America's Favorite Pool Colors, From Coast To Coast

From modern trends to timeless classics, homeowners across the country are on the hunt for the best pool colors of the year. Color is one thing you don't want to forget when designing the perfect pool for your backyard. The interior color of your pool can set the tone for your entire backyard oasis. Blues and greens are used to create a deep-sea vibe that can go from luxury to family-friendly. Sandy shades can make it seem like you're sun-bathing in a beachy oasis, but greys and black provide a more sleek, modern aesthetic. But what are the most popular pool colors from coast to coast in America? 

Ultimately, blue remains the most common selection across the nation because it makes the water look refreshing and inviting while providing versatile design options that work in nearly any backyard. Medium and Mediterranean blue are beloved for creating a lagoon-like appearance, while dark blues lend a reflective, resort-style vibe. But blue is not the only option that American homeowners are drawn to.

Gray is the color of choice in several East Coast backyards, especially where homeowners attempt to blend the pool with nature. But you'll also find many gray pools if you take a drive down south. Shades of dark grey or black have also become trendy in several areas around the country, even hot, sunny states like Texas. These dark walls create a modern look and give the water a more reflective, mirrored appearance. Arid climates like those in Southern California tend to lean on the light side, opting for classic pool interiors like white or soft blue. Tan colors are also used on the West Coast to mimic a sandy look that feels like you're walking straight out of your house onto a warm private beach.

Many of these pool colors are popular in their area for a reason, but your pool doesn't have to look just like your neighbor's. Ultimately, it doesn't matter where you live in America; dark blue, light blue, grey, and other neutral schemes remain popular from California to Wisconsin and beyond. Choosing the right shade for your pool depends on the style you want to achieve, but each comes with its own practical pros and cons. Your finish may also influence the impact of your color choice. Tile, cement, plaster, fiberglass, and stone finishes each create their own effect on the water's appearance depending on sunlight and water depth.

Neutrals like white, sand, and tan can give the water a greenish color for a more natural vibe. They're a wise choice for homeowners worried about long-term maintenance or resale value, since it's easier to color-match repairs. However, these safe interior shades won't have a "wow" factor on their own, so you may have to invest in a more clever pool layout or landscaping if you want a luxurious look. For example, consider combining a sandy shade with a gradual slope on one side of the pool for an alternative that turns your yard into a beach escape. 

Bold and dark colors will have the high-end look of deep sea blue water, but they require more maintenance to avoid visible scaling. Because dark colors retain more sunlight, the pool will also heat up quicker in spring and stay warm all summer. For folks in colder states, that might be good news! But for those in hot, southern areas, you won't reap the same money-saving benefits of a black bottom pool, and the water could feel tepid and uncomfortable by July.