How can I build a deck without breaking my pocketbook?

Here's a couple of ideas for you hope it helps

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/180777372521283030/

https://blog.homedepot.com/how-to-build-a-diy-deck-on-a-budget/

San, we just did this. We wanted the highest quality materials at the lowest price so we shopped for our supplies at a building materials salvage yard and we also bought much of the lumber from the culled lumber section of the home improvement stores near us. We estimate that we saved about 75 percent off the full price cost. We had to buy a few pieces at full price, but not much.

Also, plan your deck dimensions for minimal waste. If you build it to fit boards with less cuts, you will save money.

Try getting some free pallets

Be sure to use the best product you can afford. Don't cut corners there. Labor is labor on worthwhile products vs poor products that would only last a very short time