Gatlinburg, TN Vacation Rental Market Analysis: What Investors Should Know Before Buying

Often called the Gateway to the Smokies, Gatlinburg — along with nearby Sevierville and Pigeon Forge — is one of the most visited mountain destinations in the country. With direct access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (which saw more than 12 million visitors in 2024), plus a steady lineup of family-friendly attractions, the area draws travelers throughout the year.

That consistent demand is what makes a Gatlinburg vacation rental investment appealing for buyers seeking a market with strong occupancy across multiple seasons.

To help you evaluate earning potential in this in-demand destination, we created a free Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg market

The insights in this analysis are based on Evolve’s Gatlinburg market averages from the past year and are designed to provide a reliable baseline as you explore investment opportunities in the Smoky Mountains.

👉 Download the complete Gatlinburg Vacation Rental Investment Analysis. 

Why Gatlinburg Is a Strong Market for Vacation Rental Owners

Gatlinburg’s appeal is rooted in its setting. Mountain views, national park access, and a blend of endless outdoor adventure and entertainment create a destination that resonates with couples, families, and large groups alike.

Year-Round Demand With Dual Peak Seasons

Travel to the Smokies doesn’t hinge on a single season. Instead, Gatlinburg benefits from multiple demand surges throughout the year.

• Summer: Warm weather and park access drive high visitation

• Fall: Leaf-peeping season brings a second peak in demand

• Winter and spring: Holiday travel, festivals, and indoor attractions help sustain bookings

This dual seasonality gives owners more opportunities to earn higher nightly rates over a larger portion of the calendar year compared to single-peak markets.

A Range of Entry Points for Buyers

Home values in the Gatlinburg area have increased, reflecting strong interest in the market. At the same time, nearby Smoky Mountain towns offer additional flexibility for buyers.

Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville properties all sit around $400,000. This cluster of markets allows investors to balance purchase price, location, and income potential within the same destination ecosystem.

How Much Can You Earn With a Gatlinburg Vacation Rental?

Gatlinburg’s broad appeal supports performance across many property types. As with other top markets, income potential is influenced most by property size, location, and amenities.

1. Best-Performing Property Sizes

Gatlinburg performs well across a wide range of home sizes, thanks to its popularity with both couples and large groups.

• Larger homes (4–6 bedrooms) generate the highest annual revenue and attract family reunions, group trips, and multi-generational travelers

• These homes face less competition but make up a smaller portion of available inventory

At the other end of the spectrum:

• One-bedroom properties often lead in total nights booked

• Smaller cabins appeal to couples and solo travelers and typically come with a lower upfront investment

• This balance gives buyers flexibility depending on budget, risk tolerance, and long-term goals.

2. Location: Proximity Drives Booking Appeal

While property ownership inside the national park isn’t possible, proximity to it remains a major booking driver. High-performing locations often include:

• Homes near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boundary

• Properties with mountain views or wooded surroundings

• Easy access to the main Parkway connecting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville

If mountain-adjacent inventory is limited, properties with convenient access to attractions and dining can still perform well by prioritizing guest convenience.

3. Amenities Smoky Mountain Travelers Look For

Guests booking in Gatlinburg often want a classic mountain cabin experience — but with modern comforts. Top-performing amenities in this market include:

• Hot tubs, especially for post-hike relaxation

• Rustic design elements paired with updated interiors

• Reliable WiFi, air conditioning, and laundry

• Game rooms and entertainment spaces for families and groups

Pet-friendly setups can also expand your booking audience. Simple additions like fenced yards, dog beds, and food bowls help attract travelers who want to bring pets along for the adventure.

Download the Complete Gatlinburg, TN Vacation Rental Market Analysis

With tourism anchored by the most visited national park in the U.S., Gatlinburg remains one of the strongest year-round vacation rental markets in the Southeast. Whether you’re buying your first mountain cabin or evaluating a Smoky Mountain property you already own, our Gatlinburg Vacation Rental Market Analysis provides the insights you need to plan confidently.

Inside the full report, you’ll find:

• Average daily rate (ADR) by property size

• Average high- and low-season length of stay

• Market inventory insights

• Demand seasonality

You don’t have to navigate this popular market blindly. Use the data to understand demand, compare opportunities, and make informed decisions on your path to vacation rental success in the Smokies.

👉 Download the free Gatlinburg Vacation Rental Market Analysis.