How Much Does a Custom Gunite Pool Cost in Texas in 2026?

If you’re seriously considering a custom gunite pool for your Houston-area home, the first question on your mind is probably: How much does a custom gunite pool cost in Texas in 2026?

You’re not looking for vague answers like “it depends.” You want real numbers, clarity on what drives the price, and honest insight into what separates a great investment from a costly regret. At Texas Pools, we’ve been building luxury custom gunite pools in The Woodlands and Greater Houston since 1980. With over 2,400 projects and 300+ design awards, we believe in radical transparency — because the more you know, the better partner you’ll choose.

The short answer: In 2026, most custom gunite pools in Texas range from $85,000 to $250,000+, depending on size, features, site challenges, and quality level. Here’s the breakdown so you can see exactly what you’re paying for — and why cutting corners often costs more in the long run.

Three Realistic Pricing Tiers for Custom Gunite Pools in Texas

We see these tiers play out in real Houston pool projects every year:

Entry-Level Custom Gunite Pools: $85,000 – $120,000 This gets you a durable, personalized pool without heavy luxury extras. Typically includes:

• Basic custom shape and standard depths
• Standard plaster finish
• Basic tile and coping
• Reliable filtration and pump
• Minimal automation

Perfect for homeowners who want gunite’s longevity and some customization without going all-out.

Mid-Range Luxury Gunite Pools: $120,000 – $180,000 This is where most of our client’s land — a striking, comfortable backyard centerpiece. Typically includes:

• Fully tailored design for your yard
• Integrated spa or raised hot tub
• Upgraded pebble/quartz finishes
• LED lighting and smart controls
• Efficient heater for year-round Texas use
• Water features like a gentle waterfall

Ideal if you want modern luxury that feels special every day.

High-End / Estate-Level Gunite Pools: $180,000 – $250,000+ These become architectural statements with no compromises. Typically includes:

• Complex site engineering for slopes or clay soil
• Infinity or negative edges
• Dramatic custom water/fire features
• Premium glass-bead or custom blends
• Advanced automation, redundancy systems
• Seamless integration with outdoor living spaces

For families building a legacy backyard experience.

Why Gunite Costs More — and Why It’s Worth It in Texas

Unlike fiberglass or vinyl pools, gunite isn’t a pre-made shell. It’s hand-built on your property with steel-reinforced concrete, sprayed layer by layer for unmatched strength and design freedom. In Texas’s expansive clay soils and hot summers, this matters — gunite handles shifting ground and extreme weather far better, often lasting 50+ years with proper care.

But freedom comes with trade-offs: every curve, depth change, or feature adds engineering, labor, and materials.

What Really Drives the Cost of Your Custom Gunite Pool

Here are the biggest factors — and where surprises often hide:

1. Site Preparation and Texas Soil Challenges Houston-area clay requires extra stabilization. Slopes, trees, or tight access can add $10,000–$30,000. Skipping this risks cracks later.

2. Design, Engineering, and Structural Integrity Proper rebar density, gunite thickness, and curing prevent future issues. Cutting corners here saves upfront but leads to expensive repairs.

3. Features and Add-Ons Spa: +$15,000–$40,000 Infinity edge: +$20,000–$50,000+ Waterfalls/sheers: +$5,000–$30,000 Automation/heater: +$4,000–$12,000

   Choose intentionally — each should enhance your lifestyle.

4. Finishes and Materials Premium pebble or tile elevates look and durability but increases cost per square foot.

5. Permits, Compliance, and Quality Labor Legitimate quotes include engineering reports, permits ($1,000–$3,000), and skilled crews. Missing these is a red flag.

Red Flags: Why the Cheapest Quote Often Costs the Most

A suspiciously low bid might mean:

• Thinner gunite shells
• Reduced rebar reinforcement
• Little waterproofing
• Cheaper equipment
• Less oversight

The fallout? Cracks, leaks, or early failures — repairs that erase any savings. At Texas Pools, we build to last, so our clients avoid those headaches.

Ongoing Costs Most Builders Don’t Mention

Plan for these to enjoy your pool stress-free:

• Weekly maintenance (like our cleaning services): $250–$385/month
• Utilities and chemicals: Varies by features
• Annual upkeep: $1,500–$4,000+
• Resurfacing (every 10–15 yrs): $6,000–$15,000 (depending on size)

We offer professional, full maintenance and repairs services, so your oasis stays perfect.

Is a Custom Gunite Pool Worth It in 2026?

For the right family — absolutely. It boosts property value, creates lifelong memories, and outperforms cheaper options in Texas conditions. When built right, it’s not just a pool — it’s your backyard legacy.

If your still questioning wither the financial investment in a custom gunite pool is the best option, maybe you might want to look at gunite comparison options (fiberglass vs. concrete vs. vinyl liner)

At Texas Pools, we start with education, not pressure. As a Certified Master Pool Builder, we listen to your vision, walk your yard, and deliver honest quotes tailored to 2026 realities.

The total cost also depends heavily on the pool type you choose (fiberglass vs. concrete vs. vinyl liner).

Now you should have a better understanding of what a custom gunite pool cost in Texas in 2026. Ready to explore what’s possible? Book a no-obligation consultation today. We’ll answer every question and help you decide with confidence.

Because at Texas Pools, we don’t just build pools — we create extraordinary destinations where vision meets water.

Related Cost & Planning Guides

• Best Pool Type for Texas Homes: Fiberglass vs. Concrete vs. Vinyl Liner
• Top 5 Inground Pool Problems in Texas and Proven Solutions