Due to its popularity and affordability, Gulf Shores is an ideal destination for families, friends, and retirees, making it one of the strongest vacation rental markets in the U.S.
With its tourism-real estate based economy, Gulf Shores offers a wide range of vacation homes, condominiums, and beachfront hotels. Though the permanent population is around 5,000, Gulf Shores and nearby communities welcome almost 3 million visitors every year.
The high season for second home rentals is actually in the summer months, as it is cooler here than other nearby locations such as Florida. Twenty-seven percent of the homes in Gulf Shores are currently rental units; forty percent of the homes are listed as seasonally occupied.
Gulf Shores has all the ingredients for a perfect vacation destination: golf, fishing, coastal living, mild climate, and a low cost of living. With an average annual temperature of 68 degrees, the white sand beaches and emerald green water create the perfect setting for outdoor enjoyment throughout the year.
Gulf Shores offers a genuine sense of welcome, even creating special activities for the "snowbirds" who use their second homes only during the winter months. A recent study showed that the highest ranked activities of visitors to Gulf Shores were "beach" and "relaxing."