As we head into the 2026 season in London and Stratford, the “Great Pool Debate” is back. Whether you are looking for a permanent lifestyle upgrade or a quick way to beat the Ontario heat, choosing between an inground and an above ground pool is a big decision that impacts your budget, your property value, and your summer schedule.
At Custom LeisureScapes, we install both. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the 2026 pros, cons, and costs for each.
For many homeowners in Southwestern Ontario, an inground pool is the gold standard. It’s not just a place to swim; it’s a full-scale landscape transformation.
The Pros:
High Resale Value: Inground pools are a long-term asset. In the London real estate market, a professionally installed inground pool significantly elevates property appeal and market value.
Aesthetic Integration: These pools sit flush with your yard, allowing for seamless stamped concrete, natural stone, or custom decking.
Durability: Built with heavy-duty galvanized steel or high-impact polymer walls, our inground builds are engineered specifically for Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles.
The 2026 Budget: For a complete professional installation (including the shell, equipment, and safety features), most families should budget between $50,000 and $100,000+.
The Timeline: Expect 4 to 12 weeks from permit approval to your first splash.
If you want to go from “grass to water” in a matter of days without a six-figure price tag, an above ground pool is a fantastic option.
The Pros:
Speedy Installation: While an inground pool is a major construction project, an above ground pool can often be installed and ready for water in just a few days.
Cost-Effective: You get the same cooling relief for a fraction of the price. 2026 packages are often 80% more affordable than inground alternatives.
Flexibility: If you plan on moving in a few years or want to reclaim your yard later, above ground pools are much easier to disassemble or remove.
The 2026 Budget: You can often have a high-quality, full setup (including filtration) for under $15,000–$20,000.
The Timeline: Typically 1 to 3 days for assembly.
Can’t decide? Custom LeisureScapes also specializes in semi-inground pools. These are perfect for sloped backyards in areas like the Thames River valley or for homeowners who want the look of an inground pool at a mid-range price point. They offer the durability of a permanent structure but can be partially buried to fit your landscape’s unique grading.
Choose Inground if: You plan on staying in your home for 10+ years, you want a “resort” aesthetic, and you want to maximize your property’s resale value.
Choose Above Ground if: You want a fast solution for the kids, you’re working with a tighter budget, or you want the option to change your backyard layout in the future.
Still not sure? Use our “Build My Own Pool” tool on our website to see what fits your space, or visit our experts in London or Stratford for a personalized recommendation.
Contact Custom LeisureScapes today to start your 2026 backyard plan! 🌊🏠
