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Enjoy your home away from home by picking the right destination for your holiday property.
A vacation home can be both a smart investment and a relaxing retreat for when you need to get away.
To help you choose where to get one, online real-estate marketplace Trulia has just released a study on the hottest US destinations for vacation home buyers.
Trulia’s list is based off of data from the American Community Survey (ACS), which is provided by the US Census Bureau, from 2007-2011 and from 2010-2014 and on search activity on the site from March to June of this year.
The data was used to determine which zip codes had the highest average increases in seasonal vacation units, with zip codes having to have at least 3,000 housing units and 5% of their overall stock vacant due to seasonal or occasional use in order to qualify.
From Florida to Minnesota, here are the top spots that vacation home buyers are scoping out.
20. Friendship (Adams County, WI)
Median price during past year: $109,604
In the village of Friendship, which is located in Wisconsin’s Adams County, you’ll find lovely parks with wildlife ponds, friendly locals, and the nearby Friendship Lake to enjoy.
19. Walton (Delaware County, NY)
Median price during past year: $119,000
At the foot of the Catskill Mountains in Delaware County, New York, Walton is a quaint village where you’ll find rich farmland and plenty of wildlife. It’s ideal for those in search of a quiet countryside to unwind.
18. Kissimmee (Osceola County, FL)
Median price during past year: $269,900
Near popular theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando, Kissimmee is a popular stop for families. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities here, but there are also designer shops, boutiques, and lakeside parks to enjoy.
17. Lake Lure (Rutherford County, NC)
Median price during past year: $259,000
With stunning lake scenery, golf courses, and plenty of shoreline, Lake Lure has long been an attractive destination for visitors. The resort community is home to a variety of lakeside shops, local dining spots, and hiking trails that allow you to explore its breathtaking hills.
16. Vashon (King County, WA)
Median price during past year: $529,000
Vashon’s peaceful atmosphere has made it a go-to spot for those in search of a quiet getaway. The area is home to beaches, parks, nature preserves, wineries, and farms where you can get freshly-picked fruit.
15. Sagle (Bonner County, Idaho)
Median price during past year: $398,469
Thanks to its various trails and easy access to nearby beaches and campgrounds, the small community of Sagle is home to activities like mountain biking, hunting, fishing, and hiking that have made it a hit with visitors.
14. Ocean Park (Pacific County, WA)
Median price during past year: $165,000
Explore the history and miles of beach in Ocean Park, which is located in Washington’s Pacific County. With nearby parks and wildlife refuges, it also makes a prime starting point for nature lovers.
13. Albany (Clinton County, KY)
Median price during past year: $95,000
In Albany, you can admire its setting of glistening lakes and lush farmlands or spend the day exploring the many hand-made arts and crafts shops and local eateries that line its streets.
12. Alum Ridge (Floyd County, VA)
Median price during past year: $199,000
The community of Alum Ridge is located in Virginia’s Floyd County, whose location atop the Blue Ridge Plateau makes it the ultimate getaway from city life. Here, you’ll find a tranquil setting with houses that sit nestled in lush greenery.
11. Lake Louisa (Lake County, FL)
Median price during past year: $200,000
Lake Louisa is located in Lake County, Florida, and is home to shimmering waters, lush and rolling hills, and marvelous scenery to admire. Head to the Lake Louisa State Park and you’ll be treated to activities like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
10. Hallettsville (Lavaca County, TX)
Median price during past year: $200,157
The tranquil town of Hallettsville is home to various museums, memorials, and buildings to discover in its downtown square. This is combination with an array of festivals, competitions, and events, has made it a favorite for families.
9. Dagsboro (Sussex County, DE)
Median price during past year: $289,900
For old-school charm, head to the town of Dagsboro in Sussex County, Delaware. Here, you’ll find antique shops and chapels dating back to 1755 alongside more modern shopping centers.
8. Saint George Island (Franklin County, FL)
Median price during past year: $469,000
Saint George Island has ideal waves and soft sands at its beaches. Hosting a wide variety of fish, the area is paradise for those who enjoy fishing and tasting fresh seafood.
7. Nancy (Pulaski County, KY)
Median price during past year: $130,000
Nancy is a community located in Pulaski County, Kentucky. The area is home to plenty of shopping in the summer and quaint family-owned stops to explore throughout the year.
6. McCall (Valley County, ID)
Median price during past year: $299,900
Hosting rugged mountain scenery, McCall is ripe with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, or kayaking. It is also home to natural hot springs where you can unwind after a day of activity.
5. Ketchikan (Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK)
Median price during past year: $271,934
Those who visit Ketchikan will find a stunning array of waterways and wilderness to explore. The area is known for its thriving salmon population, its breathtaking scenery, and its rich culture.
4. Jamestown (Russell County, KY)
Median price during past year: $139,900
Jamestown is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with lakes that host quiet retreats and opportunities for jet skiing or sailing. With fairs and festivals taking place throughout the year, there’s of activity to take part in.
3. Hinckley (Pine County, MN)
Median price during past year: $118,308
The city of Hinckley, located in Pine County, Minnesota, hosts a wide array of activities that range from enjoying a game of golf at the PGA-certified Grand National Golf Club to taking a bike ride along the Willard Munger State Trail, which is the state’s longest continuously paved trail.
2. Sunset Beach (Brunswick County, NC)
Median price during past year: $215,000
The seaside town of Sunset Beach is known for hosting a calm beach where you can enjoy stretches of untouched shoreline. Its small town vibe and laid-back beach atmosphere make it an ideal location for relaxed vacationers.
1. McGaheysville (Rockingham County, VA)
Median price during past year: $224,900
The small community of McGaheysville is located in Rockingham County, Virginia, with the Blue Ridge Mountains to its east and the Allegheny Mountains to its west. Thanks to its location, McGayesville is a prime spot for outdoor activities like skiing, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting.
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