Mountain Destinations Surge in Popularity

American travelers are already making plans for summer 2026, and the preferred destination may come as a surprise. Recent data from AirDNA, a leading tracker of Airbnb and Vrbo listings, indicates a significant shift in travel preferences, with mountain destinations gaining prominence.

Jackson Hole Leads the Way

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, currently leads the nation in short-term rental bookings for the summer of 2026. According to Realtor.com, an impressive 45.5% of properties are already reserved between June and August. This early surge in bookings highlights an evolving trend in the short-term rental market.

Why Jackson Hole?

The appeal of Jackson Hole lies in its abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors flock to the region for activities like whitewater rafting, canoeing, and wildlife viewing within the stunning Grand Teton National Park. This focus on natural beauty and adventure is a key driver of the destination’s popularity.

Top 10 Summer Destinations (2026)

  • Jackson Hole, Wyoming - 45.5%
  • Second Destination - 44%
  • Third Destination - 42.6%
  • Fourth Destination - 41.4%
  • Fifth Destination - 40.7%
  • Sixth Destination - 40.4%
  • Seventh Destination - 40.3%
  • Eighth Destination - 40.2%
  • Ninth Destination - 39.4%
  • Tenth Destination - 38.7%

2026 FIFA World Cup Boosts City Rentals

Demand for short-term rentals is also rising significantly in cities hosting matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Cities like Fort Worth and Kansas City are experiencing a dramatic increase in demand, anticipating a large influx of visitors for the sporting event.

Short-Term Rental Opportunities

With hotels expected to reach full capacity quickly, short-term rentals are poised to benefit. Incentives, such as the $750 offered by Airbnb, combined with high occupancy rates, suggest a potentially lucrative rental season for homeowners in these cities. This demonstrates the dynamic nature of the travel industry and the evolving opportunities within the short-term rental market.