Columbia, NC Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Columbia Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Columbia, NC is a small but compelling short-term rental market where low home values and waterfront appeal create an unusually favorable revenue-to-price ratio. With an average annual revenue of $23,570 against an average home value of $295,953, and an ROI score of 78 out of 100, the market offers standout potential for investors willing to navigate its modest occupancy levels. The tiny supply of just 16 active listings suggests an uncrowded landscape where well-positioned properties can capture outsized seasonal demand.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Columbia 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 Columbia

Columbia's strong revenue-to-price ratio, limited competition, and natural waterfront attractions make it an appealing niche market for STR investors seeking high relative yields on affordable properties.

Expert Market Assessment

"Columbia presents a standout opportunity for investors comfortable with a highly seasonal, low-inventory market. The revenue curve swings dramatically—June leads at $5,251 per month while February dips to just $588—so cash-flow planning around off-peak months is essential. With above-average marks in revenue-to-price ratio, market growth, and supply/demand balance, the fundamentals here favor investors who target larger properties and can optimize pricing during the summer surge. The main watchpoint is occupancy stability, which currently sits below average at 28%, making operational efficiency and guest experience key differentiators."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Columbia

Average revenue by month in Columbia

Columbia's revenue is sharply seasonal, peaking at $5,251 in June and bottoming at $588 in February—a nearly 9x spread. Investors should plan for robust summer cash flow balanced against lean winter and early spring months, with November ($2,205) providing a notable secondary bump.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Columbia

Supply is nearly evenly split across 1-bedroom (6 listings), 2-bedroom (5), and 3-bedroom (5) properties, totaling just 16 active listings. The balanced distribution and minimal inventory overall suggest room for new entrants in any size category, though 3-bedroom units may offer the best revenue justification for added investment.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Columbia

ADR scales modestly from $114 for 1-bedroom to $116 for 2-bedroom properties, then jumps to $168 for 3-bedroom listings—a 45% premium over the smallest size. The steep rate increase at the 3-bedroom tier suggests guests are willing to pay significantly more for added space, making larger properties the sweet spot for pricing power.

Average RevPAN by property size in Columbia

RevPAN climbs sharply with property size: 1-bedrooms generate just $16 per available night, while 2-bedrooms reach $43 and 3-bedrooms lead at $60. The nearly 4x gap between the smallest and largest sizes reflects both higher rates and much stronger occupancy for bigger units, reinforcing the case for investing in 3-bedroom properties.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Columbia

One-bedroom properties struggle at just 14% occupancy, while 2-bedroom (37%) and 3-bedroom (36%) listings perform more than twice as well. For investors prioritizing booking consistency and cash-flow stability, the data strongly favors properties with two or more bedrooms in this market.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Columbia

Three-bedroom properties lead with $2,667 in average monthly revenue, outpacing 2-bedrooms ($1,731) by 54% and 1-bedrooms ($1,572) by 70%. The gap between 1- and 2-bedroom earnings is relatively modest, but the jump to 3 bedrooms represents a clear inflection point in monthly income potential.

Average annual revenue by property size in Columbia

Annual revenue ranges from $18,866 for 1-bedroom properties to $32,010 for 3-bedroom units, with 2-bedrooms falling in between at $20,774. The 3-bedroom configuration delivers the strongest return potential, generating nearly 70% more annual revenue than 1-bedroom listings while competing within the same small supply pool.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Columbia

Every listing in Columbia offers a kitchen, and 88% include parking—essentials for this rural, drive-to market. Outdoor amenities are a defining feature: BBQ grills, patios, outdoor furniture, and backyards each appear in 63–69% of listings, while waterfront access (56%) and lake access (31%) highlight the nature-oriented guest expectations that investors should meet to stay competitive.

Understanding Columbia's ROI Score: 78/100

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

Columbia's ROI score of 78 out of 100 places it in the 'Standout Opportunity' tier, driven primarily by an above-average revenue-to-price ratio and favorable supply/demand dynamics. The market also shows above-average growth trends, though occupancy stability is the one factor that lags, reflecting the sharp seasonality typical of nature-focused destinations. Pairing this score with thorough local regulatory research and a summer-weighted cash-flow model will give investors the clearest picture of realistic returns.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Columbia

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Columbia, NC should verify whether Tyrrell County or the state of North Carolina requires specific permits, business licenses, or registration before listing a property. Regulations in smaller North Carolina markets can vary, so contacting local planning and zoning offices is a recommended first step.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply to STR properties in this area include occupancy limits, noise ordinances, parking requirements, and minimum stay periods. Investors should also review any HOA covenants or deed restrictions that could limit short-term rental activity, particularly for waterfront properties.

Tax Obligations

North Carolina imposes a state sales tax and an occupancy tax on short-term rentals, and Tyrrell County may layer on additional local lodging taxes. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit some of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm full compliance with both state and county requirements.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Columbia's STR market is likely to benefit from continued above-average growth trends and a favorable supply/demand balance—active listings grew 72% year over year, signaling rising investor interest and traveler demand alike. Summer months should remain the revenue anchor, with June potentially pushing monthly averages above $5,000, while off-peak periods like February and March may hover in the $600–$800 range. Investors should anticipate occupancy remaining around 25–32% market-wide, though larger properties with 2–3 bedrooms could outperform. ADR may see modest upward pressure in the range of 3–5% as the market matures and amenity standards rise."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Columbia, NC

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Columbia?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Columbia, NC is currently 28%, which falls below the North Carolina state average of 34%. Occupancy varies significantly by property size—1-bedroom units average just 14%, while 2- and 3-bedroom properties perform considerably better at 37% and 36% respectively. Investors targeting larger configurations can expect meaningfully stronger booking rates.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Columbia?

Airbnb hosts in Columbia earn an average of $1,964 per month and approximately $23,570 per year based on trailing 12-month performance data. Revenue varies substantially by property size: 1-bedroom listings average $18,866 annually, 2-bedrooms bring in around $20,774, and 3-bedroom properties lead at $32,010 per year. Summer months, particularly June, drive the bulk of annual earnings.

Is Columbia a good market for Airbnb investment?

Columbia scores 78 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the 'Standout Opportunity' category. The market benefits from an above-average revenue-to-price ratio, positive growth trends, and a favorable supply/demand balance. With average home values around $295,953 and annual STR revenue of $23,570, the relative yield is attractive. Investors should note that occupancy stability is below average, so strong seasonal pricing strategy is important.

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

The average daily rate in Columbia is $132, which is well below the North Carolina state average of $262. ADR ranges from $114 for 1-bedroom properties to $168 for 3-bedroom listings. The lower rate reflects the market's rural, nature-oriented character rather than a lack of demand—it also means acquisition costs are proportionally lower, supporting the strong revenue-to-price ratio.

Are short-term rentals legal in Columbia?

Short-term rentals operate in Columbia, NC, as evidenced by 16 active Airbnb listings in the market. However, investors should verify current permit, licensing, and zoning requirements with Tyrrell County and the state of North Carolina before purchasing a property. Local regulations can change, and compliance with tax obligations and any applicable restrictions is the responsibility of the property owner.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Columbia?

Peak season in Columbia centers on summer, with June standing out as the top-performing month at an average revenue of $5,251. July ($3,187) and August ($2,332) also deliver strong returns. The shoulder months of May, September, October, and November generate moderate revenue between $1,800 and $2,200. The slowest period runs from February through April, when monthly revenue drops below $800.

How many Airbnbs are there in Columbia?

There are currently 16 active Airbnb listings in Columbia, NC as of April 2026. Supply is evenly distributed across property sizes: 6 one-bedroom listings, 5 two-bedroom listings, and 5 three-bedroom listings. The market saw 72% year-over-year growth in active listings, suggesting increasing investor and host interest in the area.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Columbia?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Columbia 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. 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 Columbia, NC and surrounding areas
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN trends by property size and month
• Annual and monthly revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Home value benchmarks sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
• Amenity prevalence data across active listings to inform property setup decisions

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 12-month averages as of April 2026 and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, tax requirements, and permit rules are subject to change—investors should verify current rules with local authorities before purchasing.