Wanna get away? See which local counties topped the vacation home market for the year
Consumers in the market for a second place to call home when they want to take a vacation may have some viable and local options to choose from.
The vacation housing market has experienced changes in 2024 compared to 2023 that have made properties in specific areas more popular.
Pacaso, a marketplace for luxury vacation homes for co-ownership, shared a new analysis for luxury vacation homes this year by ranking the top properties in the U.S.
Data for the rankings were based on increases in second-home activity, the proportion of second homes to primary homes and demand for properties priced above $700,000.
These are the top vacation home markets in 2024.
Top 20 vacation home markets
- Cape May County, New Jersey
- Gulf County, Florida
- Walton County, Florida
- Barnstable County, Massachusetts
- Collier County, Florida
- Coconion County, Arizona
- Maui County, Hawaii
- Beaufort County, South Carolina
- New York County, New York
- Newport County, Rhode Island
- Washington County, Rhode Island
- Ocean County, New Jersey
- Palm Beach County, Florida
- Buncombe County, North Carolina
- Gallatin County, Montana
- Washington County, Utah
- Nassau County, Florida
- Deschutes County, Oregon
- Charleston County, South Carolina
- Cumberland County, Maine
A closer look at the top vacation home markets
Cape May County, New Jersey
Cape May County tops the list with a ratio of second homes to primary housing surpassing 150 percent. Pacaso explained in its report that the area is a preferred destination for people who live in areas like New York City, and, within the county, are beach towns like Ocean City and Avalon.
Gulf County, Florida
According to Pacaso, Gulf County, Florida, which is part of the Panama City metro area, offers more than 200 miles of white-sand shoreline, and an option for second home buyers.
Walton County, Florida
Walton County, Florida is highlighted by popular beach towns along the Emerald Coast, making it an appealing place for buyers to purchase a vacation home.
Barnstable County, Massachusetts
Barnstable County, Massachusetts is home to the iconic Cape Cod and the area is rooted in tradition, offering plenty of vacation spaces with cultural appeal, Pacaso noted.
Gallatin County, Montana
Coming in at number 15, Gallatin County, Montana has much to offer in the way of incredible vistas. Included in the county is the city of Bozeman, an up-and-coming destination for many who are looking for a bit of the still untamed west.
