Above Ground Pool Removal Cost: Pricing Guide

Thinking about tearing out your old above-ground pool? You’re not alone. Many homeowners decide to remove their pool when maintenance costs grow, outdoor space feels cramped, or they want a fresh yard layout. But before you grab a shovel or call a contractor, you need to know roughly what you might pay to make that pool disappear.

Recent data shows that if you hire a professional, removing an above-ground pool typically costs between $475 and $2,500, with a national average around $900. Costs rise if you also need a deck, stairs, or extra cleanup. so plan accordingly.

In this guide, I break down what drives those numbers. I’ll walk you through pool size, added features, and typical extras so you can get a solid idea of the real cost before you pick up the phone. Let’s dig in.

Cost Factors of Aboveground Pool Removal 🔗

Many factors can influence the cost of taking down an above-ground pool. The size of the pool plays a major role because larger pools require more time and labor. The location also affects pricing since tight or blocked areas make the job harder for a removal crew. Extra features like attached decks, ladders, or custom landscaping can raise the total cost as well.

Most homeowners already spend a lot on installing an above-ground pool, so understanding these cost factors helps you plan the removal with fewer surprises and a clearer budget.

Size 🔗

Your pool’s size plays a huge role in what you’ll pay to remove it. Bigger pools need more hands, more time, and more hauling. A 12-foot round pool comes apart pretty quickly, but a 30-foot setup with a heavy frame and deeper liner takes real work. The bigger the structure, the more labor and disposal fees stack up. If your pool takes up half the yard, don’t be surprised if the removal bill reflects that.

Location 🔗

Your pool’s location usually doesn’t change the removal cost much as long as the crew can reach it easily. But things get more expensive when access becomes a problem. If your pool sits in a tight corner, behind narrow gates, or far from the driveway, your contractor may charge extra. They need more time, more labor, and sometimes special equipment to get the job done. So, if your pool is tough to reach, expect the price to climb a bit.

Draining Your Above-Ground Pool 🔗

Before any removal can begin, your pool needs to be emptied. Draining typically costs $175 to $225, but many professionals include this in the total removal price. Planning ahead ensures your project starts smoothly without extra surprises.

Labor Costs: The Biggest Expense 🔗

Labor drives most of the cost in pool removal. Depending on your pool’s size, features, and whether you want additional services like landscaping, expect labor to run $300 to $5,000. Hiring experienced pros ensures the job is done safely and efficiently.

Restoring Your Yard with Landscaping 🔗

Once the pool is gone, your yard may need some love. Landscaping costs typically range from $4 to $10 per square foot, depending on the type of plants, grass, or decorative features you choose. A well-designed yard can completely transform your outdoor space.

Excavation: When It’s Needed 🔗

Above-ground pools usually don’t require excavation. But if your pool sits in a low spot, excavation may be necessary to remove it properly. Residential excavation costs range from $50 to $200 per cubic yard.

Backfilling: Leveling the Ground 🔗

In some cases, backfilling may be required to level your yard after pool removal. Costs can vary widely, from $2,000 to $20,000, depending on the size of your pool and the materials used. Planning for backfill ensures your yard is smooth, safe, and ready for future projects.

Extra Features That Affect Pool Removal Costs 🔗

Removing an above-ground pool isn’t just about taking out the pool itself. Any surrounding features or accessories can add to your bill. Knowing what to expect can help you plan your budget and avoid surprises.

Decks: More Than Just Wood 🔗

If your pool has a deck, removing it usually costs extra. For a typical wooden or composite deck, expect to pay $700 to $1,700, depending on the size and materials. Concrete pool patios also come with a cost, averaging around $1,200 to remove. Always check with your contractor to see if parts of the deck can be saved or repurposed to save money.

Fences and Enclosures 🔗

Fences or pool enclosures add privacy and safety—but they also add cost if you remove them. Removing a fence can range from $800 to $2,000, depending on height, material, and complexity. Smaller vinyl or chain-link fences cost less, while larger wood or wrought iron structures run on the higher end.

Pool Stairs and Steps 🔗

Most pool stair removal is included in the overall pool removal cost. Still, large or heavy stairs can slightly increase labor charges. In general, the more material your contractor has to haul away, the more time and money the project will take.

Key Takeaway

Every extra feature adds time, labor, and expense. When planning your pool removal, account for decks, fences, and stairs, and talk to your contractor about the most cost-effective way to handle them.

Renting a Dumpster for Pool Removal 🔗

After your above-ground pool is taken apart, you need a way to handle all the debris. One common solution is renting a dumpster. Placing it near your home makes cleanup much easier. On average, dumpster rentals cost $300 to $500, depending on the size and type you choose. This option works well if you have a lot of pool materials or extra yard debris.

Using a Junk Removal Service 🔗

If renting a dumpster feels like too much work, hiring a junk removal company is another smart option. These services will haul away your old pool and any leftover debris. Costs vary based on volume, typically ranging from $60 to $600. For most above-ground pool removals, budgeting around $300 for a professional junk removal service is a safe estimate.

Pro Tip: Compare Your Options

Think about the amount of debris and the effort you’re willing to put in. Renting a dumpster gives you control but requires you to load it yourself. A junk removal service is more hands-off but can cost slightly more. Either way, planning ahead helps avoid unexpected costs.

Cost to Remove an Above ground Pool Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro 🔗

You can save anywhere from $300 to $5,000 in labor costs if you handle an above-ground pool removal yourself. That sounds appealing, but the project is large and time-consuming, and it often creates more problems than it solves. Most homeowners quickly realize that handling it alone requires effort and careful planning.

A professional can make the process much easier. Pool removal experts bring the right skills, tools, and equipment to complete the job safely and efficiently. They also carry insurance to protect your home if anything goes wrong, giving you peace of mind that a DIY approach cannot offer.

An above-ground pool usually takes about a week to build, and it can take just as long to take apart, especially for larger pools. Professionals dedicate full attention to the project, finishing faster and with less stress for you.

For most homeowners, hiring a pro remains the safer, faster, and more reliable choice, even if DIY might save some money upfront.

Factor	DIY Pool Removal	Professional Pool Removal
Average Cost	$300 – $5,000	$1,500 – $6,000
Cost by Pool Size	Small (≤12 ft): $300–$800 Medium (13–18 ft): $800–$2,000 Large (19–24 ft): $2,000–$5,000	Small (≤12 ft): $1,500–$2,500 Medium (13–18 ft): $2,500–$4,000 Large (19–24 ft): $4,000–$6,000
Labor Effort	High – requires multiple people, heavy lifting, and dismantling	Low – professionals handle all demolition, cleanup, and disposal
Time Required	1–3 days depending on pool size and prep	4–8 hours (usually same-day completion)
Equipment Needed	Shovels, sledgehammers, saws, wheelbarrow, dumpster rental	All equipment provided by the company
Safety Risk	Moderate to high – injuries possible during dismantling or moving	Low – trained crew with proper safety gear
Permits / Regulations	Must check local regulations for pool removal and disposal	Professionals handle permits and compliance
Disposal Handling	DIY disposal at landfill or recycling center; may incur extra fees	Professionals manage proper disposal and recycling of pool materials

End Note 🔗

When thinking about above ground pool removal cost, it’s not just about dollars. Taking out your pool can cut down on maintenance, improve safety, open up your yard, and even increase your home’s resale value.

WeCycle offers a professional, eco-friendly removal service with years of experience and a strong reputation making them a top choice for homeowners in the USA.

FAQs 🔗

What is the average cost to remove an above ground pool? 🔗

The cost varies based on pool size and method. DIY removal typically ranges from $300 to $5,000, while hiring a professional can cost between $1,500 and $6,000.

Can I remove an above ground pool myself to save money? 🔗

Yes, DIY removal can save money, but it requires significant labor, tools, and time. Ensure you follow safety precautions and check local disposal regulations.

Does pool size affect the removal cost? 🔗

Absolutely. Smaller pools (≤12 ft) cost less to remove, while larger pools (19–24 ft) can cost significantly more due to increased labor and disposal needs.

Are there additional costs besides labor for pool removal? 🔗

Yes. Additional costs can include dumpster rental, disposal fees, removing fences or decking, and any permits required by your local municipality.

How can WeCycle help with above ground pool removal? 🔗

WeCycle provides professional pool removal services, including safe disposal and recycling. They handle all labor, permits, and equipment, making the process stress-free and eco-friendly.