Designing a swimming pool on a budget is entirely possible if you shift your focus from massive, deep-end structures to functional, space-efficient layouts. The cheapest way to design a pool starts with choosing a simple shape and a manageable size. Every extra foot of water surface and every unique curve in the design adds to the cost of excavation, materials, and labor. By sticking to a standard rectangular or square footprint, you allow for easier construction and the use of pre-made materials that are far less expensive than custom-poured solutions.
Another key to low-cost backyard swimming pool design is the concept of a “plunge pool” or “cocktail pool.” These smaller designs are typically around 10 by 15 feet and focus on relaxation rather than swimming laps. Because they hold much less water, you save thousands of dollars on the initial build and continue to save every month on chemicals and heating. Designing your pool around a smaller footprint also means you can often place it closer to existing decks or patios, reducing the amount of new landscaping and “hardscaping” you need to install to make the area look finished.
Using Free Online Tools to Lower Professional Fees
One of the best ways to keep your design costs low is to use free or low-cost digital tools before you ever talk to a contractor. Platforms like the Beatbot AI pool designer allow you to see what different styles look like in your actual yard without paying a designer for a 3D rendering. By experimenting with these tools, you can figure out the best placement and style for your property for free. This gives you a clear vision to show your builder, which helps avoid the expensive “change orders” that happen when a homeowner changes their mind halfway through the digging process.
Beyond AI-specific tools, you can use simple browser-based planners like Planner 5D or Gardena MyGarden. These allow you to map out your property lines and house location, so you can see exactly how much space you have left for a pool. If you go into a meeting with a contractor holding a rough digital sketch and a clear idea of your dimensions, you are much more likely to get an accurate, lower bid. You are essentially doing the “vision” part of the work yourself, which can save you a significant amount in consulting fees.
Choosing Cost-Effective Materials and Features
When it comes to the physical design, the material you choose is the biggest factor in the total price. A vinyl liner pool is consistently the cheapest permanent inground option. These pools use a steel or polymer frame that is much faster to install than a concrete pool. While the liner will eventually need to be replaced, the initial cost is tens of thousands of dollars lower than gunite or fiberglass. If your budget is even tighter, a “stock tank pool” or an above-ground pool with a custom-built wood deck can give you a high-end look for a fraction of the cost of a traditional inground project.
You can also design your pool with “future-proofing” in mind to save money today. This means you design the pool with the electrical and plumbing connections for things like heaters, waterfalls, or lighting, but you don’t actually buy the equipment yet. By having the infrastructure in place during the initial build, you avoid the massive labor costs of digging up your yard later. Starting with a basic, high-quality shell and adding the “luxury” features over the next few years is a smart way to get the pool you want without taking on a massive loan all at once.
Cutting Costs with Simple Landscaping and Lighting
The area around the pool can often cost as much as the pool itself, so designing your landscaping carefully is vital. Instead of expensive natural stone or intricate pavers, consider using stamped concrete or even a simple gravel border. Decorative gravel is a very cheap way to create a clean, modern look that drains well and requires almost no maintenance. You can also save a lot by doing the planting yourself. Buying smaller shrubs and trees and letting them grow into the space over a few seasons is much cheaper than buying mature plants from a nursery.
Lighting is another area where you can save without losing style. Instead of expensive underwater lighting that requires professional electrical work, you can use solar-powered path lights and floating LED pool lights. These provide plenty of ambiance for night swims and can be installed in minutes for very little money. By focusing your design on these “high-impact, low-cost” elements, you can create a backyard that looks like a resort even if you are working with a limited budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest inground pool type to design? A vinyl liner pool is the most affordable permanent inground option, followed by fiberglass and then concrete.
How can I save on pool design fees? Use free AI design tools or online 3D planners to create your own initial layout before hiring a professional.
Are smaller pools really that much cheaper? Yes. Smaller pools require less excavation, fewer materials to build, less water to fill, and fewer chemicals to maintain.
Can I build a pool myself to save money? While you can do the landscaping and some prep work, the structural build of an inground pool is usually best left to professionals to avoid leaks.