Sharing private swimming pools remains popular: 'I prefer the concept of communal usage'
The private pool market in France is experiencing a significant surge, with one swimming pool per 21 people[1]. This trend, which has been ongoing since the pandemic, is driven by a construction boom and the growing demand for affordable pool options such as small "mini-pools."
Despite regional restrictions on pool size and water use, pool ownership remains popular. In fact, the installation of new in-ground pools was particularly strong in 2020 and 2021, with 70,000 and 86,000 installations respectively[1]. The average installation cost hovers around €24,000, but smaller or above-ground pools are available for under €10,000[1].
For pool owners, renting out properties with private pools, especially in attractive holiday regions, can be a lucrative opportunity. Properties with private heated pools are marketed at premium rental rates, as seen in holiday home listings on platforms promoting rentals of houses with private pools near Gourdon, Dordogne[3]. Long-term rental prices for pool-access properties in southern France can command upwards of €500-€650 monthly, reflecting the premium value of pools[4]. Seasonal holiday rental income, which tends to peak in summer, can be considerably higher—potentially several thousand euros per season depending on location and pool quality—but precise figures require market-specific rental platform data.
The growth of platforms like Swimmy and the emergence of others indicate the appeal of the private pool rental sector. Swimmy, for instance, offers over 6,000 private pools for rent and has seen steady annual growth since 2017. Other platforms like MyPrivatePool have also entered the market.
Sociologist Jean Viard supports the rental of private pools, stating that they are often underutilized[1]. This underutilization, he suggests, makes them suitable for rental. The cost of renting a private pool through Swimmy can reach significant amounts, such as 10,000 euros per season[1].
Cécile, a 52-year-old tourism professional, discovered the French platform Swimmy in 2022 for private pool rentals. She was able to enjoy a private pool afternoon with her daughter and friends, avoiding crowds and noise. The rental of private pools can potentially provide a high return on investment, given the cost can be up to 10,000 euros per season[1].
The first heatwaves of 2025 saw a 30% increase in Swimmy pool rentals compared to previous years, further highlighting the growing popularity of this trend. As more pool owners consider renting out their properties, the private pool rental sector continues to expand, offering a unique opportunity for both pool owners and renters alike.
In light of the growing demand for private pools, home-and-garden enthusiasts are capitalizing on outdoor-living opportunities by renting out their properties that include private pools, particularly in attractive holiday regions like Gourdon, Dordogne. This rental arrangement, exemplified by popular platforms like Swimmy, offers pool owners a potential high return on investment, with rental costs reaching up to 10,000 euros per season.
As more pool owners explore rental options and platforms continue to emerge, such as MyPrivatePool, the private pool rental sector is experiencing significant expansion, transforming outdoor-living spaces into lucrative lifestyle investments for both pool owners and renters alike.
