best places in south carolina to invest in short term rentals

Why Buy a Short-Term Rental in South Carolina?

South Carolina has steadily gained recognition as one of the best places to buy vacation rentals in the U.S. The state’s tourist destinations—from the sandy beaches of Hilton Head Island to the historic streets of Charleston—draw millions of visitors each year. This growing demand makes short-term rental properties an attractive option for real estate investors.

South Carolina locations offer a mix of coastal and inland spots for tourists, providing plenty of options for investing. The real estate market remains affordable compared to nearby North Carolina, making it easier for investors to enter the market. Whether you're looking for vacation rental cities along the coast or inland locations, South Carolina offers a diverse range of options that cater to different preferences and price points.

Disclaimer: We do not claim that the short-term rental market is without risks. Factors such as changing local regulations, market fluctuations, and seasonality can all impact profitability. To make informed decisions, potential investors should conduct a comprehensive market analysis to assess the demand, competition, and pricing trends in specific South Carolina locations. A market analysis will help you understand the long-term viability of vacation rentals and highlight any potential challenges. Consulting with local experts and staying updated on legal requirements are also crucial steps in ensuring a successful and sustainable investment.

The Growing Short-Term Rental Market in South Carolina

With increasing tourism and a steady demand for vacation rentals, the South Carolina market is positioned for growth. According to the SCR-STR Economic Impact Study 2023, South Carolina generated significant annual revenue from short-term rentals, particularly in top areas like Charleston and Myrtle Beach. As demand for Airbnb and short-term rental properties grows, more investors are looking to capitalize on the state’s potential.

In the next section, we will dive deeper into specific South Carolina destinations that are ideal for vacation rental investments. Whether you are considering a short term rental in a bustling city or a quiet beach rental property, South Carolina is packed with excellent opportunities for both experienced and new investors.

South Carolina's Short-Term Rental Market: One of the Best Places to Invest!

As of 2023, South Carolina’s short-term rental market continues to thrive, driven by high demand from vacationers seeking a mix of coastal retreats and inland escapes. The state’s varied locations—from bustling tourist destinations like Hilton Head Island to the serene shores of Edisto Beach—provide ample opportunity for real estate investors to find the right rental property that suits their investment strategy.

One reason South Carolina remains one of the best places for vacation rental investments is its year-round appeal. Whether tourists are visiting during the busy summer season or the milder fall and winter months, the demand for short-term rentals stays steady. This consistency, combined with relatively low property taxes, makes South Carolina an ideal spot for those looking to maximize their returns on rental properties.

Top Cities for Investing in South Carolina Vacation Rentals

1. Myrtle Beach

As one of the most visited vacation destinations in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach offers investors an opportunity to capitalize on high tourist traffic. Known for its 60 miles of sandy beaches and family-friendly attractions, the city is a hotspot for short-term rental income, especially during the peak summer months.

• Median Listing Price: $310K
• Estimated Rental Income: High, especially for beachfront properties ("Myrtle Beach, SC Real Estate Market Overview").

We offer Airbnb and vacation rental property management in North Myrtle Beach, ensuring your rental stays fully booked and well-maintained throughout the year.

2. Charleston

Charleston continues to attract tourists year-round, thanks to its rich history, beautiful architecture, and coastal views. Investors can expect to see a strong return on investment, particularly in historic districts or vacation rental cities near the water.

• Median Listing Price: $722K
• Estimated Rental Income: High, particularly for homes in prime tourist areas ("Charleston, SC Real Estate Market Overview")..

We offer Airbnb and vacation rental property management in Charleston, ensuring your rental stays fully booked and well-maintained throughout the year.

3. Hilton Head Island

Known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and pristine beaches, Hilton Head Island is a premium spot for vacation rentals. The demand for high-end properties means that investors who focus on luxury rental properties in this area can expect to see excellent returns.

• Median Listing Price: $679K
• Estimated Rental Income: High, driven by affluent tourists looking for exclusive experiences.

We offer Airbnb and vacation rental property management in Hilton Head, ensuring your rental stays fully booked and well-maintained throughout the year.

4. Greenville

For those looking for a more affordable market, Greenville offers a unique combination of small-town charm and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Short-term rentals in this area cater to tourists seeking nature getaways and cultural experiences, offering consistent rental income year-round.

• Median Listing Price: $470K
• Estimated Rental Income: Moderate but stable, thanks to year-round appeal ("Greenville Housing Market").

5. Columbia

As the state capital, Columbia benefits from a mix of tourism, university events, and government-related activities. Short-term rentals near the downtown area or Lake Murray are particularly attractive to both tourists and business travelers.

• Median Listing Price: $325K
• Estimated Rental Income: Moderate, with steady demand throughout the year ("Columbia, SC Real Estate Market Overview").

Nearby Alternatives in South Carolina to Consider for Investment

While the big-name South Carolina destinations like Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island are excellent for rental investment, they aren’t the only great spots for investing. There are several less crowded but equally promising locations where savvy investors can find great deals on vacation rental properties:

Kiawah Island

This exclusive barrier island is home to some of the state’s most luxurious resorts and world-renowned golf courses. Investors focusing on high-end short-term rentals will find Kiawah Island’s market promising, with rental properties in high demand year-round.

• Median Listing Price: $1M
• Estimated Rental Income: High, particularly for premium, golf-course-facing homes ("Kiawah Island Housing Market").

We offer Airbnb and vacation rental property management in Kiawah Island, ensuring your rental stays fully booked and well-maintained throughout the year.

Isle of Palms

Located just outside Charleston, Isle of Palms offers a more relaxed beachfront alternative, but it still benefits from its proximity to the city. Short-term rental properties in this area attract visitors looking for a quiet beach experience close to the hustle and bustle of Charleston.

• Median Listing Price: $1.5M
• Estimated Rental Income: Moderate to high, depending on the season and property type ("Isle of Palms, SC Home Values").

We offer Airbnb and vacation rental property management in Isle of Palms, ensuring your rental stays fully booked and well-maintained throughout the year.

Edisto Beach

For a quieter, laid-back vibe, Edisto Beach is a hidden gem that’s perfect for vacation rental investors seeking a less competitive market. The beachfront rental properties here are ideal for vacationers looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying the beauty of South Carolina’s coast.

• Median Listing Price: $690K
• Estimated Rental Income: Moderate, with steady summer demand and off-season occupancy potential.

We offer Airbnb and vacation rental property management in Edisto Beach, ensuring your rental stays fully booked and well-maintained throughout the year.

Need Some Help? Work with Home Team Vacation Rentals!

At Home Team Vacation Rentals, we offer comprehensive property management services across South Carolina. Our experts handle everything from pricing strategies to marketing and guest relations, helping you maximize your vacation rental income. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your portfolio, our property management solutions are designed to simplify your experience and boost your returns.

Investing in vacation rentals in South Carolina is a smart move for both new and seasoned investors. The state’s combination of coastal beauty, historic charm, and a growing tourism industry makes it one of the best vacation markets in the country. Whether you’re eyeing bustling cities like Charleston and Greenville or looking for quieter South Carolina locations like Edisto Beach, the opportunities are plentiful.

Ready to invest in one of South Carolina’s top vacation rental cities? Contact Home Team Vacation Rentals today to learn how we can help you succeed in this competitive market.

Works Cited

• "Myrtle Beach, SC Real Estate Market Overview." Realtor.com, 2024, https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Myrtle-Beach_SC/overview. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "Charleston, SC Real Estate Market Overview." Realtor.com, 2024, https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Charleston_SC/overview. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "Greenville Housing Market." Redfin, 2024, https://www.redfin.com/city/7891/SC/Greenville/housing-market. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "Isle of Palms, SC Home Values." Zillow, 2024, https://www.zillow.com/home-values/45902/isle-of-palms-sc/. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "Columbia, SC Real Estate Market Overview." Realtor.com, 2024, https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Columbia_SC/overview. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• SCR-STR Economic Impact Study 2023. South Carolina Association of REALTORS, https://scca.screaltors.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/SCR-STR-Economic-Impact-Siudy-2023.pdf. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "State Level Lodging Report July 2024." South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, https://scprt.widen.net/content/t2cdrlrhti/pdf/2021_SouthCarolina_Redesign_v4.pdf?u=sgt8lu. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "South Carolina Tourism is Growing. Here’s Why." University of South Carolina, College of Information and Communications, 14 Dec. 2021, https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/cic/initiatives/social_media_insights_lab/reports/2021/sc_tourism_is_growing.php. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
• "Festivals and Events." Discover South Carolina, https://discoversouthcarolina.com/festivals-and-events. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.

Categories: Places to Invest, Investor,  South Carolina