10 Coastal Towns Where Summer Rentals Command Top Dollar

Coastal communities are preparing for the rush of visitors—and that’s a bonus for businesses and property owners who rely on short-term rentals.

Vacation spots along the beach have seen the demand for short-term rentals peak in June, July, and August, with daily rates more than doubling in price, according to short-term rental data analytics firm AirDNA.

AirDNA compiled the most expensive coastal resort markets in the U.S. where prices surge in the summer. Many homes offer multiple bedrooms, which opens up the possibility for several families to split the cost of the weekly rental.

“I have seen a lot of strength in pricing in coastal areas that we hadn’t seen for a little while,” Bram Gallagher, director of economics and forecasting at AirDNA, tells Realtor.com®.

He adds that short-term rental pricing has fluctuated according to the economy and isn’t necessarily pricing out would-be renters.

“It seems to be sensitive to inflation,” Gallagher says of the pricing. “We’ll see how the economic situation works out. It looks better today than it has, but what a roller coaster we’ve been on as far as interest rates and all that.”

AirDNA looked at all the available listings and calculated the average daily rate during June to August 2024 and arranged all the coastal markets from most to least expensive.

Here’s a look at the most expensive coastal resort towns where rental prices surge over the summer months.

1. Long Island, NY

Average daily rate: $786.32

There are many towns that make up Long Island in Suffolk County, but the most popular are the Hamptons. The beaches come alive as jet-setters flock to the swanky area and “commoners” are hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities.

2. Santa Rosa Beach and Rosemary Beach, FL

Average daily rate: $575.95

The two beaches, which are about 30 minutes apart, have become popular spots for vacationers looking for a taste of Florida but are away from the tourist attractions like Orlando or South Beach. 

Visitors describe Rosemary Beach as a compact area to walk around and Santa Rosa Beach as more spread out, but both offer relaxing, upscale vibes.

3. Cape Cod, MA

Average daily rate: $555.50

For people not familiar with this New England vacation destination, it’s an assortment of towns that make up Cape Cod in Barnstable County. Each has its own unique personality.

4. Jersey Shore, NJ

Average daily rate: $547.02

The Jersey Shore, an area made popular by the reality show bearing the same name, is not at all like the rowdiness and drama seen on TV. Yes, you might find that in some towns, but there are lots of beautiful shorelines. After all, New Jersey is the Garden State. Even Taylor Swift once attended a wedding in Long Beach Island.

The easy accessibility from New York City and Philadelphia lends itself to seeing its prices soar from an average of $364.05 in the off-peak season to almost double that amount in summer.

There are plenty of real estate agents who can help find short-term rentals of any size and in any area.

5. Monterey Bay, CA

Average daily rate: $523.10

This coastal community is along the Pacific Ocean, south of San Francisco. If you’re expecting heat and humidity, the average summer temperature is cooler, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Monterey Bay is known for its marine life—with different species of mammals, seabirds, and fish.

6. Santa Barbara, CA

Average daily rate: $503.07

Farther south, down the California coast, you’ll find the beach community of Santa Barbara—which attracts the rich and famous. The seaside community is also near mountains and vineyards, making it a breathtaking retreat.

7. Charleston, SC

Average daily rate: $495.76

Charleston combines historical charm with the relaxation of a resort. Visitors can still find cobblestone streets, but if you walk to the beach, you can take in a sunset cruise on the Atlantic Ocean. 

There’s no shortage of restaurants and short-term rentals, which come in any size for small groups to several families.

8. Key West, FL

Average daily rate: $483.32

This is Florida’s southernmost point. Key West is known for its pastel-colored homes and island vibe, without being on an island.

Keep in mind, it’s also hurricane season and the unpredictability means it’s best to know your refund rights (if any) before committing to any short-term rentals.

9. Kauai, HI

Average daily rate: $479.63

One of many islands in Hawaii, this one is known for its tropical rainforest. If you choose to stay on the beach, there’s no shortage of that. Kauai offers miles of white sand and crystal waters. The island is easily accessible by plane and boat.

10. Newport, RI

Average daily rate: $473.29

Newport is located along the Northeastern coast and easily accessible from New York City and Boston. It’s not too secluded, yet still offers the beach getaway feel. Get ready for a clambake, or check out the sailboats that line the harbor. If you need a break from the beach, Newport has mansion tours highlighting the history of the Gilded Age.

“Some of these places have large listings where you can pile in four or five individuals, or you can have separate families and they can have separate rooms, and that can really make it a lot more affordable,” says Gallagher. “It’s really a strength that short-term rentals have over, say, individual hotel rooms.”