A small yard doesn’t mean that you have to give up a cooling pool! Intelligent cheap pool installation options for small yard pools allow you to convert even a tiny outdoor area into a cool retreat. From space efficient plunge pools to budget friendly above-ground solutions, modern innovative technologies make it possible to have everything without sacrificing style or extra expenses.
In this guide, we’ll explore compact pool designs, cost-saving tips, and clever landscaping tricks to maximize your small space proving that everyone deserves a backyard retreat. Splash into summer without the stress let’s make your small yard pool dreams a reality!
1. Best Pool Types for Small Yards: Comparing Costs & Benefits
When working with limited outdoor space, choosing the right pool type makes all the difference. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most budget-friendly pools for small yards, comparing installation costs, maintenance needs, and long-term value.
Plunge Pools (6’ x 10’ to 10’ x 20’)
- Cost: $15,000–$35,000 (concrete) or $8,000, $20,000 (fiberglass)
- Benefits:
- Deep enough for cooling off (4,6 ft) but compact footprint
- Can include hydrotherapy jets (spool hybrid)
- Lower chemical/water usage than full size pools
- Drawbacks: Limited swimming space; not ideal for laps
Spools (Spa + Pool Combos, 10’ x 12’ avg.)
- Cost: $20,000, $45,000
- Benefits:
- Daytime swim, nighttime spa warm
- Two-way usage: swim in the day, spa warm at night
- Massaging therapy from the jets
- Generally exempted from some safety fencing requirements (if they are enclosed)
- Disadvantages: Greater up front cost for amenities
Above-Ground Pools (12, 18 round or oval)
- Price range: $3,000, $12,000 (including decking)
- Advantages:
- Rapid installation (1, 3 days)
- Portable options available
- No excavation costs
- Drawbacks: Shorter lifespan (7, 15 years); less aesthetic
Stock Tank Pools (8’–10’ diameter)
- Cost: $800, $5,000 (DIY or professional setup)
- Benefits:
- Ultra affordable and trendy
- Easy winterization
- Drawbacks: Limited depth (2–4 ft); requires frequent cleaning
NoteTip: For urban backyards, prefabricated small pool designs like fiberglass plunge pools install 30, 50% quicker than Concrete.
2. Space Saving Pool Designs That Don’t Compromise on Style
Even the smallest of backyards can feature a stunning pool with these tiny backyard pools design strategies:
Corner Pools (Triangular or L-Shaped)
- Perfect for: Small side yards or odd shaped areas
- Style Hack: Mitered glass tile edges create an illusion of depth
- Cost: $18,000, $40,000
Lap Pools (8′ x 30′ or smaller)
- Best for: Fitness enthusiasts
- Style Hack: Infinity edges or veiled benches for dual purpose
- Cost: $25,000, $50,000
Custom Geometric Shapes (Freeform or Kidney)
- Best for: Working with uncooperative layouts
- Style Hack: Mosaic tile highlights grab attention
- Cost: $20,000, $60,000
Vertical Pool Features
- Examples:
- Fountains against walls that also act as filtration
- Spas elevated with waterfall spillovers
- Cost Add: $2,000, $10,000
Design Rule: Restrict decking to 3, 4 ft wide and use light colored material (e.g., travertine) to create space appearance larger.
Case Study: A 15′ x 15′ NYC patio with a custom cocktail pool (3.5′ deep, built-in seating) that cost $28,000 added 12% to the value of the house.
Not sure which one is best for your area?
Request a Free, No-Obligation Estimate from Hi Pools design team!
Click Here to Schedule Your Free Consultation
3. Affordable Materials for Small Pool Installation
Building a small yard pool need not break the bank. At Hi Pools, we provide low budget pool solutions that sacrifice nothing in quality but save you a bundle. Here is a list of the top inexpensive materials for small pools:
1. Vinyl Liners
Cost: $1,500, $4,000 (for small pools)
Benefits:
- Cheapest up-front cost of inground options
- Smooth surface that’s easy on feet
- Fast installation (2, 4 days)
- Cons:
- Needs replacement every 7, 12 years
- More susceptible to punctures than other materials
Hi Pools Tip: Our strengthened 30mil liners have a 10year warranty inquire about them with your free estimate!
2. Fiberglass Shells
Cost: $10,000, $25,000 (for plunge/small pools)
Pros:
- Nonporous surface resists algae (lower chemical costs)
- Installed in 3, 5 days
- Durable 25+ year lifespan
- Cons:
- Limited to standard shapes/sizes
3. Prefab Concrete Tanks
Cost: $8,000, $20,000
Pros:
- Partially embedded to save space
- Can be had in custom coping/tile
- Cons:
- Slightly wider and heavier than fiberglass (crane access could be necessary)
Material Comparison Table
| Material | Avg. Cost (Small Pool) | Lifespan | Maintenance Needs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Liner | $1.5K–$4K | 7–12 yrs | High | Budget projects |
| Fiberglass | $10K–$25K | 25+ yrs | Low | Quick install |
| Prefab Concrete | $8K–$20K | 20+ yrs | Medium | Custom designs |
Note Tip: Combine a vinyl liner with a style forward deck to get luxury looks for less.
4. DIY vs. Professional Installation: What Works Best for Small Pools?
While DIY projects are less expensive up-front, professional pool installation by a pro usually provides the better long-term value especially for small yards where maximizing every square foot is important.
DIY Pool Kits (Above Ground/Stock Tanks)
- Cost Savings: 40, 60% less than pro install
- Challenges:
- Site leveling/permitting too often overlooked
- Mistakes can cost 2, 3x more to fix
- No warranties on labor
Professional Installation
- Why It’s Worth It:
- Hi Pools handles all permits/inspections
- Proper grading prevents $5K+ in drainage issues
- Equipment warranties (3, 5 years standard)
Cost Comparison:
- DIY Above-Ground: $2,000, $5,000
- Pro Installed AG: $4,000, $8,000
- Pro In-Ground Small Pool: $15,000, $35,000
Hi Pools Advantage:
✅ No charge site evaluation to prevent costly mistakes
✅ Financing available (rates begin at 4.99% APR)
✅ 24 month maintenance package is included
5. Smart Landscaping Ideas to Get the Most Out of Your Small Pool Area
Even the smallest pool area can be luxurious using these space saving pools design techniques from Hi Pools landscape designers:
1. Vertical Gardens
- Cost: $200, $2,000
- Best Plants:
- Air plants (soil free)
- Dwarf fruit trees on wall planters
2. Optical Illusions
- Mirrors: Placed strategically to double visual space
- Glass Fencing: Creates invisible boundaries
3. Multi-Functional Decking
- Ideas:
- Bench seating with hidden storage
- Fold-down dining tables
- Sunken fire pits between loungers
Small Yard Makeover Case Study:
A 12’ x 16’ patio transformed with:
- 8’ x 12’ plunge pool ($22,000)
- Vertical succulent wall ($1,200)
- Modular seating built-in deck ($4,500)
Total: $27,700 , added an additional $35,000 worth to our home!
Free Design Bonus: Book a free estimate and receive:
- 2D/3D designs of your space
- Suggested plants for your area
- Custom storage design sketch
Get Started with Your Small Yard Makeover Today
6. Hidden Costs to Avoid When Installing a Small Yard Pool
Installing a small yard pool can come with unsuspected expenses that can turn an affordable pool installation into a budget nightmare. Homeowners at Hi Pools enable us to prepare for and avoid these common financial traps:
1. Excavation Surprises
- Rock Removal: Removing hard bedrock will add $1,500–$5,000
- Soil Disposal: Clay/contaminated soil requires special hauling ($800–$3,000)
- Access Issues: Narrow side yards may need mini excavators (+$1,200/day)
Hi Pools Solution: Our free site inspections include soil testing and access evaluation.
2. Permit & Inspection Fees
Often overlooked costs:
- Building permits: $300, $1,200
- Electrical inspections: $150, $500
- Fencing compliance: $1,000, $4,000
3. “Invisible” Maintenance Costs
Small pools still require:
- Annual chemical balance: $300, $600
- Professional opening/closing: $200, $400 per service
- Equipment replacements (every 5, 8 years): $2,000+
7. Seasonal & Portable Pools: Are They Worth It?
For small yards needing flexibility, portable options offer mixed value:
Inflatable Pools
Cost: $200, $1,500
Pros:
- No installation needed
- Store away in winter
- Cons:
- Last only 1,3 seasons
- High chemical use (no filtration)
Stock Tank Pools
Cost: $800, $5,000
Pros:
- Trendy farmhouse aesthetic
- Can be moved with equipment
- Cons:
- Limited depth (2, 4 ft)
- Require frequent cleaning
Soft-Sided Above-Ground
- Cost: $3,000, $8,000
- Pros:
- Semi permanent option
- Some include filtration
- Cons:
- Liner replacements every 5 years
- Less insulation than hard sided
Hi Pools Verdict: Seasonal pools are fine for a casual soak, but a properly installed plunge pool boosts property value by 2,3 times.
Special Offer: Upgrade your temporary pool – get $1,000 credit towards a permanent installation!
Compare All Pool Types Risk Free
8. How to Achieve a Custom Look Without Paying Through the Nose
Creating a luxury pool on a small backyard doesn’t have to break the bank merely make smart choices. At Hi Pools, we specialize in affordable pools that offer luxurious appearances through smart upgrades. Here’s how to achieve designer style on a shoestring budget:
1. Tile Accents: Small Details, Big Impact
- Focus Areas: Waterline borders, stair treads, or feature walls
- Affordable Options:
- Glass Mosaic Tiles: $8–$15/sq.ft. (use as accents vs. Full coverage)
- Ceramic Subway Tiles: $3–$7/sq.ft. for a contemporary look
- Pro Tip: A 12″ tile band around a plunge pool costs under $500 but is luxurious.
2. Creative Coping
- Materials:
- Poured Concrete: $12–$25/linear ft (stained to resemble stone)
- Prefab Stone: $20–$40/linear ft (install as a DIY weekend project)
- Design Hack: Use differing coping colors to create contrasting pool edges.
3. Lighting Magic
- LED Strip Lights: $50–$150 (install under coping or steps)
- Solar-Powered Floats: $20–$50 each (enhance ambiance without wiring)
Cost Comparison Table
| Upgrade | DIY Cost | Pro Cost | Visual Impact (1–10) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mosaic Tile Border | $300–$600 | $800–$1,200 | 9 |
| Stamped Concrete Coping | $400 | $1,500 | 7 |
| LED Lighting Kit | $200 | $600+ | 8 |
Case Study: 10’x12′ pool transformed with:
- Blue glass tile border ($420)
- Hand-stamped concrete coping ($380)
- Solar lanterns ($75)
Total: $875 for a 5x value boost!
Request a Free Custom Design Plan tailored to your budget.
9. Small Pool Maintenance Hacks (Save Money & Time)
Effective maintenance is required to make your discount pool installation economical in the long term. Try out these proven hacks:
1. Robotic Cleaners
- Best for Small Pools: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus ($699) cleans floors/walls in 1 hour.
- Cost Savings: Saves 80% of cleaning time versus Manual labor.
2. Solar Covers
- Size Choosing Tip: 12’x24′ cover ($120) can be cut to fit irregular shapes.
- Bonus: Stops 95% of water evaporation, saving $30+/month on refills.
3. Chemical Shortcuts
- Floating Chlorinator: $25 (3–4 week longevity, no daily dosing)
- Test Strips: $15/month vs. $50 lab tests.
Comparison of Maintenance Costs
| Task | Traditional Cost/Year | Hack Cost/Year | Time Saved/Week |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | $600 (pro service) | $699 (robot) | 2 hours |
| Heating | $900 (gas) | $0 (solar) | – |
| Chemical Balancing | $420 | $180 | 30 mins |
10. Free Quotes & Financing: Making Small Pools Accessible
Here at Hi Poolss, we do not believe that anyone should not have a backyard paradise. Our cozy programs make small yard pools affordable:
1. Free Instant Quotes
- What’s Included:
- 3D design rendering
- Material/labor breakdown
- Permit fee estimates
2. Stress-Free Financing
- Options:
- 0% APR for 12 months
- 5-year loans at 5.9% APR
- Lease-to-own programs
- Example: $20,000 pool = $333/month (60 months)
Limited Time Offer:
✅ No Credit Check Quotes
✅ $1,000 Off for approvals within 48 hours
✅ Free Maintenance Guide with every quote
Your Small Yard Pool Awaits Affordable, Stylish, and Within Reach!
Transform your small backyard into a hip haven without over-reaching your budget! From cost savvy plunge pools to space savvy spools, the ideal budget friendly pool installation has something for every little backyard, every pocket. Clever material choices, creative designs, and maintenance hacks mean you enjoy luxury without the hefty bill.
At Hi Pools, we simplify:
✅ Free Custom Quotes designed specifically for your area
✅ Flexible Financing as low as 4.99% APR
✅ Expert Guidance to avoid surprise costs
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