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Popular Vacation & Second Home Zip Codes: 2024 Analysis
The Most Popular Vacation & Second Home ZIP Codes
Where are vacation home buyers purchasing across the United States? This Homebuyer.com study analyzes mortgage data from every U.S. state to reveal the ZIP Codes with the highest concentration of vacation and second home purchases.
Our analysis uses authoritative government data sources to evaluate vacation home markets by three key factors that matter most to second home buyers:
- Market concentration – what percentage of home purchases go to vacation buyers
- Loan amounts – the financial profile of vacation home buyers in each market
- Geographic distribution – regional patterns in vacation home purchasing
We focus on mortgaged purchases only, as cash transactions are not included in HMDA data, which means the actual vacation home market may be larger than what's reflected in these statistics.
Key Takeaways
- Stratton, VT and Avalon, NJ tie for #1 with 93.33% of home purchases going to vacation buyers.
- New Jersey dominates the top 10 with 4 ZIP codes, including luxury markets like Stone Harbor ($2M average loans).
- Vermont ski towns offer strong vacation markets with more affordable prices than coastal destinations.
- Vacation home markets are widespread, with every state except two having at least one ZIP code where 25% of buyers are vacation home purchasers.
- Vacation home prices range from $202,692 in Caseville, Michigan to $2.96 million in Big Sky, Montana.
How We Rank Vacation Home ZIP Codes
A ZIP code's ranking depends on vacation-home-buyer concentration, market value, and geographic appeal. Our analysis sorts ZIP codes from highest to lowest concentration using three key factors. Each location is scored on:
- Market concentration (Primary): What percentage of home purchases go to vacation buyers
- Loan amounts (Secondary): The financial profile of vacation home buyers in each market
- Geographic distribution (Supporting): Regional patterns in vacation home purchasing
Top 10 ZIP Codes For Vacation Homes
The following table showcases the ZIP codes with the highest concentration of vacation home buyers:
#1: Stratton, Vermont 05360
93.33% vacation home market share
Stratton, Vermont ranks first with 93% vacation buyers. Stratton Mountain Resort dominates this Windham County community.
Key Features:
• Ski season: December through April
• Summer: Mountain biking and hiking
• Properties: Ski-in/ski-out condos to mountain estates
• Location: 3 hours from Boston
Most buyers use their homes two to three weeks per winter and rent them out on other weekends.
Key Features:
• Ski season: December through April
• Summer: Mountain biking and hiking
• Properties: Ski-in/ski-out condos to mountain estates
• Location: 3 hours from Boston
Most buyers use their homes two to three weeks per winter and rent them out on other weekends.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 93.33% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 84.62% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $507,143 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $689,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#2: Avalon, New Jersey 08202
93.33% vacation home market share
Avalon, New Jersey ties for first with 93% vacation home purchases. This barrier island on Seven Mile Island in Cape May County draws buyers to its Atlantic Ocean beaches and bay access.
Key Features:
• Location: Barrier island with ocean and bay access
• Properties: Oceanfront estates, bay-view homes, newer condos
• Attractions: Restaurants, boutiques, Avalon Golf Club
• Market: Strict building codes preserve upscale character
Buyers typically use homes for summer weekends and rent them out during peak July and August weeks. The island attracts families from Philadelphia, New York, and northern New Jersey.
Key Features:
• Location: Barrier island with ocean and bay access
• Properties: Oceanfront estates, bay-view homes, newer condos
• Attractions: Restaurants, boutiques, Avalon Golf Club
• Market: Strict building codes preserve upscale character
Buyers typically use homes for summer weekends and rent them out during peak July and August weeks. The island attracts families from Philadelphia, New York, and northern New Jersey.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 93.33% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 87.87% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $1,696,714 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $846,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#3: Bethany Beach, Delaware 19930
84.76% vacation home market share
Bethany Beach, Delaware ranks third with 85% vacation home buyers. This Sussex County beach town sits between Rehoboth Beach and Fenwick Island on the Atlantic coast.
Key Features:
• Location: Atlantic Ocean coastline between major beach towns
• Properties: Oceanfront homes, canal-front with boat access, walkable townhomes
• Attractions: Boardwalk, family-friendly beach activities
• Market: Quieter character than nearby Rehoboth Beach
Buyers come from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC. Most use homes for summer weekends and rent them out during July and August. The beach town maintains family-friendly policies with no alcohol permitted on beaches or boardwalk.
Key Features:
• Location: Atlantic Ocean coastline between major beach towns
• Properties: Oceanfront homes, canal-front with boat access, walkable townhomes
• Attractions: Boardwalk, family-friendly beach activities
• Market: Quieter character than nearby Rehoboth Beach
Buyers come from Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC. Most use homes for summer weekends and rent them out during July and August. The beach town maintains family-friendly policies with no alcohol permitted on beaches or boardwalk.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 84.76% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 87.36% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $727,809 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $541,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#4: West Dover, Vermont 05356
82.61% vacation home market share
West Dover, Vermont ranks fourth with 83% vacation home buyers. Mount Snow ski resort drives the second-home market in this Windham County town.
Key Features:
• Ski Resort: Mount Snow with 80 trails, November through April
• Summer Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, golf courses
• Properties: Slope-side condos to mountain homes
• Location: Southern Vermont, accessible from Massachusetts
Buyers use homes for ski weekends and rent them out during holiday weeks. The town offers restaurants and shops along Route 100, plus Mount Snow Village at the base with additional lodging and dining.
Key Features:
• Ski Resort: Mount Snow with 80 trails, November through April
• Summer Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, golf courses
• Properties: Slope-side condos to mountain homes
• Location: Southern Vermont, accessible from Massachusetts
Buyers use homes for ski weekends and rent them out during holiday weeks. The town offers restaurants and shops along Route 100, plus Mount Snow Village at the base with additional lodging and dining.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 82.61% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 81.86% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $410,789 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $346,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#5: Sea Isle City, New Jersey 08243
82.35% vacation home market share
Sea Isle City, New Jersey ranks fifth with 82% vacation home buyers. This Cape May County barrier island offers seven miles of beaches and a bustling boardwalk.
Key Features:
• Location: Barrier island with ocean and bay access
• Properties: Oceanfront homes, bay-view houses, newer townhomes
• Attractions: Boardwalk, promenade, summer concerts and festivals
• Market: More active atmosphere than nearby Avalon or Stone Harbor
Buyers rent out homes during peak summer weeks and use them for shoulder-season weekends. Bay access makes Sea Isle popular with boaters and fishing enthusiasts. The town draws families from Philadelphia and southern New Jersey.
Key Features:
• Location: Barrier island with ocean and bay access
• Properties: Oceanfront homes, bay-view houses, newer townhomes
• Attractions: Boardwalk, promenade, summer concerts and festivals
• Market: More active atmosphere than nearby Avalon or Stone Harbor
Buyers rent out homes during peak summer weeks and use them for shoulder-season weekends. Bay access makes Sea Isle popular with boaters and fishing enthusiasts. The town draws families from Philadelphia and southern New Jersey.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 82.35% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 87.24% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $978,878 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $527,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#6: Stone Harbor, New Jersey 08247
82.35% vacation home market share
Stone Harbor, New Jersey ranks sixth with 82% vacation home buyers and the highest average loan amount at $2 million. This Cape May County borough shares Seven Mile Island with Avalon.
Key Features:
• Location: Seven Mile Island with Avalon
• Properties: Luxury oceanfront estates, high-end new construction
• Attractions: Upscale shops, restaurants, bird sanctuary
• Market: Stricter ordinances than neighboring beach towns
Stone Harbor attracts wealthier buyers from Philadelphia and northern New Jersey. Buyers use homes for family summer vacations and rent sparingly due to high property values.
Key Features:
• Location: Seven Mile Island with Avalon
• Properties: Luxury oceanfront estates, high-end new construction
• Attractions: Upscale shops, restaurants, bird sanctuary
• Market: Stricter ordinances than neighboring beach towns
Stone Harbor attracts wealthier buyers from Philadelphia and northern New Jersey. Buyers use homes for family summer vacations and rent sparingly due to high property values.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 82.35% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 89.74% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $2,013,571 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $1,015,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#7: Beach Haven, New Jersey 08008
82.33% vacation home market share
Beach Haven, New Jersey ranks seventh with 82% vacation home buyers. This Ocean County town anchors the southern end of Long Beach Island.
Key Features:
• Location: Southern end of Long Beach Island
• Properties: Oceanfront homes, bay-front with docks, historic beach cottages
• Attractions: Fantasy Island amusement park, Victorian district, Bay Avenue shops
• Market: Family-oriented atmosphere with single causeway access
Buyers come from northern and central New Jersey and the New York area. Most rent their homes during summer months and use them for spring and fall weekends.
Key Features:
• Location: Southern end of Long Beach Island
• Properties: Oceanfront homes, bay-front with docks, historic beach cottages
• Attractions: Fantasy Island amusement park, Victorian district, Bay Avenue shops
• Market: Family-oriented atmosphere with single causeway access
Buyers come from northern and central New Jersey and the New York area. Most rent their homes during summer months and use them for spring and fall weekends.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 82.33% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 80.17% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $1,390,864 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $864,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#8: Block Island, Rhode Island 02807
81.25% vacation home market share
Block Island, Rhode Island ranks eighth with 81% vacation home buyers. This Washington County island sits 13 miles off the Rhode Island coast.
Key Features:
• Location: 13 miles offshore, one-hour ferry from Point Judith
• Properties: Beach cottages, larger estates, main village homes
• Attractions: Beaches, lighthouses, Mohegan Bluffs
• Market: Restricted development to preserve island character
Buyers come from Providence, Boston, and Connecticut. Most use homes for summer weeks and rent them out during peak season. The island has limited winter services with many businesses closing from October through May.
Key Features:
• Location: 13 miles offshore, one-hour ferry from Point Judith
• Properties: Beach cottages, larger estates, main village homes
• Attractions: Beaches, lighthouses, Mohegan Bluffs
• Market: Restricted development to preserve island character
Buyers come from Providence, Boston, and Connecticut. Most use homes for summer weeks and rent them out during peak season. The island has limited winter services with many businesses closing from October through May.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 81.25% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 79.69% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $1,211,923 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $714,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#9: University, Mississippi 38677
76.92% vacation home market share
University, Mississippi ranks ninth with 77% vacation home buyers and the lowest average loan amount at $230,000. This Lafayette County community near Oxford attracts Ole Miss football fans.
Key Features:
• Location: Near Oxford and University of Mississippi
• Properties: Condos and smaller homes for game-day use
• Attractions: Ole Miss football games, Sardis Lake boating and fishing
• Market: Unique sports-focused vacation home market
Buyers use properties for football weekends during fall and baseball games in spring. Properties sit empty most of the year outside sporting events. Ole Miss alumni from across the South maintain second homes for tailgating and game weekends.
Key Features:
• Location: Near Oxford and University of Mississippi
• Properties: Condos and smaller homes for game-day use
• Attractions: Ole Miss football games, Sardis Lake boating and fishing
• Market: Unique sports-focused vacation home market
Buyers use properties for football weekends during fall and baseball games in spring. Properties sit empty most of the year outside sporting events. Ole Miss alumni from across the South maintain second homes for tailgating and game weekends.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 76.92% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 59.26% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $230,000 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $287,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
#10: Caseville, Michigan 48725
76.47% vacation home market share
Caseville, Michigan rounds out the top ten with 76% vacation home buyers. This Huron County town sits on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron.
Key Features:
• Location: Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron
• Properties: Lakefront cottages, inland homes, newer construction
• Attractions: Public beach, marina, fishing access, Cheeseburger in Caseville festival
• Market: Affordable lake access for Michigan families
Buyers come from Detroit, Flint, and other Michigan cities. The area attracts fishing enthusiasts and families seeking affordable lake access. Most buyers use properties for summer weekends and rent occasionally. Caseville offers restaurants, shops, and camping facilities.
Key Features:
• Location: Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron
• Properties: Lakefront cottages, inland homes, newer construction
• Attractions: Public beach, marina, fishing access, Cheeseburger in Caseville festival
• Market: Affordable lake access for Michigan families
Buyers come from Detroit, Flint, and other Michigan cities. The area attracts fishing enthusiasts and families seeking affordable lake access. Most buyers use properties for summer weekends and rent occasionally. Caseville offers restaurants, shops, and camping facilities.
| Second Home Buyers | 2024 Data |
|---|---|
| Vacation Home Buyers (2024) | 76.47% |
| Vacation Home Buyers (5-Year Average) | 65.45% |
| Average Mortgage Size | $202,692 |
| Average Home Buyer Income | $270,000 |
Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
Every ZIP Code Ranked: Top 100 Vacation Home Markets
Beyond the top 10 destinations, vacation home buyers are purchasing properties in a wide range of locations—from mountain ski towns to coastal beach communities to lakefront retreats. The table below ranks the top 100 ZIP codes by vacation home buyer concentration.
These rankings highlight market patterns that extend beyond the expected coastal and ski resort areas. They include college towns where alumni keep game-day homes, affordable lake communities attracting regional buyers, and exclusive island destinations with limited inventory.
Use this data to:
- Identify emerging vacation markets before they become saturated
- Compare property values across similar destination types
- Find affordable alternatives to high-priced vacation markets
- Understand regional vacation home trends across the United States
Top Vacation Home ZIP Codes
ZIP codes ranked by percentage of second home buyers
RANK ↑ | ZIP CODE | CITY | STATE | 1-YEAR MARKET SHARE ↕ | 5-YEAR MARKET SHARE ↕ | AVERAGE LOAN AMOUNT ↕ | AVERAGE BUYER INCOME ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 05360 | Stratton | VT | 93.33% | 84.62% | $507,143 | $689,000 |
| 2 | 08202 | Avalon | NJ | 93.33% | 87.87% | $1,696,714 | $846,000 |
| 3 | 19930 | Bethany Beach | DE | 84.76% | 87.36% | $727,809 | $541,000 |
| 4 | 05356 | West Dover | VT | 82.61% | 81.86% | $410,789 | $346,000 |
| 5 | 08243 | Sea Isle City | NJ | 82.35% | 87.24% | $978,878 | $527,000 |
| 6 | 08247 | Stone Harbor | NJ | 82.35% | 89.74% | $2,013,571 | $1,015,000 |
| 7 | 08008 | Beach Haven | NJ | 82.33% | 80.17% | $1,390,864 | $864,000 |
| 8 | 02807 | Block Island | RI | 81.25% | 79.69% | $1,211,923 | $714,000 |
| 9 | 38677 | University | MS | 76.92% | 59.26% | $230,000 | $287,000 |
| 10 | 48725 | Caseville | MI | 76.47% | 65.45% | $202,692 | $270,000 |
| 11 | 54538 | Lac du Flambeau | WI | 75.68% | 71.31% | $515,357 | $307,000 |
| 12 | 04970 | Rangeley | ME | 75.51% | 76.42% | $385,270 | $271,000 |
| 13 | 02539 | Edgartown | MA | 75.00% | 67.21% | $1,580,152 | $1,206,000 |
| 14 | 13338 | Otter Lake | NY | 75.00% | 55.47% | $205,000 | $209,000 |
| 15 | 34217 | Holmes Beach | FL | 75.00% | 73.92% | $769,667 | $483,000 |
| 16 | 19971 | Rehoboth Beach | DE | 74.12% | 66.48% | $909,444 | $667,000 |
| 17 | 19944 | Fenwick Island | DE | 74.07% | 82.69% | $978,500 | $786,000 |
| 18 | 05674 | Warren | VT | 73.47% | 72.08% | $373,056 | $437,000 |
| 19 | 05152 | Peru | VT | 72.97% | 73.15% | $697,593 | $812,000 |
| 20 | 26260 | Davis | WV | 72.50% | 61.19% | $352,931 | $296,000 |
| 21 | 05149 | Ludlow | VT | 72.13% | 83.91% | $562,727 | $550,000 |
| 22 | 56655 | Longville | MN | 71.88% | 67.93% | $368,043 | $325,000 |
| 23 | 02667 | Wellfleet | MA | 71.74% | 71.07% | $655,000 | $347,000 |
| 24 | 08226 | Ocean City | NJ | 70.54% | 74.47% | $849,751 | $482,000 |
| 25 | 02670 | West Dennis | MA | 70.27% | 66.80% | $582,308 | $466,000 |
| 26 | 56528 | Dent | MN | 70.27% | 56.94% | $413,846 | $339,000 |
| 27 | 26264 | Durbin | WV | 70.00% | 69.53% | $222,143 | $247,000 |
| 28 | 05363 | Chimney Hill | VT | 68.57% | 75.66% | $491,667 | $455,000 |
| 29 | 27927 | Corolla | NC | 68.39% | 82.90% | $732,642 | $436,000 |
| 30 | 08260 | North Wildwood | NJ | 67.86% | 73.58% | $477,663 | $322,000 |
| 31 | 08751 | Dover Beaches South | NJ | 67.65% | 73.82% | $569,783 | $470,000 |
| 32 | 02652 | North Truro | MA | 67.57% | 71.15% | $560,200 | $336,000 |
| 33 | 02650 | North Chatham | MA | 67.50% | 64.72% | $1,190,926 | $836,000 |
| 34 | 02657 | Provincetown | MA | 67.39% | 66.72% | $1,021,774 | $717,000 |
| 35 | 49728 | Eckerman | MI | 66.67% | 64.71% | $175,000 | $236,000 |
| 36 | 19970 | Ocean View | DE | 66.25% | 68.80% | $818,962 | $613,000 |
| 37 | 02554 | Nantucket | MA | 65.83% | 65.79% | $2,611,582 | $1,652,000 |
| 38 | 48755 | Pigeon | MI | 65.00% | 59.84% | $325,000 | $276,000 |
| 39 | 21842 | Ocean City | MD | 64.62% | 72.63% | $367,424 | $318,000 |
| 40 | 18451 | Paupack | PA | 64.29% | 62.50% | $439,444 | $371,000 |
| 41 | 33957 | Sanibel | FL | 64.29% | 64.66% | $882,593 | $885,000 |
| 42 | 05672 | Stowe | VT | 64.04% | 60.83% | $937,807 | $1,082,000 |
| 43 | 02639 | Dennis Port | MA | 64.00% | 64.68% | $390,417 | $301,000 |
| 44 | 54149 | Mountain | WI | 63.75% | 66.73% | $272,843 | $203,000 |
| 45 | 04625 | Cranberry Isles | ME | 63.64% | 48.44% | $1,154,286 | $1,025,000 |
| 46 | 96141 | Tahoma | CA | 63.64% | 69.30% | $1,195,714 | $868,000 |
| 47 | 02642 | North Eastham | MA | 63.51% | 67.79% | $676,702 | $437,000 |
| 48 | 95728 | Soda Springs | CA | 62.86% | 77.84% | $1,044,091 | $980,000 |
| 49 | 08735 | Dover Beaches North | NJ | 62.64% | 79.38% | $802,193 | $521,000 |
| 50 | 08203 | Brigantine | NJ | 62.63% | 68.12% | $498,193 | $349,000 |
| 51 | 54547 | Mercer | WI | 62.50% | 58.36% | $325,800 | $256,000 |
| 52 | 34228 | Longboat Key | FL | 62.26% | 62.86% | $1,603,182 | $2,406,000 |
| 53 | 28594 | Emerald Isle | NC | 62.22% | 65.51% | $605,714 | $358,000 |
| 54 | 56452 | Hackensack | MN | 61.54% | 70.20% | $401,875 | $282,000 |
| 55 | 03249 | Gilford | NH | 60.87% | 46.37% | $683,571 | $405,000 |
| 56 | 28741 | Highlands | NC | 60.78% | 67.44% | $789,839 | $753,000 |
| 57 | 08402 | Margate City | NJ | 60.75% | 69.04% | $947,615 | $577,000 |
| 58 | 13420 | Old Forge | NY | 58.97% | 68.60% | $654,130 | $439,000 |
| 59 | 49411 | Free Soil | MI | 58.82% | 37.30% | $234,000 | $243,000 |
| 60 | 84060 | Park City | UT | 58.46% | 59.75% | $1,676,667 | $1,342,000 |
| 61 | 12845 | Lake George | NY | 58.33% | 48.24% | $1,163,571 | $1,063,000 |
| 62 | 13755 | Downsville | NY | 58.33% | 46.39% | $220,714 | $184,000 |
| 63 | 96020 | Warner Valley | CA | 58.33% | 67.82% | $458,929 | $413,000 |
| 64 | 63390 | Innsbrook | MO | 58.18% | 27.85% | $445,938 | $360,000 |
| 65 | 12492 | West Kill | NY | 58.06% | 63.82% | $528,333 | $371,000 |
| 66 | 04464 | Monson | ME | 57.89% | 44.66% | $282,273 | $232,000 |
| 67 | 07762 | Spring Lake | NJ | 57.89% | 48.01% | $1,381,364 | $1,105,000 |
| 68 | 12836 | Hague | NY | 57.14% | 62.50% | $491,667 | $510,000 |
| 69 | 43440 | Marblehead | OH | 57.14% | 61.62% | $397,679 | $335,000 |
| 70 | 28604 | Beech Mountain | NC | 56.80% | 70.35% | $514,829 | $437,000 |
| 71 | 08204 | Erma | NJ | 56.47% | 60.23% | $678,854 | $483,000 |
| 72 | 96103 | Johnsville | CA | 56.25% | 54.93% | $318,889 | $350,000 |
| 73 | 83445 | St. Anthony | ID | 55.77% | 45.22% | $659,138 | $410,000 |
| 74 | 04217 | Bethel | ME | 55.56% | 57.34% | $515,857 | $363,000 |
| 75 | 92315 | Big Bear Lake | CA | 55.50% | 64.81% | $528,802 | $509,000 |
| 76 | 34108 | Pelican Bay | FL | 55.17% | 53.73% | $1,137,125 | $764,000 |
| 77 | 18350 | Pocono Pines | PA | 55.07% | 68.68% | $367,105 | $422,000 |
| 78 | 12811 | Bakers Mills | NY | 55.00% | 56.58% | $328,636 | $311,000 |
| 79 | 28605 | Blowing Rock | NC | 54.90% | 60.18% | $704,643 | $438,000 |
| 80 | 02638 | Dennis | MA | 54.84% | 57.25% | $781,471 | $457,000 |
| 81 | 22810 | Basye | VA | 54.79% | 47.96% | $281,500 | $286,000 |
| 82 | 12139 | Piseco | NY | 54.55% | 63.21% | $346,667 | $207,000 |
| 83 | 16239 | Marienville | PA | 54.55% | 39.13% | $91,667 | $154,000 |
| 84 | 27842 | Henrico | NC | 54.55% | 66.67% | $571,667 | $275,000 |
| 85 | 33852 | Lake Placid | FL | 54.55% | 21.32% | $461,667 | $454,000 |
| 86 | 49759 | Millersburg | MI | 54.55% | 57.03% | $259,167 | $179,000 |
| 87 | 54960 | Neshkoro | WI | 54.55% | 40.54% | $367,500 | $301,000 |
| 88 | 28460 | North Topsail Beach | NC | 54.46% | 37.74% | $681,364 | $500,000 |
| 89 | 83611 | Cascade | ID | 54.05% | 60.69% | $701,750 | $509,000 |
| 90 | 04537 | Boothbay | ME | 53.85% | 38.15% | $512,143 | $1,071,000 |
| 91 | 34145 | Marco Island | FL | 53.79% | 65.05% | $960,915 | $693,000 |
| 92 | 03592 | Pittsburg | NH | 53.33% | 59.71% | $250,625 | $168,000 |
| 93 | 12847 | Long Lake | NY | 53.33% | 68.84% | $367,500 | $251,000 |
| 94 | 34103 | Naples | FL | 53.33% | 46.72% | $1,255,250 | $1,418,000 |
| 95 | 27949 | Kitty Hawk | NC | 53.10% | 66.93% | $764,333 | $459,000 |
| 96 | 04863 | Vinalhaven | ME | 52.94% | 41.35% | $450,556 | $568,000 |
| 97 | 28646 | Linville | NC | 52.63% | 64.45% | $701,400 | $694,000 |
| 98 | 29455 | Charleston | SC | 52.61% | 34.04% | $1,441,894 | $1,009,000 |
| 99 | 08406 | Ventnor City | NJ | 52.59% | 52.70% | $554,672 | $420,000 |
| 100 | 28736 | Glenville | NC | 52.38% | 64.11% | $649,545 | $503,000 |
Data Sources: Homebuyer.com analysis of HMDA data; U.S. Census Bureau
Key Market Statistics
Top Performance Metrics
The 2024 data shows where vacation home buyers are purchasing:
- Highest Concentration: Stratton, VT and Avalon, NJ both show 93.33% of home purchases going to vacation buyers
- Most Expensive Market: Avalon, NJ with an average loan size of $1.7 million and buyer incomes of $846,000
- Most Affordable: West Dover, VT with an average loan size of $411,000 and buyer incomes of $346,000
- Geographic Diversity: 27 states have at least one ZIP code where vacation buyers represent 50% or more of purchases
Market Concentration Analysis
These tiers help categorize markets by their vacation home buyer concentration, from exclusive vacation communities to mixed residential areas:
Tier 1: Ultra-High Concentration (90%+)
- Stratton, VT: 93.33% vacation buyers
- Avalon, NJ: 93.33% vacation buyers
Tier 2: High Concentration (80-90%)
- Bethany Beach, DE: 84.76% vacation buyers
- West Dover, VT: 82.61% vacation buyers
- Sea Isle City, NJ: 82.35% vacation buyers
- Block Island, RI: 81.25% vacation buyers
Tier 3: Strong Concentration (70-80%)
- University, MS: 76.92% vacation buyers
- Caseville, MI: 76.47% vacation buyers
- Warren, VT: 76.47% vacation buyers
- Peru, VT: 75.00% vacation buyers
What These Numbers Mean for Buyers
Coastal Premium Markets Attract the Wealthiest Buyers
Avalon has $1.7 million average loan sizes. High-income professionals buy second homes here. They want beach access near major cities.
Sea Isle City follows at $979,000 average loans. Bethany Beach draws East Coast buyers at $728,000 average loans. These markets work for buyers earning over $500,000 annually who want beach access and luxury amenities.
Key Markets:
- Avalon, NJ: $1.7M average loan size, $846K buyer income, 93.33% vacation buyers
- Sea Isle City, NJ: $979K average loan size, $527K buyer income, 82.35% vacation buyers
- Bethany Beach, DE: $728K average loan size, $541K buyer income, 84.76% vacation buyers
Mountain Destinations Offer Better Value
Vermont ski towns have 93% vacation buyers. But average loans are only $507,000. That's half the price of coastal markets.
Stratton and West Dover attract buyers earning $350,000 to $690,000. They want ski access over luxury amenities. These markets work for buyers who want mountain recreation without paying coastal prices.
Key Markets:
- Stratton, VT: $507K average loan size, $689K buyer income, 93.33% vacation buyers
- West Dover, VT: $411K average loan size, $346K buyer income, 82.61% vacation buyers
- Warren, VT: $507K average loan size, $689K buyer income, 76.47% vacation buyers
Unique Opportunities in Overlooked Markets
Caseville, Michigan has 76% vacation buyers. But average loans are only $203,000. This shows affordable Great Lakes access is available.
Block Island offers premium island retreats at $1.2 million average loans. University, Mississippi provides unique sports-focused vacation homes. These markets work for buyers who want unique locations without paying premium coastal or mountain resort prices.
Key Markets:
- Caseville, MI: $203K average loan size, $270K buyer income, 76.47% vacation buyers
- Block Island, RI: $1.2M average loan size, $714K buyer income, 81.25% vacation buyers
- University, MS: $230K average loan size, $287K buyer income, 76.92% vacation buyers
Buyer Income Analysis
Vacation home buyers have wide income ranges:
- Ultra-High Income: Avalon, NJ buyers average $846,000 annually
- High Income: Bethany Beach, DE buyers average $541,000 annually
- Mid-High Income: Sea Isle City, NJ buyers average $527,000 annually
- Moderate Income: West Dover, VT buyers average $346,000 annually
This shows vacation homes work for different income levels, from luxury coastal properties to affordable mountain retreats.
Our Research Methodology
We conducted extensive original research to identify the most popular vacation and second home ZIP codes, analyzing mortgage data from every U.S. state and territory. Our approach combines rigorous data analysis with practical insights about vacation home purchasing patterns.
Our analysis uses authoritative government data sources to provide objective rankings based on vacation home buyer concentration, loan amounts, and geographic distribution.
How We Built Our Rankings
We identified vacation home markets by analyzing mortgage purchase data and focusing on second home buyer concentration. Our methodology ranks ZIP codes by:
| Factor | Weight | Why This Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Market Share | Primary | Shows true vacation home market concentration |
| Loan Amounts | Secondary | Indicates market value and buyer wealth |
| Geographic Distribution | Supporting | Reveals regional vacation home trends |
1. Vacation Home Market Concentration (Primary Factor)
The core of our analysis focuses on what percentage of home purchases in each ZIP code go to vacation or second home buyers. This shows the true concentration of vacation home markets.
To measure this, we analyzed Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data from the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), specifically the 2018–2024 Snapshot National Loan Level Dataset.
Important Note: This study only includes mortgaged home purchases. Cash purchases are not included in HMDA data, so the actual vacation home market may be larger than what's reflected in these statistics.
2. Loan Amount Analysis (Secondary Factor)
Average loan amounts help us understand the financial profile of vacation home buyers in each market. Higher loan amounts often correlate with wealthier buyers.
We calculated average loan amounts for vacation home purchases in each ZIP code.
3. Geographic Distribution Analysis (Supporting Factor)
Our analysis identifies regional patterns in vacation-home purchasing. This helps reveal whether certain types of locations—including coastal, mountain, and lake communities—attract more vacation home buyers.
Data Sources and Quality
Our research draws from authoritative government sources:
| Source | Data Used | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFEIC) | Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) mortgage data | View source |
| U.S. Census Bureau | ZIP code and geographic data | View source |
Data Quality and Limitations
Strengths of our approach:
- Government data sources ensure accuracy and consistency
- Comprehensive geographic coverage
- Large dataset provides robust rankings
- Focus on completed mortgage transactions
What to consider:
- Data represents 2024 market conditions
- ZIP code-level data may not capture neighborhood variations
- Some markets may have seasonal variations not captured in annual data
Our Commitment to Transparency
We believe in full transparency about our methodology and data sources. This research represents extensive analysis of government mortgage data, but it's designed to be a starting point for understanding vacation home market trends. The best vacation home location for you depends on your specific preferences, budget, and lifestyle goals.
Study Parameters and Scope
This study focuses on:
- Buyers of 1-4 unit residential properties
- All 50 states and territories
- Second or vacation home buyers only
- Exclusion of construction loans and open-ended mortgages
- Completed mortgage transactions
- ZIP codes with at least 10 second home purchases annually (minimum threshold for statistical significance)
Data Processing:
Our analysis involved:
- Advanced database queries joining HMDA datasets with U.S. Census Bureau geographic data
- Processing over 30 GB of mortgage data to extract vacation home purchases
- Removal of outlier data from withdrawn or incomplete applications (less than 0.5% of total data)
- Geographic mapping of ZIP codes to identify market concentration patterns
Limitations and Considerations
While our analysis provides valuable insights, it's important to understand these limitations:
Mortgage Data Only: Our study includes only mortgaged purchases. Cash purchases, which may represent a significant portion of vacation home transactions, are not included in HMDA data.
Annual Snapshot: The data represents a snapshot of 2024 market conditions and may not capture seasonal variations or year-over-year changes.
ZIP Code Level: Our analysis uses ZIP code-level data, which may not capture neighborhood variations within larger areas.
Market Timing: Vacation home markets can change rapidly based on economic conditions, interest rates, and local development.
Personal Factors: Your specific budget, lifestyle preferences, and investment goals may make different locations more suitable than our rankings suggest.
Educational Purpose Disclaimer
This research is designed to help potential vacation home buyers understand market trends and identify areas with high vacation home buyer concentration. We are not a real estate agency, and this information does not constitute advice about specific properties or investment decisions.
When making vacation home purchasing decisions, we encourage you to conduct thorough research, visit potential locations, and consult with local real estate professionals and financial advisors who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and goals.
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About the Author
Dan Green
20-year Mortgage Expert
Dan Green is a mortgage expert with over 20 years of direct mortgage experience. He has helped millions of homebuyers navigate their mortgages and is regularly cited by the press for his mortgage insights. Dan combines deep industry knowledge with clear, practical guidance to help buyers make informed decisions about their home financing.
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