Cheapest Pool Designs That Still Look Amazing
When summer gets really hot, nothing feels better than jumping into your own backyard pool. But many people worry that building a pool will cost too much money. The good news is, you don’t have to be rich to have a beautiful place to swim at home.
There are plenty of cheapest pool designs that look great, feel relaxing, and are budget-friendly—all while still having that “wow” look.
If you’re working with a small budget, don’t have much space, or just want a cool pool that’s not super expensive, this guide will help you explore affordable pool designs that are still stylish.
Let’s check out some awesome low-cost pool ideas, tips for designing on a budget, and the features that make a pool look great without spending a ton of money.
Why Affordable Doesn’t Mean Boring
Many people think cheaper pools won’t look nice, but that’s not true! Thanks to new materials, smart designs, and DIY pool design ideas, you can get an awesome-looking pool without spending too much.
Think about sleek lap pools, tiny plunge pools, or even above-ground pools that are made to look fancy with custom decks.
When you’re picking a pool design, think about:
- The size of your backyard
- How you’ll use the pool (fun, exercise, looks)
- How much it costs to take care of
- How long the materials will last
The pool designs below are perfect for people who want to save money but still want a stylish place to swim.
1. Above-Ground Pools with Custom Decking
Above-ground pools are one of the most popular cheapest pool design ideas for backyards. They cost much less to put in than inground pools, and with some cool decking, they can look just as nice.
Why It Works:
If you build a wood or composite deck all around the pool, it looks almost like an inground pool. It also gives you more space to relax and can be built little by little to spread out the cost.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Cost | Starts around $2,500 |
| Installation Time | 1–3 days |
| Customization | High (decking, lighting, ladders) |
2. Shipping Container Pools
Looking for fun and creative small budget pools? Try a shipping container pool! These are old metal containers that are made waterproof and turned into ready-to-use pools.
Why It Works:
They’re super trendy and can be moved easily, which is great if you’re renting or might move in the future.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Cost | $15,000–$30,000 |
| Lifespan | 25+ years |
| Ideal For | Narrow backyards, modern designs |
3. Plunge Pools
Don’t have a lot of space but want something fancy? Plunge pools are small but classy. They’re usually 7–10 feet wide and are great for relaxing.
Why It Works:
Because they’re smaller, they cost less to build, clean, and heat. Add a tiny waterfall or some jets for a spa-like feel.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Cost | $10,000–$20,000 |
| Size | 7–10 ft (customizable) |
| Aesthetic | Sleek, minimalist |
4. Natural Swimming Pools
Perfect for people who care about the environment, these pools use plants and natural filters instead of chemicals to clean the water. They may cost about the same at first, but they save money later on.
Why It Works:
They fit into your backyard naturally and use fewer chemicals, which is healthier for both you and nature.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Cost | $20,000–$35,000 |
| Monthly Maintenance | Very Low |
| Bonus | Great for wildlife, no chlorine |
5. Stock Tank Pools
A favorite in the DIY pool design world, stock tank pools are cheap, simple to set up, and look cool when you add chairs and plants around them.
Why It Works:
For less than $1,000, you can have a cute, farm-style pool to chill out in on hot days.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Cost | $300–$1,500 |
| Installation | DIY in a weekend |
| Style | Farmhouse, Boho, Minimalist |
6. Vinyl Liner Inground Pools
If you really want a pool that goes in the ground, vinyl liner pools are the best affordable pool designs in that category. They don’t last as long as fiberglass or concrete, but they’re cheaper and faster to build.
Why It Works:
These pools give you that elegant inground look without the big price tag. Plus, they come in lots of shapes and sizes.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Cost | $25,000–$45,000 |
| Lifespan | 7–12 years (liner) |
| Design Options | High |
Smart Tips for Building a Budget Pool
Trying to save while building your pool? Here are some smart ways to spend less and still get a great result:
- Keep it small – Smaller pools cost less to build and maintain.
- Choose simple shapes – Circles and rectangles are cheaper than fancy shapes.
- Do it yourself – If you’re handy, you can save a lot on decks, landscaping, and even setting up the pool.
- Shop in the off-season – Building in fall or winter might be cheaper because there’s less demand.
- Buy in bundles – Some builders offer deals that include things like fencing or cleaning plans.
Materials Matter: Choosing Wisely
Here’s a look at how different materials compare when you’re on a budget:
| Material | Avg. Cost | Pros | Cons |
| Vinyl Liner | $25,000+ | Custom shapes, cheaper to start | You need to replace the liner |
| Fiberglass | $30,000+ | Easy to clean, quick to install | Costs more at the beginning |
| Concrete | $50,000+ | Lasts long, lots of design options | Very expensive, takes longer to build |
| Steel/Aluminum (Above-Ground) | $1,500+ | Very affordable | Not as strong or long-lasting |
If you want tips for taking care of your pool once it’s built, check out A Beginner’s Guide to Fiberglass Pool Maintenance—it’s a great resource that helps you save money and keep your pool in good shape.
Real-Life Budget Pool Transformations
Still unsure? Here are some real examples of cool, low-cost pool makeovers from around the U.S.:
| Location | Design | Budget | Wow Factor |
| Texas Suburb | Stock Tank Pool + Wooden Deck | $1,200 | Instagram-worthy |
| Florida Backyard | Vinyl Inground w/ LED Lighting | $28,000 | Resort feel |
| New York Upstate | Plunge Pool w/ Flagstone Patio | $15,500 | Rustic charm |
Final Thoughts
Looking for cheapest pool designs doesn’t mean you have to settle for something boring—it just means using your money wisely.
If you want low-cost pool ideas like stock tank pools or something a bit fancier like a vinyl or fiberglass pool, there’s an option for everyone. Plus, having a pool isn’t just fun—it can even make your house worth more!
For homeowners considering a new pool, it’s important to review local and national safety standards to ensure your design meets all recommended guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the cheapest pool designs available for small backyards?
The cheapest pool designs for small spaces often include plunge pools, container pools, and above-ground pools. These options are not only space-efficient but also budget-friendly, making them ideal for homeowners looking for low-cost pool ideas that don’t compromise on style. - Are there any affordable pool designs that still look luxurious?
Yes! You can achieve a luxurious look even with affordable pool designs by using creative landscaping, LED lighting, water features, and modern decking materials. These design elements elevate the appearance without a high price tag. - Can I build a DIY pool design on a tight budget?
Absolutely. Many homeowners are opting for DIY pool designs using prefabricated kits or repurposed materials like shipping containers. These small budget pools can significantly reduce labor costs while still providing an attractive outdoor retreat. - What are some cheapest pool design ideas for backyards with limited space? For tight spaces, the cheapest pool design ideas for backyards include cocktail pools, spool pools (spa + pool combos), and stock tank pools. These options are compact, require less maintenance, and can be customized to fit your backyard perfectly.
- How do I maintain a pool built with low-cost pool ideas?
Maintaining a pool built on a budget is just as important as any high-end installation. Use energy-efficient filters, regular water testing kits, and low-maintenance materials. You can also refer to our article A Beginner’s Guide to Fiberglass Pool Maintenance for detailed tips on keeping your affordable pool in top condition.
Ready to Bring Your Dream Pool to Life—Without Breaking the Bank?
At KD Pool Builders, we specialize in creating affordable pool designs that look anything but cheap.
With over a decade of experience, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Buffalo transform their backyards with cheapest pool designs that are stylish, functional, and built to last.
If you’re exploring DIY pool design options or need professional guidance on small budget pools, our expert team is here to make the process smooth and stress-free.
We deliver budget-friendly solutions, on-time project completion, and exceptional service every step of the way. Let’s start building your dream pool today! Call us at +1 (716) 300-2773 or visit kdpoolbuilders.com