Swimming pools recapture the market's imagination

Swimming pools are making a comeback in the property market. From a low of 54 pools per 1,000 listings in late 2022, the share has climbed to 70.5, approaching the 2019 peak of 81 and reflecting renewed buyer appetite for lifestyle amenities.

The pre-pandemic surge told a story of aspiration and confidence. Between 2015 and 2019, pools rose from 66 to 81 per 1,000 listings as a strong housing market brought premium properties to market. Economic confidence meant buyers actively sought aspirational features, with pools representing both lifestyle luxury and outdoor living.

The pandemic years reversed this trend sharply. As overall listings collapsed and market uncertainty took hold, the composition of available properties shifted dramatically. Smaller, more affordable homes dominated new listings as buyers prioritised land and affordability over premium amenities. First home buyers entered the market in force, while owners of higher-value pool properties stayed put. By late 2022, pool prevalence had fallen to its lowest point in seven years.

The current recovery suggests lifestyle premiums are firmly back in demand. As market conditions stabilise and confidence returns, a more diverse range of properties, particularly premium homes with pools, are returning to the market.

Geography plays a decisive role. Darwin leads the country with 22.4 per cent of listings featuring pools, followed by Regional NT at 20.2 per cent and Regional Queensland at 17.6 per cent. Brisbane sits at 13.6 per cent, while Sydney manages just 6.5 per cent and Melbourne 2.6 per cent. The pattern is unmistakable: warmer climates and larger blocks create ideal conditions for backyard pools.

Queensland dominates the top 10 suburbs entirely, reflecting its unique combination of climate, block sizes and lifestyle orientation. Hope Island on the Gold Coast tops the list with 182 pool listings and a 39.1 per cent share, followed by neighbouring Helensvale with 142 listings at 35.1 per cent. Broadbeach Waters stands out with the highest pool prevalence at 40.4 per cent, while Golden Beach-Pelican Waters reaches 52.2 per cent, though with fewer total listings.

Price impacts vary considerably. Broadbeach Waters commands a $2.42 million median despite its 40.4 per cent pool share, while Bribie Island sits at $950,000 with 44.5 per cent of listings featuring pools. The presence of a pool clearly adds value, but location, land size and overall property quality remain the primary price drivers.