In the Midwest pool weather is very short. But, I think it's well worth the hassle and expense. The cost of opening the pool for the first time can add up fast. The cost of the chemicals to maintain it depends on how much you use it. I buy a large container of chlorine tabs that will last me about 2 years. I don't remember what the bucket cost, but I'm pretty sure it was less than $100. I shock (chemicals) my pool about 4 times during the summer. My neighbor, who has lots of pool parties, shocks his weekly. The Shock doesn't cost very much.
There are also other chemicals for cloudiness, algae, etc. I've don't get algae nor does my water get cloudy so I've never needed to use these. I take a pool sample to have my water analyzed (free) monthly and add chemicals according to the recommendation. The pool stores will try to sell you all the chemicals they can, and they're not cheap. So you kind of have to know your pool. Once, I was suckered into over $500 worth of chemicals. Luckily my neighbor is my 'pool guy' and chastised me for being a sucker and made me take them all back, Thank God!
For me, other than the chlorine tabs, I rarely need more chemicals. Don't forget to factor in the cost of running the filter/heater. I only run mine during the day. I turn it on when I leave for work and off before I go to bed.
The biggest hassle for me is keeping the pool clean. Some people don't mind, but I HATE cleaning the pool. It's really no big deal, but just something I hate doing.
Sorry for such a looooong answer...
__________________ Jan  Lexi's Mommy   |