Friends of ours in Michigan got a 16X32 vinyl inground for 24K three years ago. So it can be done. 7 (or 8?) foot depth. I'm not sure of the equipment, though. Diving rock.

No experience with semi inground.

I don't know how much a standard concrete surround is but if I needed to knock something off to make budget that would be it. I happen to love the look of grass right up to the coping. That way, the surround of your choice could be added at a later date. Or just leave it grass. I just love that look.

Here in Jersey, Seasonal World is offering a $19,999 special for a 17' x 33' Grecian steel wall pool. (See link below...) Installation includes everything but fencing/landscaping. Great, no-nonsense company that put in our fiberglass pool back in '11.

Here is a link that might be useful: $19,999 Inground Special

You could get an inground (shotcrete) pool in AZ for that budget.

It would be pretty basic, and there are many variables (access size, utility locations, and personal preferences.)

I'm currently doing a owner build on this 15x36 gunite pool. I will be in it for 30K and that includes pool, equipment, decking and fenced. So I would say 25 is doable if you plan correctly. Especially if you can do some of the work.

Todd

Just as a follow up, got a few quotes. Chain link fence would run about $3500, electric 2k, concrete surround about $4000. Plus permits we're looking at about 10k without the pool. Getting an inground pool installed for 15k not happening around here.