Looking for the best above ground pool for your backyard? You’re in the right place. With record-breaking temperatures this summer, and with more hot weather in the forecast, it’s time to get prepared before the peak of summer hits.
On those warm summer days, we’re all dreaming of installing a swimming pool in the backyard and we have spent hours looking at the most coveted pool ideas. But, in-ground pools are so expensive to install and maintain that for many of us our dreams are not coming true. Solution? Above-ground pools. They require far less commitment and expense than their in-ground siblings and they can be just as much fun.
We've pulled together our favorites so you can have all the information in one spot. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly, budget, inflatable options or sturdy steel-framed and hard-sided models that can fit all of your family and friends, we’ve got you covered.
And of course, if you want to ensure the rest of your backyard is up to all the entertaining you'll be sure to be doing once you have this water feature installed, make sure to browse our guide to the best outdoor furniture to get your poolside chaise loungers and patio seating sorted too.
The Intex Ultra XTR pool takes the number one spot. It has the convenience of an above ground pool with the features we love in in-ground pools. The sturdy steel frame, heavy-duty liner, and rectangular shape give this pool a real in-ground pool feel. It also comes with a two-year warranty, although it certainly feels like it will last much longer than that.
The pool comes with everything you need to get started, and Intex sells a maintenance kit, which we would recommend purchasing too. The filter is good quality, and it works on a timer so you just set it and forget. You can also opt for a saltwater system, rather than using chlorine. It costs a little more, but we think it's worth it. Overall, it’s nice and easy to maintain whatever option you go for.
This is one of the more attractive store-bought above ground pools available with a tasteful graphite exterior and water-blue tile print interior. The simple and clean design should work well in most backyards.
The instructions for setup are quite easy to follow and everything snaps together. It takes about 90 minutes to assemble but prepping the site takes some work too as everything has to be level. It is certainly quicker than installing an in-ground pool and you can always hire a professional to help. Trust us, it’s worth the effort.
The Intex Ultra XTR is available in a variety of shapes and sizes too, so there should be an option that can work with your space.
This pool is a firm runner-up. It is a great size for most backyards, has space for the whole family to swim, and is at a very affordable price. It is well made with a steel, corrosion-resistant frame and a reinforced three-ply liner to prevent punctures. It comes with everything you need; filter pump, ground cloth, pool cover, ladder, garden hose drain adaptor, ChemConnect dispenser, and surface skimmer.
The surface skimmer is a great accessory to include and the garden hose drain adaptor allows you to drain the water away from the pool. Setup is relatively easy; everything just snaps together. Again, preparing the pool site will take some work too.
Our main criticism is that it is not the most aesthetically pleasing pool on the market. The bright blue color won’t match everyone's backyard décor and it doesn’t give this pool the same luxury feel as an in-ground alternative.
Overall though it does include everything you need at a very budget-friendly price.
If you are looking for something a little more permanent or if you’re planning to use your pool year-round you may want to consider this hard-sided option. This pool has long-lasting steel construction on all the components for durability that can endure years of use. It is super solid and has a real in-ground pool feel.
It also has an appealing design that will work nicely with most backyard setups. The gray marble wall design makes it an attractive feature in your yard. As this pool is built to last you might also consider building a pool deck to make this a focal point in your yard – see our pool landscaping ideas for inspiration.
Installation is a challenge and you need to make sure that your ground is level and properly prepped before installing.
Another drawback is that this pool comes with a wall and frame only. The liner, pump, skimmer, etc., are sold separately making it more expensive and less convenient than our top pick, the Intex Ultra XTR.
If the other options are too big for your yard, the 10 x 2.5 foot Intex Pool Kit is perfect for a smaller space. It is very affordable and includes everything you need to set up and keep your pool sparkling clean.
It is also simple and easy and sets up in just 15 minutes. It is shallow which isn’t ideal for swimming but it is very family-friendly. If you’re looking for a durable pool to cool off in all summer long, this pool is perfect.
If you're interested in a simple inflatable option that's bigger and sturdier than your typical kid's pool, we recommend this Summer Waves inflatable pool. This pool feels durable enough to withstand day after day of summer fun and it is super quick and easy to set up. It can be ready to go in just a few minutes.
It also comes with a filter pump, which is not usually included with most inflatable pools. There is a convenient, quick-release drain plug with a garden hose connection to drain the water away from your pool site.
If you are looking for an above ground pool that involves almost no effort or commitment, this is the one for you.
Our four-legged friends get hot in the summer, too and they need something sturdier than an inflatable to get their paws into. This pool is durable with PVC walls that are reinforced with fiberboard so boisterous dogs and kids can play as hard as they like. We also like the non-slip bottom so pets and kids won’t fall. The small size is also perfect for parents who would rather not get wet.
It is quick to set up and it has built-in drains making it super easy to fill and empty with your garden hose. It is also portable and folds up into a small rectangle making it easy to stow away when not in use or to take on vacation or to the dog park.
This pool is probably not for you if you're hoping to swim laps in your backyard, but if you’re just looking for a puppy-friendly cooldown, this is the one.
What to consider when choosing the best above ground pool?
Why you can trust Gardeningetc Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Rules and regulations
First and foremost, look into the rules and regulations. These vary by community, but in many communities, above-ground pools must be at least 10 feet from buildings, fences, and property lines. Proximity to power lines and underground utilities is another factor. Some communities require permits for installing a pool. Many municipalities also require a pool fence even for above-ground pools. Please do your due diligence; check with your local zoning board and building department, before making any purchase decisions.
Space
Of course, your space will determine what size pool you can accommodate but you must also consider whether your backyard is suited for a pool at all. The site needs to be level, compacted, and able to support the weight of the water inside the pool, so avoid soft areas with sand or mud. Also be sure that all stones, sticks, and other pointy objects are removed before installation.
Outlets
Your above ground pump and filter will need electricity to run so you’ll likely need a 110/20 amp dedicated line. Water and electricity can be a dangerous combination, so your pool must also be bonded. Check with the pool manufacturer to make sure all of your connections are safe and up to code.
Maintenance
Be honest with yourself and assess the amount of time you’re willing to put into maintaining your pool. Not all above ground pools are super easy to take care of. If you’re looking to have a larger, hard-sided, steel-framed pool this requires a lot of planning and upkeep. If you won’t have time for maintenance consider an inflatable or portable option. Check out our pool maintenance guide for advice on everything from cleaning to chemicals.
Maneuverability
An above ground pool that is mobile can be very useful. If you are looking for a pool for summer use only, inflatable or portable options that can easily be stowed away when not in use are great. Plus quick and easy pools can even be taken away on vacation with you. They aren’t as durable as steel frame options but it is worth thinking about whether you want your pool to be a permanent fixture in your backyard. If you do, see our decking ideas and make a pool area on a budget.
Costs
Who says you can’t afford a swimming pool in your own backyard? Above ground pools are so much more affordable than their in-ground counterpart. Our list runs from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. Think about whether you just want to cool off or entertain the whole family. And be sure to factor in the cost of add-ons such as a pump and ladder if they are not included.
Heating
So most of these pools do not come with a heater. This might be what you want on the hottest days, but if you want a longer season with your pool, you can get heat pumps designed for use with above ground pools. Not hot enough for you? Check out our guide to the best hot tub deals to find a warmer solution for your yard instead.
