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.
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:
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:
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:
For families building a legacy backyard experience.
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.
Here are the biggest factors — and where surprises often hide:
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.
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.
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.
Finishes and Materials Premium pebble or tile elevates look and durability but increases cost per square foot.
Permits, Compliance, and Quality Labor Legitimate quotes include engineering reports, permits ($1,000–$3,000), and skilled crews. Missing these is a red flag.
A suspiciously low bid might mean:
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.
Plan for these to enjoy your pool stress-free:
We offer professional, full maintenance and repairs services, so your oasis stays perfect.
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.
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