Vacation Homes Make Up 5.5% of Michigan Housing, 11th Most in the U.S.

Michigan’s vacation homes represent 5.5% of our state’s entire housing stock—ranking us 11th nationally. As someone who’s spent over three decades guiding clients through Michigan’s unique real estate landscape, I find these numbers both significant and telling. The broader U.S. market is facing a shortage of 4.03 million housing units, and we’ve seen vacation homeownership decline from 5.47 million in 2018 to 4.74 million in 2024. Yet, it’s interesting to note that timeshares are now boasting higher occupancy rates than hotels, while vacation residences continue to define resort communities across the country. For those considering investment or lifestyle changes, these trends paint a vivid picture of both challenge and opportunity in our ever-evolving market. My experience has taught me that understanding these shifts is essential—whether you’re looking for a second home, a sound investment, or simply want to stay informed about Michigan’s standing in the national market.