Best Places for Airbnb Investment

Becoming an Airbnb host can be an extremely profitable investment maneuver. But, with so many great locations, deciding which city to buy in isn’t always easy. This list of the 12 best places to buy an Airbnb property will give you a headstart on looking for your perfect market.”

12 Best Cities For Airbnb Investment 

1. Honolulu, HI
2. Boulder, CO
3. Portland, OR
4. Boston, MA
5. Washington D.C.
6. Fairbanks, AK
7. Charleston, SC
8. Orlando, FL
9. Pigeon Forge, TN
10. Asheville, NC
11. Savannah, GA
12. Phoenix, AZ

1. Honolulu, HI

The best place to own an Airbnb property is Honolulu, Hawaii. This classic vacation spot is beloved by travelers of all ages for its incredible scenery, delicious food, vibrant culture, and thrilling nightlife. Honolulu is also one of the best cities for year-round weather, so it attracts plenty of tourists each month. 

The city’s influx of tourism and short-term residents keep both occupancy rates and return on investments high, making it perfect for an Airbnb. 

2. Boulder, CO

Boulder, Colorado, is the second-best city for purchasing an Airbnb. Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this community is known for its exceptional assortment of national parks, craggy rock climbing routes, campsites, hiking trails, and outdoor live-music venues. Residents and vacationers alike come to Boulder for the experience, keeping both occupancy and return rates high for its investors.

3. Portland, OR

Portland, Oregon, is also one of the best cities to own an Airbnb rental in 2024. Located along the Columbia and Willamette rivers, Portland has a quirky, unique charm that attracts travelers with an adventurous spirit. A paradise for foodies, musicians, artists, and nature lovers alike, this tourist magnet has one of the best Airbnb occupancy rates in the entire country.  

Before buying an Airbnb property in the city, make sure you're familiar with the worst neighborhoods in Portland so that it's not in a high-crime area. 

4. Boston, MA

Boston is another one of the best Airbnb markets. Travelers flock to this city between June and October to enjoy its colorful fall foliage and tour the grounds of Harvard University. As one of America’s oldest cities, Boston’s classical architecture and rich history are also a major draw for vacationers. These attractions help the city remain active and occupied, creating a fantastic market option for Airbnb hosts.  

5. Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. is the best city for a year-round Airbnb. Unlike other vacation destinations, this city is not as prone to slow seasons or lulls. Its attractions, such as the United States Capitol, the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, are popular all throughout the year, making it ideal for round-the-clock occupancy. 

6. Fairbanks, AK

In addition to being one of Alaska’s largest and coldest cities, it is also the state’s best location for an Airbnb. This iconic destination is known for its access to the Northern Lights, which can be seen from anywhere inside the city. A draw for travelers all over the world, this aural activity keeps occupancy rates and return rates sky-high, making Fairbanks a premier Airbnb destination. 

7. Charleston, SC

Popular for both weddings and family vacations, Charleston is one of the best Airbnb locations in South Carolina. The history of this charming southern city can be seen throughout its local architecture, cobbled streets, and various historical landmarks. With some of the best cuisine, boutiques, art museums, and beaches in the state, Charleston is perfect for a classically southern AirBnB. 

8. Orlando, FL

Aptly known as the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is another one of the best Airbnb markets in the US. The city is home to both DisneyWorld and Universal Studios and is renowned for being one of the most popular destinations for family vacations. Over 58 million travelers visit this city every year, a number that keeps local vacancies low, and return rates high. 

9. Pigeon Forge, TN

Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is the best location for an Airbnb in Tennessee. In addition to an abundance of local outdoor adventures, this area is also in close proximity to the infamous Dollywood, which attracts families looking for an affordable alternative to DisneyWorld. Its high occupancy and well-priced nightly rental rates make this small town a great Airbnb opportunity.

10. Asheville, NC

Another mountaintop destination, Asheville is one of North Carolina’s best spots for an Airbnb. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this city is known for its unique combination of outdoor adventure and vibrant urban lifestyle. The local collection of indy bookstores, art museums, music venues, eateries, and cafes give its walkable streets a bohemian atmosphere, which attracts travelers from all over the states. With high occupancy and annual return rates, Asheville is a great place to grow any Airbnb business. 

11. Savannah, GA

Located along the Savannah River, this Georgia staple is one of the best cities for a waterfront Airbnb. In addition to being one of the busiest port towns in the entire United States, the streets of this city are always alive with local entertainment. Visitors love walking alongside Savannah’s historic architecture, urban parks, local eateries, and magnificent oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Only twenty minutes from the Georgia coastline, this city is ideal for a summertime Airbnb.

12. Phoenix, AZ

One of the largest cities in the entire United States, Phoenix is a popular location for owning an Airbnb. Known as the Valley of the Sun, this city is loved for its consistently beautiful weather, warm temperatures, and an abundance of outdoor recreation. Vacationers come to this southwestern must-see all throughout the year, keeping its occupancy and return rates high. 

Best Cities to Own an Airbnb Rental Comparison

Best Places for Airbnb Bottom Line

Savannah, Asheville, Fairbanks, Honolulu, and Boulder are among the best places for Airbnb due to their high ROI. If you don’t have the budget for Honolulu or Boulder, Fairbanks is a more budget-friendly option and a smarter investment due to its high ROI compared to these 2 cities. All of the cities mentioned in this list have a relatively high occupancy rate and go for $150-$200 per night, so you won’t have to worry about not being able to rent out your property.