Phenix City, AL Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

As of Apr, 27 2026

Rabbu ROI Score

67 / 100

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

Phenix City Short-Term Rental Market Overview

With just 18 active Airbnb listings and an ROI score of 67 out of 100, Phenix City, AL is an emerging micro-market where limited supply meets growing demand. Average annual revenue sits at $20,810 against average home values of $295,610, and a remarkable 96% year-over-year growth in active listings signals that hosts are recognizing the opportunity. The market's proximity to Columbus, Georgia adds a cross-border demand driver that keeps this small Alabama city on investor radars.

Key Market Statistics

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

Key Airbnb and short-term rental market statistics.
Metric Context Value
Active Airbnb Listings As of Apr, 27 2026 18
Average Daily Rate (ADR) vs. $247 state avg. $160
Average Occupancy Rate vs. 38% state avg. 24%
RevPAN ADR * Occupancy Rate $38
Average Monthly Revenue Historical 12-month average $1,734
Average Annual Revenue Historical 12-month average $20,810

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

Why Investors Consider Phenix City

Phenix City appeals to investors seeking an affordable entry point in a rapidly growing micro-market with limited competition and a favorable supply/demand dynamic.

Key investment factors

  • Average home values of $295,610 offer a lower barrier to entry compared to many STR markets
  • 96% year-over-year listing growth reflects rising investor and host confidence
  • Only 18 active listings create a low-competition environment with room to capture share
  • Above-average supply/demand balance and market growth trend support the 67/100 ROI score
  • Proximity to Columbus, GA provides access to military (Fort Moore), university, and event-driven demand

Expert Market Assessment

"Phenix City represents a moderate-to-attractive opportunity for STR investors willing to work within a small, developing market. Revenue peaks sharply in March ($2,587) and stays elevated through the fall, with November ($2,343) and December ($2,126) rounding out a strong second-half season — while January ($566) and February ($736) are notably soft. The combination of an above-average growth trend and favorable supply/demand dynamics justifies the 67/100 ROI score, though the 24% market-wide occupancy rate signals that active pricing optimization and guest experience investment are essential to outperform averages."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Understanding Phenix City's ROI Score: 67/100

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

What This Means for Investors

Phenix City's ROI score of 67 out of 100 places it in the 'Attractive Opportunity' band, driven by above-average marks in both market growth trend and supply/demand balance, while revenue-to-price ratio and occupancy stability land at average levels. The score reflects a market that's growing quickly from a small base, with favorable competitive dynamics but room for improvement in occupancy consistency. Investors should pair this score with on-the-ground regulatory research and property-specific underwriting to determine whether individual deals pencil out.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Phenix City

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Phenix City, Alabama may need to obtain a business license or STR-specific permit before listing a property. Investors should verify current requirements directly with the City of Phenix City and Russell County officials, as local rules can evolve quickly in growing markets.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits, minimum stay requirements, noise ordinances, and parking regulations. HOA covenants can also impose additional limitations on short-term rental activity, so reviewing any applicable deed restrictions is essential before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

Alabama imposes a state lodging tax on short-term rentals, and Phenix City or Russell County may levy additional occupancy or sales taxes. Many booking platforms collect and remit certain taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full tax obligations with a local accountant or the Alabama Department of Revenue.

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

Short-Term Rental Financing for Phenix City

Financing an Airbnb investment in Phenix City 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 Phenix City Lender →

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Phenix City's short-term rental market is likely to continue expanding given its above-average growth trend and favorable supply/demand balance. Seasonal data suggests revenue could strengthen during spring and fall peaks, with March historically delivering around $2,587 per listing. Investors should anticipate occupancy hovering in the 24–33% range market-wide, with potential for improvement as the market matures and operators refine pricing strategies. ADR may see modest gains of 2–5% if demand continues its current trajectory, though the market's small listing base means individual performance can vary considerably."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Phenix City, AL

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Phenix City?
The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Phenix City is currently 24%, which is below the Alabama state average of 38%. For 1-bedroom properties specifically, occupancy runs higher at 33%. These figures reflect market-wide averages, and well-optimized listings with competitive pricing and strong reviews can exceed these benchmarks.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Phenix City?
Airbnb hosts in Phenix City earn an average of $1,734 per month, or approximately $20,810 per year based on trailing 12-month data. Revenue varies significantly by season — March is the strongest month at around $2,587, while January dips to roughly $566. Individual results depend on property quality, pricing strategy, and how well hosts manage seasonal demand shifts.
Is Phenix City a good market for Airbnb investment?
Phenix City scores 67 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the 'Attractive Opportunity' category. The market benefits from above-average growth trends and a favorable supply/demand balance, with only 18 active listings currently. Average home values of $295,610 provide a relatively affordable entry point. That said, occupancy rates trail the state average, so investors should plan for active management and seasonal revenue fluctuations.
What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Phenix City?
The average daily rate in Phenix City is $160, which comes in below the Alabama state average of $247. For 1-bedroom properties, the ADR is $90. The lower ADR is consistent with the market's positioning as an affordable alternative, and it contributes to the accessible price point that attracts budget-conscious travelers.
Are short-term rentals legal in Phenix City?
Short-term rentals generally operate in Phenix City, AL, though hosts may need to obtain local business licenses or permits. Regulations can change as markets grow, so prospective investors should contact the City of Phenix City directly and review any applicable HOA restrictions before purchasing a property for STR use.
When is peak season for Airbnb in Phenix City?
March is the clear peak month for Airbnb revenue in Phenix City, with average earnings around $2,587 per listing. A secondary peak occurs in the fall, with November averaging $2,343 and October at $1,978. The slowest months are January and February, when average revenue drops to $566 and $736, respectively.
How many Airbnbs are there in Phenix City?
As of April 2026, there are 18 active Airbnb listings in Phenix City. This represents a 96% year-over-year increase in active listings, indicating rapid market growth. The small total supply means there's relatively limited competition, but it also means the market is still maturing.
How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Phenix City?
The annual and monthly revenue figures for Phenix 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 remainder up 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, since each month uses its own historical performance. 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 Phenix City and surrounding areas
  • Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN trends across property sizes
  • Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking performance
  • Home value benchmarks sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
  • Data aggregated from multiple proprietary and third-party sources for consistency

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 performance and market conditions as of April 2026; actual results may differ. Local regulations governing short-term rentals may change; investors should verify current rules before purchasing.

Next Steps

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