Johnson City, TN Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Johnson City Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Johnson City, TN offers short-term rental investors an ADR of $135 — well below the state average of $309 — paired with an occupancy rate of 32% that edges past the Tennessee average of 29%. With 146 active Airbnb listings and average annual revenue of $18,741, the market rewards selective deal sourcing rather than broad-based buying. A 144% year-over-year jump in listing growth signals rising investor interest, so timing and property selection matter more than ever.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Johnson City 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 Johnson City

Investors look at Johnson City for its above-average occupancy stability and relatively affordable home prices, though the market requires careful property selection given competitive supply dynamics.

Expert Market Assessment

"Johnson City presents a competitive but selective opportunity for STR investors. Revenue peaks arrive in August ($2,070) and October ($2,051), while February represents the softest month at just $908 — a spread that underscores the market's meaningful seasonality. The ROI score of 46 out of 100 reflects a below-average revenue-to-price ratio and growing competition from new supply, but the above-average occupancy stability provides a foundation that disciplined investors can build on. Targeting larger properties in the 3- to 4-bedroom range, where revenue significantly outpaces smaller units, is the clearest path to stronger returns in this market."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Johnson City

Average revenue by month in Johnson City

Revenue in Johnson City follows a clear seasonal arc, peaking in August at $2,070 and October at $2,051, then dropping to a low of $908 in February — a spread of over $1,100 between the best and worst months. Investors should expect roughly five strong months (June–October) and plan reserves for the quieter winter and early spring period.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Johnson City

One-bedroom units dominate the supply with 59 listings (40% of the market), followed by 49 two-bedroom properties, while only 6 four-bedroom listings exist. The thin supply of larger homes — particularly 4-bedrooms — paired with their significantly higher revenue potential suggests an underserved segment worth targeting.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Johnson City

ADR scales steadily from $89 for 1-bedroom units to $247 for 4-bedroom properties, nearly a 3× premium. The jump from 3-bedrooms ($149) to 4-bedrooms ($247) is especially pronounced, indicating that larger homes command a meaningful rate premium that could offset higher acquisition costs.

Average RevPAN by property size in Johnson City

Four-bedroom properties deliver the strongest RevPAN at $90 — more than double the next-best category (2-bedrooms at $44) and over three times the 1-bedroom figure of $29. Interestingly, 3-bedroom listings ($39 RevPAN) underperform 2-bedrooms despite a higher ADR, likely due to their lower 26% occupancy rate.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Johnson City

Occupancy rates are relatively tight across most sizes, with 4-bedrooms leading at 37% and 2-bedrooms close behind at 35%, while 3-bedroom properties lag at 26%. The lower occupancy for 3-bedrooms is worth investigating before investing in that segment, as it may indicate pricing pressure or oversupply relative to demand.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Johnson City

Monthly revenue rises sharply with size: 1-bedrooms average $1,041, 2-bedrooms $1,622, 3-bedrooms $2,182, and 4-bedrooms lead at $4,005 — nearly four times the smallest category. The 4-bedroom tier stands out as the clear revenue leader, generating roughly $1,800 more per month than the next tier down.

Average annual revenue by property size in Johnson City

Annual revenue ranges from $12,498 for 1-bedroom listings to $48,067 for 4-bedroom properties, with the larger homes delivering a return that's nearly four times greater. Given average home values of $475,507 in the market, the 4-bedroom segment's $48,067 annual revenue offers the most compelling path toward favorable revenue-to-price ratios.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Johnson City

Parking (98%) and kitchens (97%) are near-universal, while self check-in (87%) has become a baseline guest expectation in Johnson City. Differentiating amenities like hot tubs (6%) and lake access (6%) remain rare, presenting an opportunity for hosts to stand out — particularly given the market's outdoor recreation appeal.

Understanding Johnson City's ROI Score: 46/100

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

Johnson City's ROI score of 46 out of 100 places it in the 'Competitive Opportunity' band, meaning the market has real demand but requires disciplined deal selection to generate attractive returns. Occupancy stability is the standout factor — scoring above average — while the revenue-to-price ratio, market growth trend, and supply/demand balance all come in below average, reflecting the rapid influx of new listings and moderate ADRs against rising home prices. Pairing this data with thorough local regulatory research and a focus on higher-earning property sizes will be essential for investors entering this market.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Johnson City

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Johnson City, Tennessee may need to obtain local permits or register their property with the city before listing on platforms like Airbnb. Investors should verify current requirements directly with Johnson City's planning and zoning department or Washington County offices, as rules can change.

Key Restrictions

Common STR restrictions in Tennessee municipalities include occupancy limits based on bedroom count, minimum-stay requirements, noise and nuisance ordinances, and parking mandates. Some neighborhoods may also be subject to HOA covenants that limit or prohibit short-term rentals, so reviewing deed restrictions is an essential step before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

Tennessee imposes a state sales tax and a local occupancy tax on short-term rentals, and platforms like Airbnb typically collect and remit a portion of these taxes on behalf of hosts. Investors should confirm their specific obligations with the Tennessee Department of Revenue and the local tax authority to ensure full compliance.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Johnson City's seasonal revenue pattern — peaking in late summer and October — suggests hosts can expect continued strength from June through October, with softer months from January through March. Occupancy stability scores above average in Rabbu's ROI model, so demand-side fundamentals remain solid even as new supply enters the market. ADR growth may face headwinds from the rapid listing increase, but well-positioned 3- and 4-bedroom properties could see modest rate gains in the range of 1–3%. Investors should plan conservatively for winter cash flow dips while capitalizing on the extended warm-season window."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Johnson City, TN

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Johnson City?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Johnson City is currently 32%, which edges above the Tennessee state average of 29%. Occupancy varies by property size — 4-bedroom listings lead at 37%, while 3-bedroom units sit lower at 26%. This above-average occupancy stability is one of the market's stronger characteristics for investors looking at cash-flow predictability.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Johnson City?

On average, Airbnb hosts in Johnson City earn approximately $1,561 per month or $18,741 per year based on trailing 12-month performance data. Earnings vary significantly by property size: 1-bedroom units average $12,498 annually, 2-bedrooms bring in about $19,467, 3-bedrooms earn roughly $26,195, and 4-bedroom properties lead with approximately $48,067 per year. Actual results depend on factors like pricing strategy, guest reviews, and property quality.

Is Johnson City a good market for Airbnb investment?

Johnson City carries an ROI score of 46 out of 100, which Rabbu classifies as a 'Competitive Opportunity.' The market's occupancy stability is above average, but the revenue-to-price ratio and supply/demand balance score below average, meaning investors need to be more selective about which properties they acquire. Larger properties (3–4 bedrooms) significantly outperform smaller units in both revenue and RevPAN, so targeting the right property type is key to making the numbers work.

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

The average daily rate in Johnson City is $135, which is considerably lower than the Tennessee state average of $309. ADR scales with property size — 1-bedroom listings average $89, 2-bedrooms average $125, 3-bedrooms reach $149, and 4-bedroom properties command $247 per night. The lower ADR reflects the market's position as an affordable Appalachian destination rather than a premium resort area.

Are short-term rentals legal in Johnson City?

Short-term rentals do operate in Johnson City, Tennessee, with 146 active Airbnb listings currently in the market. However, local regulations including permits, zoning restrictions, and tax obligations may apply and can evolve over time. Prospective investors should verify the latest STR rules with Johnson City's local government and consult the Tennessee Department of Revenue for tax requirements before purchasing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Johnson City?

Peak season in Johnson City runs from June through October, with August ($2,070) and October ($2,051) delivering the highest average monthly revenues. The fall foliage season in the Appalachian region likely drives the strong October performance. The slowest months are January ($1,023) and February ($908), so investors should budget for reduced winter income when planning cash flow.

How many Airbnbs are there in Johnson City?

There are currently 146 active Airbnb listings in Johnson City. The market has seen significant growth, with a 144% year-over-year increase in active listings. Supply is concentrated in smaller units — 59 one-bedroom and 49 two-bedroom listings make up the majority, while only 6 four-bedroom properties are listed, suggesting potential opportunity in that less-crowded segment.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Johnson City?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Johnson City 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 into 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 for the Johnson City market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics across property sizes
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Home value estimates sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
• Amenity prevalence data across active listings to identify market standards

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; market conditions, regulations, and pricing can change at any time. Individual property results will vary based on location, condition, management quality, and pricing strategy.