New swimming pool construction activity across Texas exhibited a moderate seasonal contraction in December 2025, reflecting both typical year-end deceleration and broader market recalibration within residential construction. According to HBW’s latest construction data reports, a total of 451 new swimming pool permits were recorded across the four primary metropolitan markets of Texas (Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio) during the month of December.
When compared to November 2025, which posted 487 permits, December activity declined by 36 permits, representing approximately a 7 percent month-over-month decrease. While the contraction is notable, it remains consistent with historical winter slowdowns, particularly for discretionary residential improvements such as swimming pools.
Collectively, the four metros accounted for $33.23 million in total construction value, providing valuable insight into regional demand, pricing dynamics, and contractor opportunity as firms prepare for the 2026 construction cycle.
Here is a closer look at the monthly activity by region for December 2025:
Dallas
The Dallas area remained the most active swimming pool construction market in Texas during December 2025.
- Total Permits: 230
- Total Construction Value: $17,800,831
- Average Permit Value: $77,395
Dallas County led regional activity with 62 permits, followed closely by Tarrant County with 57 permits, together accounting for more than half of the metro’s total volume. Elevated average valuations suggest continued demand for higher-end residential pool installations, reinforcing the region’s role as a premium market for custom pool builders and specialty trades.
Houston
Houston recorded the second-highest volume of new swimming pool permits for the month.
- Total Permits: 100
- Total Construction Value: $8,264,982
- Average Permit Value: $82,650
Harris County, with 62 permits, dominated regional activity, and the Houston area posted the highest average valuation among the four metros reviewed. The data indicates sustained homeowner investment in larger or more complex pool projects, likely influenced by lot size availability and Houston’s extended warm-weather season.
Austin
Austin continued to demonstrate steady, though more moderate, pool construction activity.
- Total Permits: 78
- Total Construction Value: $4,912,399
- Average Permit Value: $62,979
Travis County accounted for 64 permits, representing a substantial share of the metro’s activity. While average project values fell behind those of Dallas and Houston, the consistent permit volume reflects resilient demand in Central Texas, particularly within established residential submarkets.
San Antonio
San Antonio posted both the lowest overall permit volume and average construction value among the four metros, though activity remained concentrated.
- Total Permits: 43
- Total Construction Value: $2,254,000
- Average Permit Value: $52,419
Bexar County, with 33 permits, served as the primary driver of new pool construction. Lower average valuations suggest a market skewed toward entry-level or mid-range residential installations, presenting opportunities for volume-driven contractors and cost-efficient construction models.
Overall, the 7 percent month-over-month decline from November to December should be interpreted within the context of seasonal construction cycles rather than as a signal of structural weakness. Despite reduced permit volume, total construction value remained robust, particularly in Dallas and Houston, indicating sustained consumer willingness to invest in outdoor residential amenities.
For construction industry professionals, the above listed data points emphasize the importance of:
- Targeting high-value submarkets where average permit valuations remain elevated
- Aligning labor and material procurement strategies ahead of anticipated spring demand
- Monitoring county-level permit concentrations to refine geographic expansion and sales efforts
As we start 2026, swimming pool construction remains a resilient niche within residential construction, supported by population growth, climate considerations, and homeowner preference for lifestyle-oriented investments.
To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.