The Top U.S. Towns for Vacation Home Buyers
Vacation home buyers love their beach towns.
In 2022, vacation home buyers accounted for 3.43 percent of all U.S. home buyers, led by Jersey Shore and Delaware Beach buyers.
This Homebuyer.com housing market study highlights patterns in U.S. vacation home-buying.
The study, titled “The Most Popular ZIP Codes For Vacation Homes In Every U.S. State”, uses data from the FFEIC and the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) to pinpoint where vacation home buyers buy.
One point stands: many states have clear vacation towns.
39 states have at least one ZIP code in which second-home buyers represent 50 percent or more of home buyers, and every state but two has a ZIP code where at least twenty-five percent of home buyers are buying vacation homes.
The study examines all 50 states and offer additional financial perspectives on second-home buyer household incomes, property values, and loan amounts. The largest average loan amount for second-home buyers is in Big Sky, Montana, 59730, where the typical vacation home owner mortgages $2.96 million.
In University, Kansas, 66863, the average drops to $141,667.
Scroll to the bottom for our complete methodology.
The Top 10 ZIP Codes For Vacation Homes
#1: Stone Harbor, New Jersey 08247
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Situated on the Seven Mile Island in Cape May County, New Jersey, Stone Harbor is a serene coastal town graced with an ideal mix of natural beauty and quaint urban charm. The shore town's eastern border meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering pristine beaches and a captivating seascape. Economically, the appeal of Stone Harbor, especially within the ZIP code 08247, lies in its optimal blend of upscale amenities and secluded coastal ambiance. Stone Harbor has cemented its reputation as a premium vacation destination home to boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet eateries. The property market reflects a predominance of luxury homes and condos, indicative of the high demand among vacation home buyers. A significant factor bolstering the area's desirability is the preservation of its wetlands and bird sanctuaries, ensuring that, while urban development persists, nature's beauty remains untouched. The unique equilibrium between upscale living and nature's tranquility makes 08247 a prime spot for those seeking a blend of leisure and luxury.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
96.05%
5-Year Market Share
93.37%
Average Loan Amount
$1,630,479
Average Home Buyer Income
$967,348
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#2: Fenwick Island, Delaware 19944
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Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Little Assawoman Bay to the west, Fenwick Island in the ZIP code 19944 stands as a captivating blend of coastal serenity and vibrant community activities. This barrier island, part of Sussex County, Delaware, has long drawn vacation home buyers with its prime oceanfront properties and tranquil bay views. Fenwick Island's economy thrives on tourism and real estate, making it a natural hotspot for second home investments. Its geographic location ensures miles of sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and watersports. Beyond the beaches, the area boasts a rich marine ecosystem, with the bay providing opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The town's limited commercial development ensures a quiet, laid-back atmosphere while still providing essential amenities and entertainment venues. With a balance of natural allure and modern conveniences, 19944 emerges as a favored choice for discerning vacation home buyers seeking both recreation and relaxation.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
91.67%
5-Year Market Share
87.27%
Average Loan Amount
$871,970
Average Home Buyer Income
$499,781
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#3: Bethel, Oklahoma 74724
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Located in the southeastern corner of the state within McCurtain County, Oklahoma, the area covered by ZIP code 74724 encompasses the town of Broken Bow. This region is distinguished not just by its picturesque town charm but also by its proximity to the expansive Broken Bow Lake and the lush landscapes of Beavers Bend State Park. Economically, Broken Bow has seen an uptick in real estate interest, notably among vacation home buyers, as awareness of its natural beauty spreads. The vast pine forests, clear waters of the lake, and the undulating Ouachita Mountains offer many outdoor recreational activities, from hiking and bird-watching to boating and fishing. The region's seclusion, coupled with its rich natural resources, presents a compelling value proposition. Properties in 74724 offer a retreat from the urban hustle, a promise of serene lakefront or forest views, and an immersive experience in one of Oklahoma's most biodiverse regions. The blend of rustic wilderness and the convenience of a town setting underscores the ZIP code's appeal to vacation home investors.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
87.80%
5-Year Market Share
80.80%
Average Loan Amount
$601,250
Average Home Buyer Income
$360,516
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#4: Ludlow, Vermont 05149
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Nestled in Windsor County, Vermont, the town of Ludlow, represented by ZIP code 05149, serves as the gateway to the state's scenic landscapes and offers a captivating blend of New England charm and recreational allure. The region's economic pulse beats in sync with seasonal attractions, most notably the Okemo Mountain Resort, which transforms Ludlow into a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders. However, Ludlow's appeal extends beyond the snowy slopes. The warmer months reveal a canvas of lush green forests, providing ideal settings for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing. The town itself is a mosaic of historic buildings, artisan shops, and local eateries, presenting a rich tapestry of cultural and gastronomic experiences. The promise of multi-seasonal activities combined with the serene beauty of Vermont's countryside makes 05149 a sought-after ZIP code. Vacation home buyers are not just investing in property but also in an enriching lifestyle marked by nature, recreation, and New England's timeless allure.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
86.76%
5-Year Market Share
88.33%
Average Loan Amount
$617,373
Average Home Buyer Income
$679,444
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#5: Naples, Florida 34102
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Situated in Collier County, Florida, the Gulf Coast ZIP code of 34102 encompasses a significant portion of Naples, a city renowned for its luxury residences, upscale shopping, and white-sand beaches. Naples' geography offers a mesmerizing juxtaposition of tranquil coastlines alongside the serene backwaters of Naples Bay. From an economic perspective, the area's robust real estate market mirrors its appeal among vacation home buyers. With many waterfront properties, homes in this ZIP code often command views of the Gulf of Mexico, the bay, or the intricate network of canals weaving through the city. The charm of Naples doesn't merely rest in its scenic beauty. The historic Naples Pier, the vibrant downtown with its art scenes and dining establishments, and the proximity to natural wonders like the Ten Thousand Islands have rendered 34102 a nexus of luxury, leisure, and nature. The convergence of these elements positions Naples as a premier destination for those seeking an upscale vacation home amidst a paradise-like setting.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
86.67%
5-Year Market Share
56.67%
Average Loan Amount
$2,840,385
Average Home Buyer Income
$557,692
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#6: Nantucket, Massachusetts 02554
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Located approximately 30 miles south of Cape Cod in Nantucket County, Massachusetts, the island of Nantucket, falling under ZIP code 02554, exudes an unmatched maritime charm. As a designated National Historic District, Nantucket’s cobblestone streets and preserved whaling-era architecture underscore its rich historical tapestry and its enduring appeal as a destination. From an economic viewpoint, Nantucket’s real estate market remains resilient, buoyed by the sustained interest of vacation home buyers. Its exclusivity, combined with limited development due to land conservation efforts, adds a premium to properties in this enclave. Nantucket offers many attractions, from its pristine beaches like Surfside and Jetties to cultural experiences at the Whaling Museum. The island's maritime heritage is palpable in its yacht-filled harbors, while artisanal boutiques and seafood eateries offer a taste of its modern-day sophistication. For vacation home investors, 02554 is more than just a postal code; it’s an entry into an island sanctuary where history, luxury, and natural beauty interlace seamlessly.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
85.71%
5-Year Market Share
85.52%
Average Loan Amount
$3,254,524
Average Home Buyer Income
$1,444,706
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#7: Banner Elk, North Carolina 28604
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Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Avery County, North Carolina, ZIP code 28604 encompasses the town of Banner Elk. This highland retreat, enveloped by Avery County's majestic peaks, presents an idyllic setting that resonates with both serenity and adventure. Over the years, Banner Elk's economy has garnered momentum from its role as a prime mountainous vacation destination. The presence of the Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain ski resorts accentuates the region's winter appeal, drawing snow enthusiasts for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. However, its allure isn't confined to colder months. The verdant expanses of the Blue Ridge beckon hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers throughout the year. Architecturally, the town itself displays a harmonious blend of rustic mountain homes and modern estates. For vacation home buyers, properties in 28604 offer not just a residence but an immersive experience in the heartland of North Carolina's high country. The promise of year-round recreational opportunities, complemented by the backdrop of the Appalachians, makes Banner Elk a compelling choice for secondary home investments.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
84.26%
5-Year Market Share
78.05%
Average Loan Amount
$404,670
Average Home Buyer Income
$282,035
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#8: Westerly, Rhode Island 02891
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Nestled in the southwesternmost corner of the state, in Washington County, Rhode Island, Westerly is a coastal gem with a diverse range of attractions that blend New England charm with seaside allure. Westerly's geographic orientation along the Pawcatuck River and the Atlantic Ocean gives it both riverside tranquility and oceanic majesty. The array of properties—spanning from historic Victorian homes to contemporary coastal estates—reveals the area’s significance in the vacation home market. One of the standout features of Westerly is its array of beaches, with Misquamicut State Beach being a premier attraction, drawing beachgoers with its expansive sandy shoreline. The town's cultural vibrancy is epitomized in its art galleries, theaters, and the iconic Granite Theatre. The juxtaposition of art, history, and nature solidifies Westerly's reputation as a holistic vacation destination. Investors eyeing 02891 are essentially looking at a harmonious blend of coastal relaxation, rich cultural experiences, and New England's timeless elegance.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
83.78%
5-Year Market Share
79.13%
Average Loan Amount
$1,269,839
Average Home Buyer Income
$574,552
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#9: Durbin, West Virginia 26264
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Located in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, Durbin is enveloped by the Monongahela National Forest, reflecting the rugged beauty characteristic of West Virginia's highlands. Durbin offers a quintessential Appalachian experience, where the rushing waters of the Greenbrier River meet dense forests and mountainous terrains. Economically, Durbin's real estate potential taps into its appeal to those seeking solace in nature. The town is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, lured by fishing, hiking, and hunting prospects in the encompassing national forest. The vintage Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad is a nostalgic nod to the region's history, offering scenic rides through the picturesque landscape. Vacation home buyers considering 26264 are essentially eyeing an investment in unspoiled natural beauty punctuated by the charm of a small mountain town. With its proximity to wilderness and enduring rustic allure, Durbin stands as a preferred choice for those desiring an authentic West Virginian retreat.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
82.61%
5-Year Market Share
73.68%
Average Loan Amount
$323,947
Average Home Buyer Income
$284,222
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
#10: Vail, Colorado 81657
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Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Vail, in Eagle County, Colorado, is globally renowned as a premier winter sports destination. The town's economic backbone is intricately intertwined with the ski industry, with Vail Mountain being one of the largest ski resorts in the world. Geographically, Vail is nestled in a narrow valley, which is surrounded by the imposing White River National Forest, ensuring breathtaking vistas at every turn. The Gore Range to the north and the Sawatch Range to the south provide a dramatic backdrop to this alpine town. But Vail's appeal extends beyond its snowy slopes. Summer months transform the valley into a verdant playground, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing. The Vail Nature Center and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens further emphasize the town's commitment to showcasing its natural beauty. For vacation home buyers, 81657 offers more than just property; it invites a lifestyle. From luxury condominiums with slope-side access to secluded mountain chalets, the real estate landscape here is as diverse as its recreational offerings. Investing in Vail is synonymous with embracing a world-class alpine experience, marked by luxury, leisure, and nature's magnificence.
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Second Home Buyers
2022 Data
1-Year Market Share
82.35%
5-Year Market Share
78.43%
Average Loan Amount
$1,698,095
Average Home Buyer Income
$755,742
Sources: FFEIC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, U.S. Census Bureau
Every State’s Top ZIP Code For Second Home Buyers
Location
1-Year Market Share
1. Stone Harbor, New Jersey 08247
96.05%
2. Fenwick Island, Delaware 19944
91.67%
3. Bethel, Oklahoma 74724
87.80%
4. Ludlow, Vermont 05149
86.76%
5. Naples, Florida 34102
86.67%
6. Nantucket, Massachusetts 02554
85.71%
7. Banner Elk, North Carolina 28604
84.26%
8. Westerly, Rhode Island 02891
83.78%
9. Durbin, West Virginia 26264
82.61%
10. Vail, Colorado 81657
82.35%
11. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928
80.77%
12. Rangeley, Maine 04970
79.31%
13. Paupack, Pennsylvania 18451
78.79%
14. Kings Beach, California 96143
75.61%
15. Park City, Utah 84060
75.21%
16. Bolton Landing, New York 12814
74.47%
17. Northport, Alabama 35476
73.08%
18. Errol, New Hampshire 03579
72.73%
19. Mears, Michigan 49436
72.41%
20. Mountain, Wisconsin 54149
71.43%
21. Island Park, Idaho 83429
70.83%
22. Sevierville, Tennessee 37862
65.22%
23. Spirit Lake, Iowa 51360
63.24%
24. Hackensack, Minnesota 56452
62.50%
25. Maxwell Village, New Mexico 87728
61.82%
26. Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559
61.70%
27. Packwood, Washington 98361
61.54%
28. Marblehead, Ohio 43440
60.94%
29. Ocean City, Maryland 21842
58.14%
30. Galveston, Texas 77554
56.90%
31. Pinetop, Arizona 85544
56.74%
32. Moneta, Virginia 24121
54.17%
33. Big Sky, Montana 59730
53.40%
34. Wright City, Missouri 63390
52.43%
35. Michigan City, Indiana 46360
52.38%
36. Hanover, Illinois 61041
51.04%
37. Bee Spring, Kentucky 40119
50.00%
38. Evanston, Wyoming 82930
50.00%
39. Incline Village, Nevada 89450
50.00%
40. Sharon, Connecticut 06069
47.62%
41. New Orleans, Louisiana 70116
45.83%
42. Hebo, Oregon 97122
45.28%
43. Kihei, Hawaii 96753
43.75%
44. Bottineau, North Dakota 58318
40.91%
45. Girdwood, Alaska 99587
36.54%
46. Wilmot, South Dakota 57279
33.33%
47. Rogers, Arkansas 72756
31.71%
48. University, Mississippi 38677
31.25%
49. Ogallala, Nebraska 69153
25.49%
50. University, Kansas 66873
16.67%
51. Washington, District of Columbia 20005
11.36%
Methodology
The data for our study was gathered from the FFEIC website, specifically the Snapshot National Loan Level Dataset for 2018-2022. These Snapshot files contain national HMDA datasets filed by U.S. mortgage lenders as of April 30, 2022. Data is modified to protect applicant and borrower privacy. The study centers on home buyers of 1-4 unit residential properties in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Only second or vacation home buyers are considered in this research. first-time home buyers who rent their main residence and purchase a vacation home may be included in the data. Home buyers with one-time construction loans and other open-ended mortgages in first-lien positions, such as home equity line of credit (HELOC), are excluded.
Our analysis uses complex database queries that join result sets from the Loan Application Register and U.S. Census Bureau. Our queries efficiently sift through large datasets exceeding 30 GB to extract the intended information.
We removed outlier data, mostly linked to mortgage applications that applicants either withdrew or that lenders denied due to incompleteness, that fell outside of typical and expected ranges. Less than one-half of one percent of HMDA was excluded for reasonability reasons.
To ensure the accuracy of our study, we relied on the robustness of the HMDA data and the precision of our database queries. The stringent data extraction, filtering, and analysis process contributed to our result’s reliability.
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