17 Cheap Backyard Patio Ideas

17 Cheap Backyard Patio Ideas

by — Andra DelMonico
Published on September 27, 2021
Updated on March 24, 2025

You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great outdoor space. Look for backyard ideas that feature affordable materials and projects you can do yourself. By doing most of the work yourself, you can have an outdoor living space that you can enjoy. Whether your backyard is large or small, you don’t have to spend a fortune on your patio.

These cheap patio ideas will help you build a backyard patio that you can be proud of.

1. Spruce Up with an Outdoor Rug

Outdoor rugs effortlessly elevate patio aesthetics, especially in high-traffic zones. Choose durable materials like polypropylene for easy cleaning. To maximize visual appeal, experiment with different patterns and hues, harmonizing them with your existing decor to craft a cohesive, vibrant outdoor space.

Cozy patio with two wicker chairs, cushions, a small round table, a patterned rug, and plants against a wooden fence backdrop — Source: @hattieintheattic via Instagram

A cozy patio with two green chairs under a canopy, string lights, plants, and a small dog standing on the rug — Source: @kristingambaccini via Instagram

Two yellow chairs with striped cushions face a round table on a patio, potted plants are around, and a gray patterned rug is beneath — Source: @mymexahome via Instagram

Patio with blue and white patterned furniture, red accents, and a blue rug, surrounded by greenery and a wire fence in the background — Source: @the.wild.hen via Instagram

2. Elevate Greenery with Pallet Planters

Pallet planters offer a cost-effective rustic charm and a versatile planting platform. Consider cultivating fresh herbs or starting a vegetable patch to enrich your patio. When crafting your planter, integrate varied plants for a personalized touch, ensuring a harmonious blend with your patio’s overall aesthetic.

Rooftop patio with potted plants on shelves, white chairs, and a blue table against a gray wall backdrop, sunny day with trees in the background — Source: @mystoepstories via Instagram

Small patio with gray pavers, a square fire pit, two blue chairs, and a white dog standing next to a green tennis ball — Source: @napolitanfarms via Instagram

3. Illuminate Nights with String Lights

String lights offer an affordable solution to cast a cozy glow on patios. Strategically hanging them around or above seating areas can introduce a dreamy ambiance. Consider a zigzag pattern for heightened drama, but ensure they’re securely supported and positioned at a safe height to harmonize function and aesthetic effortlessly.

Outdoor patio with a wooden pergola, dining table, chairs, lounge chairs, basketball hoop, and barbecue grill on a concrete slab — Source: @brandierust via Instagram

A wooden pergola with string lights hangs over Adirondack chairs and a fire pit on a gravel patio, surrounded by greenery and a fence — Source: @_ben.smith___ via Instagram

Outdoor patio with string lights, a dining table with chairs, grill, and potted plants on a concrete surface — Source: @itshoneydone via Instagram

Cozy patio with wicker furniture, string lights, plants, and a laptop on a cushion — Source: @retrobirdhouse via Instagram

Cozy balcony at night with string lights, cushions, and potted plants, with a night sky and trees in the background — Source: @aramsh via Instagram

Four white Adirondack chairs around a fire pit on a patio, with string lights overhead, set in a grassy backyard with trees — Source: @mysimple.home via Instagram

4. Warm Up with a DIY Fire Pit

A DIY fire pit is both a functional and stylish addition to any patio. Opt for materials like brick or stone for a lasting structure. Before construction, familiarize yourself with local fire codes, then start with a sturdy base using bricks or concrete blocks. Surround your fire pit with cozy seating to maximize enjoyment during colder nights. With proper planning and a touch of creativity, you can have a captivating centerpiece that’s budget-friendly.

Outdoor seating area with a fire pit surrounded by four black chairs and a curved bench, set on a concrete patio with trees around — Source: @ellishomeanddesign via Instagram

Outdoor patio with a fire pit, iron chairs, potted plants, and a small wooden coffee table; cozy seating area with cushions and rug — Source: @fabeveryday via Instagram

Colorful garden with orange chairs, a decorative fire pit filled with blue stones, lush plants, and a green shed in the background — Source: @thefishinghamlife via Instagram

A circular brick fire pit with four metal chairs on a stone patio surrounded by grass, under a large tree — Source: @sarahzina via Instagram

Charming backyard patio with stone fire pit, surrounded by floral displays, a bench, and chairs, all under a tree — Source: @kristenscreations12 via Instagram

Four striped chairs around a stone fire pit on a patio, surrounded by green grass and a wooden fence with trees in the background — Source: @rev_beek via Instagram

Outdoor patio with black chairs, a stone path, and a square table holding three small orange pumpkins — Source: @cardinalescrow via Instagram

A fire pit with engraved metal ring encircled by stones, flanked by two wooden chairs in a garden setting — Source: @suburbanfarmermom via Instagram

5. Swing in a Cozy Hanging Chair

Transform an old chair into a hanging oasis using chains or opt for a DIY macramé chair with thick rope. If you prefer ready-made, consider trendy egg chairs or portable hammocks. These swinging seats offer style, comfort, and a budget-friendly approach to elevate your patio’s ambiance.

Cozy patio with a black porch swing, rustic round table, floral watering can, and blue patterned rug on concrete flooring — Source: @lavenderandhydrangeas via Instagram

6. Shade with a Stylish Pop-Up Gazebo

Pop-up gazebos provide an easy-to-set-up, movable shade solution for patios. Available in various sizes and designs, they’re a budget-friendly roofing alternative. Ensure proper assembly with a helping hand, and anchor securely using weights or stakes for stability. This addition allows for weatherproof relaxation and outdoor entertainment.

Outdoor patio setup with a brown canopy, two cushioned chairs, a loveseat, a glass table, and a rug on a gravel surface against a white brick wall — Source: @thechristiehome via Instagram

7. Craft Comfort with Pallet Furniture

Wooden pallets offer a cost-effective foundation for crafting outdoor furniture, from sofas to coffee tables. For a rustic flair, incorporate reclaimed wood. Ensure pallets are sanded smoothly to avoid splinters and enhance comfort with cushions and throw pillows, creating a cozy and budget-friendly patio seating.

DIY patio bench made of cinder blocks and wood, topped with patterned cushions and teal pillows against a brick wall backdrop — Source: @capt_kayray via Instagram

Outdoor patio with wooden furniture, blue pillows, geometric rug, potted plants, and a wood panel with vertical plants under string lights — Source: @blue_agate_abode via Instagram

Rustic patio with a chunky reclaimed wood coffee table, potted plants, and a dark fireplace with antler decor under a pergola — Source: @designsbybobbyjo via Instagram

Wooden bench with colorful tropical bird pillows, yellow concrete block base, palm tree lights, and a palm tree beach painting — Source: @luxedesignsbymarsell via Instagram

8. Stay Cool Beneath a Picnic Umbrella

Picnic umbrellas offer a budget-friendly solution for shade and introduce vibrant colors to patios. Complement with affordable outdoor seating like colorful plastic chairs or wooden benches. Enhance the ambiance further with string lights or potted plants, creating a cozy, budget-conscious outdoor retreat.

Cozy outdoor patio at night with a corner sofa, fire pit table, large umbrella, and string lights creating a warm ambiance — Source: @nd.woodwork via Instagram

Sunny backyard with wooden patio set and umbrella on a concrete patio, surrounded by green grass, tall trees, and a wooden fence

9. Beautify Spaces with Patio Tiles

Colorful patio tiles can swiftly enhance your outdoor area’s look, allowing the flooring to take center stage. Minimize furniture, possibly adding lounge chairs or a bistro set for simplicity. Decorative tiles negate the need for lavish furniture, offering an affordable yet striking patio makeover.

Modern patio with geometric black and white floor, white dining set, hanging chair, sofa, and pink chair, set against a white house — Source: @sellingyourdwelling via Instagram

Outdoor patio with a white table, chairs, and potted plants, brick wall and large windows in the background, geometric floor tiles — Source: @myblueabode via Instagram

10. Build a Rustic Pallet Deck

A wooden pallet deck is an affordable way to rejuvenate your outdoor area. Source pallets from local hardware stores or online platforms, and craft them into an elegant deck foundation. Enhance the look with vibrant outdoor rugs, comfortable seating, and greenery through potted plants or hanging baskets.

Cozy outdoor deck with wicker furniture and red cushions, surrounded by a lush garden and vibrant potted flowers — Source: @farmtotablecreations via Instagram

Wooden deck with chairs and table, surrounded by plants and a small garden bed, adjacent to a white house with outdoor light — Source: @rochellemortstudio via Instagram

Wooden deck with a red chair and black planters, adjacent to a beige house, with lawn and fence in the background — Source: @icaj3ssca via Instagram

Wooden deck with a green chair, potted plants, and a sun umbrella; stone path leads to a garden gate; bushes and trees in the background — Source: @persimmonstreet via Instagram

Small floating deck with wood planks, three patio chairs, a red umbrella, and potted plants on gravel ground — Source: @ricketybuilt via Instagram

Backyard pallet deck with a blue umbrella, hanging chair, glass patio table, and a striped hammock on the grass — Source: @skish8 via Instagram

11. Add Texture with a Pebble Patio

Pebble patios offer an affordable and serene upgrade to outdoor spaces. This low-maintenance flooring option imparts a tranquil, zen ambiance. It’s ideal for both outdoor dining areas or calming retreats, ensuring a stylish and cost-effective transformation for any patio setting.

Cozy outdoor seating area with a fire pit, surrounded by wicker chairs and gravel, set in a backyard at dusk — Source: @cino505 via Instagram

Outdoor patio setting with a wooden table, white chairs, and a large white umbrella on a gravel surface; greenery in the background — Source: @dalydigs via Instagram

Cozy outdoor seating area with a pallet sofa, cushions, two chairs, fire pit, and lanterns on gravel near a grass lawn — Source: @mymodelhome33 via Instagram

Cozy patio with a gray wicker sofa, umbrella, table, and stepping stones on gravel, surrounded by greenery and wooden planters — Source: @the_interior_lens via Instagram

Sunny patio with two chairs, a round table, pumpkins, and flowers; a picnic table is in the background, surrounded by trees and bushes — Source: @crazychicdesign via Instagram

12. Create Seclusion with a Private Fence

Choose materials like wood or vinyl to tailor a fence to your budget and aesthetics. Repurposed wooden pallets offer a rustic alternative, which can be painted or transformed into vertical gardens. Introduce trellises for added privacy, creating a canvas for climbing plants. A classic picket fence, meanwhile, imbues any patio with timeless charm.

Two colorful chairs with striped pillows and a small blue table on a patio, surrounded by plants and a wooden fence — Source: @midmodmarion via Instagram

Cozy patio with wicker furniture, potted flowers, and large sliding doors leading to a dining area; lush garden surrounds the space — Source: @pineapplesandchairs via Instagram

Charming patio with light wood furniture, pastel blue cushions, striped pillows, a patterned rug, and a vintage-style umbrella — Source: @theprettylittlehome via Instagram

Outdoor patio with wicker furniture, red umbrella, orange flowers, and a patterned rug surrounded by greenery — Source: @bellatinaroxy via Instagram

Cozy patio with wooden flooring, chairs, and a small table set; decorative wall grids and potted plants enhance the space — Source: @tulip_street_design via Instagram

Metal patio table and two chairs on a grassy lawn, near a wooden fence in a sunlit backyard — Source: @calli.duncan via Instagram

Cozy garden patio with a wooden deck, two chairs, small table, patterned rug, leafy plants, and a tree canopy above — Source: @sjasdesign via Instagram

13. Relax in Classic Adirondack Chairs

Adirondack chairs exude a rustic relaxation, ideal for sun-soaked lounging or friendly chats. Customize with paint to match your patio’s palette or retain their wooden charm. Complement with a patterned outdoor rug and overhead string lights, effortlessly crafting a comfortable and chic patio haven.

Two white chairs with red plaid cushions, surrounded by potted red flowers and greenery, are set on a cobblestone patio with a white fence — Source: @allthingshome_by_patricia via Instagram

Two Adirondack chairs with striped cushions and a gray throw on a deck, with a potted plant beside the chairs — Source: @healthyfitandmotivated via Instagram

Outdoor patio with a round glass table, two patterned chairs, and a potted plant centerpiece, set on a stone tile floor — Source: @simply_our_house via Instagram

Outdoor patio with a blue and white table, four white chairs, a patterned rug, and a barbecue grill in a backyard setting — Source: @thethriftyteacherlady via Instagram

14. Feel Nature with Artificial Grass

Artificial grass offers a low-maintenance, green solution for patios without the upkeep real grass demands. Easily tailored to various sizes and shapes, its installation is a breeze. Once laid and secured, it revitalizes your patio’s aesthetic. Complement with comfortable outdoor furnishings for a complete, verdant retreat.

Cozy outdoor patio with a wicker loveseat, string lights, a small glass table, and a barbecue grill; lush greenery surrounds the space — Source: @alicetchan via Instagram

Outdoor patio with two round chairs, a small table, and a cushion on artificial grass; wooden fence and potted plants in the background — Source: @biglittleinvestors via Instagram

15. Cultivate in a Raised Garden Bed

Incorporate a raised garden bed to infuse charm and functionality into your patio. Ideal for growing herbs or vegetables, these beds can be easily crafted with affordable bricks. Stack them, fill with soil, and enjoy a cost-effective gardening space. It’s not only a chic patio addition but also an engaging way to connect with nature.

Cozy patio with a patterned black-and-white rug, black bench with matching cushions, pampas grass vase, fire pit, and plants — Source: @croftshomereno via Instagram

16. Enhance Ambiance with Lovely Plants

Introducing greenery elevates a patio’s ambiance and offers color splashes. Strategically position potted plants around seating areas, corners, or suspend them overhead. Utilize repurposed pallets or ladders for vertical gardens. For added functionality, choose plants like basil or lavender; they naturally repel insects and infuse your space with pleasant aromas.

A cozy outdoor seating area with wooden benches, colorful blankets, potted plants, string lights, and a small triangular table — Source: @heyjulesxo via Instagram

Two wicker chairs with cushions on a patterned tile floor, surrounded by lush green plants in a sunlit room with large windows

17. Relax in a Cozy Egg Chair

Relax in style with a comfortable outdoor egg chair, featuring a plush brown cushion and a sleek black frame, perfect for any patio or balcony.

Hanging egg chair with brown cushion on a tiled patio, under sunlight, near metal railings

What is the cheapest material to use for a patio?

The cheapest material you can use for your patio is low-grade gravel. You can buy exactly the amount you need and do all of the work yourself. The next most affordable material for a patio is concrete.

What is the easiest DIY patio?

The easiest materials to work with are bricks or pavers. You can have them delivered and arrange them how you want them. The small and workable size of the pavers makes it easier to create custom designs. The multiple shapes, sizes, and colors available make it possible to build a custom design.

How can I make my backyard look beautiful on a low budget?

Start by cleaning up your backyard and creating a dedicated place for all of your designs. A clean and organized backyard looks infinitely better than a neglected one. Add furniture by repurposing reclaimed or salvaged pieces. Use some leftover paint to add a splash of color. Add plants to increase the greenery and natural privacy.