The Absolute Best Small Patio Ideas For When You’re On A Budget

These small patio ideas are perfect for an apartment or balcony space that needs some sprucing up.

Warmer weather means breaking out the outdoor furniture and getting the patio ready for summer. Having a cozy patio can make such a difference in your home and is the perfect space to have a hidden oasis for yourself and guests. 

Just because you're on a budget, doesn't mean you can't create a Pinterest-worthy patio space. Living in a small apartment, I had to get creative with our home decor and furniture while still sticking to our budget. 

I've rounded up the best small patio ideas and furniture pieces that will completely elevate your small space and impress your guests!

These are the absolute best small patio ideas for when you're on a budget.

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1. Outdoor Patio

How stunning is this outdoor patio? While it's more spacious, many of this patio furniture can work in a smaller space and would look so cozy. I love the table and rattan cushion chair, they look so comfortable and relaxing.

2. Cozy Patio

Keep things simple and cozy with this cute grey and white set up. As far as small patio ideas go, this is such an easy patio to recreate, and you only need a few essential furniture pieces to do it.

3. Garden Patio

Fill your patio space with plants and string lights to curate a relaxing, ambient space you and your guests will love. This l-shape sofa cushion will make the most out of any patio space.

4. Modern Patio

Go for the modern patio look with these simple and contemporary pieces. The mix of white, black, and brown creates balance, and adding in a few plants will warm up the space to make it the perfect oasis.

5. Chic Balcony

This small patio is so chic and simple. I love that you don't need a lot of patio furniture to create such a homey, laid-back space. It's perfect to use as a reading nook or space to relax, and the string lights make it cozy and warm.

6. Simple Patio

If you're tight on space, this small patio idea is for you. All you need is a small sofa chair with cushions, string lights, a wooden table and a throw for the sofa to create this space. You'll love how simple and easy it is to create.

7. Airy Patio

There's nothing like a bright and airy patio to escape to after a long day. This small patio is simple and uses lamps, candles and string lights to create a gorgeous space.

8. Minimalist Patio

To stay within your budget, go for a minimalist patio aesthetic that's still super inviting and comfortable. These rattan sofa chairs are trendy and cozy, and the table is the perfect addition to tie the decor together. Add a throw or two to complete the patio for a lovely space.

9. Patio Nook

Everybody loves a little reading nook and this looks like the perfect oasis to escape to. The fake plants and wicker chair give the space such a cozy feel that will make anyone feel relaxed.

10. Neutral Patio

Keep things neutral with this classic patio idea. The rattan furniture all goes together so well, and with a few string lights and plants you'll have the perfect patio space for the summer.

11. Black Themed Patio

For a darker, moodier vibe, add some black patio furniture to your balcony. The chair is big and comfortable, and the planter shelf is great for adding your favorite outdoor plants and flowers to elevate the decor.

12. Warm Patio

If you prefer a warmer atmosphere, add a few pops of orange and yellow to your patio for a vibrant vibe that stands out. Rattan furniture is also a great way to give your patio a rustic, summer feel to it.

13. Grey & Bright

Grey and white are a great color combination that will give your small patio a neutral but bright vibe to it. With some string lights and plants, you'll effortlessly create a warm, inviting space that's earthy and perfect for having guests over to enjoy.

14. Coastal Patio

I love how bright and inviting this coastal patio decor is. The best part is, it's so easy to achieve! All you need is a wooden patio set, a rug, string lights, and a few planters for your plants to recreate this chic space.

15. Modern Chic Patio

Guests will obsess over this modern chic patio decor at your place! Black and white are such a classic color mix that looks modern but chic.

16. Rustic Patio Decor

There's something so charming and rustic about this small patio idea. Add fake ivory and lanterns, along with string lights to recreate this bright and rustic patio setting.

17. Hidden Oasis

If you want your patio to be a hidden oasis, this is the perfect decor style for you. When it comes to small patio ideas, this one is unique and creates an intimate, inviting space.

18. Simplistic Patio Decor

You can't beat a simple patio aesthetic like this. All you need is a patterned rug, a few planters, and this exact patio set from Ashley to recreate this space. We have some of our favorite furniture from Ashley, so if you want to invest in a long-lasting patio set, this is a comfortable, high quality sofa that's worth it.

19. Open Patio

If you have more open space available, this patio idea is perfect for you. The black and white patio furniture go perfectly with the wooden table and create a chic, earthy look that your guests will love.

20. Simple Black Patio

Keep it simple with this black patio decor. All you need is a set of black patio chairs, cushions, a rug, and a few plants to spruce up the space. The best part about this patio idea is that you don't need much space to make it work!

21. Oasis

How cozy and warm is this patio oasis? Invest in a wicker egg chair, wooden table, and a few plants to recreate this comfortable patio spot that you'll want to hang out in al summer long.