Elkhorn, WI Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Elkhorn Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Elkhorn, WI stands out as a compact but high-potential short-term rental market, earning an ROI score of 77 out of 100 — placing it in "Standout Opportunity" territory. With an average daily rate of $508 (well above Wisconsin's $368 state average) and average annual revenue of $52,234, the market rewards hosts who can capture its pronounced summer demand. The small listing count of just 23 active Airbnbs suggests limited competition relative to the area's lakeside and recreational appeal, creating room for well-positioned properties to claim meaningful market share.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Elkhorn 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 Elkhorn

Elkhorn's above-average revenue-to-price ratio and limited supply relative to demand make it an attractive entry point for STR investors seeking seasonal vacation-rental income in southern Wisconsin.

Expert Market Assessment

"Elkhorn presents a compelling but seasonally driven investment opportunity. Peak months of July and August generate average revenues approaching $9,100–$9,700, roughly four to five times the winter lows near $2,000–$2,500, making cash-flow planning around seasonality essential. The market's above-average revenue-to-price ratio and favorable supply/demand dynamics support its 77-point ROI score, though the current 19% average occupancy rate — well below Wisconsin's 38% average — means hosts must capitalize heavily on peak season to hit annual targets. Properties that can attract shoulder-season guests through amenities like hot tubs, pet-friendliness, or lake access will be best positioned to smooth out revenue across the year."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Elkhorn

Average revenue by month in Elkhorn

Elkhorn's revenue is sharply seasonal, peaking in July at $9,673 and bottoming out in January at $2,032 — a nearly 5x spread. The summer core (June–August) accounts for the lion's share of annual income, while the November–March stretch stays relatively flat around $2,000–$2,700, underscoring the importance of maximizing peak-season bookings.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Elkhorn

All reported active listings in Elkhorn are 3-bedroom properties (10 listings), suggesting a highly concentrated supply. This lack of diversity in property sizes could signal opportunity for investors looking to differentiate with smaller studios or larger family-sized homes.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Elkhorn

Three-bedroom properties in Elkhorn command an average daily rate of $420, which is already premium territory for a small Wisconsin market. With only one property size segment reporting, there's no direct comparison, but the strong ADR suggests guests are willing to pay well for spacious lakeside accommodations.

Average RevPAN by property size in Elkhorn

Three-bedroom listings generate a RevPAN of $58, reflecting the interplay between a healthy nightly rate and relatively low occupancy. Improving occupancy through dynamic pricing or shoulder-season promotions could meaningfully boost this figure for active hosts.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Elkhorn

Three-bedroom properties average just 14% occupancy, indicating that most bookings are concentrated in peak summer months with significant vacancy the rest of the year. Investors should model cash flow conservatively and explore strategies — like pet-friendliness or event-based marketing — to fill more nights outside of summer.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Elkhorn

Three-bedroom units average $2,519 per month, though this figure smooths over significant seasonal swings between summer highs near $9,000+ and winter lows near $2,000. Investors evaluating monthly cash flow should weight the summer months heavily in their projections.

Average annual revenue by property size in Elkhorn

A 3-bedroom property in Elkhorn generates approximately $30,237 in annual revenue on average, offering a baseline for underwriting against the market's $420,347 average home value. Higher-performing listings that capture above-average summer bookings or extend into shoulder season could meaningfully exceed this figure.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Elkhorn

Kitchen and parking are universal (100%) among Elkhorn listings, while washer/dryer (96%), backyard (91%), and self check-in (87%) are near-standard — signaling that guests expect a full home-style experience. Differentiators like lake access (39%), hot tubs (35%), and pet-friendliness (65%) are less common and could give competitive advantage to properties that offer them.

Understanding Elkhorn's ROI Score: 77/100

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

Elkhorn's ROI score of 77 out of 100 places it in the "Standout Opportunity" band, driven primarily by an above-average revenue-to-price ratio and a favorable supply/demand balance that keeps competition manageable. Occupancy stability and market growth trend both rate as average, reflecting the pronounced seasonality and the still-maturing nature of this small market. Investors should pair these data-driven signals with thorough local regulatory research and a realistic cash-flow model that accounts for winter softness.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Elkhorn

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Elkhorn, WI may be required to obtain a tourist rooming house license through the State of Wisconsin's Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), and the City of Elkhorn may have additional local registration or permit requirements. Investors should verify current licensing obligations with both the city and Walworth County before listing a property.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in Wisconsin STR markets can include occupancy limits based on bedroom count, minimum stay requirements, noise and nuisance ordinances, parking provisions, and rules imposed by homeowners' associations. Some jurisdictions also cap the number of permits issued or restrict rentals in certain zoning districts, so checking local ordinances is essential before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

Wisconsin requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit state sales tax and a room tax (often called a local tourism or lodging tax), which varies by municipality. Major booking platforms typically handle state-level tax collection on behalf of hosts, but local room taxes may need to be remitted separately — investors should confirm their obligations with Elkhorn and Walworth County.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Elkhorn's short-term rental market is expected to continue benefiting from strong summer leisure demand, with July and August likely remaining the revenue peaks. Year-over-year listing growth of 109% signals rising investor interest, which could gradually moderate occupancy if supply outpaces demand — though the favorable supply/demand balance rated above average suggests this hasn't become a concern yet. Investors should anticipate ADR holding steady or edging up 2–4% for peak season given the market's premium pricing, while off-season months (January through April) will likely keep occupancy in the low-to-mid teens. Diversifying with amenities like lake access and hot tubs could help extend shoulder-season bookings."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Elkhorn, WI

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Elkhorn?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Elkhorn is currently 19%, which sits below the Wisconsin state average of 38%. This reflects the market's strong seasonal character — summer months see substantially higher booking rates while winter months are quieter. Properties with standout amenities like lake access or hot tubs may achieve above-average occupancy.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Elkhorn?

Elkhorn Airbnb hosts earn an average of $4,352 per month and approximately $52,234 per year based on trailing 12-month booking data. However, revenue is heavily seasonal — July hosts average around $9,673 while January drops to roughly $2,032. Individual earnings depend on property quality, pricing strategy, and amenities offered.

Is Elkhorn a good market for Airbnb investment?

Elkhorn scores 77 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the "Standout Opportunity" category. Key strengths include an above-average revenue-to-price ratio and a favorable supply/demand balance with only 23 active listings. The market's pronounced seasonality means investors should plan for lower winter income, but the strong summer revenue — with ADRs of $508 — can drive solid annual returns for well-managed properties.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Elkhorn is $508, which is notably higher than the Wisconsin state average of $368. This premium pricing reflects the area's appeal as a lakeside and recreational getaway destination, particularly during the summer months when demand peaks.

Are short-term rentals legal in Elkhorn?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Elkhorn, WI, though operators may need to obtain appropriate licensing through the State of Wisconsin and potentially register with the City of Elkhorn. Local zoning, HOA restrictions, and occupancy rules may also apply. Investors should consult with local authorities and review any applicable ordinances before purchasing or listing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Elkhorn?

Peak season in Elkhorn runs from June through August, with July being the strongest month at an average revenue of $9,673 per listing. August follows closely at $9,119. Revenue tapers in September ($5,561) and drops significantly from November through March, when monthly averages range between $2,000 and $2,500.

How many Airbnbs are there in Elkhorn?

As of April 2026, there are 23 active Airbnb listings in Elkhorn. This is a relatively small supply pool, and year-over-year listing growth of 109% indicates the market is expanding as more investors recognize the area's potential. The limited competition can benefit hosts who offer well-appointed properties.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Elkhorn?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Elkhorn 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, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks and slower periods. 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, occupancy rates, and daily rates for the Elkhorn market
• Historical revenue and yield metrics based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Property size breakdowns for listings, ADR, occupancy, and revenue
• Amenity prevalence data across active listings to identify guest expectations
• Home value estimates sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for investment analysis

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 the stated date; market conditions can shift due to regulatory changes, economic factors, or seasonal demand. Individual property results will vary based on location, quality, pricing strategy, and management approach. Investors should conduct independent due diligence including local regulatory research.