How to Choose the Right Bounce House for Your Backyard and Budget
Not all bounce houses are created equal—and not every backyard (or budget) is built to handle the same inflatable. If you're scrolling through options, wondering how to choose the one that fits your space, suits your kids, and won’t break the bank, this guide has you covered. Designed for real parents like you—juggling parties, Instagram pressure, and practical concerns—we’re here to help you plan your bounce house party smarter, not harder.
Here’s a quick breakdown of general bounce house sizes:
If you’re working with a small yard, don’t worry—there are still plenty of compact units that deliver big fun. Just double-check measurements and talk to your rental company about clearance requirements.
Kids in the 5–8 range enjoy a little more action. Medium-sized moonwalk rentals with added features like a basketball hoop or a low slide can hold their attention longer. Older children typically prefer larger units with space to move, more bounce, and interactive elements like climbing walls or mini obstacle zones.
If you’re planning a party with kids in different age ranges, consider renting a second unit or setting up a rotation. That way, everyone gets a turn that’s tailored to their level—and you minimize the risk of collisions between toddlers and energetic tweens.
To keep things budget-friendly, book early—especially during peak season. You can also ask your rental company if they offer weekday or half-day pricing, which can lower your total. And if you’re co-hosting with another family or doing a dual birthday, splitting the cost is a win for everyone.
Safety matters too. Be sure your provider sanitizes equipment between uses and uses proper anchoring techniques. If you have questions, ask them. A reliable company will walk you through exactly what to expect and make sure you feel confident before the big day.
If you're planning an event in Pearland or nearby, Orbit Moonwalks offers a wide range of bounce houses—from small-yard options to budget-friendly combos. And yes, we’re always happy to help you choose the best fit for your family and backyard.
Want a deeper look at setup, safety, and what to expect on party day? Check out our full Bounce House Rentals Guide for everything parents need to know before booking. Looking for more party planning wisdom?
Follow Orbit Moonwalks blog for guides and tips made just for parents like you—thoughtful, practical, and fun-first.
Most small backyards can handle a bounce house in the 10x10 to 13x13 range. These are perfect for toddlers or parties with fewer guests and still deliver tons of fun. Just make sure to measure your space and allow a few feet of clearance on each side.
It depends on the size of the inflatable and the age of the children. Small units may safely hold 4–6 younger kids, while larger ones can accommodate more. Always stick to similar age groups and follow the capacity guidelines provided with your rental.
Absolutely. Basic bounce houses are the most affordable, typically ranging from $100 to $150 for a 4–6 hour rental. You can save even more by booking on weekdays or splitting the cost with another family for a joint celebration.
Basic units usually cost between $1199 and $300. Dry combo inflatables with slides or interactive features range from $239 to $329, while water slide bounce house options may run $299 or more. Be sure to ask what's included in your quote—some rentals cover setup and takedown, while others charge separately.
It’s can be done, but it's recommended with supervision only. Younger kids need smaller, more enclosed bounce houses for safe play. Mixing toddlers and bigger kids in one unit can lead to injuries. For parties with a wide age range, consider renting a second unit or organizing bounce time in shifts.
Start With the Space: Does Your Yard Match the Size?
Before anything else, grab a tape measure. Knowing the actual usable space in your backyard is step one. Bounce houses need flat, open ground and extra clearance around the sides for safety.Here’s a quick breakdown of general bounce house sizes:
- Small Moonwalks (10x10 to 13x13): Ideal for toddlers or smaller yards. These are great for younger kids and events with fewer guests.
- Medium Jumpers (13x13 to 15x15): The most common size, perfect for ages 4–9. Fits in most yards with room to spare.
- Large Bouncy Houses (15x15+): Best for bigger events or older kids. These units may have slides, hoops, or obstacle features and need plenty of space.
- Combo Bounce Houses with Slides (up to 32 × 16 × 14 ft): Combine a bounce house with a slide for double the fun!
If you’re working with a small yard, don’t worry—there are still plenty of compact units that deliver big fun. Just double-check measurements and talk to your rental company about clearance requirements.
Age Matters: Choosing the Right Bounce House for Your Kids
A bounce house that’s perfect for your 3-year-old might not be fun—or safe—for your 9-year-old. Younger kids do better in smaller, simpler units with low sides and gentle bounce zones. For preschoolers, look for models that are soft, enclosed, and easy to enter and exit.Kids in the 5–8 range enjoy a little more action. Medium-sized moonwalk rentals with added features like a basketball hoop or a low slide can hold their attention longer. Older children typically prefer larger units with space to move, more bounce, and interactive elements like climbing walls or mini obstacle zones.
If you’re planning a party with kids in different age ranges, consider renting a second unit or setting up a rotation. That way, everyone gets a turn that’s tailored to their level—and you minimize the risk of collisions between toddlers and energetic tweens.
What Does a Bounce House Rental Cost?
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to overspend to rent something your kids will love. The cost of a bounce house generally depends on its size, features, and how long you plan to keep it. Basic models are the most affordable, while themed inflatables or units with water slides usually cost more. Based on a 4–6 hour block, you can expect:- Basic moonwalks: $199–$300
- Dry combo bounce houses: $239–$329+
- Water slide bounce house combos: $299–$329+
To keep things budget-friendly, book early—especially during peak season. You can also ask your rental company if they offer weekday or half-day pricing, which can lower your total. And if you’re co-hosting with another family or doing a dual birthday, splitting the cost is a win for everyone.
Don’t Forget the Details That Make the Day Smooth
Even the best bounce house won’t feel fun if setup becomes stressful. Check that you have a clear, flat surface with access to an electrical outlet nearby—most inflatables require a blower fan running the entire time. You’ll also want to ask what’s included in your rental. Some companies include delivery, setup, and take-down, while others may charge extra.Safety matters too. Be sure your provider sanitizes equipment between uses and uses proper anchoring techniques. If you have questions, ask them. A reliable company will walk you through exactly what to expect and make sure you feel confident before the big day.
Final Thoughts: Pick What Works for Your Family
The “right” bounce house isn’t the biggest or flashiest—it’s the one that fits your space, suits your child’s age, and works with your budget. Focus on what matters most: smiles, safety, and stress-free fun.If you're planning an event in Pearland or nearby, Orbit Moonwalks offers a wide range of bounce houses—from small-yard options to budget-friendly combos. And yes, we’re always happy to help you choose the best fit for your family and backyard.
Want a deeper look at setup, safety, and what to expect on party day? Check out our full Bounce House Rentals Guide for everything parents need to know before booking. Looking for more party planning wisdom?
Follow Orbit Moonwalks blog for guides and tips made just for parents like you—thoughtful, practical, and fun-first.
Bounce House Rental FAQs: Choosing the Right One for Your Party
What size bounce house fits in a small backyard?
Most small backyards can handle a bounce house in the 10x10 to 13x13 range. These are perfect for toddlers or parties with fewer guests and still deliver tons of fun. Just make sure to measure your space and allow a few feet of clearance on each side.
How many kids can safely play in a bounce house at once?
It depends on the size of the inflatable and the age of the children. Small units may safely hold 4–6 younger kids, while larger ones can accommodate more. Always stick to similar age groups and follow the capacity guidelines provided with your rental.
Are there budget-friendly bounce house rentals available?
Absolutely. Basic bounce houses are the most affordable, typically ranging from $100 to $150 for a 4–6 hour rental. You can save even more by booking on weekdays or splitting the cost with another family for a joint celebration.
What’s the average cost to rent a bounce house?
Basic units usually cost between $1199 and $300. Dry combo inflatables with slides or interactive features range from $239 to $329, while water slide bounce house options may run $299 or more. Be sure to ask what's included in your quote—some rentals cover setup and takedown, while others charge separately.
Can toddlers and older kids use the same bounce house?
It’s can be done, but it's recommended with supervision only. Younger kids need smaller, more enclosed bounce houses for safe play. Mixing toddlers and bigger kids in one unit can lead to injuries. For parties with a wide age range, consider renting a second unit or organizing bounce time in shifts.