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Realtors Claim These 12 Popular Vacation Towns Still Have Affordable Homes

What if you never had to go home from vacation because you already live in paradise?

By Cat Lafuente

Edited by Lauren Wellbank

Updated Jan. 20, 2025

Attention potential homebuyers: If you’re on the hunt for an affordable vacation property, you have some excellent options, according to Eric Bramlett, real estate agent and owner of Bramlett Real Estate in Austin, Texas.

"If you’ve been thinking about owning a home in a peaceful lakeside town in the Midwest or a ski cabin in Vermont, now might be the perfect time," he says. "With fewer people looking to buy, sellers may be more willing to negotiate."

If your five year plan involves living your beach, lakeside, or mountain vacation dream 365 days a year, you’re going to want to start making money moves so that you’ll be able to buy a home in one of these popular vacation towns that still boasts plenty of reasonably priced properties.

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Crescent City, California

This city close to the Oregon border is ideal for those seeking rugged beach access and a mild climate, notes real estate agent Joy Aumann, founder of LuxurySoCalRealty.

“With a median price of $329,000 for properties within a mile of the beach, it’s an appealing option for buyers seeking a quieter coastal town,” she says. “The area’s charm lies in its natural beauty, including redwood forests and rugged coastlines, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.”

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Palm Bay, Florida

Yes, parts of sunny Florida are still affordable, according to Omer Reiner, president of FL Cash Home Buyers, LLC in Fort Lauderdale.

“One town that boasts beautiful beaches is Palm Bay,” he says. “It’s between Miami and Orlando and is among the busiest ports for cruise ships in the entire United States.”

Palm Bay is also close to the Space Coast, which has attractions space aficionados will seriously love.

Playa Del Carmen, México

Mermaid Statue at public beach in Playa del Carmen

Dreaming of living in a tropical escape? Then you’ll want to head south of the border, according to Bramlett.

“Once a small fishing village, Playa Del Carmen is now a bustling tourist destination,” he says. “The real estate market here offers a range of price points, making it accessible to different buyers.”

When you buy here you’ll have an option to settle in and put down roots or rent out your vacation home to other travelers looking for their own slice of paradise.

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Huntsville, Ontario

Summers in this hidden gem are idyllic and revitalizing, according to real estate agent Kenneth Yim, broker of record and managing partner at Owncondo.

"I spent a weekend there with clients and was amazed by how you get everything — gorgeous lakes, hiking trails, golf courses, and even a charming downtown with great restaurants," he says. "Plus you're just two hours from Toronto."

Yim adds that you can enjoy the Muskoka lifestyle for less than in Bracebridge or Port Carling.

Galveston, Texas

Despite its location on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico, this Texas hotspot isn’t out of reach, according to Bramlett.

“Galveston has seen a surge in both tourism and second-home buyers, and with annual property appreciation rates of 4-6%, it’s a strong choice for rental income or personal use,” he says.

Galveston is also laid-back, making it great for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Oakhurst, California

You can enjoy California’s natural splendor for less in Oakhurst, explains real estate investor Holden Andrews, founder of Helpful Home Group.

“It is well below the median home price in California, and it is nestled into the Western side of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and it is a quick drive to Yosemite national park,” he says.

Oakhurst also has a small town vibe, and is ideal for getting away from it all, adds Andrews.

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Juno Beach, Florida

Thanks to new rules and regulations in Florida, real estate agent Jeff Lichtenstein, CEO of Echo Fine Properties says you can find affordable condos in this beach town.

“Juno Beach is in the heart of the Northern Palm Beaches and below the freezing line,” he says. “It has great airport proximity and is close to hundreds of restaurants and great shopping and activities.”

Festivals abound in this picturesque and park-filled oasis, adds Lichtenstein.

Midway, Utah

While Utah is famous for its natural parks, there’s so much more, shares real estate agent Joel Carson, president and principal broker at Utah Real Estate.

“Midway, Utah, also known as Little Switzerland, is a charming town located just 20 minutes from world-class ski resorts like Park City and Deer Valley,” he says.

Want a quieter locale? No problem. “If you don't mind being a little farther out, Eden, Utah, is simply stunning, surrounded by picturesque mountains and ski resorts," he continues.

Chania, Crete, Greece

“Greece’s golden visa program has been a big draw for international buyers looking for added perks like residency options,” says Bramlett. Specifically, he recommends Chania for its ancient architecture and rich history.

And yes, Chania is easy on your wallet. “The average price of $171 per square foot makes it surprisingly affordable for such a desirable destination,” he adds.

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Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Known as “Arizona’s Playground,” this popular vacation spot has it all, according to Aumann.

“With lake-view homes costing an average of $383,210, Lake Havasu City, Arizona, offers a reasonably priced desert getaway for those who prefer lake living,” she says. “It draws tourists all year round because of its countless recreational opportunities, which include boating and off-roading.”

North Bay, Ontario

This beautiful, off-the-radar gem is extremely undervalued at the moment, shares Yim.

“What struck me was the perfect blend of outdoor recreation on Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake, plus urban amenities like great restaurants and theaters,” he says.

Boating enthusiasts, this one’s for you. “One of my recent clients bought there specifically because they can dock their boat right at their backyard and still be close to all the conveniences,” Yim continues.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

crowded Myrtle Beach boardwalk South Carolina

“For those drawn to coastal living, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, combines affordability with amenities,” says Aumann. “The median price for second homes here is around $341,000, offering access to expansive beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions.”

Aumann adds that the real estate market in Myrtle Beach is ideal for renting out during high season or living there year-round.

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Bottom line

Whether you’re looking to earn extra income from a rental property or want a permanent zip code in paradise, each of these towns has viable options. So if you’re looking to invest, it’s a good time to get your ducks in a row.

Just remember that affordable can mean different things depending on the state of the real estate market in the area. So it’s important to keep context in mind as you embark on your search for a new home.

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