The Poconos Vacation Rental Market Analysis: What Investors Should Know Before Buying
Forested mountain peaks, peaceful lakefronts, and powder-filled ski slopes make the Poconos a perennial favorite for travelers seeking an easy escape from city life.
Each year, nearly 30 million visitors head to the region to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy four-season recreation — especially travelers from New York City, Philadelphia, and surrounding metros. In 2024, travelers spent $7.2 billion in the region.
That consistent travel demand, paired with a strong family focus, has positioned the Pocono Mountains as one of the leading vacation rental markets in the Northeast.
To help you evaluate what a Poconos investment property could earn, we created a free, downloadable Poconos Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside the report, you’ll find:
- Rental income potential by property size
- Average occupancy by property size
- Average daily rate (ADR) by property size
- Booking lead times and length of stay
- Monthly occupancy rates
- Vacation rental inventory by property size across the Poconos market
The insights are based on Evolve’s Poconos market averages from the past year and provide a helpful baseline for evaluating performance and making confident investment decisions.
👉 Download the complete Poconos Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Why the Poconos Are a Strong Market for Vacation Rental Owners
The Poconos’ biggest advantage is accessibility. Located within easy driving distance of several major cities, the region attracts spontaneous weekend trips as well as longer family vacations throughout the year.
Year-Round Demand With Two Peak Seasons
Unlike markets that rely heavily on one high season, the Poconos benefit from two peaks:
- Summer, driven by lake activities at Lake Wallenpaupack, Lake Harmony, and family-friendly resorts
- Winter, fueled by several indoor waterparks and skiing and snow sports across six local ski resorts
This steady flow of travelers supports:
- Higher occupancy across more months of the year
- Strong daily rates over extended periods
- More opportunities to earn reviews and repeat guests
A More Accessible Entry Point for Investors
Compared to many top-performing vacation rental markets, the Poconos remain relatively affordable. Median home prices in popular areas include:
- Mount Pocono: ~$243,000
- Stroudsburg: ~$341,000
These price points consistently sit below the national average, giving investors the chance to enter the market with lower upfront costs while still benefiting from consistent, year-round bookings (and landing it on our list of the best places to buy).
How Much Can You Earn With a Poconos Investment Property?
Strong annual visitor numbers create the opportunity for repeat stays and dependable income, but performance varies based on how well a property matches guest demand.
1. Property Size: Bigger Homes, Bigger Potential
The Poconos are especially popular among families, multi-generational groups, and friend groups traveling together. As a result, larger homes tend to outperform smaller properties.
Key size insights:
- Five-bedroom homes earn the highest average annual revenue and daily rates
- Larger properties maximize capacity and group appeal
That said, smaller homes still perform well:
- Three-bedroom properties post some of the highest occupancy rates
- They represent the largest share of available inventory
- Lower purchase prices make them appealing for budget-conscious investors
2. Property Location: Proximity Drives Demand
According to our experts, guests prioritize easy access to popular attractions like lakes, ski resorts, and waterparks. For a better edge and higher income potential, focus on properties with these extras:
3. Property Amenities: Built for Families and Groups
Because many Poconos travelers arrive with kids or large groups, amenities that support comfort and entertainment can significantly affect performance. High-impact features include:
- Flexible sleeping arrangements (bunk beds, trundles, sleeper sofas)
- Game rooms with pool tables, ping-pong, or arcade games
- Hot tubs, which are especially attractive during colder months
Additional amenities that boost appeal:
- Lake gear like paddleboards, kayaks, or floaties
- Outdoor features such as fire pits, grills, or spacious decks
- Big-ticket upgrades like private pools or boat docks
Many homes in the Poconos are older builds, which can lower purchase prices but may require updates. Properties that feel dated often struggle to compete, so modern upgrades can make a meaningful difference. Our experts recommend prioritizing:
- Updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances
- Modern finishes and decor
- Flatscreen TVs and refreshed bathrooms
These improvements help your property stand out in a competitive market and support higher nightly rates.
Download the Complete Poconos, PA Vacation Rental Market Analysis
With year-round traveler appeal, accessible home prices, and strong demand from families and groups, the Poconos continue to offer compelling vacation rental investment opportunities.
Our free Poconos Vacation Rental Market Analysis includes insights such as:
- Average daily rate (ADR) by property size
- Average high- and low-season length of stay
- Market inventory insights
- Demand seasonality
Whether you’re purchasing your first investment property or optimizing an existing home, our market data can help guide smarter, more confident decisions.
👉 Download the free Poconos Vacation Rental Market Analysis.