Salt pools ARE chlorine pools
The most common misconception: salt pools don't have chlorine. They do. A salt cell electrolyzes salt (NaCl) in the water into chlorine gas on demand. The chlorine level in a salt pool is the same as a traditional chlorine pool — the water just feels softer because salt is a natural conditioner.
Cost — upfront
A salt system adds $2,500–$4,500 to a new pool build (equipment + install labor). Converting an existing chlorine pool to salt runs the same price range plus about $500–$800 in initial salt (you'll add ~40 lbs per 1,000 gallons).
Cost — running
Salt pools cost roughly half as much per year in chemicals ($300–$600/year vs $600–$1,200/year for chlorine). Salt cells need replacing every 5–8 years at $600–$1,200. Net long-run: salt is cheaper.
Which we recommend
For a new build or major renovation, salt every time — softer feel, easier chemistry, lower long-run cost. For an older pool with tired equipment, we look at your existing setup and quote either option honestly.