The 16 Best Backyard Ideas on a Budget (2024)

These backyard ideas on a budget will have you loving your lawn!

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Need backyard ideas on a budget? Try these tips!

The outdoors calling your name? You don’t have to pay thousands to make your space inviting. If you need backyard ideas but are on a budget, Hip2Save is here to help! Transform your yard into a haven with these money-saving purchases and projects.

1. Set boho vibes with an eye-catching teepee.

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CO-Z Super-Large TeePee Play Tent – $84.99 (regularly $89.99)

Love the boho-chic style? This pretty cotton teepee is calling your name. Use it outside when sunny and dry. This roomy 85″ high teepee is easy to set up and looks fantastic in photos. Use it on date night, for a photo shoot, or any time you want to lounge. With this one simple piece, you’ll have one of the most eye-catching lawns on the block. It’s one of our favorite backyard ideas on a budget!

Here’s what one reviewer had to say:

“This teepee was perfect for adults and for quite a number of children. Quality material. I purchased this teepee for a family picnic. Three of my adult sisters were able to fit inside. We loved it!”

2. Add tranquility with a cozy Brazilian-style hammock.

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2-Person Brazilian Style Double Hammock with Stand$89.99 (market price $119.99)

Sink into your very own cacoon with this cozy Brazilian-style hammock. For less than $100, this comfortable hammock is a solid investment for any yard. It comes with a steel stand and carrying case. Read a book, watch a meteor shower, or cuddle with a loved one.

3. For cheap patio furniture, consider this wicker set.

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Natural Expressions 5 Piece Wicker Patio Sectional Furniture Set Blue – $429.99 (regularly $454.99)
Clip the extra $25 off coupon
Final cost just $404.99

*Shipping is $69.99

PE rattan wicker furniture is lightweight and rust-proof, making it an excellent choice for outdoor patio furniture. It’s also REALLY affordable! The 5 piece set above is highly-rated and comes with a glass top coffee table.

Need a matching bar to serve drinks? You can score a wicker bar with two stools for less than $200 on Amazon.

4. Improve your ambiance with creative lighting.

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Lighting can give your outdoor space an inviting feel. For under $20, you can buy a string of lights and there are so many neat ways to use them! Hang lights over your patio or deck for an intimate setting. These LED lights can last up to 30,000 hours!

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Have a stone or dirt path? Christmas Lights, Etc. suggests using rope lights to illuminate your walkways. This lighting is both pretty AND practical!

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Put fairy lights in mason jars for a whimsical effect. Hang on strings or display them on your patio. See the full DIY tutorial from Ashley Hackshaw.

5. Spend only $1 on these DIY concrete planters.

These trendy concrete planters will give your patio or deck a modern vibe. For the quantity you can make, they cost less than a dollar! Talk about backyard ideas on a budget! Read our full DIY for instructions.

Need more cheap planter ideas? Household items that can be upcycled into planters include old wagons, wheelbarrows, teapots, and wooden crates.

6. Save money with multi-purpose furniture.

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BALI Outdoors Fire Pit Patio Furniture Table$239.99
Clip the coupon to save 5% off at checkout
Total cost just $227.99 shipped!

Get 2 for the price of 1 with multi-purpose furniture. This good-looking propane fire pit doubles as a table. When you aren’t using the fire, cover the center portion with the lid and use the table to play cards or serve food! This fire table comes with blue decorative glass rocks for an upscale look.

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Convert-A-Bench Gen II XL Designer Series Bench-To-Table – $178.95 (regularly $206)

*Shipping is $15.50

Another example of multi-purpose furniture is this hardy outdoor bench from QVC that turns into a table. It’s made of durable material so it can withstand the weather and it holds up to 1400lbs while in bench mode!

7. Revive old accent pillows with new pillow covers.

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Freshen up your look for under $20! Don’t blow money on new pillows. You can change the look of your patio by simply using new covers, like these unique pillowcases from VigVog. Choose from a variety of styles like florals or mandalas.

8. Find serenity listening to your outdoor fountain.

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Give your backyard the wow factor with this tranquil outdoor fountain made of lightweight, weather-resistant resin. You’ll love the peaceful sound of the waterfall. It stands at 39″ high and comes with 6 LED lights to illuminate the bowls of water. This modern fountain is the perfect addition to your back porch or flower garden.

Here’s what one customer had to say:

“This fountain surpassed my expectations. It is thoughtfully designed and very well made. I could not be more pleased.”

9. Serve guests at this $40 low-budget DIY outdoor kitchen.

For about $40, you can turn an old refrigerator into a super cool serving station. Read our review of the DIY or head over to Instructibles.com to get the details.

10. Hang loose on your patio with DIY hanging plants.

These simple macrame hangers are one of our favorite backyard ideas on a budget. You can hang many plants with just one spool of cotton or hemp. Make them in 5 minutes or less when you follow our full DIY instructions.

If you prefer using a plant wall to hanging plants, we have a DIY for that too!

Hip Tip: Painting terra cotta pots can add personality. Check Dollar Tree for cheap paint!

11. Care for plants at your personal potting station.

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Topeakmart Outdoor Garden Potting Bench – $109.99 (regularly 172.99)

Love to garden? This cute potting station made of real cedar will come in handy. It includes a removable tub and a tool drawer. It comes varnished, but you can add extra protection with waterproof sealant.

12. Bring on the fun with backyard games.

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From corn holes to volleyball, there are tons of affordable backyard games for your family to enjoy. This GoSports Battleputt game will be the hit of your next party. This 11″ portable putting green comes with 2 putters and 2 golf balls. See which team can make the holes first!

Here’s what one customer had to say:

“A great game for the whole family. This is a high-quality set. The putters, turf, and balls are all top-notch. The whole set folds up nicely and is easy to store. It’s a clever design, really. Great way to combine beer pong and golf! Had fun playing all weekend. Kids and adults both loved it.”

13. Get a cheap backyard makeover when you add a privacy fence or trellis.

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ECOOPTS Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence – $51.98
Clip the coupon to save 15% at checkout
Total price is $44.18

Cover your fences or pergolas with faux greenery. It looks real from a distance and can give you the privacy you seek. This one from ECOOPTS is easy to install and looks plush compared to competitors.

Here’s what one reviewer had to say:

“We needed something for privacy and to help block out the heat on one side of our lanai. This ivy was so simple to hang up and it’s already stayed sturdy through one Southwest Florida summer storm.”

14. Take a relaxing soak in your inflatable hot tub.

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Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub$479.49 (regularly $599.99)

Hot tubs can cost thousands of dollars. Skip those high prices! Getting an inflatable model means you don’t need to worry about water lines or construction. This model comes with 120 jets, puncture-resistant material, and a cover to keep the dirt out. With FREE shipping, it’s less than $500!

15.Add charm with an arbor.

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Vita Athens Vinyl Arbor$132.64 (regularly 149.99)

Don’t want to spend much? A statement piece can make a noticeable change. This charming arbor is up for the job!

16.Have an outdoor movie night with this movie projector.

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Vanmo Movie Projector – $67.99 (regularly $79.99)
Clip the coupon to save 10% off at checkout
Final cost just $61.19 shipped!

For under $100, you can host a movie night in your backyard! This handy projector connects to your preferred devices to watch movies, stream TV shows, play video games, or showcase photos on a screen up to 200″!

Do your kids love the water? Check out these deals on pools and floats!

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

I am an expert in backyard design and landscaping, with extensive knowledge and experience in creating beautiful outdoor spaces. I have worked on numerous projects and have a deep understanding of various concepts related to backyard ideas and budget-friendly solutions.

Now, let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article and provide you with more information:

1. Teepee for Boho Vibes

A teepee can add a touch of boho-chic style to your backyard. The CO-Z Super-Large TeePee Play Tent is a popular choice, offering a roomy and eye-catching design. It is easy to set up and can be used for various purposes, such as lounging, photo shoots, or even as a unique outdoor space. One reviewer mentioned that it was perfect for adults and several children, highlighting its quality and versatility [[1]].

2. Brazilian-Style Hammock for Tranquility

A Brazilian-style hammock is a cozy addition to any backyard. The 2-Person Brazilian Style Double Hammock with Stand provides comfort and relaxation. It comes with a steel stand and a carrying case, making it easy to set up and move around. Whether you want to read a book, stargaze, or simply unwind, a hammock offers a tranquil outdoor experience [[2]].

3. Wicker Patio Furniture for Affordability

PE rattan wicker furniture is a lightweight and affordable option for outdoor patio furniture. The Natural Expressions 5 Piece Wicker Patio Sectional Furniture Set Blue is a highly-rated choice that comes with a glass top coffee table. It offers both comfort and style, allowing you to create a cozy outdoor seating area without breaking the bank [[3]].

4. Creative Lighting for Ambiance

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating an inviting outdoor space. The alitade S14 Shatterproof LED Outdoor String Lights are a popular choice for adding a warm and cozy atmosphere. You can hang them over your patio or deck to create an intimate setting. Additionally, the UltraPro Escape LED Rope Lights and HAOSEE Led Fairy Lights Battery Operated offer creative lighting options for illuminating walkways or adding a whimsical touch to your backyard [[4]].

5. DIY Concrete Planters for Modern Vibes

Concrete planters can give your patio or deck a modern and trendy look. You can create your own DIY concrete planters for less than a dollar per planter. Additionally, you can upcycle household items like old wagons, wheelbarrows, teapots, or wooden crates to add a unique touch to your outdoor space [[5]].

6. Multi-Purpose Furniture for Functionality

Multi-purpose furniture is a great way to save money and maximize the functionality of your outdoor space. The BALI Outdoors Fire Pit Patio Furniture Table is a propane fire pit that doubles as a table. It comes with blue decorative glass rocks, providing an upscale look. Another example is the Convert-A-Bench Gen II XL Designer Series Bench-To-Table, which can hold up to 1400lbs and transforms from a bench to a table. These pieces offer versatility and practicality [[6]].

7. Pillow Covers for a Fresh Look

Instead of buying new pillows, you can change the look of your patio by using new pillow covers. The Set of 4 VIGVOG Waterproof Throw Pillow Covers offers a variety of styles to choose from, such as florals or mandalas. This affordable option allows you to freshen up your outdoor space without spending a lot of money [[7]].

8. Outdoor Water Fountain for Serenity

An outdoor water fountain can add a sense of tranquility to your backyard. The Naturefalls 5-Tier Outdoor Water Fountain With LED lights is made of lightweight and weather-resistant resin. It stands at 39" high and comes with 6 LED lights to illuminate the bowls of water. Customers have praised its thoughtful design and quality [[8]].

9. DIY Outdoor Kitchen for Low-Budget Entertainment

You can create a cheap outdoor kitchen by repurposing an old refrigerator. By following a DIY tutorial, you can turn it into a super cool serving station for about $40. This budget-friendly option allows you to entertain guests and enjoy outdoor cooking without spending a fortune [[9]].

10. Hanging Plants for Patio Charm

Macrame hangers are a simple and affordable way to hang plants in your backyard. With just one spool of cotton or hemp, you can create beautiful hanging plant displays. Additionally, you can consider creating a plant wall using a DIY tutorial. Painting terra cotta pots can also add personality to your outdoor space, and Dollar Tree offers cheap paint options [[10]].

11. Potting Station for Plant Care

If you love gardening, a potting station can be a useful addition to your backyard. The Topeakmart Outdoor Garden Potting Bench, made of real cedar, includes a removable tub and a tool drawer. It provides a dedicated space for potting plants and storing gardening tools. Applying waterproof sealant can enhance its durability [[11]].

12. Backyard Games for Fun

There are various affordable backyard games that can bring fun and entertainment to your family. The GoSports Battleputt Golf Putting Game is a portable putting green that comes with putters and golf balls. It offers a unique combination of beer pong and golf, providing enjoyment for both kids and adults [[12]].

13. Privacy Fence or Trellis for a Makeover

Adding a privacy fence or trellis can transform your backyard and provide the privacy you desire. The ECOOPTS Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence is an easy-to-install option that looks realistic and plush. It can be used to cover fences or pergolas, creating a green and private outdoor space [[13]].

14. Inflatable Hot Tub for Relaxation

An inflatable hot tub offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional hot tubs. The Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub is a popular choice, featuring 120 jets, puncture-resistant material, and a cover. It provides a relaxing and enjoyable experience without the need for complex installation or high costs [[14]].

15. Arbor for Charm

A statement piece like an arbor can make a noticeable change in your backyard. The Vita Athens Vinyl Arbor is an affordable option that adds charm and elegance to your outdoor space. It can be used as an entryway or a focal point in your garden [[15]].

16. Outdoor Movie Projector for Entertainment

Hosting a movie night in your backyard can be a fun and memorable experience. The Vanmo Movie Projector allows you to watch movies, stream TV shows, play video games, or showcase photos on a screen up to 200". It offers an affordable way to enjoy outdoor entertainment with family and friends [[16]].

I hope these insights and ideas help you create a beautiful and inviting backyard on a budget! Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance.

The 16 Best Backyard Ideas on a Budget (2024)

FAQs

What is the cheapest patio option for a backyard? ›

Gravel is an affordable, easy patio solution. We recommend the more durable crushed granite or limestone over pea gravel or river rock. With basic tools, you'll be able to create a smooth area for sitting and dining that will last for years. To install, you'll first mark the patio area and dig out grass and plants.

What makes the perfect backyard? ›

The best backyard ideas all have one key thing in common: comfort. Whether it's a row of chaise lounges by the pool or a group of Adirondack chairs in an open grass field, a comfortable outdoor setup is the ultimate luxury. But you don't need an abundance of square footage to create a fun and functional backyard.

How to make a small backyard look nice? ›

A small space can have a big impact - especially if you get creative with patterns or pops of color. Create focal points with a fabulous rug, statement fire pit, fun cushions on your patio furniture, a bright water feature, or a colorful mural on a fence.

How to create a beautiful backyard? ›

Create Areas of Interest

Create multiple areas for friends and family to mingle. Here, a lush, green lawn offers space to spread out and play lawn games or have a picnic. A gorgeous fire pit seating area provides room to relax and, just steps away, a spacious deck is an ideal spot to enjoy dinner alfresco.

What is the least expensive type of patio? ›

Gravel is the cheapest option when looking to create a patio on a budget. Otherwise, pebbles or reclaimed materials are also good options. If you're set on laying paving slabs, concrete is one of the cheapest materials, and when installed and maintained correctly, it can hold up well and last for years.

What is the easiest DIY patio? ›

PAVERS are the best option

For a do-it-yourself patio, a simple square design with one size of pavers is a lot easier to install than one with various sizes and curves because you will not have to cut the pavers, which takes time and skill. Pavers are strong, inexpensive, and easy to install.

What is the least expensive hardscape? ›

Concrete and gravel are the least expensive hardscape materials, often used to build affordable retaining walls, patios, driveways, and other outdoor structures.

Does a backyard increase property value? ›

When it comes to increasing the value of your home, many homeowners tend to focus on interior renovations and improvements. While the inside is important, the backyard is an often overlooked area that can also significantly impact your home's value.

How to do a cheap patio? ›

Stepping stones or simply buying fewer paving slabs and setting them within a larger area of gravel means you can create a unique and interesting patio feature. Gravel is a low-cost and easy-to-install option for your patio surface. It's also a great way to create a rustic look in your outdoor space.

How much should you spend on backyard? ›

Multiple articles use a figure of spending 10 percent of the home's total value on landscaping as a rule of thumb.

How much value does a backyard add to a house? ›

As a rough guide, a nicely landscaped garden that is low maintenance can add up to 10% to your home's value – that's potentially an extra $100,000 on a $1 million home.

How do I fix my boring backyard? ›

How to Transform Your Boring Backyard Into an Exciting Outdoor Space
  1. Add a Patio as the Heart of your Space. ...
  2. Build a Deck. ...
  3. Incorporate an Outdoor Kitchen. ...
  4. Cover Your Outdoor Space with a Pavilion. ...
  5. Light Up Your Outdoor Space with Landscape Lighting. ...
  6. Add a Fire Feature. ...
  7. Mix in Recreation Spaces.
Feb 28, 2023

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