Greentext

Ehhh, rich isn't really applicable. Someone with good income and good debt management skills can have a pool. You don't have to be "rich", which is a pretty vague word that's very subjective.

I have friends that make very good money, and have the freedom to decide what their debt goes to. Nice house, nice cars, but if their income goes away, they're fucked because the debt doesn't magically disappear when the income does. To me, that's not rich. Rich is when you have enough resources that a change in income doesn't fuck you over.

Now, some people would say that the ability to choose what debt goes to is rich. I can see that usage being just as valid. I sure as hell can't decide what my debt goes to, it has to go only to survival needs. I can't take on debt for funsies like a pool, at least not in any amount that's significant (so, nothing big as a pool, but maybe enough for switching out an appliance that isn't dead, as an example).

For real, pools can be had with relatively low incomes. They cost about the same as a car for in-ground (a new car, not something lightly used lol). You don't have to be in six figure income brackets to have one. Do I think it's dumber than dammit to do so if you don't? Yes, but it's still possible as long as you want something basic

If an above ground is applicable, and it can be for light exercise, you can get by with as little as a grand. Which ain't cheap, bit it's a debt most people in the typical "middle class" income range can manage at some point, if it's a priority.