A Hot Summer Trend in the Sharing Economy? Rental Swimming Pools
A hot summer trend in the sharing – As the summer sun scorches the southern United States, a new trend is emerging in the world of shared spaces: renting out backyard pools. This practice, once a niche activity, has gained traction as more people seek ways to enjoy outdoor leisure without the burden of maintenance. One example of this shift came from Meghan Clopton, who last year hosted a summer birthday celebration for her child, complete with water guns, a twisting slide, and a variety of inflatables. The event, however, hinged on a single question: whose pool was being used?
The Rise of Pool Rentals in the Sharing Economy
Clopton’s party was made possible through a platform called Swimply, which operates similarly to Airbnb but focuses on rental properties like pools, hot tubs, and even tennis courts. These services have become a growing segment of the sharing economy, offering convenience and accessibility for everyday use. Unlike traditional vacation rentals, Swimply’s listings often cater to local residents, allowing them to book pools near their homes for events like family gatherings or weekend outings.
“It’s part of the culture now, right? Just, like, take over someone else’s house or pool for the day or the weekend,” Clopton said.
The platform’s appeal lies in its flexibility. Users can filter options based on privacy, location, and availability, making it easier to find a pool that fits their needs. For instance, renters might prioritize listings where the pool is tucked away from the main house or where the host is not present during the event. This customization ensures a seamless experience, bridging the gap between personal property and commercial rental services.
How Pool Ownership Transforms into a Side Income
Jasmine Lawson, a Swimply host in Birmingham, Alabama, has turned her backyard pool into a profitable venture. Initially, she began renting it out to cover veterinary expenses for her Cavalier King Charles spaniel, but the practice quickly expanded. Now, Lawson hosts over 1,000 guests annually, with the number growing each year. Her rental package includes not just the pool and hot tub, but also an air-conditioned room for setting up food and a private bathroom, along with access to a catalog of 50 different floats.
Lawson’s guests often choose the white, human-sized inflatable unicorn that sprays water from its horn as a favorite. “It’s a hit with kids and adults alike,” she noted. The rental process is designed to be low-effort, with hosts like Lawson providing a brief walkthrough before retreating to their own space. “But if they ever need anything, I’m right down here helping them as soon as I can,” she added, highlighting the balance between independence and support that defines the platform.
From Personal Use to Profitable Enterprise
The concept of shared pools reflects a broader shift in how people view personal property. Bunim Laskin, founder and CEO of Swimply, explained that the platform was born from his own experience of offering to pay a neighbor for borrowing their pool during a family event with 11 siblings. “It was a simple solution to a common problem,” he said. Since launching in 2019, Swimply has grown to include listings in 150 cities, with over 275,000 reservations this year — a 50% increase compared to the previous year.
Unlike Airbnb, which typically attracts travelers from out of town, Swimply’s users are more likely to book pools within their own neighborhoods. This local focus has made it a popular choice for staycations, where families or friends gather for a refreshing escape without the need for long-distance travel. The platform’s success during the pandemic, when travel restrictions limited traditional vacations, underscored its value. “We really became big for the first time during the pandemic,” Laskin said. “Travel was impossible, and people needed a way to earn extra income.”
Liability and Legal Challenges
While the convenience of rental pools is clear, the question of responsibility in case of accidents remains unresolved. Pools, especially in residential settings, can pose risks to young swimmers or visitors unfamiliar with the rules. Swimply addresses this by offering up to $1 million in liability coverage for hosts, a policy that mirrors Airbnb’s approach to home rentals.
Lindsey Cameron, an assistant professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, explained that courts are grappling with the legal implications of such platforms. “The challenge is determining who is liable when someone is injured,” she said, using the example of rideshare drivers and passengers. “In the gig economy, there’s no traditional employer, so it’s unclear whether the host or the company should bear the responsibility.”
State governments are also weighing in on these issues. In Minnesota, the Supreme Court recently agreed to review a case questioning whether Swimply’s pools should be classified as public facilities, which would subject them to government licensing and inspection requirements. A lower court had previously ruled in favor of these regulations, signaling a potential shift in how such services are governed.
The Future of Pool Rentals
As the sharing economy continues to evolve, rental pools like those on Swimply are redefining how people access leisure spaces. The model has proven resilient even in economic downturns, with demand often remaining steady. “People are looking for ways to make the most of their assets,” Laskin observed. “Whether it’s a pool, a tennis court, or a guest room, the idea is to generate income while providing value to others.”
The trend also reflects changing attitudes toward ownership and usage. For homeowners like Lawson, renting out their pools is not just about financial gain but also about fostering community. “It’s a way to share something special with others,” she said. “Everyone benefits — the host gets money, and the guests get a fun, stress-free experience.”
Despite the benefits, the industry still faces hurdles. The debate over liability and regulation highlights the need for clear frameworks that protect both hosts and guests. As more cities consider implementing oversight, the question remains: will these measures hinder innovation, or will they ensure the safety and sustainability of the pool rental economy?
With demand for local amenities rising, platforms like Swimply are likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of shared spaces. Whether through convenience, profitability, or community-building, the rental pool movement is proving that the sharing economy’s reach extends far beyond hotels and apartments — into the very backyard where people gather to cool off and connect.
