Highly considering swimming, just looking for tips and help

About a year ago, and a year before i was lifting weights, relatively heavy, and about a year ago from this time now, i had to stop because i was getting joint pain and tendinitis. Haven't lifted really since. Still get minor joint pain and tendinitis from occasion. I was highly considering swimming. Then if i got good at it, join a team. Right now, i just turned 18, and i work odd jobs (not a steady income), and the only place for me to swim at, would be a YMCA-28 bucks a month. So right now i'm trying to find a job that'll cover it and still be able to keep myself up. If i start swimming, i will not be doing resistance training. Is it still possible to build a small amount of muscle? I promise i'm not asking to be bodybuilder looking or anything. Just asking if swimming can over time get me a somewhat decent physique for vacation and summer times. As far as now, I really would like to swim, because it's easier for joints, supposed to increase flexibilty (I think?), and i'm hoping its something I can do til i get way on up in my years that will keep me healthy. Also looking for some motivation. I've never been very self confident, and when i start doubting myself, i lose interest and motivation, so just looking for motivation as well. Thank you for reading and your time!