volume heats quickly and affordably, making year-round use practical with a heater.
Modern Aesthetic
The clean, contemporary look complements modern architecture and creates a spa-like ambiance.
Plunge Pool Cost Guide
| Configuration | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic Fiberglass Plunge Pool | $45,000 - $55,000 |
| Premium Fiberglass with Heating | $55,000 - $70,000 |
| With Jets/Swim Current | $65,000 - $85,000 |
| Custom Concrete Plunge Pool | $60,000 - $90,000 |
These prices include installation, equipment, basic decking, and standard features. Premium decking, landscaping, or additional features add to the cost.
Popular Plunge Pool Features
Heating
A heater is essential for Pennsylvania plunge pools. The small water volume heats quickly and efficiently, making 70-80+ degree water affordable even in cooler months. Cost: $3,000-$6,000 for gas, $4,000-$8,000 for heat pump.
Swim Jets/Swim Current
Want to swim laps without the length? Swim jets create a current you swim against, providing exercise in a compact space. Cost: $8,000-$15,000.
Hydrotherapy Jets
Transform your plunge pool into a spa experience with strategically placed massage jets. Cost: $2,000-$5,000.
LED Lighting
Color-changing LED lights create ambiance for evening entertaining. Most plunge pools include basic LED lighting, with upgraded systems available.
Tanning Ledge
Some plunge pool designs incorporate a shallow tanning ledge for lounging in a few inches of water.
Is a Plunge Pool Right for You?
Plunge Pools Are Perfect For:
- Smaller Main Line lots where space is at a premium
- Homeowners who want a pool but don't need to swim laps
- Those prioritizing relaxation and cooling off over athletics
- Couples or small families
- Anyone wanting lower maintenance and operating costs
- Properties where a full-size pool would overwhelm the yard
- Those who want year-round use with efficient heating
Consider a Full-Size Pool If:
You have kids who will want to swim and play, you want to host large pool parties, lap swimming is important to you, or you have the space and budget for a larger installation.
Installation Process
Plunge pool installation follows the same process as larger pools but moves faster due to the smaller scale:
- Design & Permitting: 3-6 weeks (same as larger pools)
- Excavation: 1 day (smaller hole = faster dig)
- Pool Installation: 1-2 days for fiberglass
- Plumbing & Electrical: 2-3 days
- Decking & Finishing: 1-2 weeks
From construction start to first swim: 2-3 weeks for fiberglass plunge pools.
Explore Plunge Pool Options
See if a plunge pool is right for your property with a free consultation.
Schedule Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Plunge pools typically cost $45,000-$75,000 installed, significantly less than full-size pools. Premium fiberglass plunge pools with heating and jets range from $55,000-$85,000. The smaller footprint means less excavation, decking, and equipment costs.
Plunge pools typically range from 10-16 feet long and 6-10 feet wide, with depths of 4-6 feet. This compact footprint fits yards too small for traditional pools while still providing meaningful water space.
Traditional lap swimming isn't possible due to compact size. However, many plunge pools can be equipped with swim jets that create a current to swim against, providing a lap-swimming experience in a fraction of the space.