Waterfront views, crisp fresh air, lush surroundings, and excellent rental potential await in these stunning locales:
A cabin tucked in the woods is the ultimate cozy getaway. Imagine swapping out noisy, honking cars for the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and babbling streams. Then, mix the earthy smell of wood and wildflowers. If this sounds like heaven to you, you’re not alone. According to home rental company Evolve, cabins have seen a 37 percent jump in popularity since 2021, making this type of property an excellent investment. To help potential second homeowners, the company recently released a report on the best places to buy a cabin in the U.S.
“We look at destinations that benefit both investors and guests,” Louis Olds, director of real estate at Evolve, told GoTravelDaily. “For investors, we identify locations that have attractive returns and robust guest demand. For guests, we consider amenities, like a fireplace or hot tub, that can overlook the mountains or lakeshores as a perfect cozy escape in a secluded destination.”
1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Known as the gateway to America’s most popular national park, the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a year-round playground for travelers seeking outdoor adventures. With miles of hiking trails winding through spectacular landscapes and access to family-friendly amenities, the destination draws vacationers from all over the country. Consequently, cabins here are in high demand. Evolve estimates that homeowners can make, on average, $39,715 in yearly income, with some earning a whopping $105,000.
2. Hocking Hills, Ohio
While Hocking Hills may not be a household name, this stunning under-the-radar region southeast of Columbus, Ohio, is a nature lover’s dream. The area has beautiful caves, waterfalls, and canyons created through the weathering of Black Hand Sandstone, making it an exciting hiking destination. Vacationers can unwind among lush forests and scenic views, with homes varying from small and cozy to sprawling multimillion-dollar log cabins. Moreover, if you decide to rent your second home, you could make close to $40,000 per year.
3. Fairbanks, Alaska
Alaska conjures up images of unspoiled nature, where wildlife roams about unbothered. Fairbanks, the second-largest city in the state, is located two hours from Denali National Park and Preserve, home to six million acres of untouched wilderness. To maximize your experience, focus on classic log cabins with direct waterfront access and amenities such as fire pits and game rooms.
4. Bryson City, North Carolina
As one of North Carolina’s most charming small towns, Bryson City has a downtown area lined with independent shops, restaurants, and breweries. Travelers flock here for access to natural treasures like the Great Smoky Mountains and the Appalachian Trail, along with a wealth of outdoor activities and scenic views. Consequently, cabins here are highly sought after, especially with a median listing price below $250,000.
5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
The downtown area of Eureka Springs, with its Victorian buildings and winding streets, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town offers nature lovers an endless list of year-round water activities, mountain trails, and idyllic views galore. Despite the lower cap rates, you could earn almost $22,000 a year from a cabin in Eureka Springs.
6. Lake George, New York
The Adirondacks is a four-season playground for visitors seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Lake George has been a favored vacation spot for generations of Americans. Activities like swimming and hiking abound, making the investment in a secluded cabin quite appealing. With a strong cap rate and relatively affordable homes, Lake George is the ultimate destination for cabin ownership.
7. Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota
Known as “Minnesota’s playground,” Brainerd Lakes is celebrated for its hundreds of lakes, rivers, and dense forests. With its increasing popularity as a mountain biking destination and a top spot for golf enthusiasts, purchasing a cabin here translates into idyllic views and exhilarating activities.
8. Blue Ridge, Georgia
This classic mountain town, located about 90 miles north of Atlanta, offers access to over 100,000 acres of woods and hundreds of miles of hiking trails, along with stunning views. The area is dotted with farms and cabins, offering unique stays and excellent investment opportunities. Therefore, you could earn close to $30,000 in yearly income with a strategically located cabin.
9. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is renowned as a top food destination, complemented by historic architecture and a vibrant hospitality scene. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it attracts vacationers seeking outdoor adventures and epic hiking opportunities. Therefore, owning a cabin here significantly boosts rental potential, especially when situated near downtown amenities.
10. Dover, Vermont
Dover is well-known for its lush mountains, scenic lakes, and diverse year-round activities. While cabins here don’t yield a high cap rate, you could still earn more than $25,000 a year if you choose to rent your property. Therefore, ensure your cabin offers proximity to Mount Snow along with appealing amenities to attract renters.
11. Livingston, Montana
One visit to Livingston is enough to consider a full-time move. Located along the banks of the Yellowstone River, the area is surrounded by picturesque scenery. With Yellowstone National Park nearby, the town’s lively art scene caters to those seeking a blend of urban convenience and spectacular natural beauty.
12. Grand Lake, Colorado
Grand Lake, Colorado, boasts majestic views set against the towering peaks of the Rockies. As Colorado’s largest natural body of water, it draws visitors in the summer for endless activities and in the winter as a snowmobile destination. Consequently, it becomes a top choice for those looking to invest in a cabin with year-round appeal.
