18 Backyard Ideas on a Budget

Did you know that residential landscaping can cost upwards of $15,000? While that number is on the high end, it’s clear that designing and executing a beautiful outdoor space doesn’t come cheap!

Many homeowners justify this expense with the value improved curb appeal will add to their property. But that does little to ease the mind of any homeowner who wants to enjoy their yard rather than sell it.

Reinventing your yard without spending a fortune IS possible. You can find some of the best backyard ideas on a budget below (no second mortgage required!).

1. Recessed Fire Pit for Cozy Evenings

Transform your evenings with a recessed fire pit, creating a warm gathering spot. Dig a shallow pit and surround it with inexpensive pebbles or stones. It’s a simple yet effective way to bring a campfire ambiance to your backyard, perfect for roasting marshmallows or enjoying quiet nights under the stars.

Backyard fire pit area with gravel ground, surrounded by stones, blue chair and bench sit nearby, fence and trees in the background — Source: @laurinda.ross via Instagram

2. Build a Small Elevated Patio Deck

Elevate your outdoor experience literally and figuratively with a small, raised patio deck. Use affordable lumber and a straightforward design to build a compact space for dining or lounging. This project adds a touch of sophistication to any backyard, offering a clear, elevated view of your surroundings.

Cozy backyard with a small deck, blue cushioned seating, lush green lawn, and plants along a wooden fence under a clear blue sky — Source: @earthandsole via Instagram

A wooden pergola with a lattice roof shades a small deck, featuring railings and steps, attached to a house — Source: @haus.of.kerr via Instagram

Sunny backyard with a wooden deck, round glass table, umbrella, chairs, and lush greenery, enclosed by a tall wooden fence — Source: @earthandsole via Instagram

Outdoor patio deck with a wooden table, six black chairs, potted plants, and a large umbrella — Source: @caitlin.ritchie via Instagram

3. Outdoor Seating Area With an Umbrella

Establish a comfortable and shaded outdoor seating area. Choose budget-friendly chairs and a large umbrella to shield from the sun. This setup is ideal for enjoying outdoor meals or relaxing with a book, combining comfort with protection from the elements.

Outdoor patio with a wooden table, black chairs, and a large umbrella. Nearby, a bar area and seating with green artificial grass — Source: @maggie_minhas_at_home via Instagram

4. Repaint Old Furniture

Give old, tired outdoor furniture a new lease on life with a fresh coat of paint. Select vibrant or pastel colors to brighten up your space. This approach not only saves money but also adds a personalized touch to your backyard.

Colorful outdoor table with vibrant mosaic design and four red patterned chairs on a brick patio — Source: @hikinginheelss via Instagram

5. String Lights to Create a Magical Garden Setting

String lights are an affordable way to add a whimsical touch to your garden. Drape them across trees, along fences, or over a patio to create a magical, twinkling atmosphere that’s perfect for evening gatherings or quiet nights outside.

Outdoor patio with a round glass table, patterned chairs, and a woven pendant light, featuring a wooden privacy fence and plants in the background — Source: @prettychicandsimple via Instagram

Cozy backyard patio at dusk, adorned with string lights, surrounded by a garden, with a table and chairs for relaxing — Source: @colorsplash.art via Instagram

Cozy patio with cushioned seating, string lights, and a wooden table. Potted plants and throw pillows add charm to the outdoor setting — Source: @updatemycape via Instagram

Cozy patio with wicker chairs, a table with candles, and string lights, overlooking a lawn at dusk — Source: @heidi_bencsik via Instagram

Cozy patio with string lights, wicker chairs with cushions, a lemon pillow, and a lit fire pit on a patterned rug — Source: @melmakesamess via Instagram

6. DIY a Privacy Wall for an Exclusive Feel

Create a sense of seclusion and exclusivity with a DIY privacy wall. Use reclaimed wood or lattice panels to construct a barrier that separates your space from neighbors, offering a private retreat in your own backyard.

Cozy patio with two wooden benches, a fire pit, decorative pillows, lantern, and a small pool; wooden fence and plant in the background — Source: @this_crowes_nest via Instagram

Patio with white chair, small table with potted plant, surrounded by lush greenery and a modern slatted privacy fence — Source: @alamodemontreal via Instagram

Outdoor patio with wicker chairs, cushioned sofa, a round fire pit on a tiled floor, and a wooden fence with tall plants — Source: @camille.kurtz via Instagram

7. Landscape with Pebbles

Redefine your garden paths or flower beds with cost-effective pebbles. They require minimal maintenance and provide a neat, polished look. Pebbles are perfect for creating walkways or accentuating plants, adding texture and contrast to your garden.

Two black hanging chairs with red cushions face a wooden bench. A round fire pit is centered on white gravel, enclosed by a dark fence — Source: @riviera32_gallerie via Instagram

Narrow garden path with pink flowers, potted plants, and green foliage alongside white brick walls, leading to a distant gate — Source: @boburke1 via Instagram

Narrow backyard with a stone path, vintage signs, metal chairs, a red cooler, and a small shed at the end under string lights — Source: @capcreationsjewelry via Instagram

Modern garden with wooden furniture, stone tiles, trees, and ornamental plants in a neat, geometric layout with a wooden fence — Source: @earthandsole via Instagram

Narrow garden courtyard with string lights, a wooden table, hanging flower baskets, and a brick wall. Pathway is covered with gravel — Source: @strippingwallpaper via Instagram

8. Window Box Planters for a Small-Space Garden

Utilize window box planters for a charming and space-efficient garden solution. They’re ideal for growing herbs, flowers, or small vegetables, adding a burst of life and color to even the smallest of outdoor areas.

Wooden planters with small green shrubs, bordered by black stones, against a wooden slat fence in a garden setting — Source: @knowingkrescent via Instagram

A narrow backyard with a paved path, wooden planters, and a tall fence; brick building is visible in the background — Source: @culverlandscaping via Instagram

9. No-Pot Floral Backyard Landscape

For a unique garden approach, try planting flowers directly into the ground in intricate patterns or shapes. This method eliminates the need for pots, reducing costs and maintenance, while creating a stunning, natural tapestry of colors in your backyard.

Garden with pink chair, hanging plants, flamingo statues, and flowers beside a wooden fence — Source: @amybkee via Instagram

A narrow garden path with stone steps winds through lush greenery and colorful flowers between two houses — Source: @marypowdesigns via Instagram

Narrow garden with green grass path, colorful flowers, potted plants, a chair, and a wooden fence under sunlight — Source: @liolamb via Instagram

10. Potted Plant Garden

Group together various potted plants to create a versatile garden. This allows you to easily rearrange your layout and is perfect for experimenting with different plants and styles. Pots can be sourced inexpensively or upcycled from other items.

A variety of potted cacti and succulents arranged on shelves and the ground against a wooden fence — Source: @pcalingo via Instagram

Cozy patio garden with various potted plants, flowers, lanterns, and a small water feature set on a brick and tile surface — Source: @sog.sep via Instagram

A cozy backyard garden with a seating area, potted plants, a small fountain, a statue, and a chiminea surrounded by a wooden fence — Source: @beaumondeoriginals via Instagram

A backyard garden with raised beds, potted plants, and a hammock. String lights adorn the fence and a patio set is on the deck — Source: @taliaroca via Instagram

11. Just Add Seating

Sometimes, all a backyard needs is additional seating. Scour second-hand stores for adirondack chairs, benches, or hammocks. Arrange them strategically to create inviting nooks for relaxation and conversation.

Two blue Adirondack chairs with floral cushions beside a small table with an umbrella, set on a patio with plants and brick flooring — Source: @bluedoorbungalow_stay via Instagram

Two blue floral lounge chairs with canopies on a porch, a welcome sign, wreaths on doors, and a small dog on a floral rug — Source: @homewiththeherreras via Instagram

12. Backyard Playground

Construct a simple playground for children using recycled materials like tires for swings and wooden pallets for a playhouse. This not only provides endless entertainment for kids but also recycles materials creatively.

Small backyard with artificial grass, a white playhouse, a green slide, climbing wall, and a planter with shrubs — Source: @culverlandscaping via Instagram

13. Invest In Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are a cost-effective and durable option for creating paths or patios. They come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for customizable designs that can be laid down in a weekend, instantly upgrading the look of your backyard.

Aerial view of a garden patio with wooden dining and lounge furniture, plants, and a blue pouf under a white umbrella — Source: @earthandsole via Instagram

Outdoor patio with light wood furniture, beige cushions, and a cream umbrella. Blue house and garden with pink flowers in the background — Source: @eyeforneutral via Instagram

14. Outdoor Rug for a Cozy Seating Area

An outdoor rug can define a seating area and add a touch of comfort underfoot. Look for weather-resistant rugs in vibrant patterns or colors to brighten up your patio or deck area.

Outdoor patio with black chairs around a fire pit on a checkered rug. String lights are overhead, with tall plants against a wall — Source: @findhomesweetazhome via Instagram

Cozy outdoor patio with two chairs, a wooden table, patterned rugs, potted plants, and a wooden fence background — Source: @pureandhumbleceo via Instagram

15. Stock Tank Plunge Pool

For a unique twist on a backyard pool, consider a stock tank plunge pool. These are affordable, easy to install, and add a rustic charm to your outdoor space, perfect for cooling off during hot summer days.

Cozy outdoor deck with a round pool, wooden seating, pillows, and greenery, surrounded by a slatted wooden fence and sunshade — Source: @carly_priestley via Instagram

Outdoor stock tank pool area with steps, black and white cushions, and a striped umbrella surrounded by greenery — Source: @houseofbutterfield via Instagram

A cozy outdoor area with a black stock tank pool, potted plants, an umbrella, and decorative items on gravel near a grassy lawn — Source: @stayathomewithchelsea via Instagram

16. Craft a Macrame Hanging Chair

Add a bohemian flair with a handmade macrame hanging chair. It’s a fun DIY project that results in a cozy, stylish spot to relax. Hang it from a sturdy tree branch or a beam in your patio area.

Outdoor porch swing bed with a cushioned seat and bolster pillows, suspended by ropes, with a view of trees and greenery beyond — Source: @lahulan via Instagram

17. Install Insect Screens for Safety

Keep your outdoor area comfortable and bug-free by installing insect screens. This can be as simple as hanging netting around your patio or deck area, ensuring a more enjoyable and pest-free outdoor experience.

Cozy screened porch with cushioned chairs, tables, and wall decorations; wood flooring and forest view in the background — Source: @lauracosta1014 via Instagram

18. Garden Stepping Stones

Create a charming path through your garden with homemade stepping stones. Use a simple mix of concrete and molds from everyday items like leaves or plates. Personalize with stones, glass pieces, or

Small garden with green grass, stepping stones, various plants, and a stone border, adjacent to a brick wall and window — Source: @kamaezingplants via Instagram

FAQs

What is the cheapest grass alternative?

Replacing your existing turf grass with something lower-maintenance or more sustainable is a great investment for your future. But it’s not always budget-friendly.

Artificial turf is notoriously expensive. Instead, opt for a natural ground cover like clover or creeping thyme. These plant varieties require less water, mowing, and general maintenance than traditional grass while not costing any more to seed.

How do you landscape a yard on a budget?

The best way to save money on landscaping is to go the DIY route. As long as you’re physically able to dig, lift, and rake, DIY landscaping is easier than you might think.

Labor isn’t the only landscaping expense. Accessing affordable landscaping materials can be a challenge, especially if you’re shopping during the peak gardening season.

For the best deals, wait to buy supplies until your local stores are offering seasonal items on clearance. Also, keep an eye out for neighbors who have leftover materials from their own landscaping projects (many will give these materials away for cheap or even free).