The TripIndex Vacation Rentals compares the price of a summer trip for a family of four in 15 popular vacation rental destinations throughout the U.S., including the combined average costs of a weeklong stay in a two-bedroom vacation rental property, a one-day bike rental, basic groceries, and dinner at a restaurant.
"For those traveling with family or a group, vacation rentals can be a great way to cut down on accommodation costs while enjoying some of the creature comforts of home," said Brooke Ferencsik, director of communications for TripAdvisor. "With sizzling summer temperatures in Palm Springs, the TripIndex reveals that travelers can discover cool prices in the desert for budget-friendly vacation rental stays."
Head South to Save This Summer
Palm Springs is the most affordable destination on the list with a total TripIndex cost of $1,256, but has a slightly more expensive weekly vacation rental rate ($1,035) than Orlando, the second most affordable spot (weekly rental, $1,022).
Gatlinburg, Myrtle Beach and Sanibel Island round out the top five most affordable U.S. spots for vacation rentals, coming in with TripIndex totals of $1,399, $1,434, and $1,486 respectively.
Four of the five least expensive destinations are located in the sunbaked Southeast and collectively feature an average price that is 27 percent below the TripIndex average.
Ritzy Rentals
At a total cost of $3,661, Martha's Vineyard is the most expensive destination on the TripIndex; the famous island is nearly three times pricier than Palm Springs, the most affordable spot on the list.
Nearly one-third cheaper than Martha's Vineyard, La Jolla is the second most expensive spot with a total TripIndex price tag of $2,497.
Miami Beach, Maui and Chatham round out the top five priciest places for a summer rental respite, coming in at $2,465, $2,278 and $2,120, respectively.
