Hot Springs, NC Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Hot Springs Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Hot Springs, NC offers a niche mountain-town STR market with 86 active Airbnb listings and an average annual revenue of $25,415 per property. While the average daily rate of $185 sits below the North Carolina state average of $262, the market's appeal to nature-seeking travelers and hot-springs enthusiasts creates a distinct demand base. With an ROI score of 51 out of 100, this is a competitive opportunity where selective deal sourcing and strong property differentiation will be key to achieving solid returns.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Hot Springs 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 Hot Springs

Investors consider Hot Springs for its outdoor recreation appeal, relatively low acquisition costs compared to major mountain destinations, and a distinct natural-springs draw that sustains leisure travel demand.

Expert Market Assessment

"Hot Springs presents a moderate opportunity for STR investors who understand niche leisure markets. Revenue peaks sharply in July ($2,916) and October ($2,749), while winter months like February dip to $1,136 — a spread that underscores meaningful seasonality. The 58% surge in active listings year over year is the most important factor to watch, as supply growth already outpaces demand balance (rated below average). Investors who differentiate with premium amenities and target the high-occupancy studio and 1-bedroom segments stand the best chance of outperforming the market average."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Hot Springs

Average revenue by month in Hot Springs

Hot Springs shows pronounced seasonality, with July ($2,916) and October ($2,749) as the clear revenue peaks and February ($1,136) as the lowest-earning month — a spread of roughly $1,780. Investors should budget for a slower winter stretch from January through March and plan pricing strategies that capitalize on summer and fall foliage demand.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Hot Springs

One-bedroom properties dominate the supply with 37 of 86 total listings, followed by 2-bedrooms (24) and 3-bedrooms (14), with only 5 studios. The limited studio inventory, combined with their relatively strong occupancy, may signal an underserved niche for investors considering smaller, lower-cost entry points.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Hot Springs

ADR climbs steadily from $140 for studios to $212 for 3-bedroom properties, a roughly 50% premium for the largest size category. However, the strongest value proposition may sit with 1-bedrooms at $162, where the rate pairs with the highest volume of bookings to deliver competitive revenue per available night.

Average RevPAN by property size in Hot Springs

Studios ($58) and 1-bedrooms ($61) deliver the highest RevPAN, meaningfully outperforming 2-bedrooms ($39) and 3-bedrooms ($38) despite their lower nightly rates. This gap highlights that higher occupancy in smaller units more than compensates for the ADR premium that larger properties command.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Hot Springs

Occupancy drops sharply as property size increases: studios fill 41% of available nights, 1-bedrooms 38%, while 2-bedrooms and 3-bedrooms fall to just 22% and 18% respectively. For investors prioritizing cash-flow consistency, smaller units offer a notably more stable booking pipeline in this market.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Hot Springs

Three-bedroom properties edge out 1-bedrooms for the highest monthly revenue ($2,175 vs. $2,109), while 2-bedrooms lag significantly at $1,456 despite higher ADR. Studios hold their own at $1,917 per month, making them a viable option given their lower operating and acquisition costs.

Average annual revenue by property size in Hot Springs

Three-bedroom listings top the annual revenue chart at $26,101, closely followed by 1-bedrooms at $25,310 — both well above the 2-bedroom figure of $17,472. The narrow gap between 1- and 3-bedroom annual revenue, combined with much higher occupancy for 1-bedrooms, suggests smaller properties may offer a better risk-adjusted return in Hot Springs.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Hot Springs

Parking (97%), kitchens (93%), and BBQ grills (86%) are near-universal, reflecting a market where guests expect a self-sufficient outdoor retreat experience. Hot tubs appear in 58% of listings and likely serve as a key differentiator — investors without this amenity may find it harder to compete for bookings in a market named for its thermal springs.

Understanding Hot Springs's ROI Score: 51/100

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

Hot Springs earns an ROI score of 51 out of 100, placing it in the Competitive Opportunity band — meaning demand and investor interest are real, but the market requires more careful deal selection. Revenue-to-price ratio and occupancy stability both rate as average, while supply/demand balance scores below average due to the rapid 58% growth in active listings. Pairing this data with thorough local regulatory research and a focus on high-occupancy property types will be critical to finding deals that pencil out.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Hot Springs

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Hot Springs, North Carolina may need to obtain permits or register with local authorities before listing a property. Investors should verify current requirements with Madison County and the Town of Hot Springs, as regulations can evolve with growing STR activity in smaller communities.

Key Restrictions

Common STR restrictions in North Carolina communities can include occupancy limits, noise ordinances, parking requirements, and minimum-stay rules. HOA covenants may impose additional limitations, and some jurisdictions cap the number of active permits, so reviewing deed restrictions and local ordinances before purchasing is essential.

Tax Obligations

North Carolina requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit state and local occupancy taxes, along with applicable sales tax. Many booking platforms handle tax collection automatically, but hosts should confirm compliance with both state and Madison County tax obligations to avoid penalties.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Hot Springs is likely to see continued seasonal demand patterns, with summer and fall months driving the bulk of revenue. The 58% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest, which may put downward pressure on occupancy — currently at 29% — unless traveler demand keeps pace. ADR could see modest increases of 1–3% as hosts invest in amenities like hot tubs and outdoor spaces to differentiate, though investors should plan conservatively around occupancy rates in the 25–32% range given the market's supply trajectory."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Hot Springs, NC

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Hot Springs?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Hot Springs is currently 29%, which falls below the North Carolina state average of 34%. Occupancy varies significantly by property size — studios lead at 41%, while 3-bedroom properties average just 18%. Smaller, well-positioned properties tend to stay booked more consistently in this market.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Hot Springs?

Airbnb hosts in Hot Springs earn an average of $2,117 per month, or roughly $25,415 per year based on trailing 12-month performance. Revenue varies by property size, with 3-bedroom listings averaging $26,101 annually and 1-bedrooms close behind at $25,310. Seasonal peaks in July and October can push monthly earnings well above $2,700.

Is Hot Springs a good market for Airbnb investment?

Hot Springs carries an ROI score of 51 out of 100 — classified as a Competitive Opportunity. The market's unique appeal (natural hot springs, Appalachian Trail proximity) drives leisure demand, but a 58% year-over-year increase in listings means competition is intensifying. Investors who source deals carefully and invest in guest-experience amenities like hot tubs and outdoor spaces are best positioned to generate attractive returns.

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

The average daily rate in Hot Springs is $185, which is lower than the North Carolina state average of $262. ADR scales with property size: studios average $140, 1-bedrooms $162, 2-bedrooms $182, and 3-bedrooms $212. This pricing structure reflects the market's nature-retreat positioning rather than luxury resort pricing.

Are short-term rentals legal in Hot Springs?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Hot Springs, NC, though operators may need to comply with local registration or permit requirements. Regulations can vary at the town and county level, so investors should contact Madison County and the Town of Hot Springs directly to confirm current rules, including any zoning restrictions or occupancy limits that may apply.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Hot Springs?

Peak season in Hot Springs runs primarily through the summer and fall months. July is the highest-earning month at $2,916 in average revenue, followed closely by October at $2,749 — likely driven by fall foliage tourism. The slowest months are February ($1,136) and January ($1,338), making winter the off-peak period for this mountain market.

How many Airbnbs are there in Hot Springs?

As of April 2026, there are 86 active Airbnb listings in Hot Springs. The supply is dominated by 1-bedroom properties (37 listings), followed by 2-bedrooms (24), 3-bedrooms (14), and studios (5). The market has seen a significant 58% year-over-year increase in active listings, indicating growing investor interest.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Hot Springs?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Hot Springs 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, remove regional outliers, and aggregate the remaining data 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 because each month draws on its own historical performance. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how effectively a 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 Hot Springs market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN trends across property sizes
• Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking data
• 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 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 snapshots as of the dates noted; market conditions can shift with seasonal trends, regulatory changes, or economic factors. Investors should independently verify local STR regulations, tax obligations, and HOA restrictions before acquiring a property.