Lima, OH Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

As of Apr, 27 2026

Rabbu ROI Score

59 / 100

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

Lima Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Lima, OH presents an intriguing entry point for short-term rental investors drawn to affordable Midwest markets with room for growth. With an average home value of $259,166 and annual STR revenue averaging $12,596, the revenue-to-price ratio sits at an average level — but the market's above-average growth trend and 80% year-over-year increase in active listings signal rising demand. At just 47 active Airbnb listings, this is still a small, early-stage market where well-positioned properties can carve out meaningful share.

Key Market Statistics

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

Key Airbnb and short-term rental market statistics.
Metric Context Value
Active Airbnb Listings As of Apr, 27 2026 47
Average Daily Rate (ADR) vs. $250 state avg. $97
Average Occupancy Rate vs. 34% state avg. 38%
RevPAN ADR * Occupancy Rate $36
Average Monthly Revenue Historical 12-month average $1,049
Average Annual Revenue Historical 12-month average $12,596

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

Why Investors Consider Lima

Low property acquisition costs paired with above-average market growth make Lima appealing for investors seeking cash-flow-positive STR assets without the price premiums of larger Ohio metros.

Key investment factors

  • Average home values under $260K create a low barrier to entry compared to state and national averages
  • 80% year-over-year listing growth reflects rising traveler demand and host confidence
  • Occupancy of 38% already exceeds the 34% Ohio state average, suggesting genuine local demand
  • Only 47 active listings means limited competition and room to differentiate with quality amenities
  • Three-bedroom properties generate $16,818 in annual revenue, offering the strongest absolute return potential

Expert Market Assessment

"Lima earns an ROI score of 59 out of 100 — classified as an Attractive Opportunity — reflecting a balance of healthy revenue relative to property costs tempered by below-average occupancy stability. Seasonality is pronounced: October tops out at $1,391 in average monthly revenue while February bottoms at $707, a spread of nearly 50%. Investors comfortable with a seasonal cash-flow profile and willing to optimize pricing during softer months will find the most value here. The market's small supply base and strong growth trajectory make it a compelling option for operators who can differentiate through property quality and guest experience."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Understanding Lima's ROI Score: 59/100

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

What This Means for Investors

Lima's ROI score of 59 out of 100 places it in the Attractive Opportunity band, driven by an average revenue-to-price ratio and above-average market growth trend that offset below-average occupancy stability. The supply/demand balance sits at an average level, meaning the market isn't oversaturated but doesn't yet show the tight supply dynamics that would push scores higher. Investors should pair these metrics with on-the-ground regulatory research and property-level underwriting to determine whether Lima's affordable entry point and growth trajectory align with their risk tolerance.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Lima

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

Permit Requirements

Operators in Lima, OH should verify whether the city requires a short-term rental permit or business registration before listing a property. Ohio does not impose a statewide STR licensing framework, so requirements vary by municipality — contacting the Lima city zoning or planning office is the best first step.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply in markets like Lima include occupancy limits, minimum-night stay requirements, noise and nuisance ordinances, and off-street parking mandates. Investors should also check whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions in specific neighborhoods prohibit or limit short-term rental activity, as these can override local permissiveness.

Tax Obligations

Ohio imposes a state sales tax and many municipalities add a lodging or transient occupancy tax on stays under 30 days. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit state-level taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm whether any Lima-specific hotel or bed tax applies and whether separate registration is needed.

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

Short-Term Rental Financing for Lima

Financing an Airbnb investment in Lima 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 Lima Lender →

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Lima's STR market is likely to continue expanding as new hosts enter a still-undersupplied landscape. Seasonal revenue data suggests ADRs could edge up 2–4% during the September–October peak, while winter months may remain softer with monthly revenue dipping below $750. Occupancy rates — currently at 38% market-wide — could stabilize in the 36–42% range as supply and demand find a new equilibrium, though investors should plan for meaningful seasonal fluctuations rather than steady year-round cash flow."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Lima, OH

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Lima?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Lima, OH is currently 38%, which edges above the Ohio state average of 34%. Occupancy varies significantly by property size — 1-bedroom listings lead at 49%, while 3-bedroom properties average 28%. Investors should factor in this range when projecting income, as smaller units tend to fill more consistently even if they earn less per night.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Lima?
On average, Airbnb hosts in Lima earn approximately $1,049 per month or $12,596 per year based on the trailing 12 months of booking data. Revenue varies by property size: 1-bedroom listings average $9,700 annually, 2-bedrooms about $11,915, and 3-bedrooms lead at $16,818. Actual results depend on factors like pricing strategy, property condition, and guest reviews.
Is Lima a good market for Airbnb investment?
Lima scores 59 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the Attractive Opportunity tier. The market benefits from low acquisition costs (average home values around $259,166), above-average growth trends, and occupancy that outpaces the state average. However, occupancy stability is below average, meaning revenue can fluctuate seasonally. For investors seeking affordable entry with upside potential, Lima is worth a closer look — especially for 3-bedroom properties that command the highest revenue.
What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Lima?
The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Lima is $97, which is well below the Ohio state average of $250. ADR scales with property size: 1-bedroom listings average $60, 2-bedrooms $96, and 3-bedrooms $127. While nightly rates are modest, the lower price point can help maintain occupancy and appeals to budget-conscious travelers and contractors in the area.
Are short-term rentals legal in Lima?
Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Lima, OH, though specific permit, registration, or zoning requirements may apply. Ohio does not have a statewide STR ban, but local rules vary. Prospective hosts should check with Lima's city zoning office and review any applicable HOA restrictions before purchasing or listing a property.
When is peak season for Airbnb in Lima?
Peak season in Lima runs from late summer through fall, with October delivering the highest average monthly revenue at $1,391 and September close behind at $1,335. The slowest months are February ($707) and March ($736). This seasonal spread is significant — peak months generate nearly double the revenue of the softest periods — so pricing adjustments and minimum-stay strategies are important for maximizing annual returns.
How many Airbnbs are there in Lima?
As of April 2026, there are 47 active Airbnb listings in Lima, OH. The supply is concentrated in 1-bedroom properties (22 listings), followed by 3-bedrooms (14) and 2-bedrooms (6). The relatively small number of listings means there's limited competition, and the market has seen 80% year-over-year growth in active listings — a sign of increasing investor and traveler interest.
How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Lima?
The annual and monthly revenue figures for Lima 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 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 by market and property size
  • Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics with state-level benchmarks
  • Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking performance
  • Property value data sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
  • Amenity prevalence across active listings to inform competitive positioning

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. Local regulations, permit requirements, and tax obligations are subject to change — always verify with municipal authorities before investing. Individual property results may vary significantly based on location, condition, amenities, pricing strategy, and management quality.

Next Steps

Ready to invest in Lima's short-term rental market? Take action with these resources:

Browse Airbnbs for Sale

Explore active Airbnbs and STR-ready homes in Charlotte with verified income data.

View Properties

Connect with an Agent

Work with specialized agents who've helped investors acquire over $650M in STR properties.

Find an Agent

Connect with a Lender

Qualify for as low as 15% down on a DSCR loan using the rental property's projected income.

Find a Lender
Browse Airbnbs for Sale