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.
South Carolina Pool Cost Comparison Table (2026)
Standard 500 sq ft pool, South Carolina labor index (85% of US average), permits included, decking/spa/features excluded.
| Pool Type | Avg Cost (South Carolina) | $/sqft | Build Time | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gunite / Shotcrete | $71,000 | $70 | 12-22 weeks | 50+ years | Fully custom shape, premium finishes |
| Fiberglass | $54,000 | $51 | 3-6 weeks | 25-30 years | Fast install, low maintenance, freeze-thaw |
| Vinyl Liner | $43,000 | $30 | 4-8 weeks | Liner 7-10 yr, frame 20+ | Lowest upfront cost, simple design |
Pricing methodology: see how we calculate these costs. Machine-readable data: /pool-cost-data.json.
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?
Cost to Build a Pool by City in South Carolina (2026)
Pool costs vary within South Carolina by metro labor market. Estimates below are for a standard 500 sq ft inground pool, permits included. Enter your ZIP in the calculator for a build-specific number.
| City | Gunite | Fiberglass | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | $74,000 | $56,000 | $45,000 |
| Charleston | $71,000 | $54,000 | $43,000 |
| North Charleston | $71,000 | $54,000 | $43,000 |
| Mount Pleasant | $71,000 | $54,000 | $43,000 |
| Greenville | $71,000 | $54,000 | $43,000 |
