A pool dig in soft soil costs $1,500 to $5,000 on average, by HomeGuide's national 2026 figures. North of the Fall Line, boulders and ledge are the risk; south of it, groundwater.
The costs shown here are national ranges that HomeGuide publishes, not our own prices. In Baltimore, boulders, groundwater, alley access and haul distance are what really set a job's cost. Figures checked October 2026.
What does it cost to dig a pool?
To dig a pool in soft soil with no obstructions costs $1,500 to $5,000 by HomeGuide's pool section; the project table says $1,000 to $5,000. Boulders, hardpan, rock ledge or hard access raise it to $15,000 to $20,000. By HomeGuide's national count, the finished pool costs $25,000 to $100,000.
Does the pool builder dig, or should I hire an excavating contractor?
The pool builder usually arranges the dig. If you hire the excavator directly, the hole must match the pool builder's plan and depths, so the two coordinate first. The hole follows the builder's layout.
How long does it take to dig a pool in Baltimore?
It takes one to three days in normal soil. Boulders or groundwater can add days. Small jobs take 1 to 3 days, by HomeGuide's estimate.
Does pool excavation include hauling?
Pool excavation may not include hauling, so ask. A pool fills many trucks, and HomeGuide puts removal at $140 to $230 per cubic yard or $1,400 to $2,300 per load. On larger county lots some soil can stay.
How much to fill in an old swimming pool in Baltimore?
Filling in a pool is one job HomeGuide leaves unpriced. The work is draining, breaking the floor so water drains, removing the top of the walls, filling with clean fill in compacted layers (fill dirt is $5 to $25 per cubic yard) and grading. The county or city may require a permit.
What if the pool area has rock or soft soil?
If the pool area hits a boulder or ledge, the dig slows and may need a hammer; HomeGuide says rock can add $15,000 to $20,000. Soft or wet soil at the bottom is replaced with compacted stone. Both should be priced in the contract before digging.
What does ground prep for a home addition cost in Baltimore?
Ground prep for a home addition means grading plus a footing or basement dig. By HomeGuide's national count, grading for new construction or an addition costs $1,000 to $5,000 and foundation excavation $1,500 to $10,000. HomeGuide does not price an addition dig on its own.
What does a garage, shed or pole barn pad cost?
A garage, shed or pole barn pad costs about $1,000 to $2,500 to dig and prepare, by HomeGuide's pad figures. A pole barn on a northern Baltimore County farm can cost more with clearing. A compacted stone base keeps the slab from cracking.
Want to know what your job will cost? Call or text (410) 873-7935. We visit the site and then write up the scope and price.