Cobden, IL Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Cobden Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Cobden, IL is a compact rural market with just 18 active Airbnb listings and an above-average revenue-to-price ratio that catches the eye of value-oriented investors. With average home values around $321,862 and annual revenue averaging $25,487, the market delivers a yield profile that outpaces many larger Illinois markets. The combination of outdoor-focused amenities—BBQ grills, patios, backyards—and features like lake access hints at a leisure-driven getaway market in southern Illinois, making it a niche but compelling opportunity for investors seeking lower entry costs with meaningful upside.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Cobden 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 Cobden

Investors are drawn to Cobden for its favorable revenue-to-price ratio and limited supply in a nature-oriented getaway market within reach of southern Illinois attractions.

Expert Market Assessment

"Cobden earns an "Attractive Opportunity" designation thanks to a strong revenue-to-price ratio and a favorable supply/demand balance that sets it apart from more saturated Illinois markets. Seasonality is a real factor here—revenue peaks in October ($2,791) and July ($2,726) while February dips to just $607—so investors should plan cash reserves around a roughly 4.5x swing between best and worst months. Occupancy at 23% sits below the Illinois state average of 33%, but the ADR of $199 partially compensates, and the small listing count means even modest demand improvements can move the needle. For investors comfortable with a seasonal, leisure-oriented profile and willing to differentiate through property quality and amenities, this market offers a genuine path to solid returns at a lower entry price."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Cobden

Average revenue by month in Cobden

Cobden's revenue follows a clear seasonal arc, peaking in October at $2,791 and July at $2,726, then dropping sharply to just $607 in February—a roughly 4.6x spread between best and worst months. Investors should expect strong earning potential from May through November, with winter months requiring careful cash flow planning.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Cobden

The market's supply is concentrated in smaller properties, with one-bedroom units making up the largest share at 7 listings and two-bedrooms at 5. The absence of larger 3+ bedroom listings in the data could signal an opportunity for investors willing to offer more spacious accommodations for families or groups.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Cobden

ADR scales meaningfully with size: two-bedroom properties command $219 per night versus $160 for one-bedrooms, a 37% premium that may justify the higher acquisition cost. Both tiers sit below the $319 Illinois state average, reflecting Cobden's rural positioning but also its lower cost structure.

Average RevPAN by property size in Cobden

Two-bedroom properties deliver significantly stronger RevPAN at $64 compared to $37 for one-bedrooms, reflecting both their higher nightly rates and better occupancy. This nearly 73% RevPAN premium makes two-bedroom units the more efficient revenue generators on a per-night basis in this market.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Cobden

Two-bedroom properties fill at 29% compared to 23% for one-bedrooms, suggesting that guests visiting Cobden prefer slightly larger accommodations—likely for group getaways or family trips. Both figures trail the 33% state average, which is expected in a seasonal leisure market but worth monitoring for cash-flow planning.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Cobden

Two-bedroom listings earn $2,621 per month on average versus $1,761 for one-bedrooms, an $860 monthly gap that adds up to over $10,000 annually. For investors evaluating which configuration to target, the two-bedroom segment clearly delivers more robust monthly income.

Average annual revenue by property size in Cobden

At $31,463 in average annual revenue, two-bedroom properties outpace one-bedrooms ($21,142) by nearly 49%, making them the strongest performers in Cobden's STR market. When weighed against Cobden's average home value of $321,862, these figures can still yield competitive gross returns relative to many Illinois markets.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Cobden

Kitchen, parking, and self check-in are universal at 100% of listings, establishing them as non-negotiable baseline expectations. The high prevalence of outdoor amenities—94% offer outdoor furniture, 89% have a BBQ grill and patio—underscores that Cobden guests prioritize a nature-oriented, relaxation-focused experience, and investors should equip properties accordingly.

Understanding Cobden's ROI Score: 68/100

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

Cobden's ROI Score of 68 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, driven primarily by an above-average revenue-to-price ratio that reflects strong yield potential relative to acquisition costs and an above-average supply/demand balance that keeps competition manageable. Occupancy stability and market growth both score in the average range, consistent with a small seasonal market that's gaining traction but hasn't yet reached maturity. Investors should pair these data-driven signals with local regulatory research and on-the-ground property evaluation to validate the opportunity.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Cobden

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Cobden, Illinois may be subject to local permit or registration requirements at the municipal or Union County level. Investors should verify current STR regulations with the Village of Cobden and Illinois state authorities before listing a property.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits, minimum stay requirements, noise and nuisance ordinances, parking mandates, and any HOA covenants on the property. Rural markets like Cobden sometimes have lighter regulation, but it's essential to confirm whether any zoning or land-use restrictions limit STR activity in the specific area you're considering.

Tax Obligations

Illinois imposes state and local lodging or occupancy taxes on short-term rentals, and Cobden-area operators should confirm applicable sales and tourism tax obligations. Many booking platforms collect and remit certain taxes automatically, but hosts are ultimately responsible for ensuring full compliance with state and local requirements.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Cobden's STR market is expected to maintain its seasonal pattern of strong summer-through-fall bookings, with October and July likely continuing as peak revenue months. The 37% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest, though the market's small overall size (18 listings) means new supply could shift the balance quickly. ADR may hold steady or tick up modestly in the 1–3% range given the rural premium guests are willing to pay, while occupancy rates are likely to hover around 20–25% market-wide—typical for a leisure destination with pronounced off-season softness in January and February."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Cobden, IL

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Cobden?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Cobden is currently 23%, which is below the Illinois state average of 33%. Two-bedroom properties perform slightly better at 29% occupancy, while one-bedroom units average 23%. The lower overall occupancy is typical for a rural leisure market with clear seasonal swings, where demand concentrates in the warmer months and fall season.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Cobden?

Airbnb hosts in Cobden earn an average of $2,123 per month, or approximately $25,487 per year based on trailing 12-month performance. Two-bedroom properties tend to outperform, generating about $2,621 monthly ($31,463 annually), while one-bedroom units average $1,761 per month ($21,142 annually). Peak earning months like October and July can bring in over $2,700, while slower months like February may drop below $700.

Is Cobden a good market for Airbnb investment?

Cobden scores a 68 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, earning an "Attractive Opportunity" rating. The market's above-average revenue-to-price ratio stands out, meaning the income potential is strong relative to what you'll pay for property. With only 18 active listings and a favorable supply/demand balance, competition is limited. Investors should be aware of seasonal fluctuations and occupancy rates below the state average, but the low entry cost and outdoor-focused demand profile make it a worthwhile market to explore.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Cobden is $199, compared to the Illinois state average of $319. Two-bedroom properties command higher rates at $219 per night, while one-bedroom units average $160. The lower ADR relative to the state reflects the rural market positioning, but it pairs with more accessible property prices to create favorable yield dynamics.

Are short-term rentals legal in Cobden?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Cobden, IL, though operators may need to comply with local permitting, zoning, and tax requirements. We recommend contacting the Village of Cobden and reviewing Union County and Illinois state regulations to confirm any specific licensing or registration obligations before purchasing or listing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Cobden?

Peak season in Cobden runs roughly from May through November, with October delivering the highest average revenue at $2,791 and July close behind at $2,726. The shoulder months of March and April also show decent activity. The off-season hits hardest in January ($899) and February ($607), so investors should budget for a pronounced winter slowdown.

How many Airbnbs are there in Cobden?

There are currently 18 active Airbnb listings in Cobden as of April 2026. The market has seen 37% year-over-year growth in listings, though the base remains small. Supply is concentrated in one-bedroom (7 listings) and two-bedroom (5 listings) properties, with additional listings in other configurations.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Cobden?

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

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 by market
• Average daily rates, occupancy rates, and RevPAN metrics across property sizes
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Home value estimates from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
• Amenity prevalence data across active listings in the market

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. Local regulations, zoning rules, and tax obligations may change; always verify current requirements with municipal and state authorities before investing. Individual property results will vary based on location, condition, amenities, pricing strategy, and management quality.