Swimming pool boom in France helped by fuel crisis

France remains the largest market in Europe for swimming pools, with their popularity helped by recent geopolitical tensions which have led to more people deciding to stay home, a leading industry body said.

An increase of family private pools was witnessed in France in 2025, with the number reaching nearly 3.7 million, up 90,600 from 2024.

The French pool market is the largest in Europe and the third largest in the world after the United States and Brazil, according to the Fédération des Professionnels de la Piscine et du Spa (FPP), the main trade organisation representing the swimming pool industry in France.

This trend is mainly being driven by lifestyle changes, warmer summers and a growing desire to invest in home comfort rather than long-distance travel. 

“We’ve always had a strong culture of detached houses with gardens, which helped the swimming pool market develop over the last 40 or 50 years,” said Gilles Mouchiroud, vice-president of the FPP, to The Connexion.

“Today, one in four families in France is interested in buying a swimming pool.”

Geopolitical tensions is another factor driving this change “The uncertain geopolitical climate means people are focusing more on life at home, with family, in their own houses, rather than travelling to the other side of the world,” Mr Mouchiroud added. 

How much does a swimming pool cost in France? 

Prices vary depending on the type of pool and the level of equipment. 

For many households, the first step is an above-ground pool. “These can range from a few hundred euros in DIY stores to €5,000, €6,000 or even €10,000 for higher-quality wooden models,” Mr Mouchiroud told The Connexion.

In-ground kit pools generally start at around €5,000 to €6,000.

For permanent built-in pools (including concrete, shell or liner pools) prices typically begin at around €18,000 to €20,000 and can rise to €30,000 or €40,000 depending on landscaping and additional features.

Today, the average price for a standard 7m by 3.5m family pool in France is around €20,000 to €25,000.

What about maintenance costs?

Running costs are lower than people usually expect. Mr Mouchiroud explained that pools typically consume relatively little water because they are generally filled once and then maintained rather than emptied and refiled. 

For a medium sized pool holding around 30 to 40 cubic metres of water, annual maintenance costs are estimated at between €400 and €600. This includes electricity, chlorine and disinfectant products.

Modern pools are also becoming more energy efficient thanks to improved filtration systems, covers and lower consumption equipment. 

Why smaller pools are becoming popular 

One of the fastest growing segments of the market is compact pools measuring under 10 square metres. According to the FPP, demand for them is growing by around 20%. 

The reason is that smaller pools use far less water, electricity and chemicals, while also fitting better into increasingly compact urban gardens.

“It’s much more environmentally responsible than larger pools, which require more filtration, more heating and more disinfection,” he added.

Mistakes buyers most often make 

The FPP says one of the biggest errors consumers make is focusing solely on the cheapest offer. 

“There will always be someone cheaper,” Mr Mouchiroud warned. “But they may not provide the proper service.”

Instead, he advises buyers to choose experienced professionals and carefully compare exactly what is included in the contract. 

A lower quote may exclude important elements such as groundwork, equipment, or after-sales service.

“Every line should clearly specify what is and isn’t included,” he said. 

Another tip is to choose a local professional who can provide faster maintenance and support during the swimming season.