Colchester, VT Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Colchester Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Colchester, VT sits along the shores of Lake Champlain and benefits from a mix of seasonal tourism and outdoor recreation that drives short-term rental demand. With an average annual revenue of $64,327 and an ROI score of 72 out of 100, the market presents an attractive entry point for investors willing to navigate its pronounced seasonality. The relatively small supply of just 53 active listings suggests room for well-positioned properties to capture meaningful market share, particularly during the strong summer months.

Key Market Statistics

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

Data sources: Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Mar, 17 2026.

Why Investors Consider Colchester

Colchester attracts STR investors because its favorable revenue-to-price ratio, lake-driven seasonal demand, and limited existing supply create a compelling opportunity for above-average returns.

Expert Market Assessment

"Colchester represents an attractive opportunity for STR investors who can optimize for its pronounced summer peak. Revenue swings from a low of $2,972 in January to $8,886 in August, meaning operators need strong pricing discipline and expense management through the quieter winter months. The market's above-average revenue-to-price ratio and occupancy stability are encouraging, though the below-average supply/demand balance — driven by rapid 85% listing growth — warrants monitoring. Investors targeting 3- or 4-bedroom properties stand to capture the highest absolute returns, with annual revenue reaching $72,938 to $88,826 for those configurations."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Colchester

Average revenue by month in Colchester

Colchester's revenue peaks sharply in August at $8,886 and July at $8,207, while January bottoms out at $2,972 — a nearly 3x spread that underscores the market's strong summer seasonality. The fall shoulder season holds up reasonably well through October ($6,849), giving operators roughly five months of elevated earnings to anchor their annual returns.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Colchester

Two-bedroom units lead Colchester's supply with 17 listings, while 1-bedroom and 3-bedroom properties tie at 11 each and 4-bedrooms trail at just 7. The relatively thin supply of 4-bedroom homes, combined with their top revenue performance, may signal an underserved segment worth targeting.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Colchester

ADR scales steeply in Colchester — from $226 for 1-bedroom units to $663 for 4-bedrooms, nearly a 3x premium. The jump from 3-bedroom ($365) to 4-bedroom ($663) is particularly notable, suggesting strong willingness among guests to pay significantly more for larger, group-friendly lakeside accommodations.

Average RevPAN by property size in Colchester

RevPAN climbs from $45 for 1-bedroom listings to $135 for 4-bedrooms, with 3-bedroom units close behind at $132. The narrow gap between 3- and 4-bedroom RevPAN suggests that while 4-bedroom properties command much higher nightly rates, their lower occupancy (20%) partially offsets that premium on a per-available-night basis.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Colchester

Three-bedroom listings lead occupancy at 36%, followed by 2-bedrooms at 31%, while both 1-bedroom and 4-bedroom units average just 20%. The stronger occupancy for mid-sized properties points to more consistent demand in that segment, making 2- and 3-bedroom units attractive for investors prioritizing cash-flow predictability.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Colchester

Four-bedroom properties top monthly revenue at $7,402, with 3-bedrooms earning $6,078 — both well above the 2-bedroom ($3,875) and 1-bedroom ($3,244) tiers. The roughly $1,300 monthly gap between 3- and 4-bedroom units may not justify the higher acquisition and operating costs for every investor, making 3-bedrooms a compelling value play.

Average annual revenue by property size in Colchester

Annual revenue ranges from $38,934 for 1-bedroom listings to $88,826 for 4-bedroom properties, with 3-bedrooms generating $72,938. Against Colchester's average home value of $660,504, the 4-bedroom tier offers the strongest gross yield, though investors should weigh higher purchase prices and maintenance costs against that top-line figure.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Colchester

Parking is universal across Colchester listings (100%), and kitchens appear in 94%, reflecting the self-catering expectations of vacation renters. Lake access (64%), beach access (53%), and outdoor amenities like BBQ grills (66%) and backyard space (66%) dominate the amenity mix — signaling that waterfront and outdoor lifestyle features are essential to competing effectively in this market.

Understanding Colchester's ROI Score: 72/100

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

Colchester's ROI score of 72 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, driven primarily by an above-average revenue-to-price ratio and strong occupancy stability. Market growth trends also score above average, though the supply/demand balance rates below average — likely reflecting the 85% year-over-year jump in new listings entering the market. Investors should pair these metrics with thorough local regulatory research and a conservative underwriting approach that accounts for Colchester's seasonal revenue swings.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Colchester

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Colchester, VT may need to register with the town and comply with Vermont's statewide lodging requirements. Investors should verify current permit and registration obligations with Colchester's local planning and zoning office before listing a property.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in Vermont markets like Colchester can include occupancy limits, parking requirements, noise ordinances, and minimum safety standards. Some properties may also be subject to HOA rules or deed restrictions that limit or prohibit short-term rentals, so reviewing these covenants before purchasing is essential.

Tax Obligations

Vermont imposes a 9% rooms and meals tax on short-term rentals, and hosts should confirm whether any additional local taxes apply in Colchester. Major booking platforms typically collect and remit the state tax on behalf of hosts, but operators should verify their filing obligations with the Vermont Department of Taxes.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Colchester's STR market is expected to continue benefiting from above-average revenue-to-price ratios and stable occupancy fundamentals. Summer months should remain the primary revenue driver, with ADR potentially rising 2–4% as lake-access demand stays strong. The 85% year-over-year growth in active listings signals increasing investor interest, which could put modest pressure on occupancy rates if new supply outpaces demand growth. Investors entering now should plan conservatively for winter months, when monthly revenue may dip below $3,000, while capitalizing on the $8,000+ peak months of July and August."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Colchester, VT

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Colchester?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Colchester is currently 26%, which sits below the Vermont state average of 51%. Occupancy varies significantly by property size, with 3-bedroom units leading at 36% and 1-bedroom and 4-bedroom properties averaging around 20%. The lower overall rate reflects Colchester's strong seasonality — summer months see much higher booking activity while winter demand is considerably lighter.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Colchester?

Airbnb hosts in Colchester earn an average of $5,360 per month, which translates to approximately $64,327 per year based on trailing 12-month performance. Revenue varies substantially by property size: 4-bedroom homes lead with about $88,826 annually, while 1-bedroom units average roughly $38,934. Peak summer months like August can generate over $8,800, so annual earnings are heavily influenced by how well hosts optimize their summer pricing.

Is Colchester a good market for Airbnb investment?

Colchester scores a 72 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the "Attractive Opportunity" category. The market benefits from an above-average revenue-to-price ratio and solid occupancy stability, though investors should be aware of the growing supply of listings (85% year-over-year growth) which could create more competition. Properties with lake access and larger bedroom counts tend to perform best, making Colchester particularly appealing for investors targeting the premium seasonal rental segment.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Colchester is $400, which is slightly below the Vermont state average of $452. ADR increases significantly with property size — 1-bedroom listings average $226, while 4-bedroom properties command $663 per night. This pricing structure reflects strong demand for larger, group-friendly accommodations near Lake Champlain.

Are short-term rentals legal in Colchester?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Colchester, VT, though operators should check with local zoning authorities and comply with Vermont's statewide lodging registration requirements. Regulations can change, and certain neighborhoods or properties may have HOA rules or deed restrictions that affect STR eligibility. We recommend consulting with Colchester's planning office and a local real estate attorney to confirm current requirements before investing.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Colchester?

Peak season in Colchester runs from June through October, with August being the highest-earning month at an average of $8,886 in revenue. July follows closely at $8,207, and strong shoulder-season performance continues through September ($6,865) and October ($6,849). The winter months from January through April represent the softest period, with monthly revenues dropping to the $2,972–$3,686 range.

How many Airbnbs are there in Colchester?

There are currently 53 active Airbnb listings in Colchester. The market has seen significant growth, with an 85% year-over-year increase in active listings. Supply is distributed across property sizes, with 2-bedroom units being the most common at 17 listings, followed by 1-bedroom and 3-bedroom units at 11 each, and 4-bedroom properties at 7.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Colchester?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Colchester 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. Rabbu averages each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, removes regional outliers, and rolls the results up to a market-level historical average. Because each month uses its own historical performance data, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks and slower periods like Colchester's summer highs and winter lows. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how actively 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 for the Colchester, VT market
• Occupancy rates, average daily rates, and RevPAN trends by property size
• Monthly and annual revenue metrics based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Home value data from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for investment analysis
• Amenity prevalence data across active listings to benchmark guest expectations

Sources and disclaimers

Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Mar, 17 2026. Revenue projections are estimates based on comparable properties and do not guarantee future performance. Data reflects trailing 12-month performance as of April 2026 and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, zoning rules, and tax obligations are subject to change — investors should verify current requirements with Colchester and Vermont authorities before purchasing.