11 Best Places to Buy a Rental Property in the USA [2025]

If you’re planning to invest in US real estate this year, you’re in the right place. With rental demand rising and key markets offering strong returns, even amid higher interest rates, 2025 presents numerous opportunities for foreign national investors seeking to build or expand their rental portfolios.  

From fast-growing Sun Belt cities to overlooked Midwestern metros, this list covers 11 of the most promising places to buy rental property in the US right now. Whether you’re looking for short-term vacation income or steady long-term tenants, there’s something here for every strategy.  

As a real estate agent with years of experience helping both US and international buyers, I’ve seen firsthand how the right market can shape your investment outcome. So, I’ve combined up-to-date market data, investor insights, and actionable tips to help you invest with clarity.  

Let’s dive into the top 11 places to buy rental property in the USA in 2025. 

Short-Term Rental (STR) Hotspots in the USA  

Short-term rentals are no longer limited to beachfront condos or cabins in the woods. In 2025, they’re a full-blown asset class, and some of the best-performing STR markets might surprise you.  

As traveler preferences shift toward unique stays, road trip destinations, and mid-sized cities, savvy investors are capitalizing on markets that offer strong seasonal demand, affordable entry prices, and light-to-moderate regulation. STRs also tend to generate higher monthly revenue than long-term rentals, with the added perk of owner flexibility.  

Whether you’re looking for your first Airbnb or scaling a portfolio, these US cities offer some of the most promising returns for STR investors this year. 

1. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee  

Best for: Family-focused STRs, year-round bookings, and high-yield cabins 

Pigeon Forge may be a small town, but it’s a powerhouse for short-term rental income. Located at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it attracts millions of visitors annually with its unique blend of natural beauty, family attractions, and Southern charm. From Dollywood to car shows and Christmas festivals, there’s always a reason to visit and to book a stay. 

Why It’s Top-Ranking: 

• Consistently ranks among the top-grossing STR markets in the US 

• Draws 9M+ visitors annually, many booking large cabins or group stays 

• High occupancy rates, especially spring through fall 

• Cabin-style homes with amenities like hot tubs and game rooms perform best 

Key Numbers: 

• Median Home Price: $573,300 

• Annual STR Revenue: $64,116 

• Rental Yield: 11.2% 

Investor Insight: “Pigeon Forge is ideal for STR investors who want reliable bookings and scalable income. Even a well-located 2–3BR cabin here can gross over $70K/year, especially if it’s close to Parkway attractions and has a mountain view.” 

Many homes in Pigeon Forge are purpose-built for vacation rentals. Look for properties with existing STR licenses, well-reviewed property managers, and access to tourism cleaning services to streamline operations. 

2. Scottsdale, Arizona 

Best for: High-end STRs, group travelers, and winter-season revenue  

Scottsdale has cemented its spot as one of the top-performing STR markets in the Southwest, and it’s easy to see why. This desert city blends year-round sunshine with luxury tourism, attracting everyone from golfers and bachelorette parties to snowbirds and digital nomads.  

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• Strong winter demand from October through April  

• High average nightly rates, often ranging from $300 to $600+ for well-staged homes  

• The local ordinance allows STRs to register and comply.  

• Popular with remote workers, sports fans, and eventgoers  

Key Numbers:  

• Median Home Price: $855,417  

• Annual STR Revenue: $50,707  

• Rental Yield: 6%  

Scottsdale is ideal for investors targeting group stays, such as 3BR+ homes with open layouts and resort-style amenities, which are the sweet spot. Interior staging and branding matter more here than square footage. Homes with a luxury feel and walkability to Old Town or spring training venues see the highest returns. 

3. Blue Ridge, Georgia 

Best for: Peaceful nature escapes, repeat weekenders, and rustic-chic stays.  

Blue Ridge is a hidden gem in northern Georgia’s Appalachian foothills. Just a short drive from Atlanta, this town combines natural beauty, a charming downtown area, and a booming demand for weekend cabin rentals.  

Pet-friendly, mid-range cabins with fire pits, hot tubs, and mountain views dominate bookings. Families and couples aren’t just booking once; they’re making Blue Ridge their tradition. Unlike other markets, guests here aren’t chasing ultra-modern homes. Embrace the rustic modern balance, wood beams, cozy decor, and outdoor living spaces to win bookings. 

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• Reliable year-round bookings driven by seasonal hiking, fall foliage, and cozy winters  

• Lower purchase prices and taxes vs. other STR hotspots  

• Very STR-friendly regulations in Fannin County  

• Guests often rebook annually, especially for fall and holiday getaways  

Key Numbers:     

• Median Home Price: $556,667  

• Annual STR Revenue: $41,200     

• Rental Yield: 7.4%  

4. Kissimmee, Florida (Orlando Metro) 

Best for: Large family groups, international travelers, and high-volume year-round bookings  

Kissimmee is a dream STR market for investors targeting consistency and scale. Located just minutes from Disney and Orlando’s theme park district, it thrives on group tourism, often accommodating 2–3 families under one roof.  

You should look for properties in established communities like Windsor Hills or Storey Lake, where STR demand is already established. Amenities such as lazy rivers, gyms, and shuttles enhance guest reviews, generating high revenues and rental yields. 

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• It serves one of the busiest tourist corridors in the U.S.  

• Purpose-built vacation home communities zoned for STRs  

• Large 4–8BR homes with pools routinely hit 70–80% occupancy  

• Strong third-party management, cleaning, and maintenance ecosystem  

Key Numbers:     

• Median Home Price: $369,667  

• Annual STR Revenue: $57,790  

• Rental Yield: 15.6%  

Investor Insight: “You don’t need Disney decor or a 10-bedroom house. A clean, well-furnished 4BR with a pool in a gated STR community can net $90K+ per year. The key is location and guest convenience.”  

5. Joshua Tree, California 

Best for: Instagrammable design stays, LA weekenders, and creative concepts  

Joshua Tree is one of the most brandable STR markets in the US, appealing to travelers who want something memorable, aesthetic, and off the grid. What it lacks in large tourist crowds, it makes up for in nightly rates and design freedom.  

Zoning in Joshua Tree can vary block by block. Ensure your property is located in an STR-approved zone and explore opportunities for ADUs or container conversions; those extra bedrooms can pay off significantly.  

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• High ADRs ($250–500+) for 1–2BR homes with unique designs  

• Popular for couples, artists, influencers, and short getaways from LA.  

• Low holding costs and property taxes  

• Off-grid and eco-conscious builds perform extremely well  

Key Numbers:  

• Median Home Price: $492,500  

• Annual STR Revenue: $45,800     

• Rental Yield: 9.30%  

Investor Insight: “This is a brand-first market. Minimalist desert homes, themed decor, and even vintage trailers with hot tubs do incredibly well if the photos sell a vibe. A mediocre house won’t survive, but a cool one will outperform expectations.” 

6. Asheville, North Carolina 

Best for: Boutique STRs, walkable urban stays, and artsy mountain tourism  

Asheville combines Appalachian charm with an urban edge. It’s a great STR option for guests who want to explore craft breweries, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a thriving creative scene all within a compact, walkable city.  

You don’t need a mountain cabin here. A 2BR condo within 10 minutes of downtown, featuring cozy interiors and ample parking, is often nearly booked year-round, as guests here are primarily focused on location, walkability, and experience. Add touches like local coffee, welcome baskets, or vinyl players, as even the small gestures resonate with Asheville’s culture-loving travelers.  

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• High occupancy between March and December  

• Excellent for 1–3BR units close to downtown or the River Arts District  

• Steady demand from remote workers, foodies, and nature lovers  

• Regulations are strict inside city limits, but excellent opportunities just outside  

Key Numbers:   

• Median Home Price: $482,667  

• Annual STR Revenue: $44,274.50     

• Rental Yield: 9.17% 

Long-Term Rental (LTR) Hotspots in the USA (2025) 

Long-term rentals are the foundation of most real estate portfolios, and in 2025, they’re looking more attractive than ever. With homeownership affordability hitting record lows, more Americans are opting to rent for longer, particularly in fast-growing cities with steady job growth and a tight housing supply.  

These markets offer strong rent yields, population growth, and lower risk and volatility compared to short-term rentals. For international buyers seeking passive income or visa-aligned investment properties, long-term rentals remain an innovative and sustainable entry point into the US real estate market.  

Here are the top US cities that check all the boxes for long-term rental investing in 2025. 

7. Tampa, Florida 

Best for: Sun Belt growth, strong rent appreciation, and relocation-driven demand 

Tampa has quietly become one of the top cities for LTR investors, thanks to its booming population, low vacancy rates, and business-friendly climate. With steady immigration from the Northeast and Midwest, Tampa continues to outperform as a long-term rental hub. 

Why It’s Top-Ranking: 

• Population growth > 1.5% annually 

• Median rents up ~30% since 2020 

• High-quality tenants: healthcare, tech, and finance professionals 

• Florida remains income-tax-free 

Key Numbers:  

• Median Home Price: $378,333 

• Annual Rent: $26,400   

• Gross Rental Yield: 7% 

Investor Insight: “Look for 3BR homes in suburbs like Brandon or Wesley Chapel. Tenants stay longer, schools are strong, and prices haven’t peaked yet. This is a great market for mortgage-backed investments.” 

HomeAbroad can help with that, as we assist international buyers in navigating US financing, even without a US credit score, making Tampa’s strong fundamentals more accessible. 

8. Greenville, South Carolina 

Best for: Affordable entry points, local job growth, and long tenant stays  

Greenville is a rising star in the southeastern United States. Anchored by a revitalized downtown, a growing BMW and tech presence, and some of the best rental yields in the region, it’s a smart pick for LTR investors who value cash flow and consistency.  

Greenville still offers that rare mix: low buy-in prices and real appreciation potential. Duplexes and SFRs in family neighborhoods move fast, especially near schools. Greenville’s LTR landscape is ideal for buy-and-hold investors. 

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• Median home prices under $350K  

• Rents are growing at 6–7% annually  

• Strong demand from relocators and the local workforce  

• Low landlord restrictions and favorable tax climate  

Key Numbers:  

• Median Home Price: $339,333  

• Annual Rent: $20,400    

• Gross Rental Yield: 6.01% 

9. San Antonio, Texas 

Best for: Military and medical tenant bases, low cost of entry, and rent stability  

San Antonio flies under the radar compared to Austin or Dallas, but it’s one of Texas’s most reliable rental markets. With a military-driven economy, major universities, and a growing medical corridor, long-term rentals in this area remain in high demand and affordable to operate.  

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• Median home prices are well under $300K  

• Renters make up nearly 45% of the population  

• High demand near bases like Fort Sam Houston and Lackland AFB  

• Steady year-round demand without seasonal swings  

Key Numbers:    

• Median Home Price: $284,917    

• Annual Rent: $20,340    

• Gross Rental Yield: 7.14%  

You won’t get rich on appreciation here, but the cash flow is clean. If you buy in working-class zip codes or near the medical center, your risk of vacancy is very low. San Antonio is ideal for investors and buyers looking for simplicity. 

10. Cincinnati, Ohio 

Best for: High cap rates, stable Midwestern growth, and affordable duplexes  

Cincinnati offers some of the highest rental yields in the country, particularly for investors seeking to scale their portfolios. With its mix of universities, healthcare employers, and blue-collar demand, Queen City is a favorite for value-driven LTR investors.  

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• Average cap rates of 7–9%  

• Duplexes and triplexes under $250K  

• Strong demand from tenants earning $40–70K/year  

• Predictable market without boom-bust cycles  

Key Numbers:    

• Median Home Price: $236,083   

• Annual Rent: $16,800    

• Gross Rental Yield: 7.12%  

Investor Insight: “Don’t overlook the west side and up-and-coming areas like Northside. You’ll find cash-flowing properties that meet the 1% rule and long-term tenants who stay for years.”  

Looking for long-term ROI? Cincinnati works beautifully with foreign nationals’ mortgage programs, and HomeAbroad matches you with local lenders who get the Midwestern rental model. 

11. Indianapolis, Indiana 

Best for: Turnkey rentals, low-cost management, and steady passive income  

Indianapolis rounds out the list with low purchase prices, high occupancy rates, and a massive renter population. It’s a favorite for both out-of-state and international investors thanks to its reliable LTR fundamentals and hands-off investment options.  

Indianapolis is made for investors who want cash flow without chaos. Property managers here are seasoned, and tenants tend to stay. Focus on 2–3BR SFRs in areas like Beech Grove or South Emerson to get maximum returns and more substantial cash flow.  

Why It’s Top-Ranking:  

• Homes under $250K in solid B-class neighborhoods  

• Property taxes and insurance remain below the national average  

• High renter percentage (~47%)  

• It is easy to find PMs, contractors, and maintenance crews  

Key Numbers:    

• Median Home Price: $234,550  

• Annual Rent: $18,516  

• Gross Rental Yield: 7.9% 

Invest in US Rental Property with HomeAbroad 

Whether you’re seeking short-term vacation income or long-term rental stability, the US market in 2025 presents exceptional opportunities for investors, particularly foreign nationals looking to diversify their global investments.  

The best deals across the entire US aren’t just found, but they’re built. Whether through innovative rehabilitation, hybrid rental strategies, or selecting the correct zip code, your returns depend on execution. That’s why working with the right team, from agents to lenders, is just as important as picking up the right property.  

And that’s where HomeAbroad comes in.  

We specialize in helping international investors purchase rental properties in the US, even without a US credit history, residency, or prior experience in the country. From matching you with foreign-national mortgage lenders and expert real estate agents who help in securing foreign-national mortgages to finding high-return properties, setting up LLCs, opening US bank accounts, obtaining insurance, and even coordinating property management, we simplify every step, making cross-border real estate investing simple, transparent, and secure.  

Ready to invest in one of the best US rental markets in 2025? Start with HomeAbroad, a one-stop PropTech and FinTech platform designed to simplify the process of purchasing US real estate for international buyers. 

FAQs

About the author:

Michele Lawrie, a seasoned real estate professional licensed in New York and Florida, serves as the Chief Real Estate Officer at HomeAbroad. With over 15 years of experience and specialized certifications from the NAR (National Association of Realtors), Michele is a trusted expert for foreign nationals buying US real estate.

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