Deck or patio for pool

Turns out the yard isn't as level as I thought.

I've been crunching numbers and it seems about equal cost to pour a 6" thick patio or build a wooden deck that can support the pool. 

I actually suspect concrete would be a bit cheaper, but definitely more labor intensive. Wood would all need to be marine grade and at least doubled up from a regular deck because of the weight and motion. 2x10s at 12"centers, 4x4s buried at least 3 feet deep and cemented in, x bracing every or every other span, the wood would add up quick. 

I can rent equipment to move dirt, and a transom to make sure my gravel layer is level before pouring, but sinking and cementing 4x4s would be much easier prep wise. 

Which way should I lean?

Neither one is happening this year, the money just isn't there, I'm just trying to figure out for the future.

Current pool is a 15ft round 33 inch deep affair that holds 2500 gallons, at 8lbs/gallon, that's almost 10 tons.

Possible future pool is 12 ft diameter, 4 feet tall, I think 3000 gallons capacity. 

That's a E36 M3 load of weight. 

Would I be better off in the long run just digging a big berkeleying hole and planting an in ground pool?

I like the idea of tearing down every winter instead of winterizing, but the way incidental costs add up it could wind up cheaper.

Level the ground, cover in sand, put the pool on the ground. Build a wooden deck up around it, partially or totally, fence whatever you don't border with deck. Easier to just get an above-ground permanent pool - winterizing is easy.

This is just my opinion, and I certainly don't wish to offend you, but putting a pool on a wooden deck is a fools errand.

In reply to Streetwiseguy :

Yea I kinda thought so. But figured I'd ask anyway.

Sand. How did I forget about cheap, plentiful sand?

We drained and moved the pool yesterday, it's much much better than it was. I need to find a good permanent marking solution for when it comes down so I only have to fill it up once next time. This paying for water E36 M3 isn't nearly as nice as my unlimited well was. 

RevRico said:

We drained and moved the pool yesterday, it's much much better than it was. I need to find a good permanent marking solution for when it comes down so I only have to fill it up once next time. This paying for water E36 M3 isn't nearly as nice as my unlimited well was. 

And that's why I suggested a permanent installation. Winterizing is three chemicals (on a chlorine system - I don't know if it's different for salt or other systems), draining down a few inches, and cover. Opening is even easier, and much cheaper if you only need to bring it up 2-3 inches rather than fill the whole bloody thing.