Pool Sizes

Explore the Perfect Pool Size for Your Backyard Oasis

What Pool Size Is Right For Me?

You’re ready to build a pool in your backyard, but aren’t sure what pool size you want. This is a big decision to make and it can be overwhelming to consider all of the options that are available. The last thing you want to do is make a bad decision and be stuck with a pool that you aren’t happy with in your backyard.

There are a variety of pools that you can choose from, all built for different activities and in different sizes. Every home and backyard presents its own unique environment and space that is available. When it comes to the size of your pool, you need to choose what works best for your backyard, lifestyle and budget. While that sounds great, it also probably leaves you saying something like “How do I know what size and style of pool is right for me?”

You might not be familiar with the style of pool that you want in your backyard, but we are here to help!

Pool Sizes Guide

Find the Perfect Fit for Your Backyard

At California Pools & Landscape, we understand that no two backyards are the same. With over 37 years of experience as Arizona’s leading custom pool builder, we’ve designed inground shotcrete pools in every size and style imaginable. Whether your goal is relaxation, entertaining, or fitness, our team will help you create a pool that perfectly suits your space and lifestyle. Dive into this guide to learn about the most popular pool sizes and see how we can bring your dream backyard to life.

All Great Builds Start With a Conversation

Whether you need an estimate, funding, or inspiration from our award winning designers, we're ready to roll our sleeves up and start building your dream space. If you're not quite ready... keep scrolling!

REQUEST AN ESTIMATE

MEET A DESIGNER

GET FUNDED

Spools

A Spool is just as it sounds: a small pool or a large spa. You can tailor your spool by adding a heater, jets, and benches. You can even add a baja shelf for a nice place to relax. Spools are utilized in backyards that aren’t able to accommodate a standard pool or for those seeking a smaller aquatic feature. A spool is typically 20ft to 22.5ft long and 10ft wide, but those dimensions are customizable depending on what space restrictions exist in your yard.

Spools can provide the benefit of year-round usage, serving as a pool during the hot Arizona summers and a large spa in the winter. Design options are endless whether you’re looking for an area to relax or entertain. You can also build your spool to maintain your fitness goals at home, by building in a jet to create a current to swim against.

Explore Spools

Cocktail Pools

A cocktail pool is similar to a spool as it is smaller in size. It is best designed for entertaining and creating an environment to cool off while enjoying a cocktail. Typically, cocktail pools are plunge-style pools that are 3ft to 5ft deep and offer a great option to escape the heat in compact backyards. They are smaller than a standard pool, typically 24ft long x 12ft wide.

A cocktail pool is a great fit for homeowners who are looking for a smaller footprint for their pool or to create a water feature in their backyard. If you have a smaller backyard or restrictions with available space, a cocktail pool is a good fit. Design options are endless, and there are several customizations available to make a cocktail pool the star of your backyard.

Explore Cocktail Pools

Play Pools

A standard inground swimming pool or play pool is a 75ft perimeter pool, which means it is 75 feet around the pool's edge. While all our pools are custom designed, a play pool is typically a rectangular pool that is 28ft long x 14ft wide. Play pools can also be configured in a freeform design. One popular geometric configuration has a depth that typically starts at 3ft in the shallow end, goes down to 5ft in the middle, and then back up to 4ft. Another common configuration starts at 3ft in the shallow end and goes down to 5ft in the deep end.

Pools with these dimensions are great for playing aquatic sports like volleyball and basketball. Baja or Sun shelves are also a popular option added to these pools to create an atmosphere for play and recreation. This is the most popular swimming pool size as it fits in most backyards and offers an environment for multiple activities.

Explore Play Pools

Diving Pools

A diving pool has a deep end on one side that typically is 8.5ft to 10ft in depth, providing the option to dive in or practice your best cannonball. A diving pool is larger than a play pool in depth and overall dimensions to provide a safe diving environment. Often diving pools feature a diving board, jump rock, or waterslide for a stylish entrance into the deep end.

A diving pool is a good fit for families looking to enjoy diving and jumping into their pool for aquatic activities. This style of pool can also be a fit for water sports like pool volleyball or basketball, but only on the shallower side. If you want to accommodate both driving and water sports, a good design is essential because the pool will slope down towards the deep end, which leaves less shallow area in which to play sports.

Having a medium to large sized yard will be necessary to fit a diving pool.

Explore Diving Pools

Lap Pools

A lap pool is just as it sounds, a pool designed to swim laps in. These are typically long pools, 35ft – 40ft on average, even up to 75ft long, and have a narrow width. All dimensions are customizable if you’re looking to utilize the available area in your outdoor environment.

If you have a year-round fitness goal, keep in mind that you will want to add a heating element to the pool to handle the Arizona winter. A lap pool can still double as an area to entertain or relax after your workout. A lap pool is a good fit for people with narrow backyards or shallow yards who are looking to maximize the pool space.

Explore Lap Pools

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Size

Backyard Design

We measure your outdoor space and account for other backyard features like patios, landscaping, and seating areas.

Primary Use

Think about how you’ll use your pool, exercise, relaxation, or entertaining guests. This can guide you toward the right size and shape.

Budget

Your pool size will mainly be determined by the size of your yard and your budget for the project. Larger pools have higher installation and maintenance costs than smaller pools.

Local Regulations

All jurisdictions and HOAs have zoning and setback restrictions that may affect the size or placement of your pool. Our designers will ensure your project is designed to meet all local codes.

What Pool Size Is Right For You?

Design options are truly endless when you choose the style of pool that is right for the size of your backyard and budget. After considering the aspects of your home and the activity that you’d like to do in your pool, the right pool style should be an easy choice for you to make. Once you know the style of pool that you want, you can move forward with design elements like choosing your shape or building materials. If you’re looking for design inspiration, visit our learning center for more pool design ideas!

Explore Design Ideas

See What Our Customers Are Saying

Jim & Trish Kloch

We would highly recommend California Pools. From the initial meetings with Brian, throughout design and subsequent change orders he was able to help us create our dream pool and landscape concept, working closely with the landscapers to provide us a breathtaking design. Once the project was handed off to implementation, things moved quickly. We were very fortunate to work with Stephen as our project manager. A consummate and highly experienced project manager is essential to a project like this, and Stephen delivered every step of the way, We appreciated the professionalism and expertise of every crew we worked with, particularly Colin and the travertine crew including Jose, Pedro, Salvator and Domingo. The excavation crew member was also a highly skilled operator. One of the key differences of working with California Pools is their communication. Ciarra was central to that, and we knew at all times exactly where we were at on the project and what steps remained to completion. Thank you to the entire California Pools team for helping transform our backyard into a dream oasis we will enjoy for years to come!

Kirk L.

I would definitely recommend California Pools. We have had our pool now for 7 years and have always received great customer service anytime we ran it any issues with our pool. Their staff is always friendly and we get great service from our technician Jesse. Even when we ran into issues outside of our warranty coverage their customer service team was able to work with us and the manufacturers to make sure we did not incur a large out of pocket expense.- Kirk L

Deanna L.

Grace Johnson with California Pools has been an amazing support through our initial process for financing. David Craw, our project manager, has also been outstanding and we are excited for our new pool and backyard!!!

Justin S.

My experience with California Pools has been outstanding. Sara's communication kept me updated on every aspect of my project and the app made communication very efficient. Scott's design was exactly what I had wanted. Thank you California Pools for a job well done.

Ben Richman

California pools built my pool a year ago. The peace of mind that they bring to pool ownership is next level. All of my concerns from start to finish and during ownership are wiped away. Huge huge huge shoutout to Jacob, pool designer, Kathy, service manager, and TREVOR - this guy is THE man. Everyone is so polite, informative, and personal. Love this company

Roseann ..

Giving this company five full stars, because they were at the mercy of the labor crews. Although it feels like it took quite a while to get a pool in my backyard, It was really really wonderful to see it come to fruition. The office staff was completely engaged and always came out scheduled times to review everything. The quality and workmanship is outstanding. In fact, it is better than my new home build from the builder! The salesman, Doug Lillis, is fantastic at his job. He was very responsive all of the time. Also, Dustin was so helpful and came out as well to attend to things. We are absolutely thrilled with the project. It may have felt like a long wait and I hope that doesn't give this company negative reviews, because even the leadership staff that I spoke with, was also very attentive and responsive.

Al W.

Let me start off by saying the process wasn't as smooth as I wished it would have gone. When it didn't go as planned, Stephanie stepped in and made her best of a tough situation. The speed of workmanship was as expected and when it was time to finish, Stephanie got us to the finish line as promised. We had our site superintendent, Kevin, get the final touches addressed and made us to feel our expectations were not unfounded. In all, pool remodels are stressful, but the team was up to the task. Cory, thank you for having us believe in the process even in our most stressful times. Much appreciated!

Kevin B.

We had a great experience and it was completed sooner than anticipated! Our super Adam was extremely responsive and diligent. Between him and Vina someone was always available to respond to a message in the portal or phone call. We got a few bids from other competitors and California pools was by far the most reasonable we received. We felt like the quality and products used were better than other quotes we received for cheaper materials. It was incredibly easy to make changes, talk through items of discussion, and bring up any concerns. I'd recommend California pools to anyone and would definitely use them again in the future.

Greg C.

We had Cal Pools build our pool a little less than 2 years ago. Everything about the experience has been great. I recently had a minor plumbing issue, and contacted Cari Gossmann from the Warranty department. She couldn't have been more friendly, understanding and communicative. She scheduled the work, which was completed on time and as promised. She followed up with me to confirm my satisfaction. Much appreciated. You have choices, but you can't go wrong with the team at California Pools!

Robert P.

Cal-Pools did our remodel last year and did a great job. They where not the cheapest, but they where the best at understanding what we wanted. We were very pleased. So now I called them because I screwed up my timers and was to dumb to figure it out They sent out Gabe there service tech who solved my problem and gave me instructions for the future. I was expecting a service charge, but the tech said it was a warranty issue, (even though I screwed up) which I did appreciate, and wasn't expecting. Once again, Cal-Pools has proven to be the best and I'm so glad we chose you for our pool.

Cilla M.

I recently discovered that rats had eaten the innards of my pool heater, which went unused for two years. Working with Kathy Venn, I detailed all my issues (which included clogged filtering and a lack of vacuuming). CalPools sent someone to see what needed doing (Alan, great guy) and eventually, when all the parts came in, sent Chris (shadowed by Adam). So happy to have had this crew come and knock off all my issues, one by one. I had a nice early evening spa today, and am looking forward to the first drain/clean my pool will have had since I owned it. Happy with the service all around. Thank you, Kathy and Chris! (And Adam!)

Roxanne Larouche

Scott Ford was our construction manager for our backyard project. Scott is very professional. He also has excellent people skills and we knew we were in good hands with Scott. He would get back to us anytime we had questions or concerns and find a way to solve any issues. He his also hard working and very reliable. It was a pleasure working with him.

John S.

Continued great after service from Kathy and her team. After 3 years Im still impressed by the continued after service. Responsive and ability to resolve issues right away.

Ruchi

Had an amazing experience with CA pools and landscape. We were screwed over by two contractors prior to meeting with Kyle at CA Pools. He helped us move quickly to get our pool finished up and had techs and project manager Matt come over multiple times to make sure everything was working absolutely perfectly. Customer service is truly amazing. I wish we would have known of this company from the very beginning!

cristin ford

Excellent design process. It was fun to collaborate on the backyard, pool, styles and materials, but still lean on my knowledgeable experts to make proposals and recommendations so it wasn’t an overwhelming process. The build went fast with great communication and no hiccups. I love the final result! Simple, modern, functional, and beautiful.

Gwen S.

Overdue review. Project manager stopped by to check if we had any issues since pool completion late AUG 22. We were given a timeline of 9 months with an understanding it could go longer. Everyone at CAL POOL and associated trades did an awesome job at every phase of the project. Thanks to Brian for taking it from and idea to the design. Our construction manager (Jordan Thrasher) was present for every phase of construction, addressed our concerns, explained future phases, and accommodated numerous contract changes. Schedulers clearly stated upcoming schedule especially if delays were to be incurred. Awesome pool, have received many positive comments from neighbors and friends. The period from start to finish was 10 months, we were aware of possible delays for numerous reasons and some delays did occur. CALPOOL highly recommended.

Richard Traulsen

We have had Trevor out a couple times to service/repair some issues on our complex pool system. He has always been right on time or early, finishes faster than anticipated, explains what he's doing and why, and makes sure we are satisfied before he leaves.

Ruth Yheulon

Our experience with California Pools was above expectations from the initial visit at their facility to the first cannon ball into our pool. Everyone at California Pools was very helpful especially DJ who was our project manager. He was fun to work with and extremely helpful in designing the project including landscaping (really loved the 3D video!). The entire build time was 5 weeks and the results are spectacular! There were a number of different crews to do the work and all were pleasant and informative about whichever stage they were working on. We highly recommend California Pools to anyone considering installing a pool....Great People to work with!

Debbie G.

My husband and I are thrilled with our new pool! We initially met with Mike Lillis who drew up a great design for us. He was so easy to work with and spent time with us to come up with the most amazing pool and spa while keeping within the budget we had set. Once everything was rolling it was a steady and fast process. Shawn was always on the ball and oversaw the project. Marcee was amazing with all the email correspondence, because I always liked knowing who was coming next. It really was such a great experience and I highly recommend California Pools.

Richard L.

TOP NOTCH IN EVERY WAY My HAYWARD POOL PUMP failed out-of-warranty and CALPOOL assisted in getting it replaced by HAYWARD and then installed the PUMP at-no-cost; even though they were under no obligation to do so. Leslie was incredibly helpful and had the replacement pump installed the day after the PUMP arrived at my residence from Hayward. I recommend CALPOOL without reservation. Rick D. Lucas-MacGibbon Mountain Bridge Mesa, AZ

Amy S.

Amazing!!!!! I cannot say enough good things about this company and our experience. Joel did an amazing job designing our pool and landscape. Sean went above and beyond to get our project moving quickly and impeccably. We had a small leak and Sean was out there sweating and digging it up right away to find the issue. They also found a crack in the concrete that we never saw and scheduled right away for the whole thing to be replaced. Rebecca was also incredible emailing and keeping us up to date with everything! Always very prompt to answer any questions we had. I would highly highly recommend them and definitely request Sean!!!

Walt R.

Called Calpools support yesterday requesting assistance with what appeared to be a small leak issue. Trevor came out the next morning and made the quick repair and had the system up & running in just minutes. Excellent service, competent staff, and everyone had the customer focus and satisfaction as their primary goal!

Lance Erikson

This project had all the hurdles. The backyard had an 18" slope from the retaining wall to the back of the house. Then it was a hard dig. Then the footers for the walls were poured like slop. Randy and Dylan were phenomenal. They took their time to do it right and engaged me constantly. The outcome is a true resort transformation. Everything looks so clean.

Nivine S.

Working with Jeremiah Price on the major remodel of our backyard has been a smooth journey! Having recently done a complete remodel of our home, I speak from experience when I say that Jeremiah & his team are exceptional in their professionalism, their prompt & efficient communication and most importantly in the outstanding quality of the work this far. We are very excited to see the end result as we near the completion of our project!

Rob C.

When my wife an I began researching firms to help us remodel our pool and landscape we researched many firms. Our neighbors down the street had recently had Calpools do work for them and they couldn't have been more impressed. After looking at many different proposals we decided on Calpools. From the very beginning we felt they truly valued our choosing them. Our Project manager, Robby Stubbs was attentive from the get go, helping us design our dream yard and pool. With any big remodel, inevitably there will be revisions and he could not have been more accommodating. With final plan on hand, he introduced us to our Construction Superintendent, Rick Friedenbach. Like Robby, Rick listened and adjusted to make sure everything thing was as we wished for. Keeping everything running like a well oiled machine was Leann Madar, our Scheduling Manager. The Calpools crew were always prompt and professional. As our project wrapped up, Calpools ensured our satisfaction by checking off a punch list of any final details. We can't recommend Calpools enough! Rob and Stephanie

Kelly T.

We just wrapped up the build on our second pool with California Pools and we are thrilled with the results. Our project this time around was a whole lot more involved than the one they did for us 10 years ago, but they did a fantastic job again. The first person we met was our sales rep, Aaron Heninger and he's a great representative for the company. Aaron is friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. He spent several sessions with us, first meeting to get our ideas and then when he presented the final CAD version to us. We had multiple changes during our build, probably close to a dozen, and each time he responded immediately and got us a change order within hours. The appointment with Lori to pick colors/finishes was a pleasure. Lori was helpful without being at all pushy and was totally easy to work with. I got through with my decision making quickly and have been happy with every choice. I spoke with Marcee Walker almost from the first day and she is just a sweetheart. Again, very responsive to every little thing that came up, very easy to work with, knows what she's doing and kept the project on track. I'm sure she's super nice to everyone but half the time I felt like I was calling a friend to talk about my project. Marcee was great about keeping me in the loop and letting me know when each crew would be out. Every crew came in and got their part of the job done efficiently and well. We had a few minor glitches with our landscapers not really having a plan of attack on day one, but with Marcee & Luis we got it all sorted out quickly and everything worked out great and most importantly, it looks great. From the excavation at the beginning through the misting system install, the whole project seemed to flow and move along smoothly. Special shout outs to: The travertine crew: We had a massive amount of travertine laid for this project and these guys did an amazing job. It came out better than we ever thought it could, it's simply stunning! Pergola dude: One guy, three days, amazing. I don't think this guy even took a break, he just methodically put together my pergola from the ground up by himself. It came out exactly as I'd envisioned and made such a difference in how our backyard looks. It even made an eyesore of an outbuilding into something that looks like it was meant to be part of my backyard oasis. We had a huge pool party after the project was done and everyone commented on how gorgeous our yard looks now. We couldn't agree more. Overall all, we had a great experience and we would use California Pools again if we ever needed a pool built or remodeled.

Robert F.

Great to deal with all of the staff through designing to construction of the pool. They listened to our ideas got it on paper followed up on details and stayed on top of the job. Great warranty and continue to stay in touch after completion. Handled a couple of small issues quickly and to my complete satisfaction.

Harold M.

Many thanks for the outstanding job California Pools did for us. From start to finish your company and it's personnel excelled in providing excellent service. I couldn't be more pleased. A special thanks to LeeAnn for always keeping us informed about our schedule. Sean Beavers was our project manager. Outstanding! Sean is a true professional and was always right on top of every detail. He was always available or returned my calls immediately. I could ask anything of him during this project and he always came back with a "can do" attitude and made it happen. One time I called him and told him there was flooding in my side yard. I thought there was something wrong with the new plumbing that had been installed that day. He came over after I had left for work and discovered that it was a drip system problem and had nothing to do with the pool renovation he was overseeing. Sean dug up the main line, found the split in it, and repaired it on the spot. He didn't have to do that, but he did. That's the kind of guy he is. That's the kind of company California Pools is. You guys are Rock Stars. California Pools initially installed my pool many years ago and now has done an amazing job at renovating it and making it look better than new again. I had it re-pebbleteched, added two new sitting benches, all new plumbing and lighting, and resurfaced my decks with travertine. The project came in on schedule with absolutely no glitches. Again, many thanks for the outstanding job you all do. I give you guys a solid 10 for excellence.

Marcia P.

When I started my pool with California Pool Sara was out on leave; however thank goodness she returned, as she is the secret weapon at CPL without a doubt. I was losing my mind with all of the unprofessional unpleasantries that I was experiencing. Sara moved mountains and people to get this pool completed at my home, Michael was a big help in supporting her efforts. I loved working with them both. Sara you are an absolute game changer and most valued in my book of all the staff at CPL, never worked with someone when my troubles seemed endless, your actions where momentous. Thanks Sara and Michael, I now have a great property to enjoy!!! nothing short of amazing....

Lisa S.

We chose California Pools to put our pool in at Trilogy at Verde River. We are VERY happy with the project from start to finish! The California Pools app was extremely helpful as each step completion was communicated to us. The people who worked with us were helpful, thorough, and informative. Thank you California Pools for a job well done!!!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Sizes

Q: What Are the Most Popular Pool Sizes?

Pools typically follow a 2:1 length-to-width ratio, but dimensions vary based on usage and yard size. Common options include:

12’ x 24’: Great for compact backyards and small families.
16’ x 32’: Ideal for medium-sized yards with enough room for additional features like outdoor kitchens or seating areas.
18’ x 36’: Perfect for families of 6–8 people, allowing ample space for games and activities.
20’ x 40’: Best for large backyards and luxury designs.

Type of Pool	Typical Gallons	Typical Pool Dimensions (length x width)	Typical Depth	Typical Use
Spool	6,000 To 6,800	20’ x 10’ To 22’-6” x 10’	3’ - 5’	Large Spa/Small Pool
Cocktail Pool	8,000 To 10,000	23’ x 12’ To 26’ x 13’	3’ - 5’	Small Pool Recreation
Standard Pool	12,000 To 13,500	28’ x 14’ To 30’ x 15’	3’ - 5’	Play Pool - Swimming & Aquatic Sports
Diving Pool	23,000 To 28,000	35’ x 16’ To 38’ x 18’	3’-6” - 5’- 8’-6”	Swimming & Diving
Lap Pool	16,000 To 20,000	36’ x 14’ To 40’ x 16’	3’-6” - 5’- 4’	Swimming Laps

Q: How Do I Choose the Right Size?

For a family of 3–5, a minimum size of 16’ x 32’ is recommended.

For larger families of 6–8, a pool of at least 18’ x 36’ ensures plenty of space for everyone.

Q: What’s the standard size for a family pool?

Most family pools range from 20–30 feet, offering a balance of space and functionality.

Q: Can I customize the size of my pool?

Yes! We specialize in designing custom pools to fit your backyard dimensions and lifestyle.

Q: Is a 12x24 pool a good size?

Yes, a 12x24 pool is a great size for most backyards. It offers enough room for swimming, exercising, and relaxing without requiring a large footprint. Homeowners choose this size when they want versatility, easier maintenance, and a pool that fits into tighter yard layouts.

Q: Who is a spool pool right for?

A spool is a good fit for homeowners with a small backyard or those looking for a smaller pool to enjoy. Beyond that they are viable in a yard of any size for those on a smaller budget or for a small family.

A spool will create the smallest footprint in the backyard environment, leaving other areas available for entertainment or activity. Because of it’s smaller size it is easier to maintain and requires less electricity, water and chemicals.

Q: Who is a cocktail pool right for?

A cocktail pool is a great fit for homeowners that are looking to downsize their pool or create a smaller water feature in their backyard. If you have a smaller backyard or restrictions with available space, a cocktail pool is a good fit. Design options are endless and there are several customizations available to make a cocktail pool the star of your backyard.

Q: Who is a play pool right for?

A play pool is a good fit for those seeking the ability to both play & relax while having a more conservative budget to spend on a pool. Watersports like pool volleyball, basketball or swimming are all possible in a play pool. One would also need a backyard space to accommodate at least a 12.5ft x 25ft pool size while still meeting city pool building requirements for setbacks.

Q: Who is a diving pool right for?

A diving pool is a good fit for families or customers looking to enjoy diving and jumping into their pool for aquatic activity. This style of pool can also be a fit for water sports like pool volleyball or basketball, but only on the shallower side. If you want to accommodate both driving and water sports a good design is essential because the pool will slope down towards the deep end, which leaves less shallow area to play sports in. Having a medium to large sized yard will be necessary to fit a diving pool.

Q: Who is a lap pool right for?

A lap pool is typically best for those looking to workout or utilize their pool for fitness. A lap pool can still double as an area to entertain or relax after your workout. A lap pool is a good fit for people with narrow backyards or shallow yards that are looking to maximize the pool space. They can also be the focal point of a larger backyard.

Q: What financing options are available for pool construction?

Financing options include personal loans, home equity loans, and specialized outdoor living financing plans. These can help spread out the cost of your pool over time, making it easier to manage your budget.

Q: Can I finance additional features or landscaping with my pool loan?

Many financing companies allow you to include related expenses, such as decking, landscaping, and pool accessories, within your loan package. This can help you complete your backyard vision without upfront financial strain.

Q: How can I calculate the long-term costs of owning a pool?

To estimate long-term costs, consider energy expenses (pumps and heating), chemical treatments, cleaning, and occasional repairs. Discuss these factors with your pool builder to create a clear financial plan.

Q: What’s the best way to budget for pool ownership?

Start by determining your upfront construction costs, then allocate monthly funds for maintenance, utilities, and seasonal upgrades. Financing options can help ease the initial investment while spreading costs over time.

Q: Is there an advantage to financing instead of paying upfront?

Financing allows you to preserve your savings for other needs while still enjoying the benefits of a pool. It can also provide flexibility to invest in premium features or energy-efficient equipment.