How Much Can You Earn from a Beach Vacation Rental in Ocean City, Maryland?
If you own a home in Ocean City, Maryland—or are thinking about buying one—you’ve probably wondered:
“Could I make money renting it out as a vacation rental?”
The short answer: Yes. And potentially, a lot more than you might expect.
Ocean City is one of the East Coast’s most visited beach towns, drawing over 8 million tourists annually, according to local tourism data. With our 10-mile stretch of beaches, iconic boardwalk, and family-friendly attractions, demand for short-term rentals is strong—especially during the summer months.
In this blog, we’ll break down how much you could realistically earn from your beach property and what factors affect your income potential.
Average Vacation Rental Income in Ocean City, MD
While income varies by location, property size, and management strategy, here are some estimated annual gross earnings based on common vacation rental types:
|
Property Type |
Avg. Nightly Rate |
Peak Occupancy Rate |
Potential Gross Income |
|
1-Bedroom Condo (Boardwalk) |
$175–$250 |
80% (May–Sept) |
$30,000–$35,000+ |
|
2-Bedroom Oceanfront Unit |
$225–$450 |
75–80% (Summer) |
$35,000–$45,000+ |
|
3–4 Bedroom Townhome |
$350–$600 |
70–80% (Summer) |
$40,000–$70,000+ |
|
Large Beachfront Home |
$700–$1,200 |
65–75% (Peak Season) |
$90,000–$150,000+ |
💡 Note: These figures represent gross income before expenses like cleaning, maintenance, marketing, and management fees. Rental income is not guaranteed, and these rates are subject to change and are based on current trends. Nightly rates can change drastically based on dates, area events and weather.
Seasonality Matters
Ocean City is highly seasonal. Peak earning months are typically May through September, with July and August bringing the highest occupancy and rates.
But savvy owners can boost income in the shoulder seasons (April, October) with:
- Off-season weekend getaways
- Event-based travel (e.g. Sunfest, music festivals, car shows)
- Discounts and flexible minimum stays
6 Factors That Affect How Much You Can Earn
1. Location
Oceanfront or boardwalk properties command premium rates and higher demand. Homes a few blocks from the beach can still perform well but may need competitive pricing or standout features.
2. Size & Amenities
Larger homes or condos that sleep 6+ tend to earn more, especially when equipped with:
- Full kitchens
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Outdoor space or balconies
- Beach gear or pool access
3. Property Condition
Modern, clean, and well-staged properties consistently outperform outdated rentals. Even small upgrades—like fresh paint or updated bedding—can increase nightly rates.
4. Management Strategy
- Self-management can save money, but often results in fewer bookings due to limited marketing.
- Professional management may charge anywhere from 15-20%, but they often increase occupancy and nightly rates enough to offset their fees.
5. Marketing & Distribution
The more places your home is listed (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, Google), the more eyes see it. A local manager can help with distribution, pricing optimization, and guest communication.
6. Reviews & Guest Experience
Positive reviews lead to more bookings at higher prices. Fast response times, cleanliness, and thoughtful touches (welcome baskets, local guides) make a big impact.
What About Expenses?
Here's a quick look at common vacation rental expenses:
|
Expense Type |
Typical Range |
|
Cleaning & Turnover |
$75–$250 per stay |
|
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet) |
$150–$400/month |
|
Property Management |
16-20% of gross income* |
|
Repairs & Maintenance |
$100–$300/month avg. |
|
Insurance (STR Policy) |
$1,000–$2,000/year |
|
HOA or Condo Fees |
Varies (if applicable) |
Even after expenses, most well-managed properties in Ocean City bring in solid net cash flow, especially during peak months.
*OCMD Getaways has fees as low as 12% depending on location, bedrooms and other factors.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For many homeowners, listing a property as a vacation rental in Ocean City is a smart investment—both financially and for personal enjoyment.
You could:
✅ Earn passive income
✅ Build long-term property value
✅ Still enjoy your beach house when it’s not booked
And if you don’t want the headaches of guest messages, cleaning coordination, or pricing adjustments—that’s where we come in.
Ready to See What Your Property Could Earn?
At OCMD Getaways, we specialize in full-service vacation rental management in Ocean City, MD. From marketing to maintenance, we handle it all—while you earn more and worry less.
🎯 Get a Free Rental Income Estimate
Let us show you how much your beach home could really earn.