Pool Cost Estimator — South Carolina

How Much Does a Pool Cost in South Carolina in 2026?

In South Carolina, a gunite pool averages $71,000, fiberglass averages $54,000, and vinyl liner pools average $43,000 — before features, decking, and site conditions. Use the free calculator below to get a personalized estimate.

Most Durable
$71,000
Gunite / Shotcrete
avg. 500 sq ft pool
Fastest Install
$54,000
Fiberglass
avg. 500 sq ft pool
Most Affordable
$43,000
Vinyl Liner
avg. 500 sq ft pool

Pool Costs in South Carolina: What You Need to Know

South Carolina has a growing pool market concentrated in the Greenville, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach metros. A 6–7-month pool season and moderate labor costs make the state's pool economics favorable.

Pool Permits and Building Code in South Carolina

South Carolina pool permits are issued by cities and counties under the South Carolina Residential Code (based on IRC). Greenville, Charleston, Horry (Myrtle Beach), and Richland (Columbia) counties handle most of the state's pool permitting. Barrier rules follow ICC. Permit fees typically run $900–$1,700. Coastal counties add OCRM (Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management) review for any pool within shoreline setback.

Pool Season and Climate in South Carolina

South Carolina pool season runs early May through mid-October — 6 months uncovered. Coastal South Carolina (Charleston, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach) gets 6.5 months. Hurricane season is the defining seasonal risk: Matthew, Florence, and Dorian all caused widespread pool damage in coastal South Carolina. Builders in coastal counties commonly use wind-rated equipment enclosures and elevated equipment pads on low-lying properties.

Soil and Site Conditions in South Carolina

Upstate South Carolina (Greenville, Spartanburg) has heavily weathered saprolite with occasional shallow granite — rock is moderate. The Midlands (Columbia) and Pee Dee regions have sandy clays that excavate cleanly. Coastal South Carolina has sandy coastal-plain soils with high water tables — dewatering is routine, and fiberglass shell float-out risk is managed with hydrostatic valves similar to Florida practice. Hilton Head and Sea Island builds often include elevated equipment pads.

Metro Labor and Where South Carolina Pool Costs Spike

Greenville's eastside submarkets (Five Forks, Simpsonville), Charleston's Daniel Island and Mount Pleasant, and Hilton Head are among the state's most expensive pool areas. Myrtle Beach supports a substantial second-home pool industry. Columbia's Forest Acres and Lexington submarkets are moderately priced. Rural South Carolina is the most affordable market.

Pool Builders Operating in South Carolina

South Carolina pool builders include Anthony & Sylvan Pools (regional branches), Aqua Blue Pools (Charleston), Custom Pools SC, Carolina Pools (Charleston and Columbia), and Blue Haven Pools. Premier Pools & Spas operates franchises in Greenville and Charleston. Coastal work is often handled by firms that cover both Carolinas.

What Affects Pool Cost in South Carolina?

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Labor Rates
South Carolina contractors price labor at roughly 85% of the national average. You may find more competitive bids here.
📋
Permits & Inspections
Permit costs in South Carolina start around $1,100. Inspections are typically required at excavation, steel/shell, and final completion stages.
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Soil & Site
Soil type is the #1 hidden cost driver. Rocky or high-water-table conditions can add $10,000–$25,000 to any South Carolina pool build. Always get a site evaluation first.
☀️
Year-Round Use
South Carolina's climate allows extended pool use, making your cost-per-swim lower than northern states. No winterization needed in most areas.

Pool Costs by City in South Carolina

Costs vary within South Carolina based on metro vs. rural labor markets. Enter your ZIP code in the calculator below for the most accurate estimate.

Columbia
Gunite from $74,000
Charleston
Gunite from $71,000
North Charleston
Gunite from $71,000
Mount Pleasant
Gunite from $71,000
Greenville
Gunite from $71,000
↓ Get Your Free South Carolina Pool Cost Estimate ↓
Pool Cost Estimator · 2026

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An honest estimate in under two minutes — priced against 2026 labor rates in your state and metro.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Pool Costs in South Carolina

How much does an inground pool cost in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, a gunite (concrete) pool averages $71,000, fiberglass pools average $54,000, and vinyl liner pools average $43,000 for a standard-size pool. These are base estimates — your final cost depends on size, soil conditions, features like spas or water features, and decking.
What is the cheapest inground pool in South Carolina?
Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable option in South Carolina, starting around $43,000. The liner will need replacement every 7–10 years at a cost of $3,500–$6,000. Fiberglass pools offer a middle ground — faster to install and lower long-term maintenance than vinyl.
How much do pool permits cost in South Carolina?
Building permits in South Carolina typically run $1,100–$1,980 depending on your county, pool type, and local requirements. Most municipalities also require a fence or barrier around the pool.
How long does it take to build a pool in South Carolina?
Gunite pools in South Carolina typically take 8–14 weeks from permit approval to completion. Fiberglass pools can be installed in 3–6 weeks. Vinyl liner pools fall in between at 4–8 weeks. Delays can occur due to weather, permit processing times, or contractor availability — especially during peak season (spring and summer).
Do I need to winterize my pool in South Carolina?
Most of South Carolina does not require traditional pool winterization. In rare cold snaps, running equipment overnight is usually sufficient to protect your pool. This is one of the advantages of building a pool in South Carolina.

Pool Buyer's Guides

→ Fiberglass vs Gunite vs Vinyl — Which Pool Type is Right for You?→ Complete Inground Pool Cost Guide 2026→ Pool Cost by Size: Small, Medium & Large Pools→ How to Finance a Pool — Loans, HELOCs & More→ Does a Pool Add Home Value? ROI Breakdown

Compare Pool Costs in Nearby States

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