Ferndale, MI Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

As of Apr, 27 2026

Rabbu ROI Score

64 / 100

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

Ferndale Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Ferndale, MI presents an attractive short-term rental opportunity with an ROI score of 64 out of 100, underpinned by above-average occupancy stability and reasonable property values averaging $327,412. With 59 active Airbnb listings generating an average annual revenue of $22,451, this compact metro Detroit suburb offers investors a manageable entry point into a market where demand appears steady relative to supply. The market's 121% year-over-year listing growth signals rising investor interest, though current occupancy and ADR sit below state averages — suggesting room for well-positioned properties to outperform.

Key Market Statistics

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

Key Airbnb and short-term rental market statistics.
Metric Context Value
Active Airbnb Listings As of Apr, 27 2026 59
Average Daily Rate (ADR) vs. $350 state avg. $123
Average Occupancy Rate vs. 42% state avg. 32%
RevPAN ADR * Occupancy Rate $39
Average Monthly Revenue Historical 12-month average $1,870
Average Annual Revenue Historical 12-month average $22,451

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

Why Investors Consider Ferndale

Ferndale attracts STR investors with its affordable entry price, above-average occupancy stability, and proximity to the broader Detroit metro area's event and business traffic.

Key investment factors

  • Average home values of $327,412 create a lower barrier to entry compared to many Michigan markets
  • Above-average occupancy stability provides more predictable cash flow throughout the year
  • Proximity to Detroit brings access to event-driven and corporate travel demand
  • Compact market with only 59 active listings means less direct competition for well-differentiated properties
  • Seasonal summer revenue peaks above $2,700/month offer meaningful upside during warm months

Expert Market Assessment

"Ferndale earns an "Attractive Opportunity" designation, reflecting a balanced profile where healthy occupancy stability offsets a tighter supply/demand ratio. Seasonality is pronounced — July revenue of $2,749 per listing is nearly three times the February low of $988 — so investors should plan cash reserves to cover the quieter winter stretch. Two-bedroom properties stand out as the occupancy leaders at 36%, while three-bedroom units generate the highest gross revenue at $26,544 annually. For investors comfortable navigating a small but growing market with clear seasonal swings, Ferndale offers a credible income-producing opportunity at a moderate price point."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Understanding Ferndale's ROI Score: 64/100

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

What This Means for Investors

Ferndale's ROI score of 64 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, driven primarily by above-average occupancy stability and an average revenue-to-price ratio that makes the numbers pencil for many investors. The below-average supply/demand balance — reflecting 121% year-over-year listing growth — is the key headwind to monitor, as continued rapid supply additions could dilute per-listing performance. Investors should pair this score with local regulatory research and a property-level underwriting analysis to confirm that individual deals align with their return targets.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Ferndale

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Ferndale, Michigan may be required to obtain a permit or register their property with the city before listing on platforms like Airbnb. Investors should verify current requirements directly with the City of Ferndale's planning or licensing department before acquiring a property.

Key Restrictions

Common STR restrictions in Michigan communities can include occupancy limits tied to bedroom count, minimum stay requirements, noise ordinances, and off-street parking mandates. HOA rules may impose additional constraints, and some municipalities cap the total number of STR permits issued — it's essential to confirm whether Ferndale applies any such limitations.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental hosts in Michigan are generally subject to state sales tax and may owe local accommodations or excise taxes on bookings. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit certain taxes on behalf of hosts, but operators should confirm their full tax obligations with a local advisor to ensure compliance.

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

Short-Term Rental Financing for Ferndale

Financing an Airbnb investment in Ferndale 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 Ferndale Lender →

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Ferndale's STR market is expected to follow its established seasonal rhythm, with peak revenue during the June–August corridor and softer winter months. Occupancy stability — rated above average among ROI factors — suggests demand should hold reasonably steady even as new supply enters the market. Investors can anticipate modest ADR growth in the range of 1–3% as the market matures, though the rapid pace of new listings may temper gains if supply outpaces demand. Monitoring the supply/demand balance will be critical, as this factor currently rates below average and could pressure per-listing revenue if listing growth continues at its recent pace."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Ferndale, MI

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Ferndale?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Ferndale is currently 32%, which falls below the Michigan state average of 42%. Occupancy varies by property size — two-bedroom listings lead at 36%, followed by one-bedrooms at 32% and three-bedrooms at 27%. Despite the below-state-average figure, Ferndale's occupancy stability is rated above average in Rabbu's ROI analysis, suggesting that demand, while not exceptionally high, remains relatively consistent throughout the year.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Ferndale?
On average, Airbnb hosts in Ferndale earn approximately $1,870 per month or $22,451 per year based on the trailing 12 months of booking data. Revenue varies significantly by property size: one-bedroom listings average $16,885 annually, two-bedrooms bring in around $23,934, and three-bedroom properties lead at roughly $26,544 per year. Seasonal fluctuations also play a role, with July being the highest-earning month at $2,749 and February the lowest at $988.
Is Ferndale a good market for Airbnb investment?
Ferndale scores 64 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, earning an "Attractive Opportunity" rating. The market benefits from above-average occupancy stability and a reasonable revenue-to-price ratio relative to average home values of $327,412. Investors should be aware that the supply/demand balance currently rates below average due to rapid listing growth (121% year-over-year), and occupancy at 32% trails the state average. That said, for investors who price competitively and offer well-appointed properties, Ferndale can deliver meaningful returns — especially during the strong summer months.
What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Ferndale?
The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Ferndale is $123, which is considerably lower than the Michigan state average of $350. ADR scales with property size: one-bedroom listings average $91 per night, two-bedrooms command $131, and three-bedroom properties reach $151. The lower ADR relative to the state reflects Ferndale's positioning as an affordable urban suburb rather than a resort or vacation destination.
Are short-term rentals legal in Ferndale?
Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Ferndale, MI, though operators may need to obtain appropriate permits or registrations from the city. Regulations can change, so prospective investors should contact the City of Ferndale directly or consult a local real estate attorney to confirm current licensing requirements, zoning restrictions, and any applicable occupancy or operational rules before purchasing a property.
When is peak season for Airbnb in Ferndale?
Peak season for Airbnb in Ferndale runs from June through September, with July being the strongest month at an average revenue of $2,749 per listing. August follows closely at $2,575, and June rounds out the top three at $2,373. The off-peak season spans December through March, with February marking the lowest revenue month at just $988. This seasonal spread means summer months can generate roughly 2.5 to 3 times the revenue of the slowest winter months.
How many Airbnbs are there in Ferndale?
As of April 2026, there are 59 active Airbnb listings in Ferndale. The market has experienced significant growth, with a 121% year-over-year increase in active listings. Supply is distributed fairly evenly across property sizes: 20 one-bedroom listings, 15 two-bedroom listings, and 19 three-bedroom listings. The relatively small total supply means individual properties can still capture meaningful market share with strong positioning and guest experience.
How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Ferndale?
The annual and monthly revenue figures for Ferndale 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 remaining data up to a market-level historical average. Because each month uses its own historical performance data, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks (like July at $2,749) and slower periods (like February at $988). Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how effectively 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 Ferndale, MI market
  • Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics reflecting current market conditions
  • Historical monthly and annual revenue averages based on trailing 12-month booking data
  • Property size breakdowns for listings, rates, occupancy, and revenue
  • Home value estimates sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)

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 averages and current market snapshots; conditions may shift as supply and local regulations evolve. Individual property results will vary based on location, quality, pricing strategy, and management effectiveness.

Next Steps

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