One of the most enjoyable ways to beat the heat of summer is jumping into the water of an above ground pool set up in your backyard. Although many people envision an in-ground pool when discussing having a pool, advances in pool technology have made above ground pools a popular alternative to their in ground cousins.

Above-ground swimming pools are generally very easy to set-up and require significantly less maintenance (and associated costs!)

Above ground pools can be as simple or as elaborate as your budget allows. Creating elaborate enclosures, walled, fenced, and gated for above ground pools can make the backyard the favorite destination for adults and kids during those hot summer months.

Once you your own above ground pool is installed and you begin to experience the pleasure of having a pool, you’ll wonder why you waited so long!

From shallow, inflatable options to those with built-in benches to large metal-framed models that can fit the whole family, we have created the list of 30 best above ground pools that fits within any budget.

Why choose an above ground pool? 

 Above-ground and in ground pools both have their own unique advantages. For most people, the decision often comes down to personal preference or budget.  Above ground swimming pools are the most popular pools these days due to the following reasons:

1)Affordability

Yes, it is significantly cheaper to build an above ground pool when compared to an inground pool. On average, large above ground pools cost between $1,000–$2,000 while in-ground pool installation will cost between $28,000–$55,000 according to Homeguide.com.

2)Speedy installation

Another selling point to consider when purchasing an above ground pool is that they are easier to install compared to building an in-ground pool.

3) Variety of styles

Shape, size, construction materials—there are so many great options to choose from when you buy an above-ground pool. That means you can have full control over the look and layout of your dream pool, as well as the cost.

4) More Safety

Every type of swimming pool should be installed with safety features, such as 48-inch tall fencing, to reduce the risk of accidents. If you have concerns about safety, consider that above-ground pools are inherently safer, because of their higher entry point (52″or 54″). The higher entry point means a lower risk of accidental falls.

5) Easy maintenance

Another important issue to consider is maintenance. The process of cleaning and maintaining an above ground pool is also easier because nothing is hidden and all the parts are easily accessible.

6)Mobility

Above ground pools are installed according to the demand and environmental changes. An above-ground pool can be disassembled into pieces and reassembled once it arrives at its new location.

What to consider before buying an above ground pool? 

The right above ground pool for you depends on a number of personal preferences—for example, how big of a pool you want and how much you’re willing to spend. Below, these are the factors worth considering to help you determine which above-ground pool is best for you and your yard.

🔑 Shape and size Above ground pools come in a variety of shapes, sizes, lengths, and styles and the best option for you depends on your specific needs. The most popular are rectangular, oval and circle-shaped. Above-ground pools can be as small as six-feet in length and as long as 30ft and longer.

You’ll need to consider the amount of space you have, as well as the number of people that will be using it. Some 50-inch deep (or more) options may be too deep for young children, for example.

🔑 Construction and material. Pools need to be able to withstand the elements and heavy-duty use. And not just the elements–they need to be able to handle constant exposure to pool chemicals. Look for pools built with PVC liners and alloy steel, which resist corrosion.

Some pools feature multi-ply liners, which tend to be more durable and are often tear- and puncture-resistant. There are also pools with plastic frames, which are often cheaper than their sturdier counterparts. However, they won’t hold up as well to frequent use.

🔑 Type and features. Above-ground pools may be classified into three categories: inflatable, metal frame, and hard-sided. Inflatable options are the most cost-effective and simple to set up, but they don’t have a sturdy structure. If you want something more durable, consider a metal frame pool that can be taken down during the cooler months. The most durable pools are those that are hard-sided, which are also the most costly.

There are a variety of features commonly seen in above-ground pools, including easy-to-connect frame pieces, flow-controlled drains and reinforced belts. Many pools also come with key accessories like filter pumps, ladders and pool covers.

🔑  Water depth. When it comes to younger swimmers, pool depth is an important consideration. Most above-ground pools are in the 2-3ft of depth ballpark.

🔑 Maintenance and cleaning. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your above-ground pool keep it clean and ready for fun all summer. Some above ground pools include a filter and cover to help you stay on top of regular maintenance, while others require you to invest in these items separately.

🔑 Duration of installation. Is the pool going to be there for the long term, for the summer, or for the weekend? These types of pools have never been easier to install and set-up, but installation differs by brand.

The best above ground pools in the market in 2022

Now that we know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at the best above-ground swimming pools available on the market for every budget.

Low budget under-$500 above-ground pools (Best for family with kids and cooling off)

1-Sun Squad 10-Foot-by-22-Inch Deluxe Rectangular Inflatable Above Ground Pool

• Cost: $35
• Buy from: Target

An inexpensive inflatable pool is a fine choice if your primary want is a personal place to unwind and relax. This is also one of the few inflatable pools on the market that isn’t shaped like a kiddie pool from Target’s popular summer collection Sun Squad. Ideal for individuals with limited space or who need to lie in water every day.

2-Gladle Freedom Series Inflatable Backyard Pool

• Cost: $43
• Buy from: Walmart

For those of you looking for a more temporary above ground pool, the Gladle Freedom Series Inflatable Backyard Pool gives you the best of both worlds–you get the splash and cooling off of a pool without the long or even miedium-term fixture in your backyard.

Large enough that it can fit up to 4 adults and a couple of kids, the Gladle Inflatable Pool is 118″ long, 72″ wide, and 20″ high. Made with non-toxic PVC, the highly durable material is long-lasting and thick.

The pool’s “frame” is made of three separate air chambers that help you quickly find any future leaks. The way the PVC surface of the pool is cut also reduces rags along the seams. The pool comes with two repair patches.

3-Sun Squad 7.5-Foot-by-27-Inch Family Above Ground Pool With Bench

• Cost: $45
• Buy from: Target

Are you ready for some quality sunshine time? Sun Squad’s inflatable above-ground pool has a large cushioned seat with a backrest and two cup holders to keep your beverages close at hand, as well as two levels. This version is ideal for families of three and measures 27 inches deep and 7 feet wide, which is suitable for children aged 6 years old and older.

4-Urroy inflatable swimming pool

• Cost: $49
• Buy from: Amazon

This 10-foot marine animal print pool has a non-slip texture and three individual air chambers to help prevent air and water leakage and withstand extra weight.

“It’s large enough for my 3- and 1-year-olds to ‘swim’ while hubby and I have space to lounge and relax,” a reviewer wrote. “I like that my kids can get in and out of it themselves too.” 

5-Hamdol Inflatable Swimming Pool with Sprinkler

🏆Best above ground Inflatable pool for kids

• Cost: $49
• Buy from: Amazon

If you’re searching for a pool for your children to splash about this summer, consider this kiddie pool with a lot of features. Not only is it over eight feet long, but it also has a number of entertaining elements, from the amusing design to the spraying elephant head.

With three separate air chambers, you may alter the height of this pool according to your children’s ages. You could merely fill the bottom chamber with a small amount of air for toddlers, but increase it for bigger children. This adds an extra layer of security to your pool by allowing you to add a layer of protection while still maintaining close watch on your kids.

This pool isn’t only for children when it’s completely filled. It may also accommodate two adults and a large number of kids. In fact, it’s big enough to house your own pool float and have some me time.

6-Intex Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool

• Cost: $51
• Buy from: Amazon

This is another inflatable pool that comes with a comfortable built-in seat, making it ideal for adults and children alike. It’s just the size of a small family at 7.3 feet long by 30 inches deep.

7-Funboy Tie-Dye Mini Inflatable Pool

• Cost: $59
• Buy from: Funboy

If you’re just looking to cool off and want an affordable, low-commitment option, pick up one of these Funboy kiddie pools. This limited edition, Malibu Barbie-branded model has a 66-inch diameter. Made of 100% PVC vinyl and measuring 5.5 feet across and 14 inches high, it’s big enough for you and a friend to cool off all season long! It has rapid inflate and deflate valves, meaning it can be backyard-ready in mere minutes.

8-Homech Inflatable Swimming Pool

• Cost: $59
• Buy from: Taotronics

Another awesome choice for a killer inflatable backyard pool is the Homech Inflatable Swim Pool. It is built with soft and durable naphthalene and BPA-free materials.

The pool can take on a couple of adults and three to five children, it is inflated in a couple of minutes (pump not included, unfortunately), and the three separate air chambers with double intake valves keep the pool rigid and inflated during all of your summertime activities.

9-Intex Rectangular Frame Pool

🏆Best Budget Above Ground Pool

• Cost: from $99
• Buy from: Amazon

These rectangular swim pools from Intex line that is primarily designed for small families features a range of sizes, from 7.2′ to 14.9′ long, making it perfect for splashing around with small children.

The frame is made of steel, but it has a rust-resistant coating to minimize corrosion from the elements and regular usage.

The pool is simple to fill and empty with a garden hose and a drain stopper, which is useful when you need to remove the pool water from your home or avoid harming sensitive yard space. The setup process is also straightforward, taking roughly 30 minutes from start to end. If you don’t want your pool to be in use all year, you may easily take it down as well.

One of the most common issues with these pools is keeping them safe from punctures, whether it’s the puppy leaping up on one side or generating huge waves in a small pool. The Intex Small Family Frame Pools are made of a three-layer polyvinyl that is specially formulated to resist punctures and fractures.

These pools are an excellent way to add seclusion, relaxation, and fun to your backyard without spending a fortune. They range in price from $99 to $186, making them an ideal addition to the garden on hot days to cool off. If you’re looking for a low-cost option to create a backyard oasis without sacrificing quality, consider this Intex product. For the price of a nice dinner out, you may be lounging in water while soaking up the sun this summer.

10-Bestway Splash in Shade Kids Spray Play Swimming Pool

🏆Best Above Ground Pool For Kids

• Cost: $104
• Buy from: Overstock

This eight-foot pool is a cheery, shallow pool with a sun canopy especially designed for families and will provide hours of fun. It has a shallow design that’s only 1.6 feet deep, as well as a UV-protection canopy to keep the pool shaded on hot days. It also has a pleasant, bright exterior that kids will enjoy and a water sprayer that is attached underneath the canopy.

A small pool with a rust-resistant metal frame and PVC lining, as well as a PVC support band around the pool wall. It includes a leak repair patch in case the liner springs a fall, and a flow-controlled drain makes it simple to empty any excess water.

11-Intex Metal Frame Pool Set

• Cost: $105
• Buy from: Amazon

This Intex Metal Frame Pool is simple to put together, comes with a 530-gallon-per-hour filter pump to keep the water clean, and includes one filter cartridge. Made of PVC material, it’s sturdy, measures 12 feet by 30 inches, and has thousands of ecstatic Amazon reviews for its size, price, and straightforward installation. Invest in a pool ladder as well for further safety.

12-Bestway Fast Set rattan pool

• Cost: $149
• Buy from: Amazon

This rattan-print pool is equipped with a ring around the top which inflates to keep the pool’s structure. The pool can be filled with water in around an hour.

“The size 13-foot by 33-inch works just fine for cooling off and floating around,” a reviewer wrote.

13-Bestway round above ground swimming pool kit

• Cost:$161
• Buy from: Amazon

This round, stone-print pool is on the smaller side, so it’s more suited for cooling off, rather than swimming. It has a flow-control drain valve that connects to a garden hose to drain the pool in the off-season. It also comes with a heavy-duty repair patch and a DVD with instructions on how to set up and maintain the pool.

14-Bestway Steel Pro MAX 12′ x 30″ Above Ground Swimming Pool

• Cost: from $216
• Buy from: Amazon

The Bestway Steel Pro MAX is a feature-rich pool that won’t break the bank. The pool frame is coated with a rust and corrosion-resistant layer for maximum long life, and it’s made of heavy-duty PVC pipe. A sturdy 3-layer fabric liner surrounds the pool and a strong band encircles the frame, providing extra stiffness and durability.

The Bestway pool liners are constructed of DuraPlus, a blend of heavy-duty PVC with a polyester inner mesh that provides an ideal balance of flexibility and stiffness. To put it another way, the Bestway pool won’t fold like wet cardboard after a long day of swimming.

The pool’s oval frame is manufactured from steel with Seal & Lock System T-connectors to make it easy to assemble. And because it uses a pin-clip design, you won’t need any tools to assemble your pool. It also includes a flow-controlled valve that regulates water levels.

Even though these pools are called “Pro MAX,” they aren’t exorbitant in price, with the 12-foot model retailing for about $216.

On top of everything else, this Bestway pool comes with a cartridge-based pool filter as well as a ladder and cover. You may use it long-term while maintaining it safe and clear.

15-Summer Waves Outdoor Round Frame 12ft x 33in Swimming Pool

🏆Best alternative-finish above ground pool

• Cost: from $209
• Buy from: Amazon

A telltale appearance of most lower-cost above-ground pools is a white frame with a blue lining. This means that these above-ground pools, which are rather garish, stand out like a sore thumb in your front or backyard and scream “bargain,” which isn’t the style you want to convey out.

Fortunately, you have some alternatives. Summer Waves provides this option if you want an inexpensive above-ground pool that complements your yard’s design. Instead of the trademark blue above-ground pool lining, they paint the exterior walls of this circular pool’s liner with what appears to be wicker. You may also choose between tan or gray to coordinate it with your outdoor furniture.

Setting up this Summer Waves pool is simple, and it’s even easier to keep clean since it includes a filter pump that serves as a skimmer.

16-Intex Easy Set Inflatable 13ft x 33in Swimming Pool

🏆An Inexpensive Option That Can Be Set Up In Minutes

• Cost: $229
• Buy from: Amazon

This Intex’s inflatable pool is simple to put up and extremely cost-effective for a more temporary above-ground pool. All you have to do is fill the top ring with air, which takes around 10 minutes, and the pool is ready to use. The circular pool has a diameter of 13 feet and a depth of 2.5 feet, holding 530 gallons of water.

The pool is constructed of a puncture-resistant, 3-ply laminated PVC material and comes with a Krystal Clear cartridge filter pump that’s really simple to set up. While the pool isn’t the most long-lasting on the market, you can’t beat its price or simplicity of assembly.

17-Intex 18-Foot-by-48-Inch Inflatable Round Outdoor Above Ground Swimming Pool Set

• Cost: $455
• Buy from: Amazon

This pool is the larger version of the previous one which measures 18 feet by 4 feet, can be set up tool-free in about 30 minutes and fits up to eight people. The set includes a three-ply pool liner, filter pump, filter cartridge, ladder, ground cloth and debris cover — in other words, everything you need to make a big splash. With this your backyard is about to become the most popular spot on the block.

Medium budget between 500 and 1000 above ground pools (Best for adding summer fun and beauty to any backyard)

18-Summer Waves Elite Above Ground 14′ x 42″ Swimming Pool With Filter Pump and Deluxe Accessory Set

• Cost: $599
• Buy from: Amazon

When you can put this highly regarded baby in your own garden, why pay for a pricey pool membership? There’s plenty of room for the family to cool off when the temperatures rise. A cover, filter pump, chlorinator filter cartridge, and ladder are included with the model.

19-Steel Pro Above Ground Swimming Pool

• Cost:$609
• Buy from: Overstock

Ready to get a little rowdy this summer? This above-ground pool with a corrosion-resistant steel frame, long-lasting three-ply liner, and built-in flow valve is available. It’s very simple to set up and measures 10 feet by 26 inches and comes with one repair patch.

20-Bestway Steel Pro 18′ x 48″ Frame Pool Set With Accessories

🏆Best Large Metal Frame Above Ground Pool

• Cost: $653
• Buy from: Amazon

Metal-frame above-ground pools are far more durable than inflatable ones, but they’re still easy to remove in the off season. This 18-foot pool from Bestway is supported by a rust-resistant steel frame and comes with a heavy-duty 3-ply PVC liner as well as a reinforced belt that keeps the frame in place. The pool’s depth is 4 feet and its capacity is 6,092 gallons of water.

This circular pool can be built by two to three people and includes a filter pump, filter cartridge, ladder, and pool cover as standard. When the summer season is over, it’s simple to empty the pool using a flow-controlled drain valve.

21-Summer Waves Elite Above Ground 16’x48 Frame Swimming Pool

• Cost: $699
• Buy from: Amazon

Are you ready to get your splash on with a sturdy, long-lasting pool that can handle the elements? The Summer Waves Elite Above Ground Pool Set has a water capacity of 5,212 gallons and comes with a SkimmerPlus 110/120v filter pump to keep the water clean and sparkling all summer. The swim pool’s frame is made of galvanized steel and takes approximately 45 minutes to put up.

The Summer Waves Elite comes with all of the standard TLC accessories you’ll need to set up and maintain your new pool, including a cloth to place on the ground beneath your pool, a pool ladder, a pool cover, and a maintenance kit to keep it running smoothly. Pool reviewers love how sturdy it is; they find it simple to assemble and note that the low price tag makes it even more attractive.

The Summer Waves is an above-ground pool that’s perfect for kids who have outgrown inflatable pools.

22-Intex Ultra XTR 16ft x 48in Above Ground Pool

• Cost: $708
• Buy from: Amazon

The Intex Ultra XTR series of pools has all of the qualities needed in an excellent above-ground swimming pool. The steel frame is galvanized and powder-coated to keep it from rusting and corroding when exposed to water and weather conditions. A unique locking mechanism ensures that the structure is sturdy enough for you to trust your children’s lives in it.

Intex ships these bad boys with most of the accessories you will need to keep the water comfortable and clean, including a 120v sand filter pump, a pool ladder specifically designed for above ground pools, a cloth to lay on the grass under your pool, and a cover to keep the water warm overnight and keep debris from falling into the pool.

Intex is the biggest name in the above ground pool biz, and the XTR is their best pool and my top recommendation for an easy-to-install and durable pool that you can set up in less than an hour.

Perhaps most importantly, these pools won’t break the bank, with a 16ft round pool retailing for less than $708.

23-Summer Waves 16-Foot Round 48-Inch Deep Elite Frame Pool Dark Triple Basket Weave

• Cost: $718
• Buy from: The Home Depot

In a stylish dark triple basket weave print with a pretty blue honeycomb design on the interior, this pool set uses strong metal tubes in its sturdy metal frame and comes with a filter pump, filter cartridge, stepladder and repair patch.

24-Bestway nPower Steel Outdoor Oval Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set

• Cost: $798
• Buy from: Amazon

Looking for the perfect pool to create your own personal relaxation oasis? This oval-shaped pool from Bestway is a great choice for those whose yard might not service a traditional circle-shaped pool. Made with a triple-layered, puncture-resistant liner, all you need to worry about with this pool is getting it set up and ready for summer fun.

25-Summer Waves Elite 20-Foot-by-48-Inch Above Ground Frame Swimming Pool Set

• Cost:$865
• Buy from: Amazon

Toss on your best swim trunks and suits because every day can be a pool party day with this 20-foot Summer Waves pool. Plus, this set comes with a pool filter, cover, ladder and galvanized steel frame made to hold up in all types of summertime weather.

26-An 18-Foot Above Ground Pool With A Comprehensive Accessory Kit

🏆Best Overall Large Above Ground Pool

• Cost: $922
• Buy from: Amazon

The 18-foot Intex circular pool is a long-lasting swimming pool supported by a powder-coated steel frame with the Easy Lock system, which makes it simple to set up and ready for use in only one hour. Its maintenance is incredibly easy since sand only needs routine backwashing and replacement every 5 years.

It comes equipped exclusively with Intex Krystal Clear sand filter pumps with Hydro Aeration Technology – providing the best filtration performance and unmatched water clarity.

The Intex 18′ x 52in Pool with 6,981-gallon capacity combines uniquely designed frame with high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools. Its encapsulating inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust.

High-budget over $1000 above ground pools (Best for swimming and pool party)

As you move into this range, you see more hard-sided pools, with frames made from durable, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or heavy-gauge, rigid PVC. Pools in this range can easily provide a decade of service, though you may need to replace the liner at some point.

And once you get to $2,000, besides maximum size — 25-foot diameters or more — they feature top-quality design and construction, so they will look better in the backyard and last a lot longer, a few decades even, with proper care and maintenance.

27-Intex Ultra XTR above ground frame pool

🏆Best for larger yards

• Cost: $1,499
• Buy from: Overstock

This steel pool comes in larger sizes that you can actually swim in. It comes with a saltwater system and a sand-filter pump combo; a pool ladder; a ground cloth and a cover. Hydro aeration technology provides better circulation and filtration and improves the water clarity.

28-INTEX Ultra XTR Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump

🏆Best extra Large above-ground pool

• Cost: $1,624
• Buy from: Amazon

If you want to entertain your friends and relatives with an above-ground pool, you’ll need plenty of capacity. This huge pool has a diameter of 24 feet, giving it a surface area of more than 450 square feet. With this one, you won’t have to limit the number of people attending your pool party.

Because you’ll need so much water to fill this big pool, you’ll most likely want to drain and take it down only once every few weeks or months. The INTEX Ultra XTR pool comes with the necessary equipment to keep the pool water clean and swimable, which is good news.

The INTEX Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump is included in this model, which has dual-suction outlet fittings and the INTEX Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump. A tie-down cover to keep debris out, as well as a ground cloth to shield the bottom of your pool, are included. You also get a ladder so that it’s simple to climb into and out of your 52-inch deep pool.

29-Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set

• Cost: $2,249
• Buy from: Amazon

When you’re not messing around with your pool game, consider this large 24-foot-by-12-foot-by-4.3-foot steel frame rectangular pool. Able to hold 8,403 gallons, it comes with a sand filter pump, ground cloth, debris cover and ladder, and, with high ratings and more than 1,200 reviews, earns raves for its durability, shape that allows for better swimming area and easy setup.

Not a fan of having that chlorine smell in your hair? This rectangular above-ground pool comes with a saltwater filter pump system, which uses gentler chemicals to sanitize your pool. The pool is 24 feet long and 12 feet wide, and it’s supported by a steel frame lined with a thick, 3-ply PVC liner. It has a water capacity of 8,403 gallons, and it’s 4.3 feet deep. 

In addition to the Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump and Saltwater System unit, this pool comes with several accessories, including a ladder, ground cloth, and debris cover. Its Easy Lock assembly system makes it easy to put together in around an hour, but the process is much easier if you have someone to help you.

30-Intex Ultra Xtr Rectangular Swimming Pool Set

🏆A Spacious Option That Can Accommodate A Ton Of Swimmers

• Cost: $2,264
• Buy from: Home Depot

If you have a large yard, you might want to invest in an extra-large above-ground pool, such as the one from Intex. It measures 32 feet by 16 feet and can hold 14,364 gallons of water. It’s big enough for your biggest pool parties, I think.

This pool has a galvanized steel frame, and it comes with both a sand filter and a salt-water pump system so you may forego conventional chlorine maintenance. Other essentials include a ground cloth, debris cover, and pool ladder, as well as a volleyball set for some friendly rivalry.