How Renting Private Pickleball Courts Is Turning Into a Side Business for Homeowners

More and more homeowners with private pickleball courts are discovering a way to turn their passion for the game into a lucrative side business. By listing their courts on apps like Swimply, they’re able to share their amenities with others and earn extra income in the process. Take Michael Thompson, for instance, a retired teacher in San Diego, who built a vibrant backyard pickleball court. What started as a personal retirement project quickly turned into a profitable venture, bringing in $1,600 in the first year alone through rentals.

Homeowners are finding that renting out their private courts provides not only financial benefits but also community building. Thompson, like many others, enjoys hearing people laugh and play in his backyard, turning what was once a personal space into a neighborhood gem. With rentals averaging around $50 an hour, homeowners can host everything from family gatherings to special events, such as proposals and celebrations. Thompson even witnessed a couple getting engaged on his court, showing that these spaces offer more than just a place to play—they create lasting memories.

The trend is growing, and for many, renting out private courts offers more than passive income—it brings joy, community, and a deeper connection to the sport they love. Whether it’s the appeal of playing on custom courts or having access to a private setting, renting pickleball courts is proving to be a win-win for everyone involved.