Travel planners across the United States are noticing a welcome shift in vacation‑rental costs. According to recent data released by KAYAK, the average price for vacation rentals that accommodate five or more guests has decreased by 12% compared with the same period last year. At the same time, searches for larger properties have risen 20%, indicating that more Americans are actively looking to travel together.
Why the price drop matters for families and friends
Dividing the cost of a rental home, a rental car, fuel and even meals among several travelers can dramatically lower the per‑person expense of a getaway. For a group of five, the nightly rate of a beachfront villa or mountain lodge becomes far more manageable when split. The data suggests that this cost‑saving potential is encouraging people to move beyond the endless group‑chat polls and actually book their trips.
Top U.S. destinations for groups of five+
KAYAK’s analysis highlights five U.S. locations that offer the lowest average cost per person per night for groups of five or more:
- Las Vegas, Nevada – $157 per person, the most affordable major market.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – $243 per person, ideal for beach lovers.
- Nashville, Tennessee – a music‑city option with comparable pricing.
- Additional cities in the ranking also provide strong value, though specific figures were not disclosed.
These figures illustrate that the headline price of a rental is less important than the per‑person cost once the bill is divided.
International options also show value
For travelers willing to go abroad, KAYAK identified ten international markets where group rentals remain affordable. The Dutch town of Oranjestadt tops the list at $207 per person per night. Other popular cities—Athens, Madrid, Tokyo, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Rome—also deliver strong value, combining cultural attractions with shared‑accommodation savings.
How the data was gathered
The findings are based on vacation‑rental searches conducted on KAYAK and its partner sites between March 1 and June 11, 2026, for travel dates ranging from July 1 to December 31, 2026. Prices were compared with the same search period in 2025 and represent the average cost per person for one room and one night in rentals that house five or more guests. As with any travel market, prices can fluctuate and are subject to change.
What this means for planners
For families, church groups, or friends who have been stuck in endless chat polls, the data provides a clear incentive to move forward. With lower per‑person rates and a growing appetite for group travel, now is an opportune moment to lock in dates, secure a rental, and enjoy the savings that come from sharing costs.
Travel experts advise booking early, especially for popular destinations, and using price‑comparison tools like KAYAK to ensure the best deal. As more Americans seek to travel together, the trend toward larger group rentals is likely to continue, offering both economic and social benefits for communities across the nation.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
