Baxter, TN Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Baxter Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Baxter, TN is a small but growing short-term rental market with 23 active Airbnb listings and notable year-over-year listing growth of 80%, signaling rising investor interest. With an average annual revenue of $24,331 and an average daily rate of $228—below Tennessee's $309 state average—the market offers an accessible entry point for investors drawn to lakeside and outdoor-oriented destinations. The ROI score of 64 out of 100 places Baxter in the "Attractive Opportunity" tier, supported by above-average market growth trends and balanced supply-demand dynamics.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Baxter short-term rental market shows:

Data sources: Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Apr, 27 2026.

Why Investors Consider Baxter

Baxter appeals to investors seeking an affordable Tennessee lakeside market with strong growth momentum and manageable competition from a small existing supply base.

Expert Market Assessment

"Baxter presents a moderate-to-attractive opportunity for STR investors willing to navigate a small, seasonally driven market. Revenue peaks in July at $2,621 and stays relatively healthy through fall with an October bump to $2,525, but winter months—particularly January at $1,074—create meaningful cash-flow troughs. The market's above-average growth trend and balanced supply-demand fundamentals help offset a modest 28% average occupancy rate, which sits near the Tennessee state average of 29%. Investors targeting 3-bedroom properties will find the best risk-adjusted returns, while 4-bedroom units carry higher revenue ceilings but significantly lower occupancy."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Baxter

Average revenue by month in Baxter

Baxter shows clear summer-driven seasonality, with July ($2,621) and August ($2,598) delivering peak revenues and January ($1,074) marking the low point—a spread of over $1,500 between the best and worst months. October ($2,525) provides a notable secondary peak, suggesting fall recreation demand helps extend the earning season beyond summer.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Baxter

Supply is concentrated across 2-bedroom (6 listings), 3-bedroom (7 listings), and 4-bedroom (5 listings) properties, with no 1-bedroom or studio inventory represented. The absence of smaller units could signal an opportunity for investors targeting couples or solo travelers, though it may also reflect the lake-oriented nature of the market favoring group accommodations.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Baxter

ADR scales predictably with size, from $136 for 2-bedroom listings to $229 for 3-bedrooms and $264 for 4-bedrooms. The jump from 2 to 3 bedrooms represents nearly a 70% rate premium, making 3-bedroom units an appealing sweet spot where the rate increase is substantial without the occupancy drop-off seen in larger properties.

Average RevPAN by property size in Baxter

Three-bedroom properties deliver the strongest RevPAN at $59, outperforming both 2-bedrooms ($43) and 4-bedrooms ($31) by a wide margin. The 4-bedroom category's low RevPAN despite its high ADR underscores how a 12% occupancy rate can dramatically erode per-night revenue potential.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Baxter

Two-bedroom listings lead occupancy at 32%, followed by 3-bedrooms at 26%, while 4-bedroom properties lag significantly at just 12%. For investors prioritizing consistent cash flow, smaller configurations offer more predictable booking patterns, though all sizes sit in a range that reflects Baxter's leisure-driven, seasonal demand profile.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Baxter

Four-bedroom properties edge out 3-bedrooms in monthly revenue ($2,837 vs. $2,751), but the margin is slim—and 3-bedrooms achieve that revenue with more than double the occupancy rate. Two-bedroom units trail at $1,309 per month, reinforcing that this market rewards larger properties that can accommodate group getaways.

Average annual revenue by property size in Baxter

On an annual basis, 4-bedroom listings top the market at $34,049, with 3-bedrooms close behind at $33,015, while 2-bedroom units generate $15,716. Given the relatively small revenue gap between 3- and 4-bedroom properties and the much stronger occupancy for 3-bedrooms, the latter configuration offers arguably the best risk-adjusted return potential.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Baxter

Every listing in Baxter includes a kitchen, and 91% offer parking—baseline expectations for this rural lakeside market. Lake access (70%), BBQ grills (78%), and outdoor furniture (78%) dominate the amenity mix, signaling that guests expect a full outdoor recreation experience; investors adding hot tubs (currently only 30% of listings) or pet-friendly policies could differentiate their properties.

Understanding Baxter's ROI Score: 64/100

Rabbu's ROI Score is a proprietary metric that evaluates short-term rental investment potential based on multiple factors.

How the ROI Score is Calculated

What This Means for Investors

Baxter's ROI score of 64 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, reflecting a market where revenue relative to property prices is average but bolstered by above-average growth trends and balanced supply-demand conditions. Occupancy stability and revenue-to-price ratio both register as average, meaning returns are achievable but not automatic—property selection and pricing strategy matter significantly here. Investors should pair this data with thorough local regulatory research and on-the-ground due diligence before committing capital.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Baxter

Understanding local STR regulations is essential before investing in Baxter. Here's the current regulatory landscape:

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Baxter, TN should verify whether a local STR permit or business registration is required through Putnam County or the City of Baxter. Tennessee has statewide provisions governing vacation rentals, but municipal rules can vary, so confirming compliance with local authorities before listing is essential.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits based on bedroom count, minimum stay requirements, noise ordinances, parking provisions, and potential HOA rules for properties in planned communities. Investors should also be aware that some Tennessee municipalities impose caps on the number of STR permits issued in certain zones.

Tax Obligations

Tennessee imposes state and local sales tax on short-term rentals, along with applicable occupancy taxes that vary by county. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit a portion of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm that all obligations—including any Putnam County-specific levies—are fully covered.

Regulations subject to change. Always verify with local authorities before purchasing. A Rabbu partner agent specializing in Baxter can provide current regulatory guidance.

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Listing growth of 80% year-over-year suggests Baxter is gaining traction as a short-term rental destination, and we estimate demand will continue firming over the next 12–18 months, particularly during the summer peak and fall shoulder seasons. ADR could see modest upward pressure in the range of 3–5% as the market matures, though occupancy may settle around 26–30% market-wide as new supply absorbs. Investors entering now may benefit from relatively limited competition—just 23 listings—before the market becomes more saturated. Seasonal revenue patterns indicate that hosts should budget for softer January and February months when revenues dip below $1,200."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Baxter, TN

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Baxter?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Baxter is currently 28%, which is just slightly below the Tennessee state average of 29%. Occupancy varies meaningfully by property size—2-bedroom listings see the highest occupancy at 32%, while 4-bedroom properties average only 12%. Seasonality also plays a role, with summer and fall months driving the strongest demand.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Baxter?

Airbnb hosts in Baxter earn an average of $2,027 per month and approximately $24,331 per year, based on trailing 12-month booking data. Revenue varies significantly by property size: 4-bedroom listings generate the highest annual revenue at around $34,049, followed closely by 3-bedrooms at $33,015, while 2-bedroom units average $15,716 annually.

Is Baxter a good market for Airbnb investment?

Baxter scores a 64 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the "Attractive Opportunity" category. The market benefits from above-average growth trends, balanced supply and demand, and lake-driven recreational appeal. With only 23 active listings, competition is limited, though investors should account for seasonal occupancy dips during winter months and verify local regulatory requirements.

What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Baxter?

The average daily rate in Baxter is $228, which is below the Tennessee state average of $309. ADR scales with property size: 2-bedroom listings average $136 per night, 3-bedrooms come in at $229, and 4-bedroom properties command $264. The lower-than-state-average ADR reflects Baxter's positioning as an affordable alternative to larger Tennessee vacation markets.

Are short-term rentals legal in Baxter?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Tennessee, but local regulations in Baxter and Putnam County may require permits, registrations, or compliance with zoning rules. Investors should check directly with the City of Baxter and Putnam County offices for the most current rules regarding STR operations, as requirements can change over time.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Baxter?

Peak season in Baxter runs from June through August, with July leading at $2,621 in average monthly revenue and August close behind at $2,598. October also stands out as a strong shoulder-season month at $2,525, likely driven by fall foliage and outdoor recreation. January and February are the slowest months, with revenues dropping to $1,074 and $1,177 respectively.

How many Airbnbs are there in Baxter?

There are currently 23 active Airbnb listings in Baxter as of April 2026. The supply is concentrated in 2-bedroom (6 listings), 3-bedroom (7 listings), and 4-bedroom (5 listings) properties. Year-over-year listing growth of 80% indicates the market is expanding quickly, though the overall inventory remains small.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Baxter?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Baxter are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market—not a forward-looking projection. We average each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, drop regional outliers, and roll the remainder up to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors the figures to what hosts have actually earned recently rather than to forecasts, while still naturally reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months because each month uses its own historical performance. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and operational management.

About Rabbu Market Data

Rabbu provides Airbnb and short-term rental market data and statistics across the United States. Our mission is to empower investors with accurate insights and easy-to-use tools, so they can confidently identify and act on the best opportunities in the Airbnb market.

What this data includes

• Regularly updated active Airbnb and STR listing counts for the Baxter, TN market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics tracked over time
• Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Property size breakdowns for listings, rates, occupancy, and revenue
• Home value data sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)

Sources and disclaimers

Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Apr, 27 2026. Revenue projections are estimates based on comparable properties and do not guarantee future performance. Data reflects trailing performance and market conditions may have shifted since the last update. Local regulations and tax requirements can change; always verify current rules with municipal authorities before investing.