When people think of Disneyland, they envision Mickey Mouse, thrilling rides, and magical memories. But for savvy property owners and investors in Garden Grove, California, Disneyland represents something else entirely: a golden opportunity to boost rental income. Located just a stone’s throw from the Happiest Place on Earth, Garden Grove has become a hotspot for rental properties, driven by the consistent influx of millions of tourists, seasonal workers, and even locals seeking proximity to this iconic destination. In this blog post, we’ll explore how Disneyland fuels rental income in Garden Grove, why it’s a unique market, and how property owners can capitalize on this economic magic.
The Disneyland Effect: A Tourism Powerhouse
Disneyland isn’t just a theme park—it’s an economic engine. According to the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau, Disneyland Resort attracts over 18 million visitors annually. Many of these visitors don’t stay within the park’s pricey on-site hotels; instead, they seek affordable, convenient accommodations in nearby cities like Garden Grove, located less than 10 miles from the resort. This proximity transforms Garden Grove into a prime destination for short-term rentals, long-term leases, and everything in between.
The sheer volume of visitors creates a ripple effect. Families on week-long vacations, international tourists exploring Southern California, and even day-trippers from nearby Los Angeles all need a place to stay. Garden Grove’s strategic location—close to Disneyland yet removed from Anaheim’s higher hotel rates—makes it an appealing choice. For property owners, this translates into a steady demand for rentals, keeping vacancy rates low and rental income high.
Short-Term Rentals: Cashing in on Vacationers
One of the most lucrative ways Disneyland boosts Garden Grove rental income is through the short-term rental market. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo have exploded in popularity, and Garden Grove properties are reaping the benefits. A well-positioned home or apartment within a 15-minute drive of Disneyland can command premium nightly rates, especially during peak seasons like summer, spring break, and the winter holidays.
For example, a three-bedroom home in Garden Grove might fetch $150 to $300 per night, depending on amenities like a pool, parking, or a Disney-themed decor (think Mickey Mouse bedspreads or a Star Wars-inspired game room). Compare that to the average long-term rental rate for a similar property—around $2,500 to $3,000 per month—and the math becomes clear. Renting short-term for just 10-15 nights a month could easily surpass a full month’s long-term rent, especially during events like Disneyland’s Halloween Time or the Candlelight Processional.
The key to success here is understanding the Disneyland calendar. Special events, new ride openings (like the highly anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure), and seasonal celebrations drive surges in tourism. Smart landlords adjust their pricing and availability accordingly, maximizing income during these high-demand periods. Even off-peak months see steady traffic thanks to Disneyland’s year-round appeal, ensuring consistent cash flow.
Long-Term Rentals: Stability from Disney’s Workforce
While short-term rentals grab headlines, Disneyland’s influence on Garden Grove’s long-term rental market is just as significant. The resort employs over 30,000 “cast members”—Disney’s term for its workers—many of whom seek affordable housing outside Anaheim’s pricier neighborhoods. Garden Grove, with its lower cost of living and easy freeway access via the I-5 or CA-22, becomes a natural choice.
These employees include everyone from ride operators and character performers to managers and maintenance staff. Many are young professionals or families who prefer the stability of a year-long lease over the uncertainty of hotel living or shared housing. For landlords, this creates a reliable tenant pool. A two-bedroom apartment in Garden Grove, renting for $2,000 to $2,500 per month, can attract a Disney worker looking for a comfortable home base near their job.
Moreover, Disneyland’s seasonal hiring spikes—think extra staff for summer crowds or holiday parades—bring in temporary workers who often stay for several months. These tenants might not commit to a full year but still provide a steady rental income stream during their contracts. The result? Garden Grove landlords enjoy occupancy rates that outpace many other Southern California cities, all thanks to Disneyland’s gravitational pull.
Property Value Appreciation: A Hidden Bonus
Beyond immediate rental income, Disneyland’s presence drives long-term financial benefits through property value appreciation. Garden Grove’s real estate market has steadily climbed as the area becomes synonymous with Disney tourism. According to Zillow, the median home value in Garden Grove hovered around $750,000 in early 2025, up from $600,000 a decade ago—a 25% increase that outpaces inflation and reflects the area’s growing desirability.
Why does this matter for rental income? Higher property values allow landlords to justify raising rents over time, keeping pace with market trends. A home purchased in Garden Grove today could see its rental potential grow as Disneyland expands (think new lands or hotels) and as Orange County’s population continues to rise. For investors, this dual benefit—immediate cash flow plus long-term equity—makes Garden Grove a compelling market.
Local Amenities Amplify the Appeal
Disneyland may be the star attraction, but Garden Grove’s own charms enhance its rental income potential. The city boasts a vibrant multicultural community, with Little Saigon offering some of the best Vietnamese cuisine in the U.S. Families renting long-term appreciate access to highly rated schools like Garden Grove Unified School District, while short-term guests enjoy nearby attractions like the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival or the Historic Main Street shopping district.
These local draws make Garden Grove more than just a “Disneyland overflow” city—it’s a destination in its own right. Renters, whether staying for a weekend or a year, value the blend of affordability, culture, and convenience. Properties that highlight these perks—say, a rental listing touting “10 minutes to Disneyland, 5 minutes to pho”—stand out in a crowded market, commanding higher rates and faster bookings.
Challenges to Consider
Of course, no rental market is without its hurdles. Garden Grove’s proximity to Disneyland brings competition—hundreds of properties vie for the same pool of renters. Short-term rental owners must invest in marketing, maintenance, and guest experience to stay competitive, while long-term landlords face rising property taxes as values climb. Additionally, local regulations on short-term rentals, though less strict than in Anaheim, require compliance with permits and safety standards.
Yet these challenges pale in comparison to the opportunities. With a bit of strategy—think professional photos for listings, flexible pricing, or targeting Disney employees with tailored leases—property owners can mitigate risks and maximize returns.
Tips for Capitalizing on the Disneyland Boost
Ready to turn Disneyland’s magic into rental income? Here are some actionable tips for Garden Grove property owners:
- Optimize for Short-Term Stays: Furnish your property with families in mind—extra beds, a stocked kitchen, and Disney-themed touches go a long way. Offer perks like free parking or a shuttle drop-off point to stand out.
- Target Disney Workers: Advertise on platforms like Indeed or local job boards where cast members look for housing. Highlight commute times and nearby amenities like grocery stores.
- Stay Flexible: Blend short- and long-term rentals based on demand. Use slow seasons for annual leases and peak times for nightly bookings.
- Leverage Data: Track Disneyland’s event schedule and adjust pricing accordingly. Tools like AirDNA can help analyze short-term rental trends in the area.
- Invest in Upgrades: Simple improvements—a fresh coat of paint, modern appliances, or a backyard patio—can justify higher rents and attract better tenants.
The Bottom Line
Disneyland isn’t just a fairy tale for kids—it’s a financial fairy tale for Garden Grove landlords. By drawing millions of visitors and thousands of workers, the resort creates a rental market that’s both diverse and resilient. Whether you’re banking on short-term vacationers or long-term Disney employees, the potential for boosted rental income is undeniable. Add in rising property values and a vibrant local scene, and Garden Grove emerges as a real estate gem in Southern California’s crown.
For investors and homeowners alike, the message is clear: Disneyland’s magic doesn’t stop at the park gates. In Garden Grove, it’s a catalyst for profit, turning rental properties into a happily-ever-after investment. So, grab your Mickey ears and start planning—your rental income awaits.
