You can ask, and answer, the question, "Will my family really enjoy a pool?" with an Intex pool much more cheaply and reliably than with most other options. Even a larger pool, like this one: Intex 32-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Rectangular Ultra Frame Pool, is under $2,000.

Allow another $1,000 for an additional pump/filter, for cleaning gear, and for hiring someone to get the site really level (no more than 2" from any point to any other point on the perimeter.)

A pool like that will last up to 5 years (or more), but can easily be removed (and sold!) if you decide to upgrade.

=> Do follow our Intex guide, if you get one.
=> Do NOT get a Walmart / Sams Club Summer Escapes (or any other Chinese) brand pool -- the quality is low, low low, and customer service is terrible.
=> Buy, and install, now. Intex's customer service isn't great, but they do respond, and aren't so backed up right now. If you get unlucky (maybe 3% of pools have defects requiring replacement), you can STILL have your pool up and running by the time anyone wants to swim.
=> Do install promptly on receipt of the pool. (Get the ground fixed, BEFORE buying!!!). If you purchase from Amazon or Walmart you probably only have a 30 day return window, and it's easier to return to Amazon, than to Intex.

Good luck!

PS: Carl's first pool was an Intex -- he now has a huge, pretty expensive, AG pool.