Travel + Leisure just dropped their 2025 list of the top 15 cities in the U.S., based on nearly 180,000 reader votes—and I couldn’t help but notice how many of these overlap with short-term rental and lifestyle investing markets.Here’s the full list:1.

I’m working with an extended stay hospitality operator who has developed and continues to operate multiple boutique properties in high-barrier leisure markets.They’ve completed several funds, each raising mid-eight-figure amounts from a friends-and-family network to finance development projects.

My partner and I have found one landlord that will allow us to sublet to our business travelers and Leisure travelers.

Even if family is present for leisure, the day still counts as maintenance if the 4-hour work threshold is met.

This may mean cutting back on current luxuries, like subscriptions, coffees, and similar common leisure. remember, it is temporary... or it can be permanent, up to you.

I think reducing debt, and having optionality to go from investing to leisure is an immeasurable joy. 

At this point you can relax and make improvement at your leisure.

This highlights that the market is seeing stronger performance and increasing demand—especially as visitors flock to Raleigh-Durham for both leisure and business purposes with RTP. 

LTRBased on your home’s details (3/2.5/2, upgraded finishes, solar, great curb appeal), here's a quick market snapshot for 78224 as of May 2025:Long-Term Rental:Rent Range: ~$1,600 to $1,950/monthGiven the upgrades and former model status, your home could likely command closer to the top end—$1,850–$1,950.Best for: Predictable income, low turnover, and less active management.Mid-Term Rental: Rent Potential: ~$2,200–$2,600/monthEspecially strong if you furnish it and market to travel nurses, contractors, or military (Brooks City Base is nearby).Best for: Higher cash flow with less churn than STR.Short-Term Rental: Nightly Rate: ~$100–$140/nightTo reliably cover a mortgage, you’d need 20+ booked nights/month—which can be tough in this ZIP, as tourist demand is more modest compared to downtown San Antonio or New Braunfels.Best for: Experienced hosts or homes in high-demand leisure areas.Given your goals and desire for stability, LTR or MTR might be your sweet spot:LTR gives peace of mind and steady income.MTR could boost returns while staying relatively passive—especially if you furnish it once and cater to travel professionals.And please don’t feel discouraged—it’s completely normal to feel a bit uncertain when entering a new space.

This change may be due to increasing competition in similar nature-centric destinations.Flathead National ForestOccupancy This Year: 30.70%Despite its stunning natural beauty, Flathead National Forest's occupancy rates have decreased, which might be attributed to stricter STR regulations and limited local tourism initiatives.Eastern OregonOccupancy This Year: 31.60%Eastern Oregon's rugged terrain and outdoor adventures haven't translated into increased demand for short-term rentals, evidenced by its continued low occupancy rates.Atlantic CityOccupancy This Year: 34.60%Atlantic City remains stagnant with no growth in occupancy, possibly due to heightened competition and evolving traveler expectations favoring alternative destinations.Lake of the OzarksOccupancy This Year: 35.10%With its scenic views and leisurely activities, Lake of the Ozarks is still struggling with lower occupancy rates compounded by an excess supply of vacation rentals.JasperOccupancy This Year: 36.30%Jasper's appeal as a nature retreat is not enough to counteract declining occupancy rates, suggesting possible shifts in visitor preferences or investment saturation.Sun ValleyOccupancy This Year: 37.00%Sun Valley, despite its year-round attractions, is experiencing a significant drop in occupancy, perhaps due to increased competition from similar resort towns.