Cranston, RI Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

As of Apr, 27 2026

Rabbu ROI Score

62 / 100

Cranston offers attractive short-term rental potential, with a balance of healthy demand and revenue relative to property values.

Cranston Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Cranston, RI is a compact short-term rental market with just 19 active Airbnb listings, offering early-mover potential for investors willing to navigate a smaller competitive field. Average annual revenue comes in at $22,755, supported by a summer peak that pushes monthly earnings near $2,900 in August. With an ROI score of 62 out of 100 and above-average marks for both market growth and supply/demand balance, the market signals room for well-positioned properties to capture outsized share as demand continues to develop.

Key Market Statistics

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

Key Airbnb and short-term rental market statistics.
Metric Context Value
Active Airbnb Listings As of Apr, 27 2026 19
Average Daily Rate (ADR) vs. $547 state avg. $156
Average Occupancy Rate vs. 50% state avg. 29%
RevPAN ADR * Occupancy Rate $45
Average Monthly Revenue Historical 12-month average $1,896
Average Annual Revenue Historical 12-month average $22,755

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

Why Investors Consider Cranston

Cranston's small supply base, favorable growth trajectory, and proximity to Providence create an appealing entry point for STR investors seeking less competitive Rhode Island markets.

Key investment factors

  • Above-average supply/demand balance with only 19 active listings suggests room for new entrants
  • 76% year-over-year listing growth signals rising investor and guest interest
  • Proximity to Providence offers spillover demand from business, university, and event travel
  • Two-bedroom properties generate $42,477 annually — nearly 4x the revenue of one-bedrooms
  • Summer seasonality delivers revenue nearly triple the winter months, creating a reliable peak cycle

Expert Market Assessment

"Cranston presents a moderate-to-attractive opportunity for STR investors, particularly those targeting two-bedroom properties that can capture the market's stronger revenue tier. Seasonality is pronounced — August tops out near $2,891 while January dips to around $998 — so cash-flow planning should account for a roughly 3:1 swing between peak and off-peak months. The market's above-average growth trend and favorable supply/demand dynamics add momentum, though the 29% average occupancy rate (well below Rhode Island's 50% state average) means there's meaningful upside if operators can optimize pricing and listing quality. For investors comfortable with a seasonal rhythm and a smaller, developing market, Cranston offers a credible path to returns without the intense competition of larger coastal Rhode Island destinations."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Understanding Cranston's ROI Score: 62/100

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

Factor Cranston Performance Weight
Revenue-to-Price Ratio Average 40%
Occupancy Stability Average 30%
Market Growth Trend Above average 15%
Supply/Demand Balance Above average 15%

What This Means for Investors

Cranston's ROI score of 62 out of 100 places it in the 'Attractive Opportunity' band, driven by above-average marks in both market growth trend and supply/demand balance — two factors that suggest the market is gaining momentum without becoming oversaturated. Revenue-to-price ratio and occupancy stability both sit at average levels, meaning returns are respectable but not exceptional relative to property costs. Pairing this data with thorough local regulatory research and a focus on two-bedroom properties could help investors unlock the stronger end of this market's potential.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Cranston

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Cranston, Rhode Island may be required to obtain a local permit or register their property with the city before listing. Investors should verify current requirements directly with Cranston's zoning or licensing office and check Rhode Island state regulations.

Key Restrictions

Common STR restrictions in markets like Cranston can include occupancy limits, minimum-stay requirements, noise and parking regulations, and potential HOA restrictions for properties in managed communities. Some municipalities also impose caps on the number of permits issued, so confirming local rules before purchasing is essential.

Tax Obligations

Rhode Island imposes a state sales tax and hotel tax on short-term rental stays, and Cranston may levy additional local lodging taxes. Major platforms like Airbnb typically collect and remit some of these taxes on behalf of hosts, but operators should confirm their full tax obligations with a local tax advisor.

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

Short-Term Rental Financing for Cranston

Financing an Airbnb investment in Cranston requires lenders who understand STR income. Rabbu partner lenders offer:

  • DSCR Loans: Qualify based on property income, not personal income
  • Low Down Payment: As low as 10–15% for investment properties
  • Fast Closing: 21–30 day average close times
  • STR Experience: Lenders who understand vacation rental underwriting
Connect with a Cranston Lender →

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Cranston's 76% year-over-year growth in active listings suggests accelerating investor interest, and the above-average supply/demand balance indicates the market hasn't yet tipped into oversaturation. Over the next 12–18 months, we estimate ADR could drift modestly upward — perhaps 2–4% — as operators refine pricing strategies for this still-maturing market. Occupancy, currently at 29%, may settle in the 28–34% range as new supply enters, though strong summer seasonality should continue anchoring peak-month performance. Investors entering now can position ahead of a market that's clearly gaining traction but hasn't fully matured."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Cranston, RI

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Cranston?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Cranston is currently 29%, which falls below the Rhode Island state average of 50%. One-bedroom listings average 34% occupancy while two-bedrooms come in at 35%. The lower market-wide figure reflects Cranston's still-developing STR scene, and there's potential for well-managed properties to outperform the average.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Cranston?
Airbnb hosts in Cranston earn an average of $1,896 per month, or approximately $22,755 per year based on trailing 12-month data. Revenue varies significantly by property size — one-bedroom listings average $10,681 annually, while two-bedroom properties generate around $42,477. Seasonal peaks in July and August push monthly earnings close to $2,900.
Is Cranston a good market for Airbnb investment?
Cranston scores a 62 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the 'Attractive Opportunity' tier. The market benefits from above-average growth trends and a favorable supply/demand balance, with only 19 active listings. Two-bedroom properties in particular show strong revenue potential. However, occupancy rates are below the state average, so success depends on pricing strategy, property quality, and targeting the right guest segments.
What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Cranston?
The average daily rate in Cranston is $156, which is significantly below the Rhode Island state average of $547. One-bedroom properties average $99 per night, while two-bedrooms command $171. The lower ADR reflects Cranston's positioning as a more affordable alternative to coastal Rhode Island destinations, which can appeal to budget-conscious travelers and longer-stay guests.
Are short-term rentals legal in Cranston?
Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Cranston, RI, though operators may need to obtain local permits or register with the city. Specific regulations can change, so investors should check directly with Cranston's zoning department and review Rhode Island state requirements before listing a property.
When is peak season for Airbnb in Cranston?
Peak season in Cranston runs from May through August, with the highest average monthly revenue hitting $2,891 in August. July is nearly as strong at $2,866. The shoulder months of September and October still perform well around $2,100–$2,150, while winter months from December through February are the slowest, dipping below $1,300.
How many Airbnbs are there in Cranston?
As of April 2026, there are 19 active Airbnb listings in Cranston. The supply is concentrated in smaller properties — 10 one-bedroom listings and 5 two-bedroom listings make up the majority. With 76% year-over-year growth in listing count, the market is expanding but remains relatively small compared to other Rhode Island markets.
How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Cranston?
The annual and monthly revenue figures for Cranston 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 by market
  • Average daily rates, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics across property sizes
  • Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking data
  • Property-level amenity prevalence and guest expectation signals
  • Home value data from Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for investment context

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 and current market snapshots as of April 2026; conditions may shift as the market evolves. Local regulations, HOA rules, and tax obligations vary — investors should verify all requirements before purchasing or listing a property.

Next Steps

Ready to invest in Cranston's short-term rental market? Take action with these resources:

Browse Airbnbs for Sale

Explore active Airbnbs and STR-ready homes in Charlotte with verified income data.

View Properties

Connect with an Agent

Work with specialized agents who've helped investors acquire over $650M in STR properties.

Find an Agent

Connect with a Lender

Qualify for as low as 15% down on a DSCR loan using the rental property's projected income.

Find a Lender
Browse Airbnbs for Sale