10 Best Airbnb Markets in South Carolina (Ranked for 2026)

South Carolina’s Airbnb investment map has shifted in 2026, but not in the way most new buyers expect. The state’s highest-yielding markets no longer cluster only along the coast. Instead, the top tier now spans both inland and shore, with gross yields ranging from 14.9% in Columbia to 6.5% on Hilton Head Island, a spread that puts South Carolina’s best above the US median by a wide margin.

Entry prices are just as varied, from under $240,000 in Columbia to over $1 million on Folly Beach, and the yield percentiles tell the real story. The top six South Carolina markets all sit above the 67th percentile nationally, while the coastal trophy zones lag on cash flow.

Gross yield, the central metric here, measures annual rental revenue as a percentage of median home value. It’s the cleanest way to compare cash-on-cash returns across markets, but it also means that famous destinations with sky-high home prices and only modest rental upside rarely make the cut.

The 2026 South Carolina leaderboard is built on data, not reputation, and the results reward investors willing to look past the obvious. If you want a match to a local agent who knows these numbers, connect with a vetted South Carolina Airbnb agent now.

South Carolina Airbnb Market Rankings 2026 (and the City-by-City Breakdown)

Data as of July 11, 2026. Each market’s annual revenue is computed from its own ADR × occupancy × 365 on trailing 12-month data, gross before expenses. The table reports the median listing’s revenue, alongside median ADR and median occupancy computed independently, so multiplying the table’s ADR by its occupancy will not reproduce the revenue figure. Gross yield divides the median revenue by the median home value (Zillow Home Value Index). See the full data methodology.

The headline revenue averages every listing, but the active-operator benchmark filters to those with real, sustained booking activity. That’s the number a committed buyer should underwrite against, often higher than the headline in competitive markets with a large share of inactive or underperforming listings.

1. Columbia: The inland yield leader with year-round demand

Columbia’s 14.9% gross yield leads South Carolina by a wide margin, and it does so with a median home value just over $231,000. This is a market where occupancy peaks at 70% in August and never collapses in the off-season, holding 41% even in January.

The city’s seasonality is balanced. Spring and summer each contribute about 28-29% of annual revenue, with fall and winter still meaningful. Over the past year, occupancy jumped 37% and ADR rose 27%, while listing count grew 43%, yet demand kept pace, a steady classification.

Columbia’s yield sits in the 89th percentile nationally (53rd out of 501 US markets), and its 7-year payback period is among the shortest for any city of its size. Underwrite against the $33,084 active-operator benchmark, which closely tracks the headline, confirming that committed hosts capture the market’s upside. The 4-bedroom segment leads on revenue at $37,282, but 1-bedrooms dominate in count. For a full breakdown of bedroom-level returns, see Columbia’s analytics page.

Who it fits. Buyers seeking high cash-on-cash returns and broad seasonality at a low entry price.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

2. Aiken: Equine events and a fall bookings surge

Demand in Aiken climbs sharply as fall approaches, with occupancy peaking at 68% in September, far above the January low of 23%. This pronounced seasonality reflects the area’s equestrian calendar and regional festivals that draw guests looking for short-term stays during key months. Summer and fall together contribute 57% of annual revenue, making timing and pricing strategy essential for maximizing returns in this market.

With a 12.6% gross yield, Aiken sits in the 79th percentile among US markets, outperforming the national median of 9.0%. The payback period of roughly 8.3 years is competitive and suggests that the $33,850 active-operator revenue is a reliable benchmark for underwriting.

The prevalence of two-bedroom listings (108 in market) points to strong demand from small groups or families, while four-bedroom homes achieve the highest earnings per year, catering to larger parties during peak event seasons. For zoning and permit specifics, see the city’s official business licensing resources or Aiken’s full analytics.

Who it fits. Investors targeting event-driven demand and willing to manage pronounced seasonality.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

3. North Charleston: Urban supply squeeze and spring strength

Market fundamentals in North Charleston reveal a compelling case for investors. A 12.6% median gross yield places this city in the 79th percentile nationwide, well above the US median of 9.0%. Spring emerges as the dominant season for demand, with occupancy surging to 67% in March and average daily rates hitting $240, while the slowest month, January, still holds a respectable 45% occupancy.

These seasonal peaks drive spring to contribute 29% of annual revenue, closely followed by summer at 27%, a pattern shaped by the area’s appeal for both business and leisure travelers as the weather warms.

Recent momentum underscores a tightening market. In the past year, occupancy jumped 27% and ADR climbed 20%, yet active listings dropped 20%, signaling a supply squeeze that supports pricing power for hosts.

Underwriting here should focus on the active-operator annual revenue of $38,643, which closely tracks the overall median, and plan for a payback period of about 8.1 years at today’s prices. The bedroom mix is practical for families and groups, with three-bedrooms most prevalent but four-bedrooms earning the highest returns. For details on permit caps and annual renewals, review North Charleston’s analytics.

Who it fits. Buyers seeking urban demand, strong spring bookings, and a market with tightening supply.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

4. Myrtle Beach: Summer surge and deep listing pool

Rental performance in Myrtle Beach is shaped by dramatic seasonality, with occupancy soaring to 82% in July before dropping to just 12% in January. Summer delivers 34% of the year’s revenue, while spring adds another 30%, making warm-weather demand the clear driver for investors. This pronounced peak means that operators must capture strong rates when demand is highest, as the average daily rate also jumps to $245 during the summer surge compared to the annual average of $197.

Compared to the US field, Myrtle Beach’s 12.0% gross yield places it in the 76th percentile nationwide, far outpacing the national median of 9.0%. The market’s nearly 6,700 active full-time listings create intense competition, but a 28% drop in supply over the past year, paired with occupancy up 25% and ADR up 17%, signals a tightening landscape that favors existing operators.

Underwriting should focus on the active-operator revenue benchmark of $36,668, which closely matches the median, and note that while one-bedroom units dominate the inventory, larger six-bedroom homes lead in annual earnings, reflecting the area’s appeal for group summer vacations.

Who it fits. Buyers who want a proven summer rental engine and are comfortable with sharp off-season swings.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

5. Murrells Inlet: High ADR and deep summer seasonality

Pricing power stands out in Murrells Inlet, where the average daily rate of $281 far surpasses the US median of $232 and contributes to a robust 11.7% gross yield. Occupancy soars to 81% in July, then plunges to just 7% in January, resulting in summer and spring accounting for a combined 57% of annual revenue.

This pronounced seasonality is driven by the area’s appeal as a summer destination, when families and groups seek larger homes for vacations, pushing both occupancy and nightly rates to their highest levels.

Recent momentum shows a competitive edge. ADR increased by 23% and occupancy by 7% year-over-year, while active listings fell 13%, signaling a tightening market that benefits existing operators. Murrells Inlet sits in the 74th percentile for yield among 501 US markets, with a payback period of about 8.9 years based on active-operator revenues of $44,848.

Six-bedroom homes reach the highest earnings at $65,171 per year and $761 ADR, making them appealing to investors seeking maximum cash flow and able to manage off-season dips, while two-bedroom properties (200 listings) provide accessible entry points. Detailed figures appear in Murrells Inlet’s analytics.

Who it fits. Investors who want high nightly rates and can manage pronounced seasonality.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

6. North Myrtle Beach: Peak ADR and summer-centric returns

Pricing power defines North Myrtle Beach, where the average daily rate of $284 stands well above the US median of $232. Summer dominates the calendar, driving 33% of annual revenue and pushing occupancy to a high of 87% in July, while winter’s low at just 6% in January underscores the market’s sharp seasonality. This pronounced summer surge stems from the region’s appeal as a classic beach destination, with families and groups filling rentals during school breaks and warm weather months.

Recent market momentum has tightened the landscape. Occupancy rates jumped 26% year-over-year in June, and ADR climbed 17%, while listings dropped 15%, signaling a supply squeeze that benefits existing operators. North Myrtle Beach’s 10.7% gross yield places it in the 67th percentile nationally, outpacing the US median of 9.0%.

Underwriting here should focus on the $40,341 active-operator revenue, with three-bedroom homes dominating the inventory but eight-bedroom properties commanding the highest earnings at $118,773 annually, ideal for investors targeting larger groups. For more on this market’s mix, visit North Myrtle Beach analytics.

Who it fits. Buyers seeking high ADR, summer-driven returns, and a large, established rental pool.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

7. Charleston: High rates, high occupancy, and tight supply

High nightly rates and robust guest demand define Charleston’s short-term rental landscape, where the average daily rate reaches $298, well above the US median of $232. Occupancy surges to 69% in March, the market’s busiest month, and even in the slowest month of January, occupancy maintains a solid 37%. This strong spring performance drives 30% of annual revenue, with summer and winter each contributing 24%, reflecting a year-round appeal that buffers against deep off-season slumps.

Charleston’s gross yield of 10.0% places it in the 61st percentile nationally, notably outperforming the US median of 9.0%. The 10.2-year payback period signals a premium market, supported by a median home value of $596,033, the highest among the top seven. Recent momentum is striking.

Charleston saw occupancy jump 11% and ADR soar 23% year-over-year, but listings dropped by 20%, causing a pronounced supply squeeze. Investors should consider targeting the $58,218 active-operator revenue, as larger homes like eight-bedrooms can capture as much as $187,143 annually, rewarding those who secure rare, high-capacity properties. More details are in Charleston’s analytics.

Who it fits. Buyers seeking high nightly rates and occupancy in a supply-constrained, high-barrier market.

Regulation: Charleston requires a short-term rental permit, annual renewal, and compliance with zoning rules. No more than nine short-term rental units are allowed per lot. Business license and accommodations tax registration are also required. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

8. Greenville: Steady growth and affordable entry

Seasonal trends in Greenville show a clear revenue split, with spring and summer accounting for 55% of annual income and occupancy peaking at 62% in August. The market maintains resilience even in the off-season, as October’s trough still holds at 31% occupancy, reflecting a steady flow of bookings beyond the traditional peak months.

This pattern is reinforced by strong momentum. In June 2026, occupancy increased 17% year-over-year, while average daily rates climbed 22%, driving a stable classification despite a jump in listing coverage.

Compared to the national field, Greenville’s 9.4% gross yield places it in the 54th percentile of US markets, outperforming the US median yield of 9.0% and boasting a 53% occupancy rate against the national median of 45%.

The typical investor can expect to recoup their purchase price in about 11.2 years using the active-operator revenue of $29,561 as an underwriting target. The dominance of two-bedroom listings offers affordable entry points, but those seeking higher returns may prefer four-bedroom properties, which command $23,610 annually at a $305 ADR. For a closer look at property-level returns, visit Greenville’s analytics.

Who it fits. Investors seeking a balanced, affordable market with year-round demand and moderate seasonality.

Regulation: Greenville requires compliance with local zoning for short-term rentals. Owners or operators must secure an occupancy permit and a business license from the city, and pay accommodations taxes. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

9. Folly Beach: High revenue, high price, and spring/summer surge

High nightly rates power Folly Beach’s performance, with an ADR of $464 that doubles the US median and peaks at $522 in July when occupancy hits 81%. The seasonality is pronounced. Spring and summer each account for 31% of annual revenue, while winter slumps to just 16%, reflecting the beach town’s strong appeal in warm months and its sharp slowdown in January, when occupancy falls to 23%.

Nationally, Folly Beach’s 7.4% gross yield lands it in the 33rd percentile, trailing the US median of 9.0%, largely due to its lofty median home value of $1,050,016. Investors face a lengthy 14-year payback period at the current active-operator revenue of $75,104, which should be the underwriting baseline given the 613 full-time listings and a recent 19% drop in supply.

The mix of properties leans toward three-bedrooms for volume, but five-bedroom homes command the highest annual earnings at $113,870, a sign that larger groups drive top-line performance during peak seasons.

Who it fits. Buyers with the capital for a high-price, high-revenue coastal property and a focus on spring/summer returns.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

10. Hilton Head Island: Luxury price, moderate yield, and summer focus

Pricing dynamics in Hilton Head Island reflect its status as a luxury coastal destination, with a median home value of $787,147 and an average daily rate of $286, both well above US medians. The market’s seasonality is pronounced.

Occupancy surges to 80% in July, driving peak ADRs of $308, while the winter low in January sees occupancy collapse to just 9%. Summer alone accounts for 33% of annual revenue, and spring adds another 28%, underscoring the critical importance of capturing demand during these high-earning months.

Yield here is a modest 6.5%, placing Hilton Head Island in only the 21st percentile among 501 tracked US markets, and investors face a lengthy 15.9-year payback period based on active-operator revenue. This reflects both the high entry price and the sharply seasonal income stream. Still, the past year’s supply squeeze, with listings down 25%, has buoyed performance.

Hilton Head Island’s 3,504 full-time listings are dominated by two-bedroom units, and those able to invest in larger homes can target the top tier, where seven-bedroom properties earn up to $118,708 per year at $1,485 ADR. Occupancy rose 8% and ADR jumped 19%, which signals pricing power for well-positioned properties. See Hilton Head Island analytics for all data.

Who it fits. Buyers seeking a luxury coastal market with high summer rates and the capital to underwrite a long payback.

Regulation: Short-term rental rules vary by city, county, and HOA. Verify current requirements for the specific property before buying.

Why the famous South Carolina markets miss the top-yield list

South Carolina’s household names, like Hilton Head, Folly Beach, and even parts of Charleston, draw millions of visitors and headline rates, but their home prices have outpaced rental revenue growth. That’s why their gross yields land well below the state’s inland and mid-tier coastal markets. The best-known destinations are appreciation plays or trophy buys, not cash-flow leaders. For investors focused on yield, the data points elsewhere.

How to read these rankings before you buy

Gross yield is a powerful screening metric, but it has limits. It captures annual rental revenue as a share of home value, before expenses and financing. The headline revenue averages all listings, including inactive or underperforming ones, while the active-operator benchmark filters to hosts with consistent bookings.

That’s the number to use when underwriting a purchase. But even the best market-level data can’t substitute for property-level diligence, local rules, HOA restrictions, and unique home features all shape real returns. Always verify requirements and revenue projections for your specific address before closing.

Ready to act? Get matched with a South Carolina Airbnb investment agent for local expertise, or explore more with Chalet’s analytics. When you’re ready to buy, the right agent is your edge.