Independence, KS Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Independence Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Independence, KS presents an intriguing value play for short-term rental investors, with an above-average revenue-to-price ratio that stands out relative to many Kansas markets. With average home values around $241,021 and annual STR revenue averaging $20,852, the market favors investors who prioritize cash-flow efficiency over raw revenue volume. The 36% occupancy rate outpaces the Kansas state average of 30%, and a notable 71% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest in this small-market opportunity.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Independence 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 Independence

Independence appeals to investors seeking strong revenue relative to low property acquisition costs in a small Kansas market with growing STR interest.

Expert Market Assessment

"Independence earns an ROI score of 63 out of 100, placing it in the "Attractive Opportunity" tier — a market where the numbers work for investors willing to manage around seasonal variability. Revenue peaks sharply in June at $3,517 per month and drops to a low of $882 in January, creating a roughly 4:1 spread that demands careful cash-flow planning. The market's strongest edge is its revenue-to-price ratio, which compensates for softer occupancy stability. Investors targeting 3-bedroom properties will find the most compelling returns, with those units generating roughly double the RevPAN of smaller configurations."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Independence

Average revenue by month in Independence

Independence shows pronounced seasonality, with June delivering the highest average revenue at $3,517 and January bottoming out at $882 — a spread of over $2,600. The core earning window runs May through August, making summer-focused pricing and marketing strategies essential for maximizing returns.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Independence

One-bedroom units dominate the Independence supply with 26 of 53 total listings (nearly half), while 2-bedroom and studio properties each account for just 7 listings. The relatively thin supply of 3-bedroom homes (11 listings) paired with their outsized revenue suggests an underserved niche worth targeting.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Independence

ADR climbs steeply with size in Independence: 1-bedrooms average just $98 per night, while 3-bedrooms command $229 — a 134% premium. Studios actually out-earn 1-bedrooms on a nightly basis at $135, suggesting that well-designed compact spaces can punch above their weight in this market.

Average RevPAN by property size in Independence

Three-bedroom properties deliver the strongest RevPAN at $80, more than double the next closest category (studios at $44). One- and 2-bedroom units cluster tightly at $35 and $37 respectively, indicating that the real revenue-per-night advantage in Independence comes from scaling up to larger configurations.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Independence

Occupancy rates are fairly compressed across property sizes, ranging from 25% for 2-bedrooms to 36% for 1-bedrooms. The 2-bedroom segment's notably lower occupancy at 25% warrants caution, while 1-bedroom and 3-bedroom units both maintain steadier demand in the mid-30s percentage range.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Independence

Three-bedroom listings are the clear revenue leaders at $3,280 per month — roughly 2.5 times what studios, 1-bedrooms, and 2-bedrooms generate ($1,220–$1,292 range). For investors seeking meaningful monthly cash flow from a single property, the 3-bedroom segment offers the most compelling case in Independence.

Average annual revenue by property size in Independence

Annual revenue tells a dramatic story: 3-bedroom properties earn $39,365 on average, while studios through 2-bedrooms cluster between $14,643 and $15,512. This roughly 2.5x gap makes 3-bedroom units the standout configuration for return potential, especially when weighed against Independence's moderate home prices.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Independence

Parking (93%) and kitchen access (87%) are near-universal in Independence listings, reflecting guest expectations in a car-dependent small market. Self check-in at 77% and workspace at 68% signal a guest base that values convenience and flexibility, while differentiators like hot tubs (15%) and pools (28%) remain relatively uncommon and could offer competitive advantages.

Understanding Independence's ROI Score: 63/100

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

Independence's ROI score of 63 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, driven primarily by an above-average revenue-to-price ratio that makes entry costs manageable relative to earning potential. The score is tempered by below-average occupancy stability, which reflects the seasonal revenue swings common in smaller leisure-oriented markets. Investors should pair this data with local regulatory research and a realistic cash-flow model that accounts for the quieter winter months.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Independence

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Independence, Kansas may need to obtain a local business license or STR permit before listing their property. Investors should verify current registration requirements directly with the City of Independence and Montgomery County officials, as regulations in smaller Kansas markets can evolve quickly.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits, noise ordinances, parking requirements, and minimum stay rules. HOA covenants can also impose additional limitations on short-term rentals, so any prospective purchase should include a review of applicable deed restrictions and community guidelines.

Tax Obligations

Kansas requires collection of state and local sales tax on short-term accommodations, and some jurisdictions impose an additional transient guest tax. Many booking platforms like Airbnb collect and remit a portion of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full obligations with a local tax advisor.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Independence is likely to see continued listing growth as investors respond to the market's favorable revenue-to-price dynamics, though occupancy stability — currently rated below average — will be the metric to watch. Seasonal patterns suggest ADR could hold steady or nudge up 1–3% as hosts optimize pricing around the strong May–August window, with annual revenue estimates in the $20,000–$22,000 range for a typical listing. The supply-demand balance remains average for now, but the rapid pace of new listings (71% YoY growth) could put downward pressure on occupancy if demand doesn't keep pace. Investors entering this market should plan for meaningful revenue swings between peak summer months and the quieter fall-winter period."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Independence, KS

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Independence?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Independence, KS is currently 36%, which outperforms the Kansas state average of 30%. Occupancy varies by property size — 1-bedroom units lead at 36%, while 2-bedroom properties sit lower at 25%. Investors should factor in seasonal fluctuations, as summer months drive significantly higher demand than winter.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Independence?

Airbnb hosts in Independence earn an average of $1,737 per month and approximately $20,852 per year based on trailing 12-month performance. Larger properties perform considerably better: 3-bedroom listings average $3,280 monthly ($39,365 annually), while studios and 1-bedrooms typically earn between $1,220 and $1,270 per month. Individual results depend on property quality, pricing strategy, and seasonal management.

Is Independence a good market for Airbnb investment?

Independence scores 63 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, rated as an "Attractive Opportunity." The market's standout strength is its above-average revenue-to-price ratio — average home values of $241,021 paired with $20,852 in annual revenue create a favorable entry point. The main consideration is below-average occupancy stability, meaning revenue can fluctuate significantly between peak and off-peak seasons. Investors focused on 3-bedroom properties may find especially compelling returns.

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

The average daily rate in Independence is $140, which is below the Kansas state average of $174. ADR scales meaningfully with property size: studios average $135, 1-bedrooms come in at $98, 2-bedrooms at $150, and 3-bedrooms command $229 per night. The lower market-wide ADR reflects the mix of smaller units that dominate the supply.

Are short-term rentals legal in Independence?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Independence, KS, though operators may need to secure local permits or business licenses. As with many smaller Kansas markets, regulations can change, so it's important to check with the City of Independence and Montgomery County for the most current rules regarding STR operations, zoning, and tax obligations before investing.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Independence?

Peak season in Independence runs from May through August, with June delivering the highest average monthly revenue at $3,517. May follows closely at $2,610 and July at $2,083. The slowest month is January at $882, creating a substantial seasonal swing. Investors should build financial plans that account for this roughly 4:1 ratio between peak and trough months.

How many Airbnbs are there in Independence?

Independence currently has 53 active Airbnb listings as of April 2026. The supply is heavily weighted toward 1-bedroom units (26 listings), with studios, 2-bedrooms, and 3-bedrooms each accounting for 7 to 11 listings. Active listings have grown 71% year over year, indicating accelerating investor interest in the market.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Independence?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Independence 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, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks (like June's $3,517) and slower months (like January's $882). Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how actively 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 by market and property size
• Occupancy rates, average daily rates, and RevPAN trends across bedroom configurations
• Monthly and annual revenue metrics based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Home value benchmarks sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
• Popular amenity prevalence data across active listings in the market

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 historical performance and market conditions may have changed since the last update. Local regulations, zoning rules, and tax obligations vary and should be independently verified before making investment decisions.