Galveston, TX Vacation Rental Market Analysis: What Investors Should Know Before Buying
With 32 miles of sun-soaked shoreline, Galveston stands out as one of Texas’ most vibrant coastal vacation destinations. Just 50 miles from Houston, this historic island blends outdoor adventure, Southern charm, and 80+ annual festivals, attracting an average of 8 million visitors each year.
That steady stream of travelers makes Galveston a place guests return to again and again. And for buyers, it also makes investing in a Galveston vacation rental an opportunity worth serious consideration.
To help you evaluate the income potential of this Gulf Coast market, we created a free, downloadable Galveston 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 Galveston market
The insights are based on Evolve’s Galveston market averages from the past 12 months and are designed to provide a realistic baseline for performance when exploring investment opportunities in the area.
👉 Download the complete Galveston Vacation Rental Investment Analysis.
Why Galveston Is a Great Place to Own Vacation Rental Property
From deep-sea fishing and festival hopping to downtown shopping and long afternoons on the sand, Galveston offers something for nearly every type of traveler.
And thanks to its mild coastal climate with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the high 80s, vacation rentals here see demand throughout much of the year.
Seasonal travel patterns typically look like this:
- Spring (March–April): An influx of spring breakers
- Summer: Peak season driven by families and holiday weekends
- Fall: A gradual slowdown
- Winter: Continued demand from snowbirds seeking warmer weather
Despite its growing popularity, Galveston remains relatively accessible for buyers. The median home price sits around $310,000, which our experts note is far more affordable than many other coastal vacation markets like Hilton Head or San Diego.
Inventory ranges from cozy one-bedroom bungalows to large beachfront homes, giving investors flexibility across budgets and property types.
How Much Money Can You Earn With a Galveston Vacation Rental?
Strong visitor demand and repeat travel create solid earning potential in Galveston, especially for investors who choose the right property. Here’s what to consider.
Property Size
Galveston is a favorite for family reunions and group getaways, which makes larger homes particularly lucrative.
- Five-bedroom properties generate the highest annual revenue and see the most nights booked
- These larger homes are limited in supply, which can make them more competitive to purchase
Smaller properties still perform well:
- One-bedroom homes rank second for total nights booked and are often easier to find
- They’re ideal for couples and offer a lower-cost entry point for investors
For balance, three-bedroom homes tend to deliver strong occupancy and daily rates while accommodating six to twelve guests. Notably, Evolve’s top-performing Galveston property falls into this category.
Property Location
Location plays a major role in Galveston vacation rental performance. According to our real estate experts, buyers should prioritize:
- Beachfront homes or properties with ocean views
- Homes within walking distance of the shoreline
Proximity to popular family attractions also boosts appeal, including:
Properties that combine beach access with nearby entertainment often command higher demand.
Property Amenities
To stand out in a beach-forward market, your amenities should enhance both outdoor fun and indoor comfort. Highly sought-after features include:
- Beach gear (chairs, umbrellas, towels)
- Kid-friendly extras like boogie boards and sand toys
- Updated outdoor spaces with decks, grills, pools, or hot tubs
Inside the home, comfort matters just as much:
- Air conditioning is essential
- Entertainment systems or game rooms help families unwind after beach days
Finally, small details go a long way. Welcome books, local recommendations, and thoughtful touches like complimentary refreshments can help earn five-star reviews and encourage repeat bookings.
Download Our Full Galveston, TX Vacation Rental Market Analysis
With rising visitor numbers, a diverse housing inventory, and year-round appeal, Galveston continues to shine as a promising vacation rental market.
For a deeper look at what this destination can offer investors, download our free Galveston Vacation Rental Market Analysis. Inside, you’ll find:
- 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 property or optimizing an existing rental, our market data can make buying a Galveston vacation rental as breezy as a walk along the shoreline.