For a pool only that is done correctly in your area can run in the $40,000.00 range depending on size, site access and utility runs.
Hope that helps.

I would also love some recommendations for SoCal, only I'm in south Orange County. I have been researching on yelp, angies list, better business bureau, looking up contractor licenses.. I had a hard enough time trying to pick someone to do our kitchen remodel, but with a new covered patio and landscaping, this is going to cost FAR more than what we spent on the kitchen, and I'm afraid I'll be telling one of the horror stories I keep hearing about.

1929Spanish, based on the 2 quotes we've received so far, I think for just a small pool, $40,000 is about right. It starts getting up there in price once you start adding hardscape around the pool...

Thanks....any recommended builders or good stories about the process?

We had a small pool built a few months ago in Palm Springs. Our kids are grow are grown and space constraints were an issue yet we got everything we were hoping for just under $40,000 (not including landscaping).
Must haves were a pool & spa that had clean lines (nothing raised), glass tiles, channel drains and a tanning shelf to hang out in.

Our pool took 5 weeks from beginning to end...loved our pool builder Parzinsky Pools, top notch crew in every way. We are over the moon for sure!

May your experience be as seamless as ours!

We had our pool built 25 yrs ago and just had it remodeled this year by the same company.

http://bognerpools.com/

I have to know how your experience was and choice.

We decided not to move forward for many reasons.