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Where vacation homes dominate: Top US counties with the highest share of seasonal housing
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Published in House and Home on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 14:44 GMT by WSB-TV🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Wealth Enhancement reports that vacation homes are reshaping U.S. real estate, with over 6 million second homes concentrated in scenic areas.
Where Vacation Homes Dominate: Top U.S. Counties with the Highest Share of Seasonal Housing
In the vast landscape of American real estate, a fascinating subset stands out: seasonal or vacation housing. These are properties that sit empty for much of the year, serving as getaways for owners seeking respite from urban hustle or seasonal retreats in idyllic settings. A recent analysis highlights the U.S. counties where such homes make up a significant portion of the total housing stock, often transforming local economies, communities, and housing markets. Drawing from comprehensive data, this exploration reveals the top counties dominated by vacation homes, shedding light on the trends driving this phenomenon and its broader implications.
At the heart of this trend is the allure of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and lifestyle appeal. Vacation homes aren't just about luxury; they represent a shift in how Americans use property, influenced by remote work, wealth distribution, and tourism booms. According to detailed housing statistics, seasonal homes account for a notable percentage of housing in certain areas, sometimes exceeding 50% of available units. These counties are often nestled in coastal regions, mountain enclaves, or lakeside havens, where the draw of beaches, ski slopes, or serene wilderness pulls in affluent buyers from afar.
Leading the pack is Hancock County, Maine, where seasonal housing comprises an astonishing 58.1% of the total housing units. This rural gem, home to the iconic Acadia National Park, embodies the quintessential New England escape. Bar Harbor, the county's bustling hub, swells with tourists during summer months, but the off-season reveals a quieter side dominated by shuttered cottages and waterfront estates. The high share of vacation homes here stems from the area's pristine coastline, hiking trails, and lobster-fueled economy. However, this dominance isn't without challenges; local residents often grapple with skyrocketing property taxes and a shortage of year-round housing, pushing essential workers to commute from neighboring areas.
Not far behind is Sawyer County, Wisconsin, boasting 56.4% seasonal housing. Nestled in the Northwoods, this county is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, hunters, and those seeking cabin life amid dense forests and sparkling lakes. Places like Hayward, famous for its Musky Festival and as the "Musky Capital of the World," attract seasonal visitors who own cabins passed down through generations. The prevalence of vacation properties here underscores a Midwestern tradition of "going up north" for summer vacations. Yet, this has led to economic disparities, with tourism dollars flowing in seasonally while year-round infrastructure strains under the weight of part-time residents.
Venturing south, Dare County, North Carolina, claims the third spot with 55.9% of its housing stock designated as seasonal. This Outer Banks paradise, including hotspots like Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, is synonymous with beachfront rentals and historic lighthouses. The county's elongated barrier islands draw millions annually for sun-soaked holidays, but the high vacation home ratio means many properties are investment vehicles, rented out via platforms like Airbnb during peak seasons. This dynamic has inflated home prices, making it tough for locals to afford living there full-time, and it heightens vulnerability to hurricanes and rising sea levels, which threaten these coastal retreats.
Further west, Summit County, Colorado, features 55.3% seasonal housing, a testament to its world-class ski resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone. This Rocky Mountain enclave transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers, snowboarders, and celebrities alike. Vacation homes here range from cozy condos to sprawling chalets, often owned by out-of-state investors. The seasonal influx boosts the local economy through hospitality and retail, but it also exacerbates housing shortages for service workers, leading to innovative solutions like employee housing programs from resorts.
Rounding out the top five is Nantucket County, Massachusetts, with 54.8% seasonal units. This island off Cape Cod is a playground for the elite, known for its cobblestone streets, whaling history, and pristine beaches. Summer sees the population explode as wealthy visitors flock to their second homes, driving up demand for everything from yacht charters to fine dining. The high concentration of vacation properties has preserved Nantucket's charm but at the cost of affordability; median home prices soar into the millions, sidelining year-round islanders and prompting debates over development restrictions.
Beyond these leaders, the list continues with counties like Ocean County, New Jersey (though not in the absolute top, it's notable for its Jersey Shore vibe), and various spots in Michigan, Florida, and California. For instance, Mackinac County, Michigan, with its famous Mackinac Island—where cars are banned and horse-drawn carriages rule—has around 50% seasonal housing, fueled by Great Lakes tourism. Similarly, Collier County, Florida, encompassing Naples and Marco Island, sees a high share due to its golf courses and Gulf Coast allure, drawing snowbirds escaping northern winters.
What drives this concentration? Several factors interplay. Economic prosperity in urban centers allows more Americans to afford second homes, while the rise of short-term rentals has turned vacation properties into income streams. Climate and geography play pivotal roles; counties with beaches, mountains, or lakes naturally attract seasonal dwellers. Data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey illustrates how these areas often have low population densities but high housing vacancy rates outside peak seasons.
However, the dominance of vacation homes brings mixed blessings. On the positive side, they inject revenue through property taxes and tourism spending, supporting local businesses and infrastructure. In places like Door County, Wisconsin—another high-ranking area with 48.7% seasonal housing, famous for its cherry orchards and Scandinavian heritage—the seasonal economy sustains arts festivals and farm-to-table eateries. Yet, drawbacks abound. Housing affordability crises plague these counties, as vacation homes drive up prices and reduce inventory for permanent residents. In Summit County, for example, initiatives like deed restrictions aim to preserve affordable units, but demand outpaces supply.
Environmental concerns also loom large. In coastal counties like Dare or Nantucket, overdevelopment threatens ecosystems, while climate change amplifies risks from storms and erosion. Mountain areas face wildfire dangers, as seen in recent Colorado blazes that have scorched vacation enclaves. Moreover, the seasonal nature means inconsistent community engagement; schools and services may underperform due to fluctuating populations.
Looking ahead, trends suggest evolution. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated remote work, prompting some to convert vacation homes into primary residences, potentially diluting the seasonal share in places like Hancock County. Conversely, economic uncertainties could cool the market, with rising interest rates making second homes less attainable. Policymakers in these counties are responding with measures like vacancy taxes or rental regulations to balance tourism benefits with resident needs.
In essence, these top counties paint a vivid picture of America's vacation home landscape—a blend of leisure, investment, and lifestyle aspiration. From the foggy shores of Maine to the sunny beaches of North Carolina, they highlight how seasonal housing shapes not just real estate but entire communities. As more people seek escapes in an increasingly connected world, understanding these dynamics becomes crucial for sustainable growth. Whether you're a potential buyer eyeing a lakeside cabin or a local advocating for balanced development, the story of vacation home dominance offers lessons in the interplay between desire and reality.
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