Nightly Rate
Avg rate you expect to charge/night
Nights Booked
Avg # of nights you expect to book/month
Mortgage
Monthly mortgage payment
Utilities
Monthly costs for heat/hot water, electricity/AC, WiFi & cable
When you’re first starting out as a vacation rental owner, there’s one big question: how much money can I expect to make?
Short-term rental properties can give owners solid revenue returns, and are often more profitable than long-term rentals. But that additional income doesn’t come without costs. From taxes and insurance to cleaning and management fees, it’s important to factor a number of expenses into your income calculations to help paint an accurate picture of your home’s profit potential.
That’s where our vacation rental income calculator comes in. Simply plug in your monthly revenue and expenses below, then sit back as our tool automatically churns out an annual income estimate — all factors considered.
Not sure where to pull those numbers? Take a peek below our tool to understand your income and expense variables in more detail, and check out our bonus resources that can help you make confident estimates.
The first step toward accurately estimating rental income? Defining each term properly. Here’s a quick-reference glossary of what each variable used in our calculator means.
Nightly Rate
Avg rate you expect to charge/night
Nights Booked
Avg # of nights you expect to book/month
Mortgage
Monthly mortgage payment
Utilities
Monthly costs for heat/hot water, electricity/AC, WiFi & cable
Insurance & Property Taxes
Monthly costs for homeowners insurance, liability insurance, property protection plan + your state’s property tax rate
Other Expenses
Monthly sum of HOA & maintenance costs + avg stocking/upgrading costs
Management Costs
Monthly % of income set aside for management/marketing fees (dependent on how you run your business)
Let’s be real: estimating an accurate income for your investment property can be confusing. Certain elements — like mortgage and utility payments — have fairly standard numbers you can enter into the calculator without much math. But others require more contextual consideration. So, let’s walk through each step of the process in more detail.
To accurately estimate nightly rate and expected nights booked, it’s important to understand the current market in your area.
The good news: we’ve analyzed tens of thousands of listings across North America to compile the most impactful performance metrics for you. From nightly rate and nights booked to average lengths of stay and prime booking windows throughout the year, all of the results can be found in our vacation rental market analyses library. Each provides a data-backed gauge of how direct competition performs — and, in turn, how much you might be able to to charge and book.
Once you pull the nightly rate and nights booked averages from those market analyses, plug them into the vacation rental income calculator above to start laying a solid foundation for estimating monthly income (and overall revenue).
Owners who work with Evolve get access to our team of revenue experts and exclusive revenue optimization strategies that are proven to outperform the market.
From taxes to marketing fees, your expense estimate relies heavily on custom quotes and individual choices.
First, add up the monthly costs of your different types of insurance — like homeowners insurance, liability insurance, and a property protection plan.
Evolve owners are automatically covered for accidental damages via our risk protection programs.
Then comes property taxes. How they’re applied varies by state, so be aware of your particular municipal requirements. If you’re not sure, you can plug your rental property’s address into this complimentary tool to receive the right rate.
Once you have an estimate for both, combine the numbers and enter the sum into our short term rental calculator.
Next, input your monthly mortgage payment and utilities.
To incorporate other expenses, first combine monthly HOA and maintenance costs, cleaning fees, and the average expense of keeping your short-term rental inventoried and well-stocked for guests.
If you need to make furniture or decor upgrades, put a price to those overarching updates and divide by 12 before adding to your total monthly view of those additional expenses.
Finally, there are management costs to consider. These fees and how they work look different depending on how you choose to run your vacation rental business.
If you run a vacation rental without any help:
If you use a property manager:
If you work with Evolve (who lists your home on all the best vacation rental sites at no extra cost):
Between the steep fees of traditional property managers and the overwhelming responsibility of a DIY approach, it’s hard to strike a cost-benefit balance that guarantees your success. At least, it was until Evolve came into the picture.
For an industry-low management fee (that’s backed by our Risk-Free Guarantee), we’ll apply a proven-to-work marketing and booking strategy to your vacation rental, boosting your revenue potential while keeping costs (and stress levels) down.
Hop down to the form below to see if you qualify for our services and kickstart a conversation with one of our vacation rental pros.
Real estate is known for being a solid investment, and recent travel trends like eco-friendly staycations, solo travel, and luxurious amenities all highlight the strong demand for accommodations that are unique to vacation rentals. As the market continues to grow, investing in short-term rental today can be a great play for long-term income.
Here are eight major benefits of owning vacation rental property to underscore exactly why it’s a good investment.
In This Article:
Increased Income Potential
Varied Market Opportunity
Offsetting Owner Costs
Even More Revenue Opportunity
A Built-In Vacation
Regular Maintenance & Upkeep
Tenant Flexibility
Home Appreciation
Not only is the vacation rental industry showing plenty of income potential, it’s also creating opportunity for what our real estate experts consider a “high-reward profile.”
Most investors look at cap rate — the ratio between a property’s net income and its market value — as a key measure of success, because it indicates return on investment. Our experts say long-term rental cap rates can hover around an average 4-5% in metro markets (where investors are typically drawn), but short-term rental cap rates can frequently come in at 10% or higher. That’s because long-term rentals lock in rates for longer periods of time, while short-term rentals have more room to dynamically change rates based on demand, seasonality, and other market conditions.
This means your ceiling for profitability is significantly higher when investing in short term rentals vs. long term rentals — and that’s more money that could land in your pocket.
While finding success in long-term rental generally requires a purchase near a major metro area, buyers can find vacation rental properties with profit potential in a wide variety of markets.
And since travelers’ favorite locations are scattered from coast to coast, you’re spoiled with choices for vacation rental investment properties –– whether you’re looking for a beachfront property, lakeside rental, mountainous ski house, or cozy cabin.
Ready to explore your options? Our team helps investors find success in vacation rental investment markets all across the country.
Creating solid revenue streams and growing your income property portfolio are the main investment goals for many second home owners. But there’s also massive value, particularly when it comes to investing for beginners, in offsetting owner expenses from the start.
From mortgage payments and utilities to insurance fees and maintenance costs, vacation rental income can cover monthly expenses and help your home pay for itself in a shorter time frame. Vacation rental owners are also eligible for certain tax deductions, which could help close the gap between income and expenses.
Bonus benefit: using a vacation rental management company with especially low fees (like Evolve) can help owners break even and start earning profit faster.
The best part about investing in vacation rental properties is that great guest feedback makes your home more lucrative over time.
When rental properties hit new listing sites, they have to compete with established competitors for visibility and bookings. But the more five-star experiences you deliver (along with smart responses to any poor reviews), the more sites like Airbnb and Vrbo will show your property to browsing travelers — making it more likely to earn bookings.
Best-in-class hospitality also makes it easier to raise daily rates (when the market allows for it), increasing your profit margins on any given stay as you establish the value of your vacation rental property.
Unlike long-term rental properties, a vacation rental investment is also a place where you can get away. It provides the luxury of carving out time to spend with family and friends, or to switch up your work-from-home space — without necessarily needing to spend money on accommodations each time you travel.
In other words, you earn rental income and boost revenue when you’re not there, but also save money when you’d like a change of scenery yourself.
When you frequently host new guests, you’ll be able to keep close tabs on your property during cleanings and maintenance. This regular upkeep can prevent long-term issues and maintain your property’s condition better than long-term rentals, which may suffer from a neglectful tenant.
With frequent access to your property, you can inspect for damages or wear, prep for seasonal changes, and quickly address any issues while they’re still manageable.
While some owners prefer the stability of a long-term tenant, short-term rental investments can help mitigate the impact of ending up with a problematic person leasing for a year or more, or having to weather lengthy vacancies between renters.
Payment is also more streamlined with vacation rentals. Since stays are typically paid for upfront, it can reduce the risk of rent arrears or non-payment issues that are more common with long-term tenants.
As with all smart real estate investments, you can expect your vacation rental’s market value to appreciate over time. So, if and when you become ready to sell, you’d likely earn more than the previous owners did when you bought it.
Your home will also have a track record as a vacation rental to appeal to the next investors, so you can use its earning potential to your advantage. If you work with Evolve, we’ll provide you with historical performance metrics, as well as feature your property on our website and connect you with vetted realtors that specialize in short-term rentals.
To help you target the right people when your home goes on the market, Evolve’s real estate experts can help you sell directly to buyers who are looking to invest in vacation rentals.
Investing in vacation rentals might feel like a big undertaking, but Evolve is here to guide you at every stage of the journey — whether you’re just starting out or consider yourself an industry pro. Our experts can help you:
And if you’re hoping to lock in a short term vacation rental investment with proof of performance, our listings for sale page features homes that already have a successful track record.
No matter where you are or plan to buy, we’re here to help you reach your vacation rental goals.
Digital nomads, rejoice: Work and play no longer have to be separate. While you’re still remote, get some fresh air without using all of your vacation days. Switching up your routine a little can inspire new thinking and deepen your focus — all while you enjoy all the luxuries of vacation on your off-time.
Ready to get out of the house? Pick one of these places based on how you like to feel at work and change up the scenery.
Make your co-workers jealous by joining the company meeting poolside. Lounge in the sun while you knock projects off your list, then enjoy a crisp plunge in the water. Bonus: all of our homes are vetted in person, which means these pools are as good as they look.
Soak in the desert sun from this Goodyear home with a resort-style hot tub and pool combo. Work on your tan while you work from the sprawling patio, complete with a fully shaded outdoor area. The interior’s open layout and farmhouse furnishings are so beautiful that you’ll want to stay in and make meals at home — but when you’re ready to get out, grab ice cream at The Frozen Monkey and take a stroll around South Lake Park.
If you’re feeling fancy, this Florida short-term rental is like stepping into a palace you can call your own. Here, 6,500 square feet of space is yours — meaning you can find a new place to work remotely every day. Sit al fresco in the expansive outdoor cabana or lounge by the palm tree-lined pool worthy of a magazine shoot. On weekends, day trip to the Florida Keys or take it easy with a bottle of local wine from Schnebly Winery.
The moment you set your bag down, the cerulean waters of this backyard pool will invite you to take a dip. Catch up with your group beneath the pergola, then swim laps in this sophisticated marvel as the sun goes down. Enormous windows let the light in here and make it feel like you’re by the pool, even when you’re hard at work inside. When you need to get out, experience the big city feeling by taking a walk through downtown Austin.
Honorable Mentions: Enjoy views of your own private lake and private pool at this luxurious vacation rental in Norman, OK, visit this meticulously decorated home with its own mini golf putting green and awe-inspiring pool in the Coachella Valley, or swim by day, stream movies in the home theater by night from this Pigeon Forge vacation rental.
Exercise helps mental health and increases productivity — and companies are encouraging their teams to work out more than ever. These vacation rentals are perfect for a getaway that blends work-life balance, with a home gym to break up your day.
Redwoods and red wine are waiting for you in Sonoma County. This charming cabin is the place to go glamping in the woods while still keeping a wi-fi signal. Nature is your gym here in a home that’s surrounded by trails and a few minutes from the beach, but if you want a more traditional place to exercise, hit the cabin’s small home gym. After a long work week, hop in the car, soak in ocean views, and savor wines from famous vineyards.
Turn your workday into a fairytale at this welcoming Acworth mansion, complete with a pool and its own movie theater. Take your lunch break in the home gym, catch up on emails from the gazebo, and toast to the day by the outdoor fire pit once five o’clock hits. There are so many ways to clear your head — whether it’s playing billiards, or cooking a meal for your group and enjoying it in the sprawling dining areas.
Honorable Mentions: This budget-friendly vacation home in Glendale, AZ offers all the perks of a private resort, including a pool and a putting green. Or, go big and work remotely from this enormous vacation home sitting over the lake in Kaiser, MO. You can also sit out by your own private creek and access some of Colorado’s most pristine trails from this home amid the treetops in Evergreen, CO.
Evolve only rents homes with private entrances, which means that every place on our site is perfect for finding focus. But if you’re looking for a getaway where you can separate your 9-5 from your night of relaxation, these picks come with a home office and the bliss of complete quiet.
Enormous Retreat In Erie, CO
This vacation rental is made for remote work retreats with multiple offices, plenty of separate seating areas, and a boardroom-style table. Travel with friends and tackle the workday separately from your own private spaces, then reconnect over a game night in the living room. Wind down while strolling downtown Boulder (just a short drive away) with the Flatiron mountains as your backdrop.
Enjoy a life of luxury from this scenic cabin equipped with its own lofted office for working remotely. Catch up about the day around the outdoor fire pit or sip wine on the sprawling wood patio immersed in the forest. If you feel like getting outside, explore the easy Show Low Bluff Trail on foot or spend a leisurely day fishing at Fool Hollow Lake.
Honorable Mention: Work remotely from this vacation rental in Fairplay, CO, and enjoy a cozy, log cabin exterior with a clean, modern interior.
Good books are meant to be enjoyed next to a crackling fireplace. After a long day at the (virtual) office, sink into the couch at one of these places and find your cozy. All you need to bring is hot cider and groceries — each of our homes comes fully equipped with all the amenities you need to stay in for the night.
Hit the road and head to Idyllwild, which sits in California’s San Jacinto mountains. Pets are welcome at this airy dome house that’s a theater to thousands of night stars. Once you’ve closed up your laptop for the day, hit the trails at Mount San Jacinto State Park, then bring home a mountain pie to share from Idyllwild Pizza.
Rise to the sound of trees rustling out this bright property filled with natural light. Kick your feet up in the loft to get some focus, then spend happy hour in the hot tub before cooking up a feast in the gorgeous, modern kitchen. When you’re ready for fresh air, take an evening bike ride along Lake Tahoe, or just sit out and enjoy the lake.
Breckenridge is an outdoor paradise — and this enormous cabin that sleeps 14 is just the place to enjoy it. Take your calls from the quiet porch, indulge in a midday break to shoot some hoops in the in-home basketball court, and wind down by the fire after an evening of exploring the area’s sites. Window shop along Main Street and grab takeout, or find a hike like Hoosier Pass you can do as the sun goes down over the mountain.
Honorable Mentions: Sip a nightcap on a porch overlooking the creek at this vacation home in Frisco, CO, or soak your bones in the hot tub surrounded by trees in this Alto, New Mexico cabin.
Get some new perspective on what you’re working on from one of these places with a view. Find yourself thinking in new ways as you walk along the beach or sit out on the lake, free to let your mind wander. Just be sure to bring a notepad with you as you roam these houses for the moment a great idea strikes.
If you’ve ever had the dream of looking out to the shoreline from a hot tub, this is just the place for you. This hilltop home in the Pacific Northwest is a destination for remote work, with several cozy seating areas, an unbelievable porch view looking over the coast, and a hot tub where you can dip and drink it all in. After work, take a scenic, slow drive along the Tillamook Bay and end the evening with scoops at the iconic Tillamook Creamery.
A lake with a private dock is yours at this calming escape in Albion, MI. This home is filled with windows so you never miss the view, even when you’re inside. There are so many places to work at this home on the golf course — whenever you need some fresh thinking, just pick a new room. The spacious kitchen opens right up into the living room, so you can share stories as you prepare the dinner to share. Days off can be spent on the course, dipping in the lake, or curling up next to a roaring fire while keeping the view.
Beachfront Home In Topsail Beach, NC
Creativity is often sparked by a long walk, and here, you can take that walk out on the beach. Sit out on one of the two decks facing the waves, then step out onto the sand when you need a break. Sunsets here look like a postcard, and you can enjoy them from a bright, cheerful house that is decorated to feel like vacation in every room. Spend the weekend grilling up porch on the outdoor barbecue and catching up your beach read in the pristine sand.
Honorable Mentions: Get out into the mountains at this Jefferson, CO cabin with a verdant view of the mountains and its own game room and treehouse. Or, book this cheerful beachfront home in New Smyrna Beach, FL with ocean access and take your morning coffee in the sand.
Enjoy the freedom to work remotely from a vacation rental anywhere, with all the comforts of home. Find your perfect place to get some fresh air and rest easy knowing that it’ll be professionally cleaned and ready for your arrival.
“Aren’t you just like Airbnb and Vrbo?”
We get that question a lot from people who haven’t worked with us yet. It’s easy to see why. We’re all in the same industry, short-term property rentals. You can find and book great properties on our website or on theirs. And the fact that every Evolve property appears on Airbnb, Vrbo, and other online marketplaces just adds a little more to the confusion.
So let’s clear things up and outline exactly how Evolve is NOT Airbnb, Vrbo, HomeAway, TripAdvisor, or any other online marketplace.
Airbnb, Vrbo, and similar websites are online “marketplaces” where guests find properties and homeowners find guests. Essentially, they act as a distribution channel for owners or property managers, attracting potential guests to their website but leaving the management of the properties and listings to the owners (or whoever is representing the property) themselves.
Evolve helps you start, manage, and grow a vacation rental business. That means we actively work on behalf of our owners, ensuring maximum bookings and eliminating the stress of the traditional vacation rental process.
Here’s where it gets interesting. Evolve is a BIG customer of the online marketplaces. We have tens of thousands of properties listed on their sites, and we constantly implement cutting-edge strategies to make sure our owners’ homes are positioned for maximum traffic and bookings.
Behind the scenes, we have teams of specialists working on the hardest parts of managing a vacation rental: marketing, booking, and customer service. Our teams do everything from creating search-topping property listings to revenue optimization to answering guest questions and asking for online reviews. We even hire professional photographers to show each property in the best possible light.
As a result of our approach, Evolve properties outperform most others on the online marketplaces. So we don’t compete with Airbnb, Vrbo and the rest. We work with them–and everybody wins.
Unlike most marketplaces, we don’t offer home sharing, extended stays, campsites, trailers, or other mobile structures. Each Evolve property has its own entrance and kitchen (typically a house or condominium). A lot of Evolve guests appreciate having the comforts of home when they travel, and our properties reflect that.
We take even more guesswork out of vacation rental by making sure our properties meet our four core standards. We believe guests simply won’t have the experience they’re looking for unless the property they’ve booked is:
By focusing on properties ideally suited for vacationing and making sure each one lives up to our standards, we’re building a brand that guests can trust to have the time of their lives.
Since Airbnb, Vrbo, and the like don’t handle property management, homeowners have traditionally been forced to either hire a local company to do it or fend for themselves. Evolve is different.
We give homeowners performance-focused marketing and booking support, plus the flexibility to choose their own partner(s) to clean the property and greet guests. Evolve handles all guest inquiries, bookings, and pre-stay communications. We can also connect owners with hundreds of vetted partners nationwide that can handle cleaning and guests.
With Evolve’s help, every guest enjoys a booking experience that feels as professional as the world’s top hospitality brands. We handle all inquiries directly, resolve guest and owners questions, and communicate directly with cleaners to ensure the property is ready for every guest. Our unique approach makes vacation rental actually feel like vacation for owners and guests.
Once you work with Evolve, you quickly discover the difference between our service and all of the others. Soon you’ll book and earn more for industry-low fees starting at 10% that are backed by an unmatched Risk-Free Guarantee.
Owners should be able to relax, trusting that their property is living up to its potential. And guests should be able to relax with an experience that feels like a big hospitality brand. That’s the Evolve difference.
Learn more about how Evolve helps owners — from newcomers to industry veterans — maximize their listing exposure and passive income
Known as California wine country’s crown jewel, Napa Valley welcomes nearly four million visitors each year. From vineyard tours and hot-air balloon rides to award-winning dining and outdoor adventure, demand in Napa stays strong across multiple travel segments.
That consistent tourism leads many buyers to ask: Is Napa a good place to invest in vacation rental property?
Short answer: Yes, especially for investors seeking premium nightly rates, celebration-driven travel demand, and year-round appeal anchored in wine, food, and outdoor recreation.
To help you make an informed evaluation, we created a free, downloadable Napa Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Napa performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Napa Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Yes, and here’s why:
Napa benefits from steady visitation throughout the year. Spring and summer bring peak outdoor and wine tourism, while fall harvest season attracts culinary travelers. Winter tends to be slower, but romantic getaways and weekend trips help support continued occupancy.
Proximity to major cities like San Francisco and Sacramento also fuels consistent weekend bookings and short stays.
Napa’s median home value is ~$858,000 (higher than many California vacation markets), but visitors also expect premium pricing, which supports strong ADR potential.
Napa vacation rental income depends primarily on property size, location, and amenities. Here’s how each factor influences performance.
Top Revenue Generators:
Five-bedroom homes typically produce the highest annual revenue.
Most Nights Booked:
One-bedroom homes often see the highest annual occupancy, driven by couples and romantic celebrations. Two- and four-bedroom homes follow closely behind.
Inventory Insight:
Five-bedroom homes make up the smallest portion of available inventory, while smaller properties account for the largest share.
Takeaway:
Investors in Napa can succeed across multiple property sizes. Smaller homes often provide steady occupancy, while larger homes benefit from group celebrations and milestone travel.
Location strategy in Napa centers on proximity to wineries, dining, and walkable entertainment. Top-performing areas often include:
Downtown appeals to guests who prioritize walkability, tasting rooms, and easy access to restaurants.
Properties with convenient access to renowned wineries such as V. Sattui and Domaine Carneros can also perform well, particularly when paired with scenic vineyard or mountain views.
In Napa, walkability, wine access, and strong aesthetics can significantly influence booking demand and nightly rate.
Certain amenities consistently drive stronger performance in this premium market:
Because Napa enjoys mild weather year-round, outdoor living space is especially valuable. High-performing outdoor features include:
Scenic views — whether vineyard vistas, glimpses of the Mayacamas Mountains, or golf course backdrops — can also be a meaningful differentiator in listing performance.
Small upgrades that elevate comfort and ambiance often drive five-star reviews and long-term revenue growth.
Napa is a nationally recognized destination with steady tourism, premium positioning, and strong earning potential for the right property.
Our free Napa Vacation Rental Market Analysis provides the insights you need to evaluate your next move. Inside, you’ll discover:
Investing in Napa real estate should feel as effortless as an afternoon in wine country. Whether you’re purchasing your first short-term rental or expanding your portfolio, our data can help guide smarter, more confident decisions.
Known for live music, legendary barbecue, and eclectic Texas culture, Austin attracts over 30 million visitors each year. From business travelers and college football fans to festivalgoers and foodies, demand in the Live Music Capital of the World stays strong across multiple travel segments.
That consistent tourism leads many buyers to ask: Is Austin a good place to invest in vacation rental property?
Short answer: Yes, especially for investors seeking event-driven demand, strong nightly rates, and year-round tourism fueled by music, business, and outdoor recreation.
To help you make a data-driven evaluation, we created a free, downloadable Austin Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Austin performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Austin Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Yes, and here’s why:
Tourism in Austin tends to surge in the spring during South by Southwest and again in the fall during Austin City Limits Music Festival. These large-scale events significantly increase occupancy and nightly rates.
Summer remains active thanks to lake tourism on Lake Travis and Lake Austin, while winter travel is supported by holiday events and milder temperatures compared to northern states.
Austin’s median home value is around $495,000 — higher than some Texas markets like Houston or Galveston — but many investors are drawn to Austin’s premium rental demand and strong ADR potential.
Austin vacation rental income depends mostly on property size, location, and amenities. Here’s how they impact performance.
Top Revenue Generators:
Four- and five-bedroom homes typically produce the highest annual revenue.
Most Nights Booked:
One- and two-bedroom homes often see the highest annual occupancy.
Takeaway:
Investors in Austin can succeed across a range of property sizes. Larger homes benefit from group travel and event bookings, while smaller properties appeal to couples, solo travelers, and business guests.
Location strategy in Austin centers on proximity to entertainment, dining, and nightlife. Top-performing areas include:
Downtown appeals to younger travelers and business guests, offering walkable access to the Texas Capitol, nightlife on Rainey Street, and major event venues.
South Congress and East Austin attract foodies and first-time visitors looking for a local vibe. Zilker provides proximity to outdoor hotspots like Zilker Metropolitan Park and Barton Springs Pool.
In Austin, walkability and access to bars, restaurants, and music venues can significantly influence booking demand.
Certain amenities consistently drive stronger performance:
Because Austin averages more than 300 days of sunshine per year, outdoor living space is especially valuable. High-performing outdoor features include:
Small upgrades that improve comfort and convenience often translate into five-star reviews and stronger long-term revenue.
Austin is a vibrant, nationally recognized destination with strong year-round travel demand, a diversified tourism base, and event-driven rate surges. It’s a market full of opportunity for those ready to make use of the data.
Our free Austin Vacation Rental Market Analysis provides the info you need to evaluate your next move. Inside, you’ll discover:
Investing in Austin real estate should feel as stress-free as a sunny lake day. Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you make informed decisions.
As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston attracts nearly 54 million visitors each year. Known for award-winning dining, family-friendly attractions, professional sports, and expansive green space, this Texas metro delivers year-round travel demand.
That consistent visitor volume leads many buyers to ask: Is Houston a good place to invest in vacation rental property?
Short answer: Yes, especially for investors seeking an affordable entry price, strong group travel demand, and steady seasonal peaks.
To help you evaluate the opportunity, we created a free, downloadable Houston Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Houston performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Houston Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Yes, and here’s why:
While Houston does experience seasonal shifts, travel demand remains strong for much of the year. The first surge typically hits around spring break, followed by another peak in mid-summer when families and professionals take vacations.
Compared to nearby markets like Galveston or Dallas, Houston’s median home price is often more affordable and can even fall below the national median. For investors looking for a lower barrier to entry, that pricing advantage is significant.
Houston vacation rental income depends primarily on property size, location, and amenities. Here’s how each impacts earning potential.
Top Revenue Generator:
Five-bedroom homes typically produce the highest annual revenue and strongest booking volume. Houston’s group-friendly demand makes larger properties especially appealing.
Close Runner-Up:
Three-bedroom homes often achieve nearly as many annual bookings as five-bedroom homes.
Inventory Insight:
Larger homes are less common in the available inventory, which may make them harder to acquire.
Smaller Property Opportunity:
One- and two-bedroom homes are more widely available. While they may not outperform large homes in total revenue, they can still generate steady bookings — especially with strong marketing and competitive amenities.
Takeaway:
Houston supports large-group properties particularly well, but smaller homes can still perform when positioned correctly.
Because Houston spans 665 square miles, location strategy matters. Investors should prioritize:
High-demand areas include:
Guests value convenient access to downtown and outdoor attractions like the Houston Zoo, Space Center Houston, Buffalo Bayou Park, and White Oak Bayou Trail.
Central, well-connected properties tend to outperform homes in far-flung suburbs due to shorter commute times and better access to entertainment.
Given Houston’s warm climate (especially in summer), comfort-focused amenities are critical. High-performing amenities include:
Family-friendly features also help boost occupancy:
Because summer is one of Houston’s busiest travel periods, properties that help guests stay cool and comfortable tend to earn five-star reviews and repeat bookings.
Houston can be a strong option if you’re looking for a diversified tourism base beyond just leisure travel, strong group and family travel demand, multiple seasonal revenue peaks, and a lower purchase price compared to other major cities. As with any market, success depends on making informed decisions.
Our free Houston Vacation Rental Market Analysis provides the data you need to evaluate your next step. Inside, you’ll discover:
Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you move with clarity and confidence.
Located along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Fort Myers attracts over five million visitors each year. With white-sand beaches, family-friendly attractions, boating culture, and vibrant nightlife, this coastal destination delivers consistent tourism demand.
That steady flow of beach-bound travelers leads many buyers to ask: Is Fort Myers a good place to invest in vacation rental property?
Short answer: Yes, especially for investors seeking strong seasonal demand, beachfront appeal, and a lower price point than nearby luxury Gulf Coast markets.
To help you evaluate the opportunity, we created a free, downloadable Fort Myers Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Fort Myers performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Fort Myers Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Yes, and here’s why:
Fort Myers occupancy typically begins rising in late winter as travelers escape colder northern climates. Demand peaks during spring break months and remains steady into early summer.
While early fall can bring a modest slowdown, overall annual demand remains strong enough to create solid earning potential — particularly for well-located properties near the beach.
Compared to nearby markets like Naples and Bonita Springs, Fort Myers often offers a more accessible entry price while still benefiting from Gulf Coast tourism demand.
Fort Myers vacation rental income primarily depends on property size, location, and amenities. Here’s how each factor influences revenue potential.
Top Revenue & Occupancy Performer:
Five-bedroom homes typically generate the highest annual revenue and most consistent bookings.
Strong Mid-Size Opportunity:
Three- and four-bedroom homes are not far behind in nights booked and are far more common in available inventory.
Inventory Insight:
Large beachfront homes are limited in supply, which may make them harder to acquire.
Takeaway:
While five-bedroom properties often lead in revenue, mid-size homes can still perform extremely well — especially when located closer to the water.
In Fort Myers, proximity to the beach is critical. Travelers prioritize:
Homes located on or near Fort Myers Beach typically command stronger nightly rates and booking demand.
Condos also perform well, particularly those located near downtown or in the Fort Myers River District with convenient beach access. For investors seeking a lower upfront cost, beachfront condos can provide strong entry-level opportunities while still capturing Gulf Coast appeal.
Bottom line: The closer you are to the beach, the stronger your earning potential tends to be.
Because Fort Myers is a sun-and-sand destination, beach-driven amenities are key. High-performing features include:
After long days in the sun, guests value comfort-focused amenities that help them relax. Well-designed outdoor spaces and cool, comfortable interiors can directly contribute to five-star reviews and influence long-term revenue.
Fort Myers is a strong beach market with strong seasonal peaks, snowbird demand, and lower entry prices than areas like Naples or Bonita Springs.
Our free Fort Myers Vacation Rental Market Analysis gives you the performance data you need to make informed decisions. Inside, you’ll find:
Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you make your next move in this Gulf Coast market with confidence and clarity.
With 70 miles of stunning coastline, year-round sunshine, and a laid-back coastal culture, San Diego delivers equal parts adventure and relaxation for the millions of travelers who visit each year.
In fact, nearly 33 million visitors flock to San Diego annually, making a San Diego real estate investment as appealing as an oceanfront sunset. For vacation rental buyers, that steady stream of demand can translate into exciting income potential.
To help you better understand the opportunity this Southern California market presents, we created a free, downloadable San Diego Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s San Diego performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete San Diego Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
San Diego’s broad appeal is one of its biggest strengths. Visitors can:
Iconic attractions such as Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo draw families year-round, while pet-friendly parks and beaches make the city especially attractive to travelers bringing four-legged companions.
Another major advantage? San Diego’s famously mild climate. With comfortable temperatures year-round, the market experiences less dramatic seasonality than many beach destinations. While spring and summer remain the busiest travel periods, owners can still generate bookings in every season, supporting more consistent annual income.
Of course, investing in coastal California comes with a higher price tag. The median home price in San Diego sits just over $974,000. For investors, offsetting that upfront cost comes down to choosing the right property in the right location and maximizing its performance with strong management.
Thanks to steady tourism and broad traveler appeal, San Diego offers solid potential for passive income. To better understand what your returns could look like, consider these key factors.
San Diego attracts couples, families, friend groups, and business travelers, meaning properties of all sizes can perform well.
Our data shows:
Ultimately, success isn’t limited to one property size; it comes down to how well your home meets guest expectations.
In San Diego, location is everything. Investors typically choose between two prime settings: beachside or downtown.
For a beach-focused investment, look for homes:
If urban energy is more your style, consider properties near:
While it’s difficult to be both beachfront and downtown due to the separation created by San Diego Bay, either location can perform strongly when aligned with guest preferences.
With sunshine nearly every day of the year, outdoor living spaces are a major value driver.
Water views are especially powerful in this market, but even homes without direct ocean frontage can stand out by providing beach essentials like chairs, umbrellas, and towels. Small, thoughtful touches often encourage five-star reviews and repeat bookings.
Strong year-round demand, moderate seasonality, and diverse property options make San Diego real estate investing an attractive opportunity for vacation rental buyers.
To better understand your income potential, download our free San Diego Vacation Rental Market Analysis today. Inside, you’ll find:
Evaluating your next investment doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you position yourself for success in one of California’s most desirable vacation rental markets.
Surrounded by rolling hills and packed with entertainment, Charlotte attracts 33 million visitors each year. From the NASCAR Hall of Fame and brewery tours to family-friendly museums and the world’s largest whitewater river, the Queen City delivers steady year-round tourism demand.
That consistent visitor volume is why many buyers are asking: Is Charlotte a good place to invest in vacation rental property?
Short answer: Yes, especially for investors seeking steady occupancy, diverse traveler demand, and a lower price point than many competing Southeastern markets.
To help you evaluate the opportunity, we created a free, downloadable Charlotte Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Charlotte performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Charlotte Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Yes, and here’s why:
Unlike highly seasonal markets, Charlotte maintains relatively stable demand throughout the year, with only a modest summer increase when family travel peaks. Its nightlife scene, history-rich tours, and over 100 must-try restaurants also serve to draw couples and solo travelers. This stability can help investors smooth out revenue across multiple seasons.
Compared to nearby tourism hotspots like Asheville or Gatlinburg, Charlotte often offers a more approachable entry price while still benefiting from strong visitor volume.
Charlotte vacation rental income depends on three primary factors: property size, location, and amenities. Here’s how each affects earning potential.
Highest Revenue Potential:
Five-bedroom homes tend to generate the most annual revenue, as they accommodate larger family and group bookings.
Highest Occupancy Rates:
One-bedroom properties typically achieve the most nights booked per year.
Inventory Insight:
Smaller properties make up a larger portion of available inventory, meaning they may be easier to acquire and require a lower upfront investment.
Takeaway:
You don’t need the largest home to succeed. Charlotte supports both high-revenue large homes and high-occupancy smaller properties.
The most desirable investment areas are close to Uptown (Charlotte’s downtown district). Top neighborhoods to consider:
Proximity to dining, nightlife, museums, and sports venues like Bank of America Stadium increases booking appeal. Guests value walkability and access to entertainment more than proximity to natural landmarks.
Because of Charlotte’s moderate climate, outdoor space is a major value driver. High-performing amenities include:
Family-focused amenities can also boost occupancy, since Charlotte attracts multi-generational travel groups.
Small convenience upgrades can help lock in five-star reviews, which directly impact long-term revenue performance.
Charlotte is a Southeastern city with steady tourism, a mix of leisure and business demand, and lower volatility than beach markets. It’s a market with great opportunities for those ready to make informed decisions.
Our free Charlotte Vacation Rental Market Analysis provides the performance data you need to evaluate your next move. Inside, you’ll discover:
Finding a Charlotte investment property shouldn’t be stressful. Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you act confidently.
With 24 miles of sandy shoreline, scenic canals, championship golf courses, and vibrant dining, Fort Lauderdale delivers a classic South Florida escape.
More than 13 million visitors choose this coastal destination each year, creating steady demand that makes a Fort Lauderdale vacation rental an attractive opportunity for investors.
If you’re evaluating the earning potential, we created a free, downloadable Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rental Market Analysis to help guide your decision with real performance data. Inside the report, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Fort Lauderdale performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Fort Lauderdale blends beach appeal, boating culture, and year-round sunshine — supporting multi-season demand.
Travelers visit Fort Lauderdale for:
These draws result in a diverse visitor base comprised of:
Fort Lauderdale’s high season typically:
With temperatures ranging from the high 50s to low 90s, the market sees multi-season earning opportunities, not just a single summer spike. Our full market analysis outlines occupancy performance month by month so you can forecast revenue with greater confidence.
Fort Lauderdale’s median home value sits around $501,000 — below that of nearby Miami (~$570,000) — offering a more accessible entry point into a premium coastal market that attracts strong tourism demand.
Investors seeking lower upfront costs in the Sunshine State could also compare options in markets like Tampa or Jacksonville.
Income potential depends on three core factors: property size, location, and amenities.
Our data shows:
For investors, this means:
In Fort Lauderdale, proximity to water is key. Top-performing rentals include:
Guests frequently prioritize:
Canal properties can offer waterfront appeal at more budget-friendly price points than direct beachfront homes.
Updated outdoor spaces are essential in warm-weather, ocean-focused markets. High-demand features include:
Inside the home, you should prioritize:
Blending comfort, style, and hospitality can help drive five-star reviews and repeat bookings.
For buyers looking to invest in South Florida’s tourism economy, Fort Lauderdale presents compelling potential.
To explore the numbers in greater detail, download our free Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help make your investment journey smooth sailing.
With 23 miles of Atlantic coastline and a beach so iconic it’s locally nicknamed the “World’s Most Famous,” Daytona Beach consistently draws sun-seekers from across the country. In fact, 93% of surveyed out-of-state visitors said they come specifically for the beach.
Layer in family attractions, coastal cuisine, and major annual events like the Daytona 500 (which alone attracts more than 100,000 attendees), and it’s easy to see why Volusia County welcomes around 4.5 million visitors each year. For investors, that steady tourism demand makes a Daytona Beach vacation rental a compelling opportunity.
If you’re evaluating the income potential, we created a free, downloadable Daytona Beach Vacation Rental Market Analysis to help you make data-backed decisions.
The data reflects Evolve’s Daytona Beach performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Daytona Beach Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Daytona Beach blends beach culture, sports history, and a pleasant climate to support diverse and multi-season demand.
Visitors travel to Daytona Beach for:
That variety attracts:
Occupancy trends in Daytona Beach typically follow this pattern:
For investors, this means multiple revenue spikes throughout the year, reliable high-season pricing windows, and predictable slower months for maintenance and updates. Our full market analysis breaks down occupancy month by month to help you forecast performance.
With a median home price of around $243,000, Daytona Beach offers a more approachable entry point than many Florida hotspots like Miami, Tampa, or even nearby Jacksonville.
While beachfront properties command a premium, the broader market can provide investors with flexible price points and strong tourism demand.
Income potential depends on three primary variables: property size, location, and amenities.
Performance data shows:
For investors, this means:
In Daytona Beach, proximity to the shoreline is key. Top-performing rentals include:
Our experts note that beachfront condos perform well, offering:
Being close to major attractions (like Daytona International Speedway) can also increase booking potential during event weekends.
Because many top rentals are located near the water, beach-forward amenities matter. High-demand features include:
To capture year-round bookings, consider:
When cooler weather or rain keeps guests indoors, all-weather entertainment can help drive five-star reviews.
For buyers looking to combine coastal demand with a relatively affordable entry point, Daytona Beach presents compelling potential (if decisions are backed by strong data).
To explore the numbers in more detail, download our Daytona Beach Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you on your Daytona Beach investment journey.
With 22 miles of coastline, a revitalized downtown, and 8 million annual overnight visitors, Jacksonville has quietly become one of Florida’s most dynamic vacation rental markets.
From shopping at St. Johns Town Center to kayaking around Little Talbot Island State Park or visiting the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, this coastal city offers something for every type of traveler. That broad appeal, combined with relatively accessible home prices, makes a Jacksonville investment property a compelling opportunity for buyers.
If you’re evaluating the income potential, we created a free, downloadable Jacksonville Vacation Rental Market Analysis to help you make data-informed decisions. Inside the report, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Jacksonville performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Jacksonville Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Jacksonville combines waterfront living and year-round sunshine to support consistent demand.
Travelers visit Jacksonville for:
These draws result in a diverse visitor base comprised of:
Jacksonville typically experiences:
For investors, this means consistent revenue opportunities, time during slower months for maintenance and updates, and reliable high-season pricing windows. Our full market analysis outlines month-by-month occupancy patterns so you can forecast performance more accurately.
With an average list price around $279,000 — sitting below the national average — Jacksonville offers a relatively approachable entry point compared to many Florida coastal markets.
For buyers balancing upfront cost with strong tourism demand, this combination can create attractive long-term potential.
Earning potential depends on three key variables: property size, location, and amenities.
Our market data shows:
For investors, this means:
In Florida, proximity to water matters. Top-performing options often include:
Guests often prioritize:
A well-located property can significantly increase both booking frequency and achievable nightly rates.
Outdoor spaces can be major differentiators in a warm-weather market like Jacksonville. High-demand amenities include:
For the interior, must-have features are:
For buyers seeking a Florida market with beach appeal and steady demand (without the premium price tag of some coastal cities), Jacksonville presents compelling potential.
To dive deeper into the numbers, download our Jacksonville Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
Buying a Jacksonville investment property shouldn’t feel stressful. Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you make informed decisions.
Between touring America’s largest private home at Biltmore Estate, hiking waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest, and sipping your way through a renowned brewery trail, Asheville delivers mountain adventure with a creative edge.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville attracts nearly 14 million visitors each year. That steady tourism demand, paired with a competitive but accessible real estate market, creates meaningful opportunity for buyers considering an Asheville vacation rental investment.
If you’re evaluating the numbers, we created a free, downloadable Asheville Vacation Rental Market Analysis to help you understand performance potential using real market data. Inside the report, you’ll find:
The data reflects Evolve’s Asheville performance over the last 12 months and provides a reliable baseline for making informed buying decisions.
👉 Download the complete Asheville Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Asheville blends outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and four-season appeal — a combination that supports diverse and consistent guest demand.
Travelers visit Asheville for:
This broad appeal helps stabilize bookings across multiple traveler segments, including:
While Asheville sees year-round visitors, demand typically follows this pattern:
Asheville sits within an hour of ski destinations like Cataloochee Ski Area and Hatley Pointe (formerly Wolf Ridge Ski Resort), which can help sustain winter bookings for well-located properties.
Understanding seasonality allows investors to plan dynamic pricing strategies, forecast annual revenue more accurately, and budget for slower months. Our full market analysis outlines occupancy performance by month to give you the full picture.
According to recent market data, Asheville’s median list price sits at ~$449,000. While competitive, this can be more approachable than other mountain markets like Gatlinburg.
For buyers looking to capture strong mountain tourism demand without entering a higher-priced resort market, Asheville presents a balanced opportunity.
Earning potential depends on three key variables: property size, location, and amenities.
For investors, this means:
Location plays a major role in booking performance in Asheville. Top-performing properties are often near:
Guests frequently prioritize:
Asheville is one of the most pet-friendly destinations in the U.S., so it’s important to prioritize perks for furry friends (like beds, treats, dishes, and toys).
Other high-demand amenities include:
Additional profit-driving features are:
In a destination built around natural beauty, outdoor spaces can be just as important as interior design.
Asheville offers four-season appeal, a balanced inventory across bedroom counts, and a competitive but approachable median home price. For investors seeking a mountain market with consistently growing tourism, the area offers strong potential for those ready to make informed decisions.
To dive deeper into the numbers, download our Asheville Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
Finding the right investment property should feel as refreshing as a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you’re purchasing your first property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can help you act confidently.