Discover what an Arizona pool remodel really costs – from budget-friendly updates to extravagant renovations – and plan your pool refresh with confidence.
Your Arizona pool might be the MVP of summer, but after years under the scorching desert sun, even the best pools can start looking a little tired. Faded plaster, dated tile mosaics, maybe a funky pool light that hasn't worked since last monsoon season – sound familiar? Giving your backyard oasis a facelift may be on your mind. But before you imagine swan-diving into a glittering newly renovated pool, one question probably looms large: How much is this really going to cost?
You're not alone in wondering. Pool remodeling costs can feel as deep and mysterious as the deep end itself. Thankfully, we have some numbers to float your way. According to Angi's 2025 data, the average pool remodel costs around $10,000, with many projects ranging roughly from $5,000 on the low end up to $15,000 or more. Of course, some simple cosmetic touch-ups might only set you back a couple grand, while a deluxe makeover could splash out well beyond that average. So let's dive in – from quick-and-easy updates to jaw-dropping luxury upgrades, here's the full rundown of what a pool refresh really runs in Arizona.
This article helps you to understand the costs involved in remodeling a pool in Arizona. It highlights the costs involved in upgrading your pool including everything from simple remodeling jobs to more complex upgrades.
A typical pool remodeling job costs anywhere from $4000 to $15000 or more. Technology and plumbing upgrades will fall on the higher end while pool resurfacing will run on the lower end. Your budget, preferences and pool’s condition will determine your best option.
Not every Arizona pool update has to drain your wallet. If your pool is mostly in good shape but just needs a little sprucing up, there are plenty of budget-friendly fixes. Think of these as the cosmetic tweaks or minor repairs that make your Arizona pool look nicer and run better, without a hefty price tag.
Basic upgrades like these are perfect when you just want to refresh the look or functionality of your pool without a major construction project. Many Arizona pool owners go this route every few years to keep their pools in top shape. After all, a little TLC can go a long way. But what if your pool needs more than just a touch-up? If the whole surface is looking rough or the design is stuck in the 90s, it might be time to consider a bigger renovation.
This is where you start seeing a dramatic transformation – without completely blowing the budget. Mid-range Arizona pool remodels typically involve addressing the pool’s surface and perhaps adding one or two new features. At The Investment Properties, we've seen many Arizona homeowners take this route to breathe new life into older pools without spending a fortune.
Resurfacing the Pool Interior: One of the most common mid-range projects is resurfacing the pool’s interior. If your plaster is rough, stained, or chipping, a full replaster or upgrade to a longer-lasting finish is often the cure. Replastering with standard white plaster for an average backyard pool in Arizona might cost around $5,000 to $10,000. These days, many people upgrade to pebble or aggregate finishes (those tiny smooth pebbles or quartz pieces) that last longer and give the water a sparkling blue hue. Pebble finishes will raise the price – usually running in the $8,000 to $15,000 range, but they can last twice as long as plain plaster. It's a classic “pay now or pay later” scenario: spend a bit more upfront for pebble and enjoy 15-20 years of use, or save now with plaster which might need redo in 8-10 years.
New Tile and Coping: Along with the interior, it’s common to retile the waterline and perhaps replace the coping (the capstone or concrete edge around the pool). Swapping out that 20-year-old turquoise tile band for something more modern (maybe a sleek glass tile or earthy stone look) might add roughly $2,000 to $4,000 to your project, depending on materials and the perimeter of your pool. Basic porcelain tiles will be on the lower end, whereas imported glass or hand-painted tiles cost more. For the coping, budget a similar couple thousand if you switch from, say, old-school red brick to new travertine pavers around the pool’s edge.
Equipment Upgrades and Add-Ons: Mid-range remodels often include updating the equipment pad. That could mean a new variable-speed pump (around $1,000), a higher capacity filter for our dusty Arizona conditions (maybe $800), or adding a heater if you want to enjoy the pool in spring and fall (expect $3,000 or more for a decent gas heater). Some homeowners also add conveniences like a saltwater chlorination system in this budget range, typically $1,500 or so installed, to make pool maintenance gentler and easier on the skin.
To put it in perspective, imagine you have a 15-year-old pool in Mesa that’s seen better days. You could hire a local contractor to drain and resurface it, retile the waterline, and install a new energy-efficient pump and filter. All told, you might spend about $12,000 to $18,000 for that comprehensive refresh. For a smaller pool or a slightly lighter touch, you could be looking at a lower bill – perhaps around $8,000 to $10,000. For instance, a homeowner in Tucson recently updated an older pool with a basic pebble re-finish and new waterline tile for about $9,000, giving it a whole new lease on life without breaking the bank. In return, you get a pool that looks brand new and likely operates more efficiently too. It’s the sweet spot for many folks: a big improvement in appearance and performance, without veering into luxury-level costs.
A mid-range pool remodel can still offer significant improvements without breaking the bank. Arizona pool builder Desert Tropics Pool Builders suggests, 'For homeowners looking to save, one area to cut costs is by opting for standard tile and decking options instead of high-end materials. Choosing more affordable but durable finishes, such as stamped concrete instead of natural stone, can reduce the overall cost by 20-30%. While the homeowner typically covers the cost of the remodel, focusing on functional upgrades like energy-efficient pumps or basic resurfacing can provide a refreshed look while keeping the project within budget.'
So, what if you do want that luxury resort vibe right in your backyard? For those ready to splurge a bit (or a lot), the possibilities are as vast as an Arizona summer sky. Let’s check out the high-end options.
Now we’re talking about the kind of remodel that leaves the neighbors gawking (and maybe just a tad jealous). High-end pool renovations in Arizona can turn a basic backyard pool into a personal resort-style getaway. Of course, these big-ticket projects come with, well, big tickets. It's not unusual for extensive remodels in this category to run $30,000, $50,000, or even into six figures for the most elaborate makeovers.
Premium Surfaces and Custom Design: One hallmark of a luxury remodel is top-of-the-line materials. Think exotic glass tile covering the entire pool interior, or a sparkling pebble finish with abalone shell accents for extra shimmer. Fully tiling an entire pool in high-end glass or ceramic mosaics can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars on its own. We’ve heard of Scottsdale remodels where just the interior glass tile finish was a $40,000 line item! For most, a pebble or quartz aggregate at a fraction of that cost provides a gorgeous look, but luxury means having those dream options on the table.
Adding a Spa or Water Features: Another common upgrade in luxury remodels is adding new structures like a spa (hot tub) or eye-catching water features. Adding a raised spillover spa into an existing pool structure is a complex job – you have to excavate and tie it into the pool’s plumbing and electric systems – and it typically runs on the order of $15,000 to $20,000 or more. Custom water features vary widely: a simple rock waterfall might be $5,000 to $10,000, while a grand faux-boulder waterfall with a grotto (hidden cave) and slide could easily exceed $20,000. Many high-end projects also incorporate things like deck jets, fountains, or even fire-and-water bowls for that resort atmosphere.
Complete Backyard Transformations: Luxury remodel budgets often go beyond the water’s edge. Picture expanding or replacing the pool decking with high-end travertine stone or cool-deck pavers across your patio. New decking can add $10,000 or more depending on how large your outdoor area is. Maybe you’re adding a built-in BBQ, a pergola, or an outdoor sound system as part of a complete backyard makeover. When you start combining all these elements, the project can basically become a full construction overhaul. It’s not unheard of for an extensive remodel plus outdoor living upgrades to hit $50,000 to $100,000 in total investment. At that point, you’re crafting an entire outdoor experience – the pool just happens to be the centerpiece.
Desert Tropics Pool Builders goes on the say, 'High-end renovations aren’t for everyone, but they showcase what’s possible if budget isn’t the limiting factor. One family in Scottsdale, for example, took their traditional rectangle pool and turned it into a showpiece: adding an infinity edge overlooking the desert, a separate kids’ splash pad, and state-of-the-art LED lighting and automation that lets them control everything from their phones. The cost? Somewhere north of $80,000 when all was done. The smiles during their first pool party – priceless.
No matter how extravagant (or modest) your renovation plans are, it’s important to know what drives those costs and how to get the most splash for your buck. In Arizona especially, a few key factors can make a big difference in your pool remodel budget.
Whether you're eyeing a simple refresh or a top-of-the-line overhaul, several factors ultimately determine where your project will fall on the cost spectrum. Understanding these can help you plan smarter:
By keeping these factors in mind, you can better understand quotes from pool contractors and even adjust your project plan to fit your budget. For example, if the fancy glass tiles are pushing you over budget, you might opt for a pretty ceramic tile that gives a similar vibe. Or if adding that spa is too pricey right now, maybe plan for a heater instead so you get more use out of the pool in cooler months. There’s usually a creative solution to meet your goals without sacrificing your entire bank account.
Remodeling your pool is an exciting chance to reimagine your backyard oasis. Whether you're just swapping out some tile and lights or going all-in with a full luxury makeover to increase your property value, the key is making choices that fit both your vision and your budget. Remember, it's okay to start small – you can always add features in phases if needed. Even a modest upgrade like fresh plaster or a new pump can make a noticeable difference in your swimming experience.
At The Investment Properties, we believe that a well-planned pool remodel is more than just a vanity project – it’s an investment in your home’s enjoyment and value. Arizona’s climate practically begs for pool time, and every dollar you put into improving your pool can pay off in hours of relaxation and fun (and yes, potentially in boosted curb appeal too). So take your time, gather a few quotes, and maybe prioritize the must-haves versus the nice-to-haves.
In the end, knowing the range of what a pool refresh really runs empowers you to dive in with confidence. Your Arizona pool has given you countless memories under the sun; now you know what it takes to keep the good times flowing for years to come. So here’s to making a splash – on your terms and within your budget. Happy swimming!
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