Vinyl liner, fiberglass, or concrete pool — which is best?

Vinyl liner: cheapest upfront ($30K–$60K installed) but liners need replacement every 8–12 years ($4K–$8K each). Fiberglass: middle tier ($45K–$80K), fastest install (3–6 weeks), smooth gel-coat surface, lasts 25+ years with no resurfacing. Concrete/gunite: highest cost ($55K–$120K+), longest install (3–6 months), fully customizable shape and depth, requires acid wash + resurface every 10–15 years. For a 'set it and forget it' choice, fiberglass wins. For total customization or unusual shapes, concrete. Vinyl is the entry-level option for cost-conscious buyers OK with periodic liner replacement.