What You Can Realistically Expect To Pay For A Backyard Oasis

At first glance, this might appear like one of those "how long is a piece of string" statements. It's clear that size, complexity, and materials have a huge impact on how much a backyard oasis will set you back, as does the amount of work you do yourself. TikTok shows us that it's possible to build a DIY patio for under $800, but it's a small, basic rectangle with concrete slabs. If you want your backyard oasis to be more dramatic, it's going to cost you. Professional sources estimate anywhere from $5 to $40 per square foot, which means a typical patio of 500 square feet, including labor, costs between $2,500 and $20,000. That's a wide margin, so let's look at the variables.

Assuming you're starting with a lawned area, you'll need to remove the sod and create a stable base. If you apply a liberal amount of elbow grease, this costs you nothing. You'll need sand and gravel for the base, which are relatively low cost, particularly if you order in bulk rather than buying bags at the hardware store. Pavers are something of a must. You can reduce costs by using them sparingly amongst the gravel, not over the whole area. We found concrete pavers at as little as $3 to $6 per square foot, whereas natural stone could be $10 to $15 per square foot. It's an example of why that $2,500 to $20,000 range is so wide. When budgeting, it's important to assess every option carefully.

The patio itself is only one element in your backyard oasis. Furniture and accessories might add between $1,500 and $15,000, but there are numerous ways to make savings. Planters can be constructed economically from cinder blocks if you have the skill, whereas hiring a professional would cost from $15 to $30 per square foot. Pressure-treated lumber is a more affordable DIY alternative. Adding a DIY fire pit could save you money, although some models cost under $100. You could DIY a patio couch, while store-bought options might easily top $1,000. It needn't be difficult to add a fountain; as with any project, success depends on whether your DIY abilities meet your aesthetic desires! Many attractive options are available for under $250.

One area where you might want to call a professional is for fitting lights or power outlets. Care is required when working with electricity outdoors, so it remains safe through all types of weather. A qualified contractor is likely to cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour, so modest projects might be completed in a day, adding between $400 and $800 to the total.

Bottom line? It's unlikely, even if you do everything yourself, that you'll spend less than a couple of thousand dollars. How much more will depend on a whole host of choices and whether you have the skills — or the will — to do a lot of the work yourself.