Vinyl pool liners are the most popular choice because they’re affordable, customizable, and easy to install compared to other options. The cost to install or replace a vinyl pool liner generally ranges from $2.30 to $3.80 per square foot, including materials and labor.
Using those prices, you would pay between $1,150 and $1,900 to install a vinyl liner for a 500-square-foot pool. That’s a ballpark range. You will pay less if you need a replacement only for a specific area instead of a full replacement.
This pricing guide is based on averages taken from our survey of vinyl pool liner replacement costs across the U.S., covering both large metropolitan cities and rural cities. Your specific costs will depend on the pool size, type of pool, and liner.
Cost by Location
Depending on where you live, you might pay more or less for the total liner installation. In general, the vinyl liner, equipment, and labor costs are generally higher in urban areas than in suburbs or rural areas.
With these cost estimates, you can get an idea of vinyl pool liner installation in your area based on your region and the size of your city.
The table below shows the vinyl liner installation cost per square foot across different cities in the U.S.:
| Location | Cost Per Square Foot (including material and labor) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $2.58 – $3.14 |
| Long Island, NY | $3.08 – $3.75 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Tallahassee, FL | $2.28 – $2.78 |
| Memphis, TN | $2.31 – $2.82 |
| Raleigh, NC | $2.32 – $2.83 |
| Atlanta, GA | $2.37 – $2.88 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| South Bend, IN | $2.48 – $3.02 |
| Cincinnati, OH | $2.52 – $3.07 |
| Chicago, IL | $2.71 – $3.30 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $2.51 – $3.06 |
| Seattle, WA | $2.72 – $3.32 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Oklahoma City, OK | $2.35 – $2.87 |
| Roswell, NM | $2.37 – $2.88 |
| San Diego, CA | $2.58 – $3.14 |
Cost by Pool Size
To know how much you’ll spend for a complete vinyl liner installation, you need to know the size of your pool. If you’re replacing only a part of the liner, your total costs will be much lower.
Vinyl is the most economical and popular option for pool lining. On average, 1 square foot of vinyl liner costs between $1 and $2 (without installation) and between $2.30 and $3.80 with installation.
The table below helps you estimate the approximate cost based on your pool size:
| Pool Size (in feet) | Pool Size( in sq.ft.) | Cost to install vinyl liner (including material and labor) |
| 6×8 | 48 | $110 – $182 |
| 8×12 | 96 | $221 – $839 |
| 8×20 | 160 | $368 – $608 |
| 10×8 | 80 | $184 – $304 |
| 12×20 | 240 | $552 – $912 |
| 16×32 | 512 | $1,178 – $1,946 |
| 18×36 | 648 | $1,490 – $2,462 |
| 20×40 | 800 | $1,840 – $3,040 |
Labor Cost
On average, you’ll pay around $1 to $1.30 per square foot for labor for installation. In general, removing top rails, disposing of existing liners, and pool draining are included in the labor cost. If your contractor doesn’t include it in your estimate, you might pay extra for this.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
We don’t recommend replacing the pool liner on your own. Incorrectly installed liners can lead to wrinkles or tears, and fixing these mistakes will likely cost more than hiring a professional to install them properly.
However, small tears can be repaired as a DIY project. On average, a DIY patch kit costs between $15 and $40.
Cost by Pool Type
When it comes to vinyl surface material, homeowners can choose between an above-ground and in-ground pool system. Labor costs are lower for above-ground pools than in-ground pools. This is because in-ground pools require additional crew and have more surface area, which includes the steps to enter the pool.
The table below shows the average vinyl liner replacement cost for in-ground and above-ground pools.
| Type of Pool | Average Liner Installation Cost (including material and labor) |
| Above-ground | $300 – $750 |
| In-ground | $950 – $1,800 |
Cost by Liner Type
The type of liner you choose also affects the overall cost. Overlap liners are economical, and beaded is expensive, which offers a cleaner look.
See the table to understand how material costs vary among different types of liners:
| Type of Liner | Average Liner Cost (Materials Only) |
| Overlap | $150 – $550 |
| Uni-beaded | $400 – $900 |
| Beaded | $550 – $1,000 |
- Overlap liner: Overlap liner is a simple and affordable option. The material is draped over the pool’s edge and clamped into place. This liner is easy to install but may show some visible folds at the top of the pool wall and typically doesn’t last as long as other liner types.
- Beaded liner: Beaded liners attach securely to a track around the pool’s top edge. This option is easy to install and replace. Accurate measurements and care are necessary to ensure the track system stays intact and the liner fits appropriately.
- Uni-Bead liner: The uni-bead liner creates a smooth look with a curved piece hovering over the pool wall’s top. It’s more flexible and durable than the overlap liner and is a great choice for those seeking a long-lasting option.
Cost by Repair Type
Before you decide to replace the entire liner, have it inspected by a professional to check if repairing it would be enough. If the pro says repairs alone are sufficient, you can save money without going for a complete replacement. Sometimes, you can repair small patchwork yourself.
See the table below, which shows the average cost of different liner repairs:
| Repair Type | Average Cost to Repair Liner (Including Material and Labor) |
| Sun damage | $3 per linear foot |
| Wrinkles | $100 – $250 |
| Tears, snags, and holes | $100 – $500 |
| Bead Replacement | $115 – $300 (materials only) |
| Floor Damage | $300 – $600 |
Other Factors that Affect Cost
In addition to liner and pool type, there are a few factors that affect the overall project cost. See the factors below, and if they apply to your pool, add the corresponding price to your estimate.
Liner Thickness
Vinyl pool liners come in a variety of thicknesses, and the choice is solely based on your personal preference and budget. Vinyl liners can be 20, 27, 30, or 40 mils thick. Not to be confused with millimeters, one mil is one-thousandth of an inch. The thicker the liner, the more it will cost.
Thin liners cost significantly less than thicker ones but don’t offer the same durability. Also, a solid-colored liner is usually more affordable compared to one with a patterned design.
Pool Shape
Replacing the liner of a large swimming pool requires more time to complete, which leads to higher labor costs. In short, the cost of pool liner installation goes hand-in-hand with the pool size.
Standard rectangular or oval-shaped pools will have a lower replacement cost than kidney or L-shaped pools. Replacing liners for pools with a unique shape may require more time and effort, resulting in higher prices.
Season
In general, pool pros are busier during spring and summer, so labor charges are higher than usual. Also, they might charge extra if you ask the pro to come after business hours or during extreme weather conditions.
Keep Your Pool Clean All Year Long
Maintaining your pool is as important as installing a liner. The liner adds a protective layer to your pool, and a well-maintained pool adds extra joy and safety to your swimming experience.
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Hire a licensed and skilled pool maintenance pro, and leave the rest to us.
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Main Photo Credit: steheap / Adobe Stock Free / License
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