The 14 Best Porch Swings of 2023
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These porch swings make for cozy relaxation spots in your outdoor space
The Spruce / Chloe Jeong
Fact checked by Richard Scherr
A porch swing offers a relaxing retreat right outside of your home when you’re feeling cooped up inside the house. Whether you're curling up on a spacious daybed or a simple wicker loveseat, this nook on your porch can be a cozy oasis for enjoying beverages, reading books, or simply watching the neighbors pass by.
“A porch swing adds an extra element of charm, curb appeal, and character to your home. It makes your porch feel more inviting, dressing up your space so it doesn't look so bare and empty,” says Chris Hewett, founder of My Old House Fix, a community and resource directory website that features home maintenance, repair, and restoration tips.
While you could certainly reference online porch swing plans and build your own from scratch, there are plenty of ready-to-go sets available. We researched the best porch swings on the market, taking a look at factors such as style, weight capacity, and material to help you find the perfect piece for your home.
Best Overall: Polywood Vineyard Porch Swing
What We Like
Classic silhouette
Very durable plastic made from recycled items
Contoured seat for comfort
Multiple color options
What We Don't Like
No brackets included
Somewhat pricey
The Polywood Vineyard Porch Swing combines a charming silhouette with extra durable material for the ultimate cozy retreat. Featuring your classic park bench shape, it consists of Polywood lumber, which is a proprietary blend of plastics from sources such as recycled milk jugs and detergent containers. You won't need to touch up the material over time, as it naturally resists rotting, chipping, and corroding. Rain or shine, you can enjoy this bench for a long time and do so knowing that it consists of sustainable recycled materials.
Besides resisting the elements, this vintage-inspired porch swing can also hold its fair share of the weight. Its 55-inch seat can hold up to three people and has a weight capacity of 1,200 lbs. The seat even has a slightly contoured design for added comfort. You’ll be able to choose from seven different colors, including white, green, and mahogany.
While the porch swing set comes with zinc chains, you'll need to source your own brackets. Another thing to consider is that this porch swing is one of the pricier options available. That said, its price tag is still well below high-end options, and you’ll be investing in a durable, long-lasting piece.
Price at time of publish: $555
Dimensions: 23.25 x 60.5 x 24 inches | Material: Plastic, high-density polyethylene, zinc | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 1,200 pounds
Best Budget: Best Choice Products 48in Wood Porch Swing
What We Like
Wood is weather- and rot-resistant
Holds up to 500 pounds
Affordable
Comes with hardware
Versatile color options
What We Don’t Like
Seat depth may be a little short
May need to consider adding a coating or sealant
Porch swings can cost a pretty penny, but you can certainly furnish the front of your home without breaking the bank. For a nostalgic porch swing that costs under $200, this 48-inch wood swing from Best Choice Products is a sturdy pick with classic appeal. The swing consists of weather- and rot-resistant acacia wood and has zinc oxide-coated steel chains for durability. Featuring back support and armrests, its design is predominantly open for wind resistance. And it’s pretty spacious as well—with a 500-pound capacity and 45-inch seat, you can seat up to three people. With the under $200 price tag, it also comes with anchor bolts and mounting fasteners, so you don't necessarily have to go out and get anything extra. Styles available include versatile colors such as warm brown and classic white.
We did read reports of the seat depth being somewhat short, so you may need to use pillows or cushions for extra support. We also suggest adding a coat of sealant or protectant to maintain the swing, as the wood may become vulnerable to the elements over time.
Price at time of publish: $180
Dimensions: 20.5 x 48 x 22 inches | Material: Metal and wood | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
Best Splurge: Serena & Lily Springwood Hanging Daybed
What We Like
Weatherproof mattress repels water and resists mildew
Durable aluminum and resin wicker frame
Can deep clean with soap and water
What We Don’t Like
Expensive
No hanging hardware included
Those without a fixed budget can treat themselves to breezy afternoons on the Serena & Lily Springwood Daybed, which offers a gorgeous coastal style and plenty of space for relaxing. At nearly $3,500, this porch swing is definitely an investment piece. But the luxury price tag is backed up by the high-quality design, meaning that you’ll be getting your money’s worth. Capable of holding up to 500 pounds, it features a weatherproof Sunbrella mattress that's water-repellent and mildew resistant on top of withstanding the effects of sun, heat, and rain. Plus, the mattress and cushion covers are easily removable for spot cleaning—that said, you can hose everything down with a soapy solution every so often if you'd like a deeper cleaning.
The bed sits on top of a sturdy resin and aluminum frame, which also features stylish steel end caps. The set includes four heavy-duty ropes, but you'll need to buy hanging hardware and have the swing professionally installed.
Price at time of publish: $3,498
Dimensions: 74 x 35 x 23 inches | Material: Resin and aluminum, polyurethane foam, and polyester fibers | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
Best Design: Serena & Lily Hanging Rattan Bench
The bench includes industrial strength rope, so you can rest easy knowing it'll be secure once it's installed.
What We Like
Rustic design
500-pound weight capacity
Comes with strong ropes
What We Don't Like
Very sensitive material that might get damaged outdoors
Expensive
A rustic porch swing can add flair to the front of the home, which is why we designated this Serena & Lily Hanging Rattan Bench the best design superlative. Great for two people, this bench features a '60s-style Scandinavian design with a scooped-out frame that's handcrafted with bent rattan. It’s not all looks, of course—it has a durable weight capacity, too, capable of holding up to 500 pounds. One major drawback is that the rattan isn't great for outdoor use, as it could crack if you leave it in direct sunlight or a in dry environment. Because of this restriction, this may be better suited for a screened or covered porch. To preserve the rattan material, you should moisten your bench with a damp cloth on a monthly basis. You should also avoid contact with harsh cleansers or furniture polishes. The best way to handle stains is by carefully blotting them.
Besides the frame, this bench comes with industrial-strength ropes, but you'll need to source down hardware as well as cushions and pillows. This will mean additional costs on top of the luxury price tag.
Price at time of publish: $798
Dimensions: 54 x 27 x 24 inches | Material: Rattan | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
Best Heavy Duty: Three Posts? Amelia Porch Swing
The two-seater swing features a minimal design and is available in multiple colors and sizes.
What We Like
Features a durable poly lumber frame material
Easy to clean
Multiple color options for just the right look
What We Don't Like
Need to get your own anchors
No cushions or pillows included
This low-maintenance porch swing was built to endure the elements. The chair, which comes in either a 4 feet or 5 feet-wide variation, consists of a proprietary poly lumber that offers the look of real wood while being very durable and weather resistant. To clean it, all you need to do is wash it with soapy water and a brush—if you really want to, you could also power wash it with a hose from time to time. For all your swinging, it comes with a zinc-plated steel chain and 304-grade stainless steel hardware that resists splintering, cracking, and peeling.
You can choose from a range of colors for your swing frame, including bold rustic red and more traditional white. When it comes to assembly, the only thing you need to run out and grab are anchors. But also note that this set doesn't include cushions or pillows, so you'll need to pick up your own if you prefer something plush to sit or lean on.
Price at time of publish: $739
Dimensions: 22 x 50 x 24, 22 x 61 x 24 inches | Material: Plastic, high-grade poly, zinc, and steel | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
Best Wicker: Serena & Lily Hanging Rattan Chair
The scooped seat is the perfect place to throw your favorite pillows and relax.
What we like
Attractive rattan material
Includes rope
Stylish structure
What we don't like
No hanging hardware or cushions included
More geared towards indoor use
For a low-key, coastal vibe, the Serena & Lily Hanging Rattan Chair can add a touch of nature to your home with its wicker style. Its sculptural frame, which can hold up to 300 pounds, is made out of hand-bent rattan and comes with a scooped seat that hugs your body. Over time, the rattan transforms into a more muted color for a shabby chic vibe. With the set, you get a heavy-duty rope with your chair, but you need to buy hanging hardware and cushions separately to complete your installation.
The natural finish features a clear lacquer seal, but it's still a little fragile to leave in direct sunlight or a dry environment, which may cause cracking. It's best to keep it somewhere shaded or behind a screened porch, as it's actually best for indoor use. From time to time, you also want to wet the rattan with a moist cotton cloth if you live in an area with low humidity.
Price at time of publish: $498
Dimensions: 30 x 29 x 44 inches | Material: Rattan | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
The 10 Best Outdoor Recliners of 2023
Best With Canopy: Red Barrel Studio Brentley Outdoor Porch Swing with Canopy
Designed with a UV-resistant polyester canopy and a strong steel frame, the swing is both weather- and rust-resistant.
What We Like
Canopy is UV resistant
Features side tables for beverages
Can hold up to 600 pounds
What We Don't Like
Thin cushions
For a stand-alone porch swing where you get a reprieve from sun and rain, the Red Barrel Studio Brentley Porch Swing will make a lovely addition to your patio or yard with its outdoor cover. The adjustable canopy is made of UV-resistant polyester and can comfortably provide shade for up to three people—and we'd be remiss, not to mention that it's fairly easy to clean. It also features a metal frame with cushioned seating, but you can remove the cushions if you choose. We did read some reports mentioning that the cushions feel thin, so that's a potential consideration if you prefer a plush feel. With its price tag falling between $250 and $500, it’s also an investment piece for sure, but it’s still relatively accessible.
For your convenience, the porch swing features two foldable side tables, which make it easy to enjoy beverages on a warm day without worrying about where to put them. The weight capacity is also impressive, as the porch swing can hold up to 750 pounds.
Price at time of publish: $410
Dimensions: 67.3 x 57.9 x 46 inches | Material: Metal, polyester, and cotton | Installation Type: Standing | Weight Capacity: 750 pounds
Best Bed: Ballard Designs Sunday Daybed Swing with Cushion
This hanging daybed will give your porch a rustic, farmhouse feel.
What We Like
Features a full-size twin bed
Available colors are versatile
Moisture and insect-resistant eucalyptus material
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Extra fees for shipping and professional installation
Napping on the porch sounds like a dream, doesn't it? If you want to keep it comfy with a twin-size bed, this daybed swing from Ballard Designs will usher you into the sweetest of dreams. The porch swing bed features a slat-rail bed made of 100 percent FSC-certified eucalyptus that resists damage from moisture and insects. For a versatile color, you can grab it with a warm-toned whitewash or cooler graywash. For all your napping needs, it features a large, deep cushion covered in sand twill. Ballard Designs also includes hanging chains for assembly.
With this porch swing, you'll want to take note of a few potential drawbacks. First, at over $2,000, it's expensive, so consider your budget before you buy it. Moreover, you'll need to have it professionally installed and pay shipping fees for oversized items, and both of these factors mean extra money on top of your order.
Price at time of publish: $2,599
Dimensions: 22 x 81.75 x 43.25 inches | Material: Eucalyptus and sand twill | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: Not Indicated
Best With Stand: Millwood Pines Fina Hardwood Hanging Porch Swing
What We Like
No need to install any anchors
Solid wood construction
Slatted details
Can fit up to two adults
What We Don’t Like
No cushions included for support
No canopy for weather protection
A porch swing with a stand ensures stability without requiring you to install any anchors onto your building. This lovely, freestanding porch swing from Millwood Pines features a classic look with its solid wood frame and warm, natural finish—it consists of dark red meranti wood treated with teak oil to withstand various weather conditions. Over time, you can regularly apply teak oil to maintain its color. It even features slatted details, which makes it easy for rain to pass through. When it comes to how durable it is, the galvanized and adjustable steel chains fixed to the stand can support up to 350 pounds. The seating area is spacious and ideal for two adults, measuring 44.2 inches wide.
There are a few things to consider before you select this swing. Note that this set doesn't include any outdoor cushions for extra support and comfort, so you'd have to go out of your way to buy extra pillows. And unlike many standing swings on the market, it doesn't feature a canopy for shade or shelter.
Price at time of publish: $400
Dimensions: 65 x 63 x 48 inches | Material: Wood | Installation Type: Standing | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Best Chair: Bulexyard Indoor/Outdoor Swing Egg Chair Without Stand
What We Like
Durable material
Colorfast and UV-resistant cushion and pillow
Foldable
What We Don’t Like
Limited weight capacity
Hanging model does not feature a stand
If you're not as emotionally invested in a traditional bench porch swing, you might consider a hanging swing with a cozy hammock chair instead. This swing egg chair from Bulexyard features a tough polyethylene wicker material for durability in harsh weather, and you even get a colorfast and UV-resistant cushion and headrest pillow for extra comfort when you're hanging out on the porch. On an aesthetic level, you can choose from beige, brown, dark gray, and gray and some options even come with an outdoor cover for an additional cost.
Installation should only take a few minutes—all you have to do is drill a hole in your ceiling and insert the hooks. With a 265-pound capacity, it’s best for one person as opposed to multiple people. That said, what it lacks in capacity, it makes up for in compactness: The swing can be folded for easy storage. Each set includes your basket, cushions, and accessories. Of course, if you want to use this as a stationary chair, note that there are sets with and without stands—the hanging models do not have stands.
Price at time of publish: $169
Dimensions: 29.2 x 25.6 x 42.5 inches | Material: Aluminum, polyethylene wicker, and aluminum | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 265 pounds
Best Cushioned: Novogratz Sally Porch Swing
What We Like
Durable frame with attractive wicker
Comfortable cushioning and support
Multiple color options
What We Don’t Like
Geared towards one person only
Pricey
This cozy chair swing from Novogratz looks just like an indoor accent chair, but you can actually keep it on your porch for the perfect reading nook. The chair features a weather-resistant steel frame wrapped in woven resin wicker for a simple but elevated vibe. For a cozy seat to curl up in, it features an olefin back and cushions with a rounded bottom. Plus, there's a lumbar pillow, too. The available color options run the gamut, including rosewater, gray, taupe, and aqua.
One drawback is that this is created for one with its 250-pound weight capacity—you'd maybe be able to sit on it with a small dog or cat in your lap, but it probably won’t fit two people. It's also a little pricey for a single chair, although its steel and resin wicker frame offers a relatively sturdy foundation compared to the more precarious single-seat fabric hammocks on the market.
Price at time of publish: $705
Dimensions: 15.2 x 36.2 x 32.3 inches | Material: Steel, resin wicker, and olefin | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Best Glider: Veikous 3-Person Steel Outdoor Swing
What We Like
Durable metal frame
Parts are easy to store
Adjustable canopy made of weather-resistant fabric
Side trays for food and beverages
Multiple color options
What We Don’t Like
Big size not ideal for small spaces
Instructions can be unclear
For a stable and gentle swinging motion, consider a freestanding glider chair. This glider swing from Veikous offers comfort, durability, and capacity. Rain or shine, you've got a rust-free, powder-coated steel frame that resists wind and provides stable support. For comfortable sitting, there are plush cushions that are removable and detachable for easy storage. Also adjustable and removable is the canopy, which features weather-resistant and fade-resistant fabric. The swing even features plastic side trays for any food and drinks you might be enjoying while you sit on the swing. There are six colors available, including variations of whites, grays, and reds.
Perfect for up to 3 people, this glider swing can hold up to 750 pounds. Note that because of the great capacity, this is a fairly large product: Measuring 78.5 x 44.6 x 71.5 inches, this glider swing isn't necessarily for smaller backyards. You may also need to be patient while assembling this, as some reports mention that the instructions can be confusing.
Price at time of publish: $330
Dimensions: 78.5 x 44.6 x 71.5 inches | Material: Steel, iron, and polyester | Installation Type: Standing | Weight Capacity: 750 pounds
Best Wooden: Backyard Discovery All Cedar Farmhouse Porch Swing
What We Like
Classic design
100 percent wood
Easy assembly
What We Don’t Like
Wood is prone to weathering
Necessary to keep up with maintenance
Sometimes, you may simply want a traditional wooden swing without any bells or whistles. For a rustic yet polished vibe, this light brown cedar wood porch swing from Backyard Discovery is our go-to. Because this consists of pure wood, you might notice some weathering over the course of time—think cracking, fading, and warping. To limit weathering, you need to apply a water repellent or sealant every year—this is actually a requirement for your warranty.
While you might need to take extra care of your wooden swing, these basic precautions will ensure a lasting product in the long run. At the end of the day, it's a sturdy swing that can accommodate two people and carry up to 600 pounds. At just under $200, you’ll be getting a long-lasting piece for your porch. Plus, assembly is easy. This swing set comes with pre-cut and pre-drilled lumber, and you can even get a setup visualizer with the interactive BILT app.
Price at time of publish: $199
Dimensions: 56 x 28 x 22 inches | Material: Wood | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 600 pounds
Best Metal: Best Choice Products 2-Person Black Metal Porch Swing
What We Like
Charming fleur-de-lis design
Powder-coated frame for resisting rust
Easy to assemble
What We Don’t Like
Limited color options
Material can be uncomfortable to sit on for a long time
For a sturdy metal frame that exudes old-fashioned charm, this sophisticated 2-Person Metal Porch Swing from Best Choice Products will do just the trick for those evenings spent relaxing on the porch. Reminiscent of a traditional park bench, it features an attractive fleur-de-lis backrest with armrests and a powder-coated metal frame that resists rusting. For airflow and wind resistance, the back and armrests also feature an open design. The weight capacity is relatively strong, too—the bench can hold up to 485 pounds. Assembly shouldn't be tricky, as the bench set includes four interconnecting parts, mounting hardware, and clear instructions.
You can pick up this metal porch swing in either bronze or black. Although your color options are limited, you get a relatively versatile color no matter what your porch space looks like. You might want to consider adding cushions or pillows to your setup, as it can feel uncomfortable to sit on metal.
Price at time of publish: $125
Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 52 inches | Material: Powder-coated metal | Installation Type: Hanging | Weight Capacity: 485 pounds
The Polywood Vineyard Porch Swing is our overall best pick because of its weatherproof design, weight capacity, and model range. While it's slightly more expensive than the cheapest models available on the market, its sturdy material makes it well worth the investment. If you're looking for more economical options, another top-rated porch swings we love include the Best Choice Products 48in Wood Porch Swing, which is a high-quality choice for under $200.
What to Look for in a Porch Swing
Size and Weight
When choosing the perfect porch swing for your space, two of the most important factors to consider include size and weight. First, consider how many people you want your swing to accommodate—you can choose from single, two-person, three-person, or bed swings.
Additionally, take note of your porch size to make sure you have room for your desired swing. “Check the width and swinging depth of the area. You don’t want your new swing to be banging into the house or porch railings because it is too large for the space,” says Chris Hewett, founder of My Old House Fix.
For safety reasons, you also want to keep in mind your swing’s weight capacity and use chains and hardware that can adequately support your weight. Many swings can handle anywhere between 250 to 550 pounds of weight. Some exceptions on this list, including the Red Barrel Studios Khaki Brentley Porch Swing, can accommodate up to 750 pounds, so it’s great for large families.
Material
You can find porch swings available in a wide range of materials—think wood, metal, plastic, and wicker. Here’s what to know about each type.
Wood: With wood swings, you might want to look for a wood that’s naturally weather and rot resistant like acacia wood. That said, also look into models with protective coatings or apply a sealant yourself.
Metal: You may be interested in an all-metal swing or one with a metal frame. While metal swing sets tend to be sturdy, consider models with powder-coated finishes, like our best metal option, to avoid dealing with rust and corrosion.
Plastic: If you have concerns about weather damage, a high-density polyethylene swing may be a great option for you, although it may not offer as much charm as a wooden or metal swing. That said, there are quite a few plastic swings that closely resemble wood.
Wicker: Rattan can make for an attractive swing material, but it can also be very fragile. If you have a rattan swing, it may be best to keep it behind a screened porch so that it’s not exposed to dry air and sunlight. Alternatively, you can also opt for a resin wicker swing for better durability.
Polyester: Some swing sets also feature polyester cushions and canopies. As the fabric will be exposed to the elements, you want to make sure that it’s UV, fade, and wind resistant.
Installation Requirements
Your porch swing installation requirements will vary from model to model. While a DIY tire swing may simply be secured to a tree branch, installing a porch swing will be a bit more involved as you figure out how to attach it to your building. In many cases, you need to be mindful of the seat, chains or rope, hanging hardware, and your ceiling structure. “Whether you DIY or hire out the installation, read and be familiar with all manufacturer’s warnings, specifications, and instructions. The swing must be mounted to a suitable porch ceiling structural member and/or ceiling joist. Larger swings will need added overhead structural support,” says Hewett.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories, you can look for more practical safety hardware as well as bonus finishing touches. Hewett recommends investing in a comfort spring kit and safety chains. Comfort spring kits are mounting hardware kits that include springs to absorb shock for a smoother swinging experience. In the rare instance that a comfort spring breaks, it’s a good idea to also install safety chains. According to Hewett, safety chains are “basically two short pieces of chain that bypass the spring on each side of the porch swing. They keep your swing connected to the rope or chain, should a spring ever break.”
Besides mounting kits and chains, consider pieces that make your swinging experience cozier and more comfortable. Non-technical additions to your swing set can include supportive cushions and pillows, as seen in the Novogratz Sally Porch Swing. For your books, beverages, and snacks, you might also want center consoles or cupholders. Some swings may already come with these features, but you can also install them yourself. “Try to make selections that feature fabrics and materials that are made for outdoor use and are easy to clean. These features will maximize longevity,” says Hewett.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of porch swings?
The main types of porch swings include classing hanging porch swings and freestanding porch swings—in either case, you’ll usually find a seat that’s a bit more spacious than your typical tire swing. With the first type, you'll need to attach your swing to support structures on your building. It can come in many different forms, including chairs and daybeds. Freestanding swings don't need to be attached to a building structure and can stand alone. You may find them with features such as canopies and gliders.
How tall should a porch swing be?
The general rule for installing porch swings is to keep your seat height 17 to 19 inches above the ground. This clearance should keep your swinging comfortable, but you can adjust the space to suit your height.
Can I install a porch swing myself?
Hanging a porch swing by yourself may require patience, but it's feasible and not overly complicated. That said, you want to pick the ideal location for your swing, ensure that it has sufficiently safe structural support, take careful measurements, and use the correct hardware for your installation. Even if you're DIY-ing your porch swing installation, you may need to buy chains, ropes, or hardware if your swing set doesn't already come with them.
If you want to outsource the installation to a contractor, costs can run the gamut. Depending on how much work your contractor needs to do, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100 to $1,000. Prior to installation, you can always ask for a quote.
Are porch swings safe?
A porch swing's safety ultimately depends on what it's made of and what type of hardware you're using to support it. Your seating material, as well as your ropes, chains, or connectors, should resist wear from weather and be able to support your swing's weight capacity. You also want to look at your porch. It should have joists that can accommodate your swing and the people who will sit on it. Additionally, provide adequate space around and beneath your swing.
Of course, a major part of porch swing safety lies in maintenance. “Make sure all hardware is in good condition. Replace ropes if they begin to rot or fray, as well as chains and hardware if they become excessively rusted or corroded,” says Hewett. “Also, inspect the mounting locations yearly to make sure the hardware is staying securely mounted into the porch ceiling joists.”
It’s also important to always follow the safety guidelines of your patio swing, including the weight capacity, to ensure the safest experience for everyone involved.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Stacey Nguyen, a home and lifestyle product freelance writer. To create this roundup, she evaluated dozens of products, researching factors such as material, durability, and design. For expert advice, she reached out to Chris Hewett, the founder of My Old House Fix, a community and resource directory website that features home maintenance, repair, and restoration tips. Hewett offered expert insight into how to choose, install, and maintain porch swings.
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