50 Unique Vacation Rentals for $85 a Night or Less

From a shotgun house in Louisiana to a cozy log cabin in the woods in Alaska and a charming cottage in Kentucky, there are countless intriguing, colorful, and inviting vacation accommodations across the country that don't cost a small fortune. We searched Airbnb, HomeAway, and Vrbo for interesting and affordable vacation rentals in every state. All the options on this list average no more than $85 a night (seasonal demand may affect the rate). The listings we found also consistently receive positive reviews from previous guests and are located in places that have much to offer visitors. The prices are for a basic rental and don't include service or cleaning fees. In addition, renters may be asked to provide a refundable security deposit to cover possible damage.

Related: Where to Go for a Budget-Friendly Summer Vacation in All 50 States

Gulf Shores
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Fish from a private dock or float in a sandy-bottom lagoon at this quaint and secluded beach cottage for $75 a night. Surrounded by trails for hiking, biking, and bird watching, the property also features golfing and a white sandy beach nearby. Slightly farther afield is Fort Morgan, and visitors can take a ferry to Dauphin Island. Past guests rave about watching jumping fish, birds, and crabs while relaxing on the dock.

Fairbanks
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Just 20 minutes from Fairbanks International Airport, this handcrafted log cabin is set in a forest outside Fairbanks, in the Goldstream Valley. The area is famous for dog mushing, ski trails, and aurora viewing in winter. The cabin is also just 5 miles from a local downhill ski slope -- Moose Mountain. Warm-weather options include mountain biking trails and hiking to enjoy panoramic views of the Fairbanks area, which enjoys nearly 24 hours of sunlight during the summer. Wildlife in the area includes moose, fox, and cranes. The price for this rustic property averages $84 a night (higher during summer).

Prescott
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This three-bedroom, three-bathroom mountain-style home bordering the Prescott National Forest is ideal for a family getaway, sleeping as many 10 guests. Previous renters rave about the property: the smell of pine, the sound of a gentle breeze through the trees, or watching birds, deer, and squirrels in their natural habitat. Nearby Prescott, meanwhile, offers antique stores, restaurants, and tons of history. Rates start at $85 a night.

Morgan Township
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A rustic duplex near Greers Ferry Lake and Fairfield Bay boasts a cabin atmosphere that includes wood walls and tin ceilings. Popular activities among guests include sitting on the deck soaking in the surrounding nature and stargazing without any nearby city lights to dim the brilliant night sky. Boating is also available close by. The average nightly rate is $78.

Gasquet
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Goats, chickens, cats, and dogs reside at this hand-built cabin deep in the Northern California woods. Located in a remote, off-the-grid village, the cabin offers two guests the chance to experience life in a sustainable eco-community. For $68 a night, guests rough it amid spring-fed streams and forests teeming with wildlife. But take note: Those who can't stand mosquitos, the sound of roosters early in the morning, or communal living, with a shared outdoor kitchen and communal bathhouse, may want to keep searching.

Dolores
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Situated on 10 acres near the San Juan National Forest, the Boggy Draw Cabin is fully furnished with everything travelers require for a rustic yet comfortable mountain cabin experience. There are hiking and biking trails nearby, as well as tubing and mining towns. In the spring and fall, visitors can watch cowboys herding cattle through the town of Dolores. Many visitors have enjoyed simply sitting on the front porch watching the horses wander in a nearby meadow. The property is also convenient to Durango and Telluride. It's listed for $80 a night.

Newtown
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For $75 a night, visitors can stay in a reproduction barn on a 300-year-old property in rural Connecticut. Visitors enjoy local hiking trails and wineries on the Connecticut Wine Trail. The property is a little more than an hour outside New York City and close to attractions in Fairfield and Litchfield counties, as well as museums in Hartford and New Haven.

Millsboro
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For those seeking a stress-free beach vacation, this quaint home is located within driving distance of Rehoboth Beach and Boardwalk, as well as Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach. Boaters will enjoy having the Rosedale Beach public boat launch right next door. Surrounding community piers feature fishing and crabbing, both popular local activities. The house accommodates six people and is priced from $85 a night.

Sunset Beach
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This colorful cottage on Florida's central Gulf Coast is just a few steps from Sunset Beach. Built in the 1930s, the property, which rents for $82 a night, was recently updated and accommodates two guests. Amenities include a compact kitchen, living room with satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi. The private, rear yard includes a grill, lush tropical plantings, and outdoor lighting -- an ideal setting for barbecuing, eating, and relaxing. St. Petersburg is just 20 minutes away. Boat rentals, biking, and various watersports are available nearby.

Saint Marys
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Guests at Loggerhead Turtle Cottage can sit and watch boats making their way through the North River, walk a few blocks to visit the nearby waterfront, or tool around town on bikes. The recently remodeled 800-square-foot home includes French doors, hardwood floors, ceramic tiles, full kitchen with dishwasher, and private laundry. The nightly cost for the cottage, which sleeps four, is $85.

Puna Coast
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Known as House of Palms, this one-bedroom bungalow is located in a small Ohia forest within Hawaiian Paradise Park that's populated with palms and tropical plants. It is convenient to the Puna District's Red Road coast, beaches, state parks, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Hilo, which includes a historic old town. The cost is $62 a night, a bargain by Hawaii standards.

Saint Anthony
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Searching for a place to swim, walk along the river, play at the beach, fish, and relax? This may be it. The Henry's Fork River and Beach House, which is $70 a night, accommodates eight people. Yellowstone National Park is about an hour away.

Chicago
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This recently remodeled, family-friendly loft provides a great base for exploring all the Windy City has to offer. Situated in a renovated 1920s hotel, it includes two bedrooms and two bathrooms for a mere $69 a night. Lincoln Park, known as the Central Park of Chicago, is just across the street. The surrounding neighborhood includes numerous restaurants, farmers markets, Lincoln Park Zoo (free admission), and much more.

Indianapolis
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Located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, this accommodation in a historic 19th-century building includes park views, hardwood floors, and a light-filled living room. It's a few blocks' walk from the city's many attractions. A one-bedroom property that rents for $80 a night, it accommodates two guests.

Des Moines
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Visitors renting this three-bedroom, three-bath home in the historic Westwood neighborhood are just 10 minutes from downtown Des Moines. The quaint house, which has hardwood floors throughout and ample gathering spaces, accommodates up to five guests and costs $83 a night.

Anthony
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"A hidden oasis" is the way this property is described. An A-frame on a lake, with a private dock, this destination is all about boating, fishing, and swimming. The home boasts a deck overlooking the lake, a porch swing, and a fire pit for sitting outdoors and listening to bullfrogs and watching hummingbirds. The cabin costs $85 a night and accommodates four guests.

Stanton
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Here's a chance to fulfill childhood dreams of bunking in a treehouse. Named the Flying Squirrel, this $85-a-night treehouse is situated in a secluded corner of the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Described as an off-the-grid property aimed at nature lovers, it sleeps just two people. A pullout sofa serves as the bed. The property backs up to 120-foot cliffs.

New Orleans
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This renovated "shotgun" house is just a few miles from downtown New Orleans and within biking or walking distance of Bayou St. John, the Lafitte Greenway, the New Orleans Museum of Art, bars, music, and numerous restaurants. The $71-a-night rental has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a washer and dryer.

South Thomaston
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Amenities at this classic two-bedroom Maine beach cottage include spectacular sunrises and views of dozens of islands in the distance. Visitors can even walk to some of the nearby islands during low tide. Other activities include exploring tide pools and boating, kayaking, or canoeing. Boaters will delight in observing seals sunning themselves on the rocks surrounding nearby islands. The house sits on a hill overlooking the ocean and rents for $61 a night. Although it has just two bedrooms, it can accommodate as many as 17 guests, according to the listing.

Oakland
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Glamping has become quite the trendy vacation experience, and this Maryland property offers an opportunity to jump on the bandwagon. The glamping huts offered through this listing, which are $85 a night, are located on 300 acres of private land, with miles of groomed trails and access to the Youghiogheny River. Five huts are available, and each is listed separately. It's possible to rent the entire "glampground," which sleeps up to 25, for events or gatherings.

Boston
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Jamaica Plain is one of Boston's hippest neighborhoods, and this listing puts visitors right in the heart of the action. The nearby Avenue of the Americas (also known as Centre Street) is lined with shops and restaurants. Additional attractions in the neighborhood include the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, both great areas for walking, biking, and boating. The two-room apartment includes a bedroom and sitting room (with a TV), a galley kitchen, and a garden for $75 a night.

Au Train
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This Michigan cottage features two bedrooms, a single bath, and a sizeable deck overlooking the nearby river. A stairway leads down to a river platform that's ideal for swimming, launching a boat, or simply relaxing. The property also includes a fire pit, barbecue grills, and two kayaks. It sleeps five people and costs $57 a night.

Finland
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Escape from the pressures of everyday life at this secluded river cabin. Located on the Baptism River, near the shore of Lake Superior, the property accommodates three guests. It offers a deck with views of the woods, a full kitchen, and high-speed internet access. No other homes are visible or audible from the cabin, even though the property is a mere 10-minute drive from the historic town of Finland. The Lake Superior Hiking Trail and Boundary Waters Canoe Area are also convenient to the cabin. It's listed for $79 a night.

Bay St. Louis
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Palm Cottage is a small, charming property shaded by the boughs of a 300-year-old tree. The $75-a-night rental features amenities such as a private patio, barbecue grill, and hot tub. It's also within walking distance of a beach, shopping, restaurants, and a train depot.

Freeburg
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This rustic log cabin includes a stone fireplace for cozy nights by the fire and a semi-private patio. Many guests describe it as the perfect romantic getaway and an ideal place to enjoy nature. Located near St. Louis and Scott Air Force Base, this "unique" rental sleeps four and costs $83 a night.

Lolo
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Yet another log cabin, this $55-a-night home sits on 48 acres of land. The scenery includes mountain, trees, and a few horses. Activities in the area include hiking, Lolo Hot Springs, and Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. Also nearby is Lolo Pass, which offers hiking trails, cross country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and mountain biking. The cabin accommodates two people.

Peru
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The Cabin at Honey Creek is a one-bedroom home that was constructed with an 1890s theme. Although it promises guests "a step back in time," the cabin does offer a few modern amenities, such as cable TV, a microwave, and a full bath. Surrounded by cornfields, hayfields, and a creek, days and nights are quiet and leisurely. The cabin accommodates two guests and is listed for $79 a night.

Sand Valley
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Tiny houses are all the rage right now, and this property is a fine example. For $83 a night, guests stay in a "handcrafted" house situated on a working ranch. The owners describe the simple home as just 45 minutes -- and 100 years -- from bustling Las Vegas. The home, which includes a stove, fridge, compost toilet, and shower, sleeps three people.

Monroe
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For $80 a night, experience a mountainside cabin on 24 acres in Monroe, New Hampshire. The one-room cabin features cathedral ceilings, sleeps four, and includes an indoor propane stove and a gas grill on the front porch to cook meals. During winter, the cabin is accessible only by foot, snowmobile, or cross-country skis.

Ocean City
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This rental property accommodates six guests and offers the chance to take the family to the Jersey shore for $84 a night. The home is located in the Garden District, a neighborhood with its own private beach. The condo is also just a few blocks from the famed Ocean City Boardwalk, and a bit farther off is Morningside Beach, known for beautiful sunrises.

Santa Fe
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Nothing says New Mexico more than a classic adobe home. The $83-a-night Casa Miguelita fills the bill. Rebuilt in 2015, Casa Miguelita features two bedrooms and modern amenities, including new appliances, finishes, and floors. Casa Miguelita is also just blocks from the famed Canyon Road, which is home to renowned restaurants and world-class galleries.

Brooklyn
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New York City can be a tough place to find affordable accommodations, making this Brooklyn apartment is a rare find. For $85 a night, this modern, sunny one-bedroom, one-bath listing includes a flat-screen TV with cable service, stunning skylight, and wireless internet access. The property, which is 25 minutes from the Brooklyn Bridge, accommodates four people.

Wilmington
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Two miles from scenic downtown Wilmington, this quaint carriage house has a private screened porch area and rear deck. It's situated next to Burnt Mill Creek, which offers wildlife-filled walks along its banks. Wrightsville Beach, meanwhile, is about 8 miles away. The property costs $79 a night and sleeps four guests.

Fargo
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Sleep in style when visiting Fargo in this modern one-bedroom apartment in south Fargo next to the Microsoft campus. The property, which costs $75 a night, features high ceilings, exposed ductwork, large living and kitchen areas, a den, and two baths.

Millfield
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The attractions of this cute country house include manicured trails winding through 20 acres of woods, bird watching, and cross-country skiing. The home, which features hardwood floors and lots of natural light, is designed for two guests and costs $75 a night.

Oklahoma City
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Located on a tree-lined street in one of Oklahoma City's prestigious historic neighborhoods, this 1,200-square-foot apartment is within walking distance of restaurants on Western Avenue and Uptown. Midtown, Bricktown, and the Paseo Arts District are just an Uber ride away. The apartment is adjacent to a wooded green belt and rents for $85 a night.

Portland
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One of the country's most popular cities for tourists, Portland oozes charm and offers many picturesque accommodations -- but most don't come cheap. This one-bedroom apartment in a mid-century home costs $80 a night, and includes a private entrance, a large living area with sofa bed, a wet bar, and free Wi-Fi. What's more, great bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks are all within easy walking and biking distance.

Pittsburgh
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Located in the Mount Washington section of Pittsburgh, this third-floor apartment was completely renovated less than a year ago. The 940-square-foot unit, which accommodates up to four guests, features new appliances and restored wood floors and rents for $85 a night. The surrounding community includes parks, local bars, bakeries, and restaurants. Public transportation is about a half-mile away.

Warren
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Located in a historic village in the heart of New England, this two-bedroom apartment with hardwood floors and a private garden patio is all about charm and sightseeing. The unit is within walking distance of restaurants, shops, a park, and expansive waterfront. The East Bay bike path is minutes away, and three destination cities are within easy drives: Providence is 20 minutes away, Newport is 40 minutes, and Boston is about an hour. Nightly rental is $80.

Hilton Head
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Hilton Head is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning waterfront homes. This deluxe villa provides access to the beaches for $81 a night. The unit boasts ocean views and sleeps up to five guests.

Beresford
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Historic Peterson Farm is home to Kate's Cottage, a one-bedroom, one-bath getaway built in the 1930s. Recently restored, the cottage is aimed at those looking for the peace and tranquility of country living. The hosts say the goal is to provide visitors a unique and comfortable retreat in a quiet, rural setting. As an added bonus, a light breakfast, delivered each morning to the front door, is included. The cost to stay is $83 a night.

Memphis
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A legendary city like Memphis offers plenty to see and do, and this two-bedroom bungalow in the Cooper-Young neighborhood provides a great base for exploring all its history and attractions. For $85 a night, guests are just steps from all the restaurants and activities of midtown. The home sleeps up to six guests, and features hardwood floors and spacious rooms.

Austin
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A clean, new space with hardwood floors and modern fixtures, this quaint bungalow is in central Austin near all of the city's attractions. The compact home includes a flat-screen TV, a king-size Murphy bed, and full bathroom with a skylight over the tub for relaxing soaks. The nightly cost is $71.

Salt Lake City
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For $75 a night, this stylish and colorful cottage accommodates five people. It includes an antique wood-burning fireplace, a mudroom for gear, and an outdoor patio, as well as on-site laundry and a dishwasher. The jazz-age home is within walking distance of Liberty Park, the largest and oldest outdoor park in Salt Lake City. The area also has many local coffee shops and historical landmarks.

Rochester
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The attractions at this $79-a-night unit include amazing views of Rochester Mountain, Mount Cushman, and Braintree Mountain. The conveniently located apartment is also just 4 miles from Rochester, a picturesque Vermont town that includes a large village green, trendy cafes and restaurants, and many places to participate in outdoor activities. Some of the area's best-known ski resorts, including Killington and Sugarbush, are just a short drive.

Richmond
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This renovated, modern apartment overlooks Broad Street in downtown Richmond. It provides easy access to the area's vintage clothing boutiques, cafes, record shops, restaurants, and more. The unit sleeps up to three guests and is priced at $75 a night.

Seattle
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A cottage in the heart of Seattle? Surprisingly, yes. This cabin-like home is a unique offering in a bustling city. Details include 12-foot ceilings, barn door hardware, a kitchen with granite countertops, and recycled old growth pine used on interior walls. In a city known for alternative thinkers, this property fits right in. The home, which is 1.4 miles from downtown and 2 miles from the Space Needle, accommodates two guests and goes for $85 a night.

Davis
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Surrounded by hayfields and whispering pines, this historic, cedar-sided cabin offers an idyllic retreat and an outdoorsman's paradise for $80 a night. Located on a working family farm and furnished with antiques, the cabin sits atop Bobolink Hill in the southern Canaan Valley and accommodates up to five guests. Canaan Valley State Park and the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge are nearby, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area is on the property's eastern horizon. Seneca Rocks, Otter Creek Wilderness, and Blackwater Falls State Park are all within an easy drive.

Grandview
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Referred to as Mormor's Svenska Stuga (or Grandma's Swedish Cottage), this three-bedroom, two-bath vacation home sits on 17 acres of land. Lake Owen and Lake Namakagon are just a few minutes away. Visitors to this Northwoods property have also enjoyed its two screened porches and the nearby hiking, biking, and snowmobile trails, as well as the sprawling Chequamagon National Forest. The cost to stay is $77 a night.

Basin
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Located in a region known as Big Horn Basin, this stone-facade cottage is more than a century old. The area's many attractions, including mineral hot springs, nightly rodeos, and famous museums, are an hour's drive away. Additional activities include fishing, hunting, and rock climbing. The unit costs $75 a night and sleeps up to six guests.