For many travelers, the short-term rental industry has revolutionized how we travel. It offers a personal and sometimes even more authentic experience than traditional hotels.

This shift has created massive Airbnb markets for property owners and real estate investors. With the right location, your home can become a golden ticket to profitable and rewarding hosting.

But where should you look for investment opportunities to ensure a successful vacation rental venture? This guide will break down some of the best Airbnb locations in the U.S. for 2024 to consider.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!

The Best Airbnb Location Options for Your Vacation Rental Properties

AirDNA recently launched its list of the top 10 best U.S. cities for short-term rentals in 2024. It’s no surprise that coastal cities dominate the list. Let’s dive into the top ten locations on AirDNA’s list.

1. Columbus, Georgia

Columbus is renowned for its arts and cultural scene and its picturesque Riverwalk, which happens to be a hot spot for visitors. With gentle Southern hospitality and a bustling downtown district, Columbus offers a charming mix of urban amenities set against the natural beauty of the Chattahoochee River. According to AirDNA, Columbus has seen remarkable growth in average daily rental rates, outperforming many other markets.

2. Ellsworth, Maine

Ellsworth serves as the gateway to one of the most beautiful national parks in the country (Acadia), making it a strategic base for your “granola” guests. Ellsworth’s proximity to lakes and Maine’s stunning coastline increases its appeal to travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. The coastal town charm, coupled with high demand from seasonal visitors, has led to an impressive year-over-year increase in revenue for Airbnb hosts and vacation rental properties in Ellsworth.

3. Logan, Ohio

Tucked into the Hocking Hills, Logan provides access to an outdoor wonderland of caves, waterfalls, and forested trails. The region’s popularity with hikers, adventurers, and those seeking serenity in a natural setting ensures consistent and high demand for short-term rentals year-round. The spike in adventure travel and the preference for vacation rentals over hotels have made Logan an increasingly lucrative region for vacation rentals.

4. Spring Hill, Florida

Spring Hill’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park makes it a great location for vacationers. In addition, its community appeal, with golf courses and plenty of green space, attracts snowbirds, families, and even the occasional mermaid show lover. With an attractive vacation rental-to-investment ratio, Spring Hill promises strong potential for short-term rental properties.

5. Sneads Ferry, North Carolina

Sneads Ferry is a trove for marine life lovers, being close to North Topsail Beach and having a large fishing community. The relaxed coastal lifestyle here is a magnet for casual recration, with consistent demand from beachgoers and fishermen. The increasing preference for coastal escapes and the city’s growth in occupancy rates underline its strength as a destination for vacation rentals.

6. Winter Haven, Florida

Winter Haven is much more than just a winter retreat—though the charming Chain of Lakes and its famous gardens make the city a haven for seasonal travelers. The recent rise of the LEGOLAND Florida Resort has also increased the influx of families looking for an alternative to Orlando’s hustle and bustle. Winter Haven offers high occupancy rates with demand that outstrips supply, making it a promising locale for prospective Airbnb entrepreneurs.

See Related: The Best Place to Airbnb in Florida

7. Stanton, Kentucky

Stanton is perfectly located in the heart of the Red River Gorge, a huge and geologically stunning region. It has gained traction as a prime destination for rock climbing, spelunking, and nature photography, attracting an adventurous and nature-loving demographic. The ease of accessibility to natural attractions and the niche market focused on outdoor activities result in respectable year-round occupancy rates.

8. Port Angeles, Washington

Port Angeles is the largest city on the Olympic Peninsula. It’s celebrated for its rich maritime history, historic sites, and access to the iconic Olympic National Park.

Whether visitors seek a historical or an outdoor experience, Port Angeles delivers both in spades. With growing popularity as a destination for eco-tourism and outdoor sports, the market in Port Angeles is on the upswing, translating into a favorable landscape for Airbnb investors.

9. Akron, Ohio

Akron serves as a cultural crossroads, offering a mix of city living and proximity to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The city welcomes travelers with its museums, impressive downtown, and uniquely Ohio events like the All-American Soap Box Derby. Steady demand from both business travelers and vacationers places Akron as a city with untapped potential for successful short-term rental properties.

10. Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks serves as the gateway to the Arctic and is as much an alluring destination for Aurora Borealis chasers (2024 is the best year to catch the lights!) as it is for those seeking a truly wild Alaskan experience. The city’s indigenous culture, dog sledding, and access to the wilderness make it a magnet for adventure travelers. Fairbanks experiences seasonality, but the high revPAR (revenue per available room) during peak seasons ensures it remains a lucrative destination.

Final Thoughts on Your Airbnb Investment Property

Choosing the right location for your short-term rental is crucial, and each option offers its special appeal and profitability. Consider the local attractions and the type of traveler you aim to host. Research the market thoroughly, examining trends and data to make an informed decision that matches your Airbnb investment goals.

When it comes to short-term rentals, the old saying “Location! Location! Location!” is truly paramount. Whether you’re already an Airbnb host or considering starting, these U.S. destinations present lucrative opportunities to thrive in the sharing economy. With careful planning, your Airbnb investment can turn into a rewarding adventure.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!