America’s premier resort towns have witnessed an unprecedented surge in home values over the past five years, with median prices skyrocketing across the nation’s most desirable vacation destinations. According to Zillow Home Value Index data, Colorado’s resort markets dominate the upper echelons of this exclusive list, while a remarkable geographic diversity stretches from the beaches of Hawaii to the shores of Massachusetts. Most striking is the universal appreciation across these leisure-focused communities, with even the most modest markets seeing gains of at least 43% since 2019, led by Steamboat Springs, Colorado’s staggering 93.2% increase.
The elevation of mountain resort real estate above their coastal counterparts tells a compelling story about the changing preferences of luxury homebuyers, with Rocky Mountain destinations consistently commanding higher prices than traditional beach towns. This shift is reflected in current valuations, where not a single resort market dips below the $250,000 median threshold – a stark testament to the premium placed on these lifestyle-driven communities. From the peaks of Colorado to the shores of Martha’s Vineyard, these 24 markets represent the pinnacle of American resort living, each experiencing a remarkable transformation in their real estate landscapes since 2019.
#1. Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts
Vineyard Haven stands as the most expensive resort market in our analysis, with median home values reaching an extraordinary $1,474,177 as of November 2024. This represents a dramatic 72.0% increase from its June 2019 median value of $857,304, demonstrating the intense demand for property in this exclusive Martha’s Vineyard community.
As one of three major towns on Martha’s Vineyard, Vineyard Haven (also known as Tisbury) serves as the island’s primary point of entry and year-round transportation hub. While the summer months bring an influx of wealthy visitors and seasonal residents, including numerous celebrities and political figures, the town maintains its historic New England charm throughout the year. The area is renowned for its pristine beaches, historic sailing culture, upscale shopping along Main Street, and access to the island’s extensive network of cycling and walking trails. Unlike its neighboring island towns, Vineyard Haven remains partially dry, contributing to its more laid-back, family-oriented atmosphere despite its premium real estate values.
#2. Jackson, Wyoming
The luxury real estate market in Jackson has reached new heights, with median home prices climbing to $1,417,877 by November 2024. This sought-after mountain destination has witnessed an impressive 84.4% surge in values since June 2019, when the median price stood at $768,996, highlighting Jackson’s growing appeal to affluent buyers seeking mountain luxury.
Nestled in the spectacular Jackson Hole valley, this resort town serves as the gateway to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The area’s world-class ski resorts, including Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, attract winter sports enthusiasts, while summer brings opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The town’s Western character, combined with sophisticated dining, art galleries, and luxury boutiques, creates an atmosphere that appeals to both outdoor adventurers and those seeking refined mountain living.
#3. Edwards, Colorado
Edwards has emerged as one of Colorado’s premier luxury markets, with median home values soaring to $1,323,892 as of November 2024. The market’s robust growth is evident in its 89.5% appreciation from June 2019’s median of $698,637, positioning Edwards among the fastest-appreciating resort communities in the country.
Located in the heart of the Vail Valley, Edwards offers residents and visitors an elegant alternative to the more tourist-heavy Vail and Beaver Creek. The community centers around the riverwalk area, which features upscale dining and shopping. Its proximity to multiple world-class ski resorts, combined with access to Gold Medal fly fishing waters and the Eagle River, makes Edwards a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more residential resort experience.
#4. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Setting records for appreciation among major resort towns, Steamboat Springs has seen its median home values surge by an extraordinary 93.2% since June 2019, rising from $565,913 to $1,093,437 by November 2024. This remarkable growth underscores the increasing desirability of this historic Colorado resort destination.
Known for its “Champagne Powder” snow and Olympic skiing heritage, Steamboat distinguishes itself with authentic Western character and world-class winter sports facilities. The town’s famous hot springs, extensive mountain biking trails, and vibrant summer festival scene ensure year-round appeal. Recent investments in the ski resort, including new high-speed lifts and terrain expansions, have further enhanced its reputation as a premier mountain destination.
#5. Kahului, Hawaii
The Maui hub of Kahului has experienced substantial market growth, with median home values reaching $1,048,918 by November 2024, marking a 61.7% increase from June 2019’s figure of $648,731. This appreciation reflects both Hawaii’s limited housing supply and Maui’s enduring appeal to luxury buyers and visitors.
While primarily known as Maui’s commercial center and transportation hub, Kahului’s strategic location provides easy access to the island’s renowned resort areas, pristine beaches, and natural attractions. The town serves as the gateway to Maui’s famous Road to Hana, Haleakala National Park, and the island’s legendary surfing spots. Its position as the central point for Maui’s tourism infrastructure has helped drive its real estate values steadily upward.
#6. Key West, Florida
At the southernmost point of the continental United States, Key West’s real estate market has flourished, with median home values reaching $979,464 by November 2024. The market has posted a robust 72.4% gain since June 2019, when median values stood at $568,119, demonstrating the enduring allure of this tropical paradise.
Key West’s unique blend of Caribbean and American culture creates an atmosphere unlike any other U.S. resort destination. Famous for its sunset celebrations at Mallory Square, historic Ernest Hemingway House, and vibrant Duval Street, the island offers year-round warmth and a laid-back lifestyle. Water activities dominate recreation, from world-class sport fishing and snorkeling to sunset sailing and eco-tours through the mangroves.
#7. Breckenridge, Colorado
The historic mining town turned luxury resort destination has seen its median home values climb to $957,484 by November 2024, representing a 43.9% increase from June 2019’s median of $665,518. While this appreciation is modest compared to some Colorado resort towns, it reflects Breckenridge’s already mature and established market position.
Breckenridge combines Victorian-era charm with world-class ski amenities, boasting one of North America’s most popular ski resorts. The town’s historic district, featuring colorful buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, and galleries, provides a picturesque backdrop for year-round activities. Summer brings endless mountain biking and hiking opportunities, while winter offers skiing across five peaks and 2,908 acres of skiable terrain.
#8. Ocean City, New Jersey
This classic American beach resort has maintained strong market momentum, with median home values reaching $714,084 by November 2024, marking a substantial 71.9% increase from the June 2019 median of $415,302. This growth reflects Ocean City’s enduring appeal as a family-friendly coastal destination.
Known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City maintains a distinct character as a dry town focused on family entertainment. Its iconic boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles, featuring amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and classic boardwalk treats. The resort’s eight miles of pristine beaches, combined with its proximity to Atlantic City’s nightlife, creates an ideal balance of wholesome family fun and accessible adult entertainment.
#9. Hood River, Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge’s crown jewel has seen its median home values increase to $680,448 by November 2024, representing a 46.1% appreciation from June 2019’s figure of $465,668. This growth reflects Hood River’s rising profile as a premier destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Dubbed the “Windsurfing Capital of the World,” Hood River draws water sports enthusiasts from across the globe to its consistent winds and beautiful Columbia River setting. The town has evolved into a year-round resort destination, offering world-class windsurfing and kiteboarding in summer, while winter brings skiing and snowboarding on nearby Mount Hood. The area’s burgeoning wine and craft beer scene, combined with farm-to-table dining, adds a sophisticated element to its outdoor recreation focus.
#10. Bend, Oregon
Central Oregon’s outdoor recreation hub continues its upward trajectory, with median home values reaching $671,082 in November 2024, marking a 61.8% increase from June 2019’s median of $414,792. This appreciation reflects Bend’s growing reputation as a year-round mountain resort destination.
Bend has transformed from a lumber town into a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to skiing at Mount Bachelor, world-class rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park, and endless mountain biking trails. The town’s impressive brewery scene, with the highest microbrewery per capita ratio in the state, complements its outdoor offerings. Year-round sunshine and diverse recreational opportunities, from fly fishing to downhill skiing, maintain its appeal across seasons.
#11. Naples, Florida
The Gulf Coast luxury market of Naples continues to thrive, with median home values reaching $585,439 by November 2024. The impressive 69.1% increase from June 2019’s median of $346,175 reflects the area’s growing status as a premier Florida resort destination.
Naples combines sophisticated luxury with natural beauty, featuring high-end shopping on Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, world-class golf courses, and pristine beaches. The city’s proximity to the Everglades offers unique eco-tourism opportunities, while its upscale dining scene and cultural attractions like the Naples Philharmonic and Baker Museum add metropolitan flair. The area’s reputation for excellent boating, fishing, and water sports maintains its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
#12. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
This iconic South Carolina resort destination has demonstrated consistent market strength, with median home values reaching $516,422 by November 2024. The substantial 69.2% increase from June 2019’s median of $305,246 underscores the island’s continuing appeal to luxury buyers and vacationers.
Hilton Head Island has cultivated a reputation for understated luxury, with 12 miles of pristine beaches, over 24 world-class golf courses, and 60 miles of leisure trails. The island’s strict development codes maintain its natural beauty, while its tennis facilities, marina activities, and Lowcountry cultural heritage create a distinctive resort atmosphere. The combination of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and fine dining has established Hilton Head as one of the Southeast’s premier resort destinations.
#13. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The Grand Strand’s central hub has shown strong market performance, with median home values reaching $331,039 by November 2024. This represents a 59.8% increase from June 2019’s median of $207,176, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this classic beach destination.
Known for its 60-mile stretch of beaches, Myrtle Beach has evolved far beyond its traditional summer vacation identity. The area features over 100 golf courses, making it a premier golf destination, while attractions like Broadway at the Beach and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk provide year-round entertainment. The growing restaurant scene, numerous shopping options, and continuous calendar of festivals and events have helped establish it as a comprehensive resort destination.
#14. Branson, Missouri
This Ozark entertainment hub has demonstrated remarkable growth, with median home values reaching $251,630 by November 2024, reflecting a solid 57.8% appreciation from June 2019’s median of $159,411. This growth highlights Branson’s evolution from a regional entertainment center to a full-fledged resort destination.
Known as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the Midwest,” Branson combines family-friendly shows and attractions with outdoor recreation opportunities around Table Rock Lake and the Ozark Mountains. The city’s numerous theaters, theme parks including Silver Dollar City, and championship golf courses create a diverse entertainment landscape. Recent additions of luxury shopping outlets and expanded dining options have broadened its appeal beyond its traditional entertainment focus.
#15. Heber, Utah
This emerging Utah resort market has witnessed remarkable growth, with median home values rising to $1,081,338 by November 2024. The 75.2% increase from June 2019’s median of $617,146 signals Heber’s transformation from a quiet mountain town to a sought-after luxury destination.
Situated in the scenic Heber Valley, just minutes from Park City’s world-class ski resorts, Heber offers a more relaxed alternative to its famous neighbor. The area is known for its Swiss-inspired architecture, reflecting its founding by Swiss immigrants, and outdoor recreation opportunities including skiing, golf, and fishing. The Heber Valley Historic Railroad and proximity to the Wasatch Mountain State Park add to its charm as a year-round destination.
#16. Newport, Oregon
This coastal gem has experienced significant market growth, with median home values reaching $471,216 by November 2024. The 63.5% increase from June 2019’s median of $288,285 demonstrates Newport’s rising status among Oregon’s resort destinations.
Newport combines the charm of a working fishing port with premium tourist amenities. Home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium, historic lighthouses, and miles of pristine beaches, the town offers a distinct coastal experience. The area’s renowned marine research facilities, bustling bayfront with fresh seafood restaurants, and resident population of sea lions create a unique atmosphere that attracts both tourists and permanent residents seeking coastal living.
#17. Morehead City, North Carolina
The Crystal Coast’s premier destination has seen its median home values climb to $449,834 by November 2024, representing a strong 67.0% appreciation from June 2019’s figure of $269,338. This growth positions Morehead City as one of the Southeast’s emerging coastal resort markets.
Renowned for its world-class sport fishing, Morehead City hosts major fishing tournaments and offers year-round access to deep-sea fishing in the Gulf Stream waters. The town’s historic waterfront district, featuring restaurants, shops, and galleries, provides a backdrop for the annual North Carolina Seafood Festival. Its proximity to pristine Atlantic Beach and the Cape Lookout National Seashore adds to its appeal as a coastal resort destination.
#18. Traverse City, Michigan
This northern Michigan resort town has seen substantial market appreciation, with median home values reaching $391,802 by November 2024, marking a 66.2% increase from June 2019’s figure of $235,729. This growth reflects Traverse City’s expanding appeal as a four-season destination.
Known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” Traverse City has evolved into a sophisticated resort destination offering a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. The area’s wine country, featuring dozens of wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, draws sophisticated travelers, while the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides stunning natural beauty. The town’s growing reputation for farm-to-table cuisine and its annual Traverse City Film Festival add cultural depth to its traditional beach town appeal.
#19. Atlantic City, New Jersey
The East Coast’s gaming hub has demonstrated remarkable recovery and growth, with median home values reaching $360,250 by November 2024. This represents a striking 79.0% increase from June 2019’s median of $201,240, marking one of the strongest appreciations among resort markets in our analysis.
Beyond its famous casinos and boardwalk, Atlantic City offers a unique blend of gaming, entertainment, and beach resort amenities. The town’s historic Steel Pier amusement park, world-class entertainment venues, and celebrity chef restaurants create a diverse entertainment landscape. Recent investments in non-gaming attractions and the revitalization of the boardwalk area have helped broaden its appeal beyond traditional casino tourism.
#20. Lake Havasu City, Arizona
This desert oasis has seen substantial market appreciation, with median home values climbing to $353,775 by November 2024, representing a 55.1% increase from June 2019’s median of $228,049. This growth reflects the area’s increasing popularity as a water sports and retirement destination.
Famous for housing the relocated London Bridge, Lake Havasu City has developed into a major destination for water sports enthusiasts. The lake’s 60 miles of navigable waterways attract boaters, jet skiers, and fishing enthusiasts year-round. The surrounding desert provides opportunities for off-road adventures, hiking, and rock climbing, while the city’s growing restaurant scene and seasonal events calendar help maintain its appeal as a resort destination.
#21. Panama City, Florida
This Florida Panhandle destination has experienced significant growth, with median home values reaching $338,144 by November 2024, marking a 62.4% increase from June 2019’s figure of $208,180. This appreciation reflects the area’s recovery and enhancement following Hurricane Michael.
Known for its 27 miles of white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, Panama City Beach has evolved into a year-round resort destination. The area offers world-class sport fishing, two state parks, and multiple beachfront entertainment venues. Recent developments, including Pier Park’s shopping and entertainment complex, have helped transform the area from a spring break destination into a family-friendly resort community with diverse attractions.
#22. Taos, New Mexico
This artistic mountain community has seen steady appreciation, with median home values reaching $434,409 by November 2024. The 28.4% increase from June 2019’s median of $338,381 reflects Taos’s controlled growth while maintaining its unique character.
Taos combines world-class skiing at Taos Ski Valley with rich Native American and Spanish colonial history. The town’s artistic heritage, exemplified by its historic art colony and multiple galleries, creates a distinctive cultural atmosphere. Adventure sports opportunities, from skiing to rafting on the Rio Grande, complement the area’s cultural attractions, while the ancient Taos Pueblo adds a unique historical dimension to its resort appeal.
#23. Orlando, Florida
The theme park capital of the world has maintained strong market growth, with median home values reaching $391,924 by November 2024. This represents a solid 59.1% increase from June 2019’s median of $246,274, reflecting Orlando’s enduring appeal as both a tourist destination and residential market.
While primarily known for Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other major theme parks, Orlando has evolved into a multifaceted resort destination. Beyond the parks, the area offers world-class golf courses, luxury shopping at Mall at Millenia and The Florida Mall, and proximity to Kennedy Space Center. The city’s International Drive tourism corridor, convention center, and growing food scene have helped establish it as a year-round destination for both vacation homeowners and tourists.
#24. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Northern Idaho’s premier resort destination has experienced remarkable growth, with median home values reaching $551,375 by November 2024. This represents a dramatic 74.7% increase from June 2019’s median of $315,651, highlighting the area’s transformation into a sought-after luxury destination.
Centered around its pristine 25-mile long lake, Coeur d’Alene offers an array of water-based activities alongside luxury amenities. The town is famous for its floating golf green at the Coeur d’Alene Resort, world-class skiing at nearby Silver Mountain, and extensive network of hiking and biking trails. Summer brings crowds for lake activities and beach days, while winter offers skiing and eagle watching, making it a true four-season resort destination.
