Make a splash in pool cleaning: 2024 industry report

The deep dive that could inspire your next move

Hey there!

It’s no surprise that with summer temperatures shooting up, the pool cleaning service industry is growing. 

Thinking about diving into the swimming pool cleaning business? Let's jump into the deep end with some stats and insights that'll help you navigate the waters.

Industry snapshot 2024

  • Revenue: $7.2 billion

  • Annual growth (2019 to 2024): 2.8%

  • Profit margin: 10.2%

  • Number of businesses: 89,046

  • Number of employees: 104,000

What’s making waves?

  1. Residential construction boost: More new homes with pools = more cleaning opportunities

  2. Automation revolution: Robotic cleaners are changing the game (both good and bad for pros)

  3. DIY competition: Some homeowners are getting savvy with their own pool care

Services breakdown

  • General cleaning services: 33.1% of revenue

  • Chemical adjustments: 26.4% of revenue

  • Equipment cleaning and maintenance: 21.3% of revenue

  • Pool openings and closings: 19.2% of revenue

Who's buying?

  1. Single-family households earning $100,000+: Biggest spenders

  2. Other single-family households: Large market, but price-sensitive

  3. Commercial clients (hotels, theme parks, etc.): Reliable repeat business

  4. Multi-unit facilities and municipal clients: Varied needs

Where's the action?

The top 5 states for pool cleaning businesses are:

  1. Florida (9.8% of businesses)

  2. California (9.7%)

  3. Texas (5.8%)

  4. New York (5.7%)

  5. Illinois (3.9%)

Challenges to keep an eye on

  • Seasonal demand (slower winters)

  • Rising chemical costs

  • Intense local competition

The bright side

  • Low start-up costs

  • Growing high-income customer base

  • Opportunity to offer eco-friendly services

Quick tips for success

  1. Offer comprehensive services (cleaning + maintenance = win)

  2. Invest in efficient technology (like robotic cleaners)

  3. Build strong customer relationships

  4. Consider eco-friendly cleaning options

Looking ahead

  • 2024 to 2029 projected annual growth: 1.6%

  • Expected industry revenue by 2029: $7.8 billion

UpFlip has you covered!

As you probably already know, we have a number of courses available inside the UpFlip Academy to help you launch your coffee cart, cafe, or any other entrepreneurial endeavor you decide to dive into!

Maybe you just need a blueprint for starting a business? We have a course for that, too.

Into the deep…

Remember, even in a mature industry, there's always room for innovative players to make a splash!

Got questions? Want to share your pool biz experience? Reply via email or (if you’re reading on UpFlip.com) dive into our comments section below!

Wading in with you!
Your friends at UpFlip

P.S. Tell us which industry you’d like us to feature next by replying to this email.

Reply

or to participate.