Hungry for more life out of your backyard without spending big bucks?
Who doesn’t want a backyard that looks good and adds value to their home? Outdoor space is quickly becoming just as important as what you do inside. Who doesn’t love:
- Major curb appeal
- Increased property value
The issue?
Too many homeowners believe that in order to upgrade your backyard, you need to spend tens of thousands of dollars. Truth is, some of the best backyard improvements don’t cost nearly as much as you think.
You just need to know where to start.
If you’re NOT making smart upgrades to your backyard outdoor living space…you’re leaving money on the table.
Don’t worry, this guide covers all of the best budget-friendly backyard improvements that are totally worth the money. From backyard shade structures to simple landscaping ideas that’ll impress, these are the backyard wins that won’t break the bank.
Sound good? Let’s dig in!
What you’ll learn:
- Why backyard improvements are more important than ever.
- Why a freestanding pergola is the best budget-friendly backyard upgrade.
- 3 simple backyard improvements that offer major bang for your buck.
Why Backyard Improvements are More Important Than Ever
When you hear “Outdoor Living” you may think fancy patios, high-end furniture, or backyard kitchens. But outdoor living these days is so much more. Outdoor spaces are meant to be lived in.
Extending your living space out into your backyard is one of the best ways to increase your property value. Did you know that 56% of designers say outdoor living is being prioritized by homeowners more than ever in 2025?
Gone are the days of outdoor spaces being an afterthought. Now buyers are looking for homes that offer solid outdoor living opportunities. And if you’re looking to sell in the next few years, your backyard needs to be on point.
Not only that, but…
Outdoor improvements are some of the projects that homeowners can expect to see a huge return on when they sell. In fact, the National Association of Realtors says that landscape improvements can see up to 100% ROI. That’s right, you could potentially see dollar for dollar returned when it’s time to sell.
That means any and all backyard improvements are not only worth it but are necessary to stay competitive when you want to sell.
How A Freestanding Pergola Improves Any Outdoor Space
If we’re talking about budget-friendly backyard improvements…we have to start with pergolas.
A freestanding pergola is a backyard shade structure that isn’t connected to your home. This gives you so much more flexibility with where you can place it in your yard. Want it on a patio? You got it. Over your backyard kitchen? Perfect. Next to a pool? Of course!
There are many different types of pergola structures to choose from and prices range from budget-friendly to more expensive options. The type you choose all depends on what you’re looking for and where you plan to place it.
Let’s dig into why a pergola can be a game-changer for your backyard:
- It creates an area. A freestanding pergola is perfect for defining different spaces in your backyard. Maybe you have an eating area, lounging space, and entertaining zone. No matter what you want to do with your pergola, it creates that “foo-foo” factor.
- Adds shade. Pergolas provide some shade without breaking the bank on building a fully covered back porch. They’re the perfect in-between for covering your space.
- Increases home value. When buyers look at homes, they want to see that outdoor spaces have been thought through. Add a pergola and suddenly your backyard goes from blah to Wow!
So yeah, getting a pergola can help you check all of those boxes. Not to mention they’re relatively inexpensive and can be installed in a matter of days.
Budget-Friendly Backyard Improvements That Aren’t Cheap
Alright we started with the big guy. But what else can you do to improve your backyard without spending all of your savings?
Below are a few budget-friendly backyard improvements that are sure to wow.
Outdoor Lighting
Ok hear this out…
Outdoor lighting is one of the easiest things you can do that can make a huge difference. Some of the best backyard updates are solar lights. Pathway lights, solar string lights, solar spot lights. Don’t be afraid to layer some lighting!
Lighting creates ambiance and allows you to use your outdoor space at night. Not only that, but if you stick with solar lighting it won’t cost you a dime to run.
Landscaping
Who doesn’t love pretty landscaping?
Some of the best backyard landscaping tips out there are to keep things low maintenance. Using native plants that will grow well in your climate means less time spent every weekend troubleshooting your plant game.
Another great tip is to refresh your mulch and add mulch edging around beds.
Having clean landscaping shows that you take care of your home. Always bet on the front yards that look the nicest.
Fire Pit Area
Fire pits. LOVE.
Fire pits are one of the cheapest ways to add function to your backyard. Not only can you use them year-round (depending on what kind of fire pit) but they create a great space to gather.
Pro tip: Add your fire pit underneath your pergola for some added protection from the elements.
Pair this with some outdoor furniture and you’ve got yourself an outdoor living room at a fraction of the cost.
Patio Pavers
Another big budget-friendly backyard idea is to add or spruce up your patio space with some pavers. There are SO many different styles of pavers out there. You can really do anything from super cheap to you guessed it…more expensive options.
Pavers help create a clean surface that gives your backyard some structure. Pavers also go great under your pergola creating a defined space.
Simple Backyard Improvements To Stretch Your Budget
You really don’t have to tackle all of these backyard improvements at once. Don’t let your budget get pushed by trying to do it all at once.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how you can upgrade your backyard on a budget:
- Freestanding pergola for instant backyard structuring.
- Outdoor lighting to enjoy your backyard at night and create ambiance.
- Freshen up landscaping with native plants and mulch.
- Add a fire pit or pavers as your budget allows.
- Sprinkle in furniture and decor.
Boom! Just like that you have yourself a backyard makeover.
Wrap Up
Finding budget-friendly backyard improvements doesn’t have to be difficult. Just remember the key points:
- Backyard pergolas are one of the best ways to create a designated area in your backyard. Don’t sleep.
- Outdoor lighting and fire pits are great budget-friendly backyard upgrades.
- Add accent details as your budget allows.
Want more backyard tips? Check out the Ultimate Backyard Cover Guide for loads of shade coverage ideas!