Which categories within the RV industry were affected by the decline in December 2025?

Both motorized RVs, with a 12.08% year-over-year decrease, and towable RVs, with an 11.00% year-over-year decrease, were affected.

What factors contributed to the nationwide RV industry decline in December 2025?

Elevated interest rates, which make RV financing more expensive, coupled with broader economic uncertainties and inflation, contributed to the nationwide decline. Additionally, an excess of inventory at dealerships and cautious consumer sentiment played a role.

What is the outlook for the RV industry in 2026?

Many industry observers anticipate that lower interest rates and a more stable consumer backdrop could provide the impetus for renewed growth in 2026. Forecasts project wholesale shipments to reach the mid-300,000 unit level in 2026, a potential 2.8% rise over the expected 2025 year-end total.

How are small businesses performing in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, small businesses constitute 99.4% of all businesses and employ 42.2% of the workforce. The number of businesses employing fewer than five people in South Carolina has grown by 96.5% over a decade from Q1 2015 to Q1 2025.

February 13, 2026

RV Market Sees Decline Amid Economic Challenges

Charleston, SC, February 13, 2026

The recreational vehicle (RV) industry faced an 11.14% year-over-year decline in RV sales nationwide as December saw a shift in consumer sentiment. Factors such as elevated interest rates, economic uncertainty, and an excess of inventory at dealerships contributed to this downturn. Meanwhile, Charleston’s economy remains resilient, showcasing entrepreneurial growth and diversification, particularly in sectors like aerospace and technology. Despite the national challenges, there is cautious optimism for renewed growth in the RV market by 2026 as interest rates are anticipated to stabilize.

Charleston, SC

RV Market Sees 11.14% Decline Nationwide in December ’25

Amidst a dynamic national economic landscape, the recreational vehicle (RV) industry experienced an 11.14% year-over-year (YoY) decline in December 2025, according to data from Statistical Surveys Inc. This nationwide trend reflects a continued seasonal softening as the winter months progressed, impacting both motorized and towable RV categories.

While this national shift highlights the cyclical nature of certain consumer markets, it also underscores the enduring importance of entrepreneurial agility and strategic planning for businesses across the country, including those that serve the Lowcountry. In Charleston, a region known for its robust economy and vibrant small business community, understanding broader economic currents is key to sustained growth and resilience.

Understanding the Nationwide RV Market Shift

The 11.14% YoY decline in nationwide RV sales for December 2025 indicates a notable downturn compared to the modest -0.29% YoY decline observed in December 2024. This performance encompasses a 12.08% YoY decrease in motorized RV sales and an 11.00% YoY decrease in towable RV sales. This national trend is attributed to several interconnected factors.

Experts point to elevated interest rates as a significant deterrent, making large discretionary purchases like RVs more expensive for consumers who often finance these high-value assets. The Federal Reserve’s consistent rates, held steady between 4.25% and 4.50% since December 2024, have translated into financing offers ranging from 6% to 10%, depending on credit, which inflates monthly payments. This financial pressure, coupled with broader economic uncertainties and inflation, has led to a more cautious consumer sentiment nationwide.

Inventory Challenges and Buyer Psychology

The industry is also grappling with an excess of inventory nationwide. Dealerships stocked heavily in late 2023 and early 2024, anticipating continued high demand that did not materialize. This has left many dealers with rows of 2025 models and older stock, creating pressure to offer discounts and special incentives to move units. The overflow of new RVs has a ripple effect on the used market, where prices for pre-owned units are reportedly in decline, further complicating trade-ins and sales. Many buyers are hesitating, perceiving that prices soared during the pandemic, and are unsure if current deals offer true value, leading to a “wait-and-see” approach. There is also a fear that purchasing now could mean a rapid depreciation in value if manufacturers further reduce prices in 2026 to clear existing stock.

Charleston’s Economic Resilience Amidst National Trends

While the RV industry navigates these national headwinds, Charleston, SC, continues to demonstrate economic resilience and strategic growth. The Charleston County economy is characterized by diversification, with significant investments in sectors like aerospace, automotive, information technology, and life sciences. Local leadership and organizations are actively fostering an environment conducive to business development, as evidenced by the region’s five-year economic strategy, “Charleston Inspired: Discover the Possibilities,” which aims to strengthen the economy, attract talent, and boost Charleston’s reputation as an innovation hub. Research suggests that an increased focus on innovation could significantly elevate Charleston’s projected economic growth by 2040, potentially adding billions to the regional economic output.

Charleston small businesses are a vital component of this growth. In South Carolina, small businesses constitute 99.4% of all businesses and employ 42.2% of the workforce. These enterprises show remarkable growth, with the number of businesses employing fewer than five people in South Carolina growing by 96.5% over a decade from Q1 2015 to Q1 2025. This demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit thriving within the state and specifically in regions like Charleston, often spurred by a local desire for opportunity.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Innovation

Despite the current nationwide challenges in the RV sector, there is a tempered optimism for the future. Many dealers and industry observers anticipate that lower interest rates and a more stable consumer backdrop could provide the impetus for renewed growth in 2026. Forecasts from the RV Industry Association project wholesale shipments to reach the mid-300,000 unit level in 2026, marking a potential 2.8% rise over the expected 2025 year-end total. The industry is also seeing shifts in consumer preferences towards more tech-integrated rigs and off-grid capable models, pushing manufacturers towards innovation in design and functionality.

For South Carolina entrepreneurs and local businesses in Charleston, this national narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and strategic positioning. The city’s proactive economic development plans, which prioritize innovation, talent attraction, and addressing funding gaps, are critical for navigating evolving market conditions. Supporting local enterprises, encouraging smart investments, and fostering an environment of limited regulation can empower businesses to adapt and find new avenues for success, even when specific sectors face national headwinds. The emphasis on high-impact industries and a globally competitive business environment positions Charleston to continue attracting significant investment and job creation.

Conclusion

The nationwide 11.14% year-over-year decline in the RV industry in December 2025 underscores the fluctuating nature of consumer markets. While national trends warrant observation, Charleston’s sustained focus on Lowcountry economic growth, through a diversified industrial base, robust small business sector, and entrepreneurial innovation, provides a strong foundation for continued prosperity. Our community’s ability to foster new businesses and attract investment, alongside a proactive approach to economic strategy, will enable Charleston SC business to thrive. We encourage our readers to support local businesses and stay engaged with Charleston’s vibrant economic future.

Key Features of the RV Industry in December 2025

Feature	Detail	Geographic Scope
Overall Sales Decline	11.14% Year-over-Year (YoY)	Nationwide
Motorized RV Sales Decline	12.08% Year-over-Year (YoY)	Nationwide
Towable RV Sales Decline	11.00% Year-over-Year (YoY)	Nationwide
Contributing Factors	High interest rates, economic uncertainty, inflation, excess inventory, cautious consumer sentiment	Nationwide
Outlook for 2026	Anticipated growth with potential for lower interest rates and stable consumer backdrop; 2.8% rise in wholesale shipments projected over 2025.	Nationwide