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The $150K Backyard: A Line-by-Line Breakdown of Where Every Dollar Goes

January 2, 202610 min read
Elan Benor

Elan Benor

Co-Founder, Moda Outdoor Living

What $150K Actually Buys You in LA

One of our recent projects came in at exactly $152,000. The client asked me to walk them through every line item, and I thought—why not share this with everyone? Transparency builds trust.

This was a 4,500 sq ft backyard in Beverly Hills. Here's where every dollar went:

Pool & Spa: $82,000

  • 20x40 geometric pool with attached spa: $65,000 base
  • Baja shelf with bubblers: $6,500
  • Premium pebble finish (Quartzscapes French Gray): $4,500 upgrade
  • Pentair automation system with app control: $4,000
  • LED color lighting package: $2,000

Hardscape: $28,000

  • Travertine pavers (800 sq ft pool deck): $18,000
  • Travertine coping (replaces standard): $4,500
  • Walkways and step areas (200 sq ft): $3,500
  • Drainage and grading: $2,000

Outdoor Kitchen: $22,000

  • 12-foot L-shaped island: $8,000 construction
  • Lynx 36" professional grill: $5,500
  • Outdoor refrigerator: $2,500
  • Granite countertops: $3,000
  • Gas, electric, water hookups: $3,000

Pergola & Shade: $12,000

  • 14x12 aluminum pergola with solid roof: $9,000
  • Integrated LED lighting: $1,500
  • Ceiling fan with electrical: $1,500

Landscaping & Finishing: $8,000

  • Artificial turf area (400 sq ft): $4,000
  • Planting and irrigation: $2,500
  • Low-voltage landscape lighting: $1,500

Total: $152,000

This project took 14 weeks from permits to completion. The client financed through a home equity line at 7.2% APR.

I got about 8 bids for the project and decided to go with them. I cannot express how happy we are with our backyard now. — Michael M., via Google

What Made This Project 'Premium'

Several choices pushed this into the $150K range:

  • Travertine over standard pavers (+$8,000)
  • Lynx grill over builder-grade (+$3,500)
  • Larger pool size (+$10,000)
  • Full automation system (+$4,000)

A similar scope with standard materials would run closer to $110,000-120,000. The premium selections were worth it for this family because they entertain frequently and wanted lasting quality.

💡 Pro Tip

If you're budget-conscious, ask your contractor which upgrades add the most value for YOUR lifestyle. Some premium choices matter more than others.

What Our Clients Say

"I got about 8 bids for the project and decided to go with them. I cannot express how happy we are with our backyard now. Ilan really listened to my wife and did an amazing job designing a beautiful backyard for our family."
MM

Michael Martinho

Googlevia Google

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a similar backyard for less?

Yes—standard pavers, builder-grade appliances, and a smaller pool can bring a similar scope to $90,000-110,000.

How long does a project this size take?

Typically 12-16 weeks depending on permits, weather, and complexity.

Is financing available for backyard projects?

Most homeowners use HELOC, home equity loans, or contractor financing. We can connect you with lending partners.

Ready to Transform Your Backyard?

Let's discuss your project. Book a free consultation and I'll personally walk you through your options.

Elan Benor

Elan Benor

Co-Founder, Moda Outdoor Living

Elan co-founded Moda Outdoor Living with Ilan Koifman after they met during Ironman training. Together, they've completed over 1,000 backyard transformations across Los Angeles, bringing transparent pricing and exceptional craftsmanship to every project.

Learn more about our story →