It used to be that in-ground swimming pools were considered affordable only by the wealthy.
These pools were exorbitantly expensive to install and upkeep.
In recent years, however, for a number of reasons, both installation and upkeep costs have come down dramatically.
In addition, there are many more types of pools available to those who may want one.
As a result, it is not uncommon to find even middle class homes with these structures.
But, exactly why are they so attractive to some people? For many people, the answer is status.
They may have grown up being in love with the idea of living in a mansion and having a backyard pool.
And, although the mansion part of their dream may never come to fruition, simply being able to put a pool in their backyard and show it off to the neighbors gives them a feeling of being well off and of being a member of the upper class.
Strangely enough, people who buy pools for this reason, rarely seem to actually use it.
Another group of people actually love the idea of having a pool because they love to entertain.
A pool area is the perfect place for group gatherings.
The adults can barbecue and relax by the pool while the kids play pool games.
For some reason, the social atmosphere surrounding a pool seems perfect for loosening up attitudes and encouraging everyone to join in the fun.
Some people will buy a swimming pool for its therapeutic value.
If you work all day in a high stress job, what could be more relaxing than coming home and floating in your pool while soaking up the rays of the sun.
Just being around water seems to have a calming effect on most people.
And, even if you don't go in the water, just lounging beside the pool area in a pool chair can bring you lots of relaxation.
And, lastly, there actually is a small group of people who install swimming pools in their yard because they love to swim.
Swimming is almost a perfect exercise.
It helps to build up your cardiovascular system, improves your lung strength, and tones your muscles.
In addition, unlike running, it doesn't put a lot of stress on the knee and ankle joints.
In short, people buy swimming pools for a number of reasons.
And, these days are the best times to buy, if you have money.
The economy is so bad that you can negotiate some of the best deals around.