Los Angeles homeowners are discovering a lucrative way to offset high housing costs by renting out their backyard swimming pools by the hour. Platforms like Swimply facilitate this trend, allowing residents to earn significant income from an often underutilized asset. Some top earners in the Los Angeles area are reportedly clearing six figures annually through these rentals.
Several pools have become notable on the Swimply app for their impressive earnings. The Orange Pool in the Hollywood Hills, hosted by Natalie and Alex Bykov, has generated over $264,000 since joining the platform. Dino's Hollywood Hills Oasis, with its scenic views, has earned more than $276,000. Leading the pack is the Disney+ Dive-In Theater pool, themed around "Camp Rock" and hosted by Amit Janweja, which has brought in nearly $300,000.
This venture is typically treated as a side hustle rather than a full-time business. Hosts set their own hourly rates, generally ranging from $50 to $150 or more, depending on amenities and location. They also manage bookings and can offer extras such as lounge chairs, grills, or themed setups. Swimply handles payments and provides some insurance, making the process relatively hands-off for hosts after the initial setup. Success is often influenced by factors like location, quality of photos, positive reviews, and effective marketing.
Even renters can participate in this trend, provided they obtain explicit written permission from their landlord. Swimply verifies these permissions with both the renter and the homeowner. This practice aligns with a broader trend, as highlighted by media reports in 2022, where Swimply hosts across the United States were already seeing substantial financial returns from their pools, sometimes exceeding their full-time job earnings.
While the income potential is considerable, pool maintenance requires attention. One host from Oregon noted that managing pool chemistry and upkeep can be time-consuming and requires more than just weekly professional service. The initial cost of installing an in-ground pool can also be substantial. Despite these considerations, the demand for private outdoor spaces remains strong in Southern California, driven by families, groups of friends, influencers, and small corporate events. With Los Angeles' favorable climate and a growing desire for alternatives to crowded public spaces, renting out backyard pools has evolved from a mere luxury to a potentially profitable component of homeownership.