Why Renting Your Pool is the Ultimate Side Hustle for Homeowners

Unlock the potential of your backyard with private pool rental and turn your pool into a profitable side hustle.

The Rise of Private Pool Rentals

In recent years, the sharing economy has transformed how homeowners monetize their assets. From Airbnb to Turo, peer-to-peer platforms have made it easier than ever to generate income from underutilized spaces and possessions. One of the most exciting trends in this space is private pool rental, where homeowners rent out their backyard pools to local swimmers, party hosts, and fitness enthusiasts. With over 10.4 million residential swimming pools in the U.S. alone, the potential for this side hustle is enormous. Lucky Backyards is at the forefront of this movement, helping homeowners turn their pools into lucrative income streams.

According to industry data, the global swimming pool market is projected to reach $33.06 billion by 2025, driven by demand for residential and recreational aquatic spaces. Meanwhile, platforms like Swimply, a leading pool rental marketplace, have reported a 200% year-over-year increase in bookings, with hosts earning an average of $5,000–$10,000 annually by renting their pools. These figures highlight the growing popularity of backyard pools for rent and the financial opportunities they present.

Why Renting Your Pool Makes Financial Sense

Maintaining a private pool can be costly, with average annual upkeep ranging from $3,000 to $6,000, including cleaning, chemicals, and repairs. For many homeowners, these expenses can feel like a burden, especially if the pool is used infrequently. Renting your pool offers a way to offset these costs and even generate a profit. Here’s how:

• High Hourly Rates: On platforms like Swimply, hosts can charge $25–$100 per hour for pool rentals, depending on location, amenities, and demand. In high-demand areas like Florida and California, which account for 1.59 million and 1.34 million residential pools respectively, rates can exceed $150 per hour.
• Flexible Scheduling: You control when and how often your pool is available for rent, allowing you to balance personal use with rental income. Many hosts rent their pools for just a few hours per week and still earn hundreds of dollars monthly.
• Low Overhead: Unlike other side hustles that require significant upfront investment, renting your pool leverages an existing asset. The primary costs are minimal, such as additional insurance or minor upgrades to enhance appeal.

By listing your pool for rent near you on platforms like Lucky Backyards, you can tap into a growing market of renters seeking affordable, private swimming experiences without the commitment of pool ownership.

The Demand for Private Pool Rentals

The demand for pool rental near you is surging, fueled by several factors:

1. Limited Access to Public Pools: With only 309,000 public pools in the U.S., access to affordable and convenient swimming facilities is limited, especially in urban areas. Private pool rentals fill this gap, offering a more exclusive and personalized experience.
2. Rising Popularity of Staycations: As travel costs increase, many families are opting for local getaways. Renting a private pool provides a resort-like experience without leaving town, making it an attractive option for staycations and celebrations.
3. Fitness and Wellness Trends: Swimming is a low-impact exercise favored by fitness enthusiasts. Renters often seek pools for lap swimming, aqua aerobics, or physical therapy, creating a steady demand for daytime rentals.
4. Social Gatherings: From birthday parties to corporate events, private pools are in high demand for hosting memorable gatherings. Hosts can charge premium rates for group bookings, boosting their earnings.

Data from AirDNA shows that short-term rental markets, including pool rentals, are expected to grow steadily in 2025, with occupancy rates stabilizing and pricing performance improving. This trend underscores the potential for homeowners to capitalize on the demand for backyard pools for rent.

How to Get Started with Private Pool Rental

Turning your pool into a side hustle is straightforward with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1 Step 1: Assess Your Pool’s Potential

Evaluate your pool’s appeal to potential renters. Consider factors like size, cleanliness, and amenities (e.g., diving boards, hot tubs, or outdoor seating). Upgrading features like smart lighting or a swim-up bar can increase your pool’s marketability. According to a 2025 pool trends report, over 60% of pools lack automation, so adding smart technology can set your pool apart.

Step 2: Ensure Safety and Compliance

Safety is paramount in private pool rentals. Install fencing, maintain proper water chemistry, and comply with local regulations. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 71% of pool-related drownings occur at private residences, emphasizing the need for robust safety measures. Consider obtaining a pool operator certification to enhance credibility.

Step 3: List Your Pool

Join a reputable platform like Lucky Backyards to list your pool. Create a compelling listing with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions. Highlight unique features like eco-friendly saltwater systems or infinity pool designs, which are trending in 2025.

Step 4: Set Competitive Pricing

Research local rates for pool rental near you to set competitive prices. Factor in maintenance costs and desired profit margins. Offering discounts for off-peak hours or longer bookings can attract more renters.

Step 5: Market Your Pool

Leverage social media and local community boards to promote your pool. Share testimonials from satisfied renters to build trust. Platforms like Instagram are powerful tools for showcasing your pool’s ambiance, especially for evening rentals with dark tiling or smart lighting.

Maximizing Your Earnings

To maximize your pool rental income, consider these strategies:

• Offer Add-Ons: Provide extras like pool floats, towels, or catering services for an additional fee. These can increase your revenue per booking.
• Target Niche Markets: Cater to specific groups, such as fitness instructors or event planners, to secure recurring bookings.
• Seasonal Promotions: Adjust pricing based on seasonal demand. For example, summer rates can be higher, while winter discounts can attract renters in warmer climates.

Hosts who optimize their listings and offer unique experiences can earn up to $20,000 annually, according to Swimply’s 2024 host survey, making private pool rental one of the most lucrative side hustles available.

Overcoming Common Challenges

While private pool rental is rewarding, it comes with challenges. Here’s how to address them:

• Privacy Concerns: Set clear boundaries for renters, such as restricting access to certain areas of your property. Smart locks and security cameras can enhance privacy.
• Maintenance Overload: Schedule regular cleanings and invest in automation to reduce upkeep time. Fiberglass pools, which save $375 annually on operating costs compared to concrete pools, are a low-maintenance option.
• Insurance Needs: Consult your insurance provider to ensure adequate coverage for pool rentals. Some platforms offer liability protection, but additional policies may be necessary.

By proactively addressing these challenges, you can create a seamless and profitable rental experience.

Why Choose Lucky Backyards?

At Lucky Backyards, we make private pool rental easy and profitable. Our platform connects homeowners with vetted renters, offering tools to manage bookings, set pricing, and ensure safety. With our user-friendly interface and dedicated support, you can focus on earning while we handle the logistics. Join the thousands of homeowners who are transforming their backyards into thriving businesses with Lucky Backyards.

Conclusion

Renting your pool is more than just a side hustle it’s a smart way to monetize an underutilized asset, offset maintenance costs, and connect with your community. With the private pool rental market booming and platforms like Lucky Backyards simplifying the process, there’s never been a better time to dive in. Whether you’re in a sun-soaked state like Florida or a bustling city, your pool has the potential to generate thousands of dollars annually. Start today and make a splash with backyard pools for rent!

Ready to get started? Visit Lucky Backyards to list your pool and turn your backyard into a profitable oasis.