Top 10 Budget-Friendly Airbnb Markets to Invest in Under $115k

Are you a budget-conscious investor looking to break into the lucrative Airbnb market? Look no further. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 10 cheapest Airbnb markets to invest in, all priced under $115k. Discover the hidden gems of the short-term rental world, where you can expect promising returns on your investment without breaking the bank. From quaint small towns to thriving cities, these markets offer a diverse range of attractions and experiences for travelers, ensuring a steady flow of rental income for the savvy investor. So, read on to uncover the best affordable Airbnb investment opportunities across the United States.

The 10 cheapest markets to purchase an Airbnb property are: 

1. Lima, OH: Average Airbnb Investment $102,000
2. Sugar Mountain, NC: Average Airbnb Investment $102,000
3. Bartlesville, OK: Average Airbnb Investment $103,000
4. Jefferson, TX: Average Airbnb Investment $105,000
5. Hutchinson, KS: Average Airbnb Investment $107,000
6. Rockford, IL: Average Airbnb Investment $107,000
7. Springfield, IL: Average Airbnb Investment $108,000
8. Sylvan Beach, NY: Average Airbnb Investment $110,000
9. Corning, NY: Average Airbnb Investment $114,000
10. Akron, OH: Average Airbnb Investment $115,000

Lima, OH: Average Airbnb Investment $102,000

Lima is an ideal market for budget-conscious investors, thanks to its central location between major cities and attractions, growing economy, and low cost of living. With an average Airbnb price of just $102,000, Lima boasts a 6% return on investment and a medium-sized market with 103 active Airbnbs. At an average daily rate of $65 and 59.8% occupancy rate, investors can expect an annual revenue of around $6,512, making Lima an attractive option for those seeking affordable entry into the Airbnb market.

Sugar Mountain, NC: Average Airbnb Investment $102,000

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sugar Mountain is a prime investment opportunity due to its popular ski resort, year-round outdoor activities, and proximity to other tourist hotspots. With an average Airbnb price of $102,000 and a robust 13% return on investment, Sugar Mountain's large market of 635 active Airbnbs is ripe for investment. The average daily rate stands at $198, and with an occupancy rate of 35.4%, investors can expect an annual revenue of $13,000.

Bartlesville, OK: Average Airbnb Investment $103,000

Bartlesville's burgeoning demand for short-term rentals from business travelers and tourists visiting attractions like the Price Tower Arts Center and Woolaroc Museum makes it an appealing choice for investors. With an average Airbnb price of $103,000 and a 9% return on investment, Bartlesville's medium-sized market consists of 104 active Airbnbs. An average daily rate of $120 and 36.8% occupancy rate yield an annual revenue of $9,552, making Bartlesville an investment-worthy market.

Jefferson, TX: Average Airbnb Investment $105,000

Rich with historic charm, popular festivals, and close to outdoor recreation areas like Caddo Lake, Jefferson presents an attractive opportunity for investors seeking a small, high-return on investment market. With an average Airbnb price of $105,000 and a staggering 22% return on investment, Jefferson's 85 active Airbnbs offer ample investment potential. Boasting an average daily rate of $141 and a 52.8% occupancy rate, investors can expect an annual revenue of $23,000 in this charming Texan town.

Hutchinson, KS: Average Airbnb Investment $107,000

Hutchinson's popular tourist attractions, such as the Kansas State Fair and the Cosmosphere Space Museum, create strong Airbnb demand, offering investors a chance to capitalize on this medium-sized market. With an average Airbnb price of $107,000 and an 11% return on investment, Hutchinson's 128 active Airbnbs make for a solid investment opportunity. An average daily rate of $85 and a 60.8% occupancy rate result in an annual revenue of $12,000.

Rockford, IL: Average Airbnb Investment $107,000

Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Rockford boasts a thriving tourism industry and affordable real estate prices that make it an attractive option for budget-conscious Airbnb investors. With a healthy occupancy rate of 70.6% and a respectable return on investment of 10%, Rockford's growing popularity as a short-term rental destination ensures promising returns for those who venture into this market. With a wide range of activities and attractions, including the Anderson Japanese Gardens and the Discovery Center Museum, this medium-sized market has the potential to attract diverse travelers and deliver steady rental income.

Springfield, IL: Average Airbnb Investment $108,000

History buffs and culture enthusiasts alike flock to Springfield, IL, the home of Abraham Lincoln and a veritable treasure trove of museums, festivals, and events. This market presents a compelling opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on the city's rich historical significance and its appeal as a tourist destination. Boasting a strong occupancy rate of 75.6% and a return on investment of 11%, Springfield is a top pick for investors interested in a medium-sized market with a relatively low average Airbnb price of $108,000.

Sylvan Beach, NY: Average Airbnb Investment $110,000

Situated on the picturesque shores of Oneida Lake, Sylvan Beach, NY, offers investors an enticing opportunity to invest in a thriving summer destination. With its popularity among boating and fishing enthusiasts, along with its proximity to the Turning Stone Resort Casino, this small market enjoys a robust occupancy rate of 60.6% and a stunning return on investment of 23%. The average Airbnb price in Sylvan Beach is a mere $110,000, making it an affordable option for investors seeking a profitable venture in a scenic locale.

Corning, NY: Average Airbnb Investment $114,000

With its charming downtown and growing tourism industry, Corning, NY, presents a lucrative investment opportunity for those looking to enter the Airbnb market. Home to the renowned Corning Museum of Glass and situated near the famed Finger Lakes wine region, Corning attracts a steady stream of tourists year-round. This small market features an occupancy rate of 60.5% and an impressive return on investment of 18%, with an average Airbnb price of just $114,000, making it an attractive option for investors with a modest budget.

Akron, OH: Average Airbnb Investment $115,000

Conveniently located near major cities and attractions, Akron, OH, is an ideal choice for investors looking to break into the short-term rental market. The city's growing economy and affordable real estate prices, combined with an occupancy rate of 63.5% and an return on investment of 8%, make it a solid option for those seeking a medium-sized market with plenty of potential for growth. From the Akron Art Museum to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Akron's diverse offerings are sure to attract a wide range of travelers and provide consistent rental income for investors.

Key Takeaway

Investing in the short-term rental market doesn't have to cost a fortune. By focusing on smaller, lesser-known markets with strong growth potential, you can capitalize on the increasing demand for Airbnb accommodations while keeping your initial investment low. The markets featured in this article offer an excellent starting point for budget-conscious investors, boasting attractive return on investment figures and steady occupancy rates. So, don't let a modest budget hold you back from the rewarding world of Airbnb investing. Armed with the knowledge from this article, you're now ready to explore these affordable markets and make a wise investment decision that could deliver consistent rental income for years to come.