All categories
Business & Offices
Electronics & Media
Fashion & Accessories
Groceries & Essentials
Health & Personal Care
Home & Living
Kids & Family
Sports & Outdoors
Search in ZoneOffer
If a full-size in-ground installation feels like too much commitment, an above-ground or steel-frame pool can be the perfect middle ground — affordable, fast to set up, and surprisingly durable. Above-ground pools give you a private oasis without the months of construction or the large bill. Think of them as the pop-up beach for your backyard: you get the same splash-and-chill vibes, but with more flexibility. Whether you want a round family pool for weekend cannonballs, a rectangular lap-ready setup, or something that doubles as a kids’ splash zone, the market in the US has options to fit yards, budgets, and skill levels.
Walmart stands out as one of the major retailers stocking a wide variety of above-ground pools and packages, from easy-to-assemble hard-side models to steel-frame rectangular sets. Popular items you’ll see include the Embassy Pool Co Fiesta Key 15 foot hard-side steel frame pool package, the Bestway Power Steel 18 x 9 x 48 rectangular set, the Aquarian Phoenix 18 x 52 steel frame family pool, and consumer-friendly round pools like the Kepooman model with a cover. Walmart’s footprint and online inventory make it easy to compare models, check dimensions, and read user reviews before you buy.
The Fiesta Key 15-foot package is a crowd-pleaser for medium-sized backyards. With a sturdy steel frame and a hard-side liner, it’s built to feel permanent without the price tag of an in-ground pool. This model is great for families who want a deeper swim area without taking up the entire yard. Expect straightforward assembly, a filter pump included in many packages, and a depth that’s comfortable for adults and kids alike. Add a ladder and a winter cover, and it will last many seasons with basic maintenance.
The Bestway Power Steel rectangular pools are ideal if you want more swimming lane and less wasted space. An 18-foot by 9-foot by 48-inch pool gives you a generous lap area and plenty of room for floaties and games. Rectangular frames like this one perform well for families who want to swim, exercise, and host poolside gatherings. The steel-frame design is engineered to distribute stress evenly, while the included liner and pump make it a near-complete package for first-time pool owners.
Aquarian’s Phoenix line tends to lean toward family-size pools with durable steel frames and deeper profiles — the “52” usually refers to an approximate depth around 52 inches, giving grown-ups a more swim-friendly experience. These pools are built for households that want a blend of sturdiness and comfort. If you’re looking for a pool that feels more like a proper swim area rather than a kiddie splash tub, models in the 18-foot range with 48–52 inch depth are the sweet spot.
Round pools like the Kepooman model are often the most budget-friendly and easiest to set up. A round above-ground pool uses its circular shape to spread water pressure evenly, which helps the liner and frame last longer. Many round packages include a cover to reduce evaporation and keep debris out, which is a simple upgrade that extends swim days and lowers maintenance. For small yards or tight budgets, round models give maximum splash for minimal fuss.
Walmart is a solid starting point, but it’s smart to comparison-shop. Home Depot and Lowe’s stock similar steel-frame and above-ground options and sometimes bundle installation accessories. Amazon offers an enormous selection and the convenience of customer reviews and fast shipping for many items. Target and Costco sometimes carry seasonal pool sets, often with competitive pricing. For specialty supplies, Leslie’s Pool Supplies and PoolSupplyWorld focus on filters, pumps, and chemicals if you want higher-end equipment or pro-grade replacements. Wayfair and Overstock are great for accessories, decking kits, and poolside furniture to make your setup feel complete.
Picking the right pool is a balance of space, use, and budget. First, measure your yard and leave clearance for a deck, ladder, and safety barrier: you don’t want to squish a huge rectangular pool into a tiny space. Round pools are space-efficient and easier to install; rectangular pools give you more usable swimming area. Depth matters, too — a 48-inch pool is about 4 feet deep and works well for most families, while 52 inches (4 feet 4 inches) gives a deeper feel for swimming and diving games. Consider how many people will be in the water at once and whether you need space to exercise, play, or both.
It’s useful to know roughly how much water you’ll need and how much that water will weigh on your surface. For quick math: a rectangular pool that’s 18 feet by 9 feet and 4 feet deep holds around 4,800 gallons of water, while a 15-foot round pool at 4 feet deep holds roughly 5,300 gallons. Remember, one gallon of water weighs about 8.34 pounds, so that 4,800-gallon pool adds nearly 40,000 pounds of water weight. Make sure your yard is level and that you’re not placing a heavy-filled pool on a slope or an area with buried lines or septic systems.
Many above-ground pools are designed for DIYers and come with step-by-step instructions, but the level of difficulty varies. Round and inflatable-style models are usually easier and can be assembled in a day or two with a helper. Steel-frame pools with liners take more time: plan a weekend and a friend or two. If your yard needs leveling, a retaining wall, or an electrical hookup for a high-capacity pump or heater, professional installation can save headaches. Pros can also ensure proper ground prep and code compliance, especially if you need a fence or other safety measures.
When you buy a pool, the extras can make or break your experience. A reliable pump and filter are non-negotiable for sanitary water. A sturdy ladder, skimmer, and vacuum help keep the pool usable. Covers reduce evaporation, heat loss, and cleaning time. If you want to extend your season, a pool heater or solar blanket can add weeks of comfortable swimming. Don’t forget replacement liners and patch kits — they’re cheap relative to the frustration of a torn liner mid-season. For convenience, consider a sand or cartridge filter system and a chemical testing kit so you can balance water chemistry like a pro.
Most above-ground pools rely on cartridge or sand filters. Cartridge systems are easier to maintain and are great for smaller pools, while sand filters keep running costs low for larger capacities. Chlorine remains the most common sanitizing method, but saltwater conversion systems are rising in popularity for softer-feeling water and lower ongoing chemical handling. Whichever path you choose, regular testing with strips or a digital tester and consistent routine maintenance will keep water clear and prevent algae blooms.
Consistency beats intensity when it comes to pool care. Skim daily if you can, brush the walls weekly, and vacuum on a regular schedule. Backwash sand filters as instructed and change cartridges when flow decreases. Shock the pool after heavy use or storms to reset chlorine levels. Keep a small stock of test strips, chlorine, algaecide, and pH balancers so you can react quickly to changes. Little habits — like running the pump during peak sun hours to circulate warm water — add up to fewer headaches and clearer water.
Don’t skimp on safety planning. Many jurisdictions require a fence or gate around pools, and even if it’s not required where you live, a 4-foot fence with self-latching gates is an excellent precaution. Use GFCI-protected outlets for all pool-related electrical gear to avoid shocks, and ground metal frames per manufacturer instructions. Post basic safety rules for kids and guests, keep life-saving equipment nearby, and never swim alone. These steps keep summer memories joyful instead of stressful.
Seasonal sales are real money-savers. Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and late summer clearance events often bring deep discounts on pools and accessories. Black Friday and end-of-season sales in August through October can be perfect for snagging a high-end pump or a cover at a lower price. Retailers like Walmart, Home Depot, and Lowe’s will often match promotional pricing or run bundle deals that include pumps and accessories, while specialty suppliers might throw in extended warranties or installation discounts if you buy late in the season.
Warranty coverage varies by brand and part — liners, frames, and pumps may each carry different terms. Always read the fine print: look for multi-year coverage on the frame and at least a one-year warranty on electrical parts. Keep receipts and serial numbers, and register your pool with the manufacturer if required to validate extended warranties. For parts and ongoing supplies, specialist retailers and parts-focused sites often offer better support for replacements than general big-box stores.
Choosing the right above-ground pool comes down to honest answers about space, budget, and how you plan to use it. Walmart broad selection of models — from Embassy Pool Co and Bestway to Aquarian Phoenix and Kepooman — gives buyers plenty of practical choices, while Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon, and specialty pool retailers round out the market with competitive pricing and accessories. With the right prep, a reliable filtration system, and a plan for safety, you can turn a simple backyard corner into a sun-soaked retreat that the whole family will enjoy for years.
| Swimming Pools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Wave Capri 12-ft Round 36-in Deep Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Package | $ 198,- | |
| Intex 15ft X 48in Prism Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set & Ladder Cover | $ 649,99 |
