Lenoir, NC Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Lenoir Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Lenoir, NC earns a standout ROI score of 78 out of 100, driven by above-average revenue-to-price ratios and stable occupancy for a small mountain-foothills market. With average home values sitting at $358,713 and annual STR revenue averaging $39,719, investors can achieve meaningful yield relative to entry cost. The market's 84 active Airbnb listings reflect a still-emerging supply base, and pronounced summer seasonality — monthly revenue roughly doubles from spring lows to August highs — points to leisure-driven demand tied to North Carolina's Blue Ridge foothills.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Lenoir 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 Lenoir

Lenoir offers investors an attractive combination of affordable entry costs and above-average revenue potential relative to home prices, supported by steady seasonal leisure demand in the Blue Ridge foothills.

Expert Market Assessment

"Lenoir represents a standout opportunity for STR investors who are comfortable with seasonal demand patterns. Revenue swings significantly across the calendar — August tops out at $5,010 per month while April bottoms near $2,237 — so cash-flow planning should account for softer shoulder months. The above-average revenue-to-price ratio and occupancy stability offset the below-average supply/demand balance, which reflects the rapid 79% year-over-year listing growth. Investors who target 3- and 4-bedroom properties and lean into the outdoor-recreation guest experience stand to capture the strongest returns."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Lenoir

Average revenue by month in Lenoir

Lenoir's revenue profile is heavily seasonal, with August ($5,010) and July ($4,961) delivering more than double what hosts earn during the slowest month, April ($2,237). Investors should plan for a pronounced summer peak and relatively flat shoulder-season earnings from November through May.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Lenoir

Two- and 3-bedroom listings dominate supply with 24 and 23 active listings respectively, while 4-bedrooms account for just 12 — an undersupplied segment given that larger properties generate the highest revenue. Studios remain a niche category at only 6 listings, offering limited data but also limited competition.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Lenoir

ADR climbs steeply with property size, from $151 for 1-bedrooms to $365 for 4-bedroom listings — a 142% premium that reflects strong group and family travel demand. The jump from 3-bedrooms ($246) to 4-bedrooms ($365) is especially notable, suggesting that extra capacity commands a disproportionate price premium in this market.

Average RevPAN by property size in Lenoir

Four-bedroom properties lead decisively with RevPAN of $113, nearly double the $59 earned by 2-bedroom units and more than triple the $31 for studios. This confirms that larger properties convert their higher nightly rates into meaningfully better revenue per available night despite similar occupancy levels.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Lenoir

Occupancy rates cluster in a fairly narrow band — 1-bedroom and 4-bedroom listings both achieve 31%, while 2-bedrooms sit at 26% and 3-bedrooms at 28%. Studios underperform significantly at 16%, suggesting limited demand for the smallest accommodation type in this leisure-driven market.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Lenoir

Four-bedroom listings top the revenue chart at $4,033 per month, followed by 2-bedrooms at $3,615 — interestingly outperforming 3-bedrooms ($3,227) despite similar supply levels. One-bedroom units trail at $2,299, making them the weakest earners on a monthly basis.

Average annual revenue by property size in Lenoir

On an annual basis, 4-bedroom properties generate $48,407, offering the strongest return potential and a meaningful gap over 2-bedrooms at $43,382 and 3-bedrooms at $38,725. Even studios outpace 1-bedrooms ($36,227 vs. $27,593), though their low occupancy rate introduces more cash-flow variability.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Lenoir

Parking is virtually universal at 99% of listings, while kitchens (88%), patios or balconies (79%), and BBQ grills (74%) confirm that guests expect a home-like outdoor experience. Hot tubs appear in 43% of listings — a meaningful differentiator rather than table stakes — and pet-friendliness (52%) signals opportunity for hosts willing to accommodate four-legged guests.

Understanding Lenoir's ROI Score: 78/100

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

Lenoir's ROI score of 78 out of 100 places it in the 'Standout Opportunity' tier, reflecting above-average marks in revenue-to-price ratio, occupancy stability, and market growth trend. The one area flagged as below average — supply/demand balance — speaks to the rapid 79% year-over-year growth in active listings, which investors should watch to ensure demand keeps pace. Pairing this score with local regulatory research and on-the-ground property analysis will give investors the most complete picture of whether Lenoir fits their portfolio.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Lenoir

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Lenoir, North Carolina may need to obtain a permit or register their property with local authorities before listing. Investors should verify current requirements directly with the City of Lenoir and Caldwell County, as regulations can change.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits, minimum stay requirements, noise ordinances, parking regulations, and HOA covenants that could restrict or prohibit short-term rentals. Some municipalities in North Carolina also impose permit caps or zoning restrictions on STR properties, so due diligence is essential before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

North Carolina requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit state and local occupancy taxes, and sales tax may also apply. Many booking platforms handle a portion of tax collection automatically, but hosts should confirm their obligations with the North Carolina Department of Revenue to ensure full compliance.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Lenoir's short-term rental market is expected to continue benefiting from strong summer demand, with peak-month revenues likely holding in the $4,800–$5,200 range. The 79% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest, which could compress occupancy rates modestly if demand doesn't keep pace — something worth monitoring. ADR may see a 2–4% drift upward as hosts upgrade amenities and compete for the growing outdoor-recreation visitor base. Investors entering now still enjoy a favorable revenue-to-price ratio, though the supply/demand balance warrants attention as the market matures."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Lenoir, NC

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Lenoir?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Lenoir is currently 27%, compared to the North Carolina state average of 34%. Occupancy varies by property size, with 1-bedroom and 4-bedroom listings achieving the highest rates at 31%, while studios lag at 16%. Seasonal demand patterns — particularly strong summer months — mean occupancy fluctuates throughout the year.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Lenoir?

Airbnb hosts in Lenoir earn an average of $3,309 per month, which translates to approximately $39,719 annually based on trailing 12-month performance. Earnings vary significantly by property size: 4-bedroom listings lead at roughly $4,033 per month ($48,407 annually), while 1-bedroom units average $2,299 per month ($27,593 annually). Peak summer months like July and August can push monthly revenue above $5,000.

Is Lenoir a good market for Airbnb investment?

Lenoir scores 78 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the 'Standout Opportunity' category. The market benefits from an above-average revenue-to-price ratio, with average home values of $358,713 and annual STR revenue near $39,719. Occupancy stability and market growth trends also rate above average. The main consideration is the supply/demand balance, which currently rates below average due to rapid listing growth — a factor investors should monitor as the market evolves.

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

The average daily rate in Lenoir is $236, slightly below the North Carolina state average of $262. ADR scales meaningfully with property size: studios average $193, 2-bedrooms command $225, and 4-bedroom properties reach $365 per night. This pricing structure rewards investors who target larger properties, especially those that cater to group travelers and families visiting the foothills region.

Are short-term rentals legal in Lenoir?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Lenoir, North Carolina, though operators may need to obtain local permits or register with the city and county. Regulations can vary and are subject to change, so it's important to check directly with the City of Lenoir, Caldwell County, and any applicable HOA before purchasing or listing a property. Compliance with state and local tax collection requirements is also necessary.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Lenoir?

Peak season in Lenoir runs through the summer months, with July and August delivering the highest revenue — $4,961 and $5,010 per month, respectively. September and October maintain solid performance in the $3,600–$3,700 range as fall foliage attracts visitors. The slowest months are March and April, when average monthly revenue dips to around $2,237–$2,333.

How many Airbnbs are there in Lenoir?

As of April 2026, there are 84 active Airbnb listings in Lenoir. The market has experienced significant growth, with a 79% year-over-year increase in active listings. Supply is distributed across property sizes, with 2-bedroom (24 listings) and 3-bedroom (23 listings) units making up the largest share, followed by 1-bedrooms (18), 4-bedrooms (12), and studios (6).

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Lenoir?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Lenoir 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 data, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks (like the summer surge) and slower periods (like early spring). Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, location within the market, 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 Lenoir, NC
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics across property sizes
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Property value benchmarks sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
• Amenity prevalence data drawn from active listing profiles in the market

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 historical averages and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, permit requirements, and tax obligations are subject to change — always verify with municipal and state authorities before investing.