AirDNA’s 2025 Best Markets Revealed for Short-Term Rental Investments

Unveiling the Best Cities for Short-Term Rental Investments in 2025

AirDNA, a leader in short-term rental data and analytics, has published its annual report identifying the top markets for short-term rental (STR) investments in 2025. This comprehensive analysis draws on data from over 540,000 U.S. properties currently on the market, pinpointing locations with significant investment potential.

Analyzing Investment Opportunities

The report employed AirDNA’s proprietary Best Places to Invest (BPTI) Score, which assesses various factors such as market demand, revenue growth, and regulatory environment. This detailed evaluation aims to provide investors with actionable insights to navigate their investment decisions with confidence. According to Jamie Lane, Senior Vice President of Analytics at AirDNA, recognizing the best STR investment opportunities relies on both understanding market trends and the precise locations where these trends translate into real potential.

The Top 10 Markets

The report highlights ten standout markets where investing in short-term rentals is expected to yield favorable returns:
1. Peoria, Illinois
2. Fairbanks, Alaska
3. Akron, Ohio
4. Columbus, Georgia
5. Crescent City, California
6. Shreveport, Louisiana
7. Page, Arizona
8. Rockford, Illinois
9. Dayton, Ohio
10. Frankfort, Kentucky

These cities were chosen for their robust performance indicators — a combination of rising occupancy rates and attractive average daily rates, both forecasted to extend their upward trend into 2025.

Why These Markets?

AirDNA's report goes beyond merely listing these cities; it provides a framework for understanding why they hold value for investors. For instance, the anticipated increases in occupancy rates are crucial as they can cushion against the high costs often associated with acquiring properties. This dynamic signifies that potential investors can find real estate opportunities that balance risk with return.

Furthermore, the report offers segmented rankings that cater to a variety of budgets. Market insights are categorized based on property price ranges, from $100,000 to $5 million, making it easier for investors to identify lucrative options within their respective financial capabilities.

Tools for Smart Investment Decisions

Investors looking for actionable steps can utilize AirDNA's platform, allowing them to browse properties that meet their investment criteria directly. The integration of real-time data and analytics equips users with invaluable tools to move swiftly from research to execution. According to Rohit Bezewada, CEO of AirDNA, turning these insights into tangible success is about making data-driven choices and acting decisively.

Conclusion

As the short-term rental landscape continues to evolve, it’s imperative for investors to stay informed about the best opportunities available. AirDNA’s 2025 Best Places to Invest report serves as an essential guide for both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to tap into the STR market. With comprehensive insights, robust data, and actionable tools, it’s poised to empower investors to maximize their returns in the coming year. To access the full report and discover more about each market's success factors, visit AirDNA’s website.