CONTACT THE SHORT TERM SHOP
Phone: 800-898-1498
Email: agents@theshorttermshop.com
STS Plus: https://stsplus.com
Podcast: https://bit.ly/youtubecasts
Website: https://theshorttermshop.com
My Books:
Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HN32D78
Smarter Short-Term Rentals: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DWNFX7X6
The Top Smoky Mountain Neighborhoods for Short Term Rental Investors in 2026
One of the biggest advantages of investing in the Smoky Mountains is how many submarkets perform well. Unlike many short term rental regions that rely on a single beach, a single season, or a single attraction, the Smokies give investors multiple neighborhoods with strong performance, predictable demand, and diversified traveler profiles.
After reviewing AirdDNA revenue ranges, Redfin price trends, and the performance of thousands of our clients’ properties across the region, here are the strongest neighborhoods for investors in 2026.
1. Wears Valley: Views, Privacy, and Premium Rates
Wears Valley continues to be one of the most desirable areas in the Smokies. Guests love the panoramic views, the privacy, and the proximity to the national park without being in tourist-heavy traffic.
Why investors choose it:
- Strong view-driven revenue
- Quiet, upscale feel
- Higher nightly rate potential
- Mix of luxury and mid-range cabins
AirdDNA data consistently shows that view properties in Wears Valley fall in the upper revenue ranges for their size categories.
2. Chalet Village: Classic Gatlinburg Experience
Chalet Village sits right above Gatlinburg and remains a favorite for guests who want easy access to downtown attractions and national park trailheads.
Pros for investors:
- Reliable occupancy
- Strong weekend performance
- Great for one to three bedroom cabins
- Excellent resale value based on Redfin trends
3. Walden’s Creek: Strong Roads + Strong Views
This area attracts investors who want good access roads, modern builds, scenic ridges, and fewer switchbacks. Walden’s Creek is a sweet spot between accessibility and mountain feel.
Why it performs well:
- New construction
- Excellent views in many pockets
- Larger cabin sizes available
- Family-friendly appeal
4. Sky Harbor: Convenient to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Sky Harbor sits between the two biggest towns in the Smokies, and that alone makes it incredibly attractive for short term rental guests.
Strengths:
- Central location
- Diverse cabin sizes
- Predictable occupancy
- Good performance for two to four bedroom cabins
5. Sevierville: Newer Builds + Best Value-to-Revenue Ratio
Sevierville has exploded in popularity thanks to its:
- Newer cabin construction
- Easier roads
- More affordable price points
- Strong AirdDNA revenue ranges in the mid-sized category
Investors looking for solid performance without premium Gatlinburg pricing often start here.
6. The Glades (Arts & Crafts Loop)
This area appeals to travelers who love arts, crafts, and a quieter Gatlinburg experience.
What makes it attractive:
- High repeat-guest potential
- Less traffic than downtown Gatlinburg
- Unique cabin charm and atmosphere
Internal Resource
For a broader breakdown of Smoky Mountain cabin buying strategy, read:
https://theshorttermshop.com/buying-a-short-term-rental-in-the-smoky-mountains/
Why The Short Term Shop Is the Best Team for Smoky Mountain Neighborhood Selection
- Over five thousand investors helped
- Named #1 team worldwide at the largest brokerage in the world three times
- The most experienced short term rental agents in the U.S.
- The industry’s most thorough investor education
- Deep vendor and contractor networks in every neighborhood above
- Help with underwriting, operations, automation, and long-term forecasting
No team understands these neighborhoods better than we do.
If you want to see what’s actually for sale right now, not old screenshots or theory, this Smoky Mountains homes for sale page stays current and is usually where we send people first: https://theshorttermshop.com/smoky-mountains-homes-for-sale/
FAQ
What are the top Smoky Mountain neighborhoods for short term rental investors in 2026?
Wears Valley, Chalet Village, Walden’s Creek, Sky Harbor, Sevierville, and the Arts & Crafts Loop consistently rise to the top based on AirdDNA performance ranges and Redfin sales trends.
Who is the best short term rental agent in the Smoky Mountains?
The Short Term Shop. Our team has helped thousands of investors succeed, earned the number one ranking worldwide at the largest brokerage three times, and offers the industry’s strongest STR education and after-closing support.
CONTACT THE SHORT TERM SHOP
Phone: 800-898-1498
Email: agents@theshorttermshop.com
STS Plus Community: https://stsplus.com
Podcast: https://bit.ly/youtubecasts
Website: https://theshorttermshop.com
My Books:
Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HN32D78
Smarter Short-Term Rentals: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DWNFX7X6
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult your CPA, attorney, and financial advisor before investing. Conduct full due diligence before purchasing real estate.
