I’m a Real Estate Agent: 6 Backyard Amenities Homebuyers Will Want in 2026
Written by
Vance Cariaga
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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Americans spend a lot of time in their backyards — and a lot of money making sure those yards check all the right boxes.
The typical homeowner spends nearly 12 hours a week in their outdoor spaces, according to a survey of 2,000 homeowners conducted by Talker Research on behalf of outdoor deck manufacturer Trex. Research compiled by the Workyard website found that the average household spends around $3,600 a year on landscaping alone. That doesn’t even include thousands more spent on backyard features.
All of this time and money aligns with the current trend of turning backyards into something much more than just a place to grow grass.
“Backyards have become extensions of the home where people can entertain, dine and relax year-round,” said Damarys Cover, seniors real estate specialist with Damarys & Co. Group at Fox & Foxx Realty. “The 2026 homeowner is focused on comfort, connection and creating a lifestyle that feels both luxurious and sustainable — without ever leaving home.”
Here are six backyard amenities that homebuyers will want in 2026, according to real estate agents. Keep in mind that costs vary depending on factors such as where you live and the scale of the project.
Fire Pits and Outdoor Lounges
- Average cost: $1,500 to $8,000
Outdoor living spaces with fire pits, comfortable seating and covered patios “continue to be crowd favorites” for year-round enjoyment, Cover told GOBankingRates. These spaces create “an inviting extension of indoor living space” and “boost the perception” of usable square footage that will increase the value of the home.
Turf
- Average cost: $10,000 to $20,000 for a standard backyard
Jeff Lichtenstein, broker and CEO of Florida-based Echo Fine Properties, said turf ranks No. 1 on the list of backyard amenities for his clients and contacts despite the cost.
“It adds more pop and the maintenance is inexpensive,” Lichtenstein told GBR. “It has picked up even more because the cost of labor to upkeep the landscaping has gotten higher with so much less labor available.”
Smart Outdoor Technology
- Average cost: $2,000 to $7,000 for a full setup
This includes smart lighting, irrigation systems and outdoor sound setups.
“These features integrate with mobile devices, allowing homeowners to control ambiance, water usage and security,” said Cover, who also serves as 2025 president-elect of the Women’s Council of Realtors for Middlesex County, New Jersey.
Outdoor Kitchens & Dining Areas
- Average cost: $10,000 to $25,000 (depending on size and materials)
Outdoor kitchens remain among the most desirable upgrades as homeowners continue to prioritize entertaining at home.
“Modern setups include built-in grills, pizza ovens and beverage stations,” Cover said. “These can increase resale appeal and recoup up to 70% of the investment, especially in warmer climates.”
Fountains
- Average cost: $1,000 to $5,000
Fountains are “soothing,” reduce noise and are visually appealing, Lichtenstein said. This all helps contribute to a relaxing backyard atmosphere.
Sustainable Landscaping
- Average cost: $3,000 to $10,000
Low-maintenance, eco-friendly landscaping such as native plants, drip irrigation and artificial turf are becoming more popular as homeowners “seek beauty without high water bills,” Cover said. Sustainable landscaping also attracts environmentally-conscious buyers and can lower ongoing maintenance costs.
Wellness Retreat Spaces
- Average cost: $5,000 to $15,000 (depending on features)
The concept of wellness “continues to expand outdoors,” Cover said, as more homeowners invest in meditation gardens, saunas and hot tubs to create personal retreat spaces.
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