New Study Finds Short-Term Rentals Drive $6.7 Billion in Economic Value Across South Carolina

4/22/2026

Washington, D.C. — The Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA) today released a new study highlighting the significant economic contributions of short-term vacation rentals (STVRs) in South Carolina. Conducted in partnership with Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics Company, the report finds the sector generated $6.7 billion in total economic impact in 2025. 

STVRs hosted 6.7 million visitors, driving $4.4 billion in direct spending, supporting more than 24,000 jobs, and generating $601 million in state and local tax revenue. Visitor spending extends well beyond lodging, benefiting restaurants, retail, and recreation businesses across the state. The findings underscore the role of professionally managed vacation rentals in strengthening local economies and expanding tourism across both coastal and inland communities. 

“Short-term rentals are not a niche part of South Carolina’s economy, they are foundational to it,” said VRMA Executive Director, Anne Gardner. “This analysis quantifies what we know to be true: short-term rentals fuel economic activity, support tens of thousands of jobs, and sustain local businesses. It’s vital that our policies in South Carolina and beyond support this sector to ensure its continued economic growth.”  

VRMA commissioned the study to provide policymakers with clear, data-driven insight into the industry’s economic impact. 

The full report, Economic Impact of Short-Term Vacation Rentals in South Carolina (2025), is available exclusively to VRMA members for download here. 

VRMA members are welcome to join an exclusive national briefing of this report on Thursday, April 30, from 2-3 p.m. ET.