logo
logo
  • Flowers & Plants
    • Plant Guide
    • Combos
    • Designing With
    • Bird- & Butterfly-Friendly
  • Vegetables
    • Edible Plant Guide
    • Getting Started
    • Herbs
    • Tips
    • Tomatoes
    • In the Weeds
  • Design Ideas
  • Containers
  • How To
    • Start Seeds
    • Plant
    • Water & Feed
    • Prune
    • Divide
    • Deal with Pests
  • Projects
  • Garden Plans
    • Entries
    • Bed & Borders
    • Wildlife Friendly
    • Decks & Patios
  • Magazine
  • Reviews
    • Gardening
    • Outdoor Living
    • Outdoor Tools
    • Plants
Our content is meticulously curated through independent research, testing, reviews, and AI-driven recommendations, all designed to present you with the finest product choices. When you make a purchase through our links, it could result in us earning a commission.
  • Home
  • Reviews
  • Outdoor Living

8 Small Backyard Pool Ideas for Every Budget

Last Updated: Jul 18, 2024
By: Garden Gate Review Team
Modern Backyard with Pool
View all Contents
  • Inflatable Pools for Budget-Conscious Bliss
  • Plunge Pools for Cozy Retreats
  • Natural Pools for Eco-Friendly Luxury
  • Above-Ground Pools for Convenience and Affordability
  • Spool Pools for Multifunctional Elegance
  • Container Pools for Urban Chic
  • Deck Pools for Seamless Integration
  • DIY Natural Swim Ponds for the Ambitious Homeowner
  • Conclusion
  • Related Posts

In the sweltering summer heat, few things are as enticing as having your own backyard pool. However, the notion of space and budget often looms as a daunting obstacle. The good news is that you don’t need a sprawling estate or a bottomless bank account to turn your small backyard into a refreshing oasis. In this blog, we’ll dive into eight innovative small backyard pool ideas, each catering to various budgets. So, whether you’re working with a modest sum or have more resources at your disposal, there’s a pool solution waiting to transform your outdoor space into a delightful retreat.

From the economical convenience of inflatable pools to the sustainable allure of natural pools, we’ll explore options that prove that size and budget limitations should never stand in the way of your dream of having a private pool. Let’s explore how you can make the most of your small backyard, ensuring you can enjoy a cool and invigorating dip whenever you desire.

Inflatable Pools for Budget-Conscious Bliss

If you’re on a tight budget or have limited space, inflatable pools, and hot tubs are cost-effective and space-saving solutions. These pools and hot tubs come in various shapes and sizes, making them versatile enough to fit even the smallest backyards. While they may not offer the permanence of a traditional pool or hot tub, they provide instant refreshment and relaxation during the hot summer months. You can easily store them when not in use and inflate them when you’re ready to take a dip or enjoy a soothing soak.

Additionally, having an inflatable hot tub near your pool area is a great idea. It adds an extra dimension of relaxation and luxury to your outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy warm, bubbling water alongside your inflatable pool. This combination can create a spa-like atmosphere in your backyard without the need for a permanent structure.

Plunge Pools for Cozy Retreats

Plunge pools are perfect for compact backyards. These small, deep pools are designed for relaxation rather than swimming laps. Their compact size makes them ideal for creating a cozy retreat in your backyard. You can build plunge pools in-ground or above-ground, often with built-in seating or spa features. This option can cater to various budgets, depending on your chosen materials and design elements.

Natural Pools for Eco-Friendly Luxury

A natural pool might be the answer for those who want to blend their pool seamlessly with the natural environment. These pools combine plants and filtration systems to create a chemical-free swimming experience. While the initial installation cost can be higher than traditional pools, the long-term maintenance costs are significantly lower. Plus, the lush, natural aesthetic adds a touch of luxury to any small backyard.

Above-Ground Pools for Convenience and Affordability

Above-ground pools are a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners with limited space. They come in various shapes and sizes, offering plenty of options for customization. The advantages of above-ground pools include affordability, quick installation, and removing them when needed. You can enhance their appearance by adding decking, landscaping, and fencing to create a more appealing backyard oasis.

Spool Pools for Multifunctional Elegance

A spool, a spa and pool combination, is an excellent choice for small backyards that need to maximize utility. These compact pools are often equipped with powerful jets for hydrotherapy, making them perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Spools are versatile and can be customized to fit your budget and space, whether you want a plunge pool with spa features or a miniature lap pool.

Container Pools for Urban Chic

Container pools have gained popularity in urban environments where space is at a premium. Shipping containers are repurposed to create stylish and modern pool structures. These pools are not only visually striking but also eco-friendly, as they make use of recycled materials. You can tailor container pools to fit your budget, and their compact design can fit into even the smallest urban backyards.

Deck Pools for Seamless Integration

If you’re looking for a pool design that seamlessly integrates with your existing deck or patio, a deck pool might be your answer. These pools are often partially or fully built into the deck, creating a harmonious transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. Deck pools can be customized to match your budget and design preferences, making them an excellent choice for those who value aesthetics and functionality.

DIY Natural Swim Ponds for the Ambitious Homeowner

Building a DIY natural swim pond can be rewarding for the adventurous and hands-on homeowner. While this option may require more time and effort, it allows you to create a completely unique aquatic environment in your backyard. DIY swim ponds combine a natural pool’s tranquility with a refreshing swimming experience. By sourcing materials and doing the labor yourself, you can control the costs to fit your budget.

Conclusion

Transforming your small backyard into a pool paradise doesn’t have to break the bank. From inflatable pools to DIY natural swim ponds, there are options for every budget and design preference. A well-designed small backyard pool provides a place to cool off and enhances the overall ambiance and value of your outdoor space. So, no matter how small your backyard may be, there’s a pool solution waiting to turn it into your own personal oasis.

Article Contributors

Garden Gate Review Team

The Garden Gate Review Team is a group of writers, editors, and gardeners, dedicated towards writing trustworthy product reviews that'll help you choose the best products for a beautiful garden and backyard.

Garden Gate is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

Please reach out to aimperiapt@gmail.com with any questions regarding product testing or specific articles.

Read More About Garden Gate Review Team Here
Outdoor Entertaining

Related Posts

How To Shock a Pool: A Guide for Beginners Pool Maintenance Basics: How To Achieve Optimal Pool Alkalinity Your Pool Is Green, but Chlorine Is High? Try These 4 Tips
2143 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312
1-800-341-4769
  • Subscription Questions
  • Submit A Tip Or Question
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Reviews
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
Active Interest Media Holdco, Inc.© 2025 Garden Gate Magazine All rights reserved.