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

As of Apr, 27 2026

Rabbu ROI Score

60 / 100

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

Raeford Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Raeford, NC is a compact short-term rental market with just 22 active Airbnb listings and notable year-over-year supply growth of 82%, signaling rising investor interest. Average annual revenue sits at $21,199 against an average home value of $356,705, producing a moderate revenue-to-price ratio. With above-average market growth and supply/demand balance scores, the market offers an attractive entry point for investors willing to navigate its below-average occupancy stability.

Key Market Statistics

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

Key Airbnb and short-term rental market statistics.
Metric Context Value
Active Airbnb Listings As of Apr, 27 2026 22
Average Daily Rate (ADR) vs. $262 state avg. $148
Average Occupancy Rate vs. 34% state avg. 30%
RevPAN ADR * Occupancy Rate $44
Average Monthly Revenue Historical 12-month average $1,766
Average Annual Revenue Historical 12-month average $21,199

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

Why Investors Consider Raeford

Raeford's favorable supply/demand dynamics and above-average growth trend make it a compelling option for investors seeking an emerging STR market with relatively affordable property prices.

Key investment factors

  • Rapid 82% year-over-year growth in active listings signals strengthening demand recognition
  • Average home values of $356,705 are well below many comparable North Carolina markets, lowering the barrier to entry
  • Above-average supply/demand balance suggests the market is not yet oversaturated
  • Summer and fall months deliver peak revenue, with July averaging $2,387—strong seasonal upside
  • Proximity to Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) likely supports consistent military-related travel demand

Expert Market Assessment

"Raeford presents a moderately attractive investment opportunity for short-term rental operators who can tolerate some occupancy volatility. The market's ROI score of 60 out of 100 reflects a healthy revenue-to-price ratio and encouraging growth trends, tempered by below-average occupancy stability at 30% versus the 34% state average. Seasonality is pronounced—revenue more than doubles from the February low of $917 to the July peak of $2,387—so cash-flow planning should account for softer winter months. Investors who pair competitive pricing with strong amenity offerings during the summer-fall peak could generate meaningful returns in this emerging market."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Understanding Raeford's ROI Score: 60/100

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

What This Means for Investors

Raeford's ROI score of 60 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, reflecting a market where revenue relative to property prices is average but growth momentum and supply/demand dynamics are trending favorably. Below-average occupancy stability (30% vs. 34% state average) is the primary drag on the score, meaning investors should stress-test their projections for softer booking months. Pairing this data with on-the-ground regulatory research and a strong pricing strategy will be essential to unlocking the market's full potential.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Raeford

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

Permit Requirements

Investors operating short-term rentals in Raeford, North Carolina should verify whether a permit or business registration is required through the City of Raeford and Hoke County. North Carolina does not impose a statewide STR permit, so local requirements can vary and should be confirmed with municipal authorities before listing.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits, minimum-stay requirements, noise ordinances, and parking regulations. HOA rules can also impose additional constraints, particularly in newer residential developments, so investors should review any applicable covenants before purchasing a property for STR use.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental operators in North Carolina are generally subject to state and local occupancy taxes, as well as applicable sales tax. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit some of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full obligations with the North Carolina Department of Revenue and Hoke County tax authorities.

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

Short-Term Rental Financing for Raeford

Financing an Airbnb investment in Raeford 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 Raeford Lender →

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Raeford's rapid listing growth suggests demand drivers are becoming more widely recognized, though occupancy—currently at 30%—will need to firm up as supply expands. Seasonal data points to a strong summer-to-fall revenue window (July through October), and investors who optimize pricing during these months could see monthly earnings in the $2,200–$2,400 range. ADR may inch up modestly by 2–4% if demand continues its upward trajectory, but new supply entering the market could keep occupancy rates in the 28–33% band unless demand grows proportionally. Estimates indicate that operators who invest in guest experience and smart pricing tools will be best positioned to outperform market averages."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Raeford, NC

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Raeford?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Raeford is currently 30%, which is slightly below the North Carolina state average of 34%. Four-bedroom properties tend to perform better at 38% occupancy compared to 33% for three-bedroom listings. Occupancy varies significantly by season, with the strongest bookings occurring during the summer and fall months.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Raeford?
Airbnb hosts in Raeford earn an average of $1,766 per month, which translates to roughly $21,199 annually based on the trailing 12 months of booking data. Four-bedroom properties lead with average monthly revenue of $2,244 and annual revenue of $26,939, while three-bedroom listings average $1,917 per month ($23,006 annually). Individual results depend on factors like property quality, pricing strategy, and seasonal optimization.
Is Raeford a good market for Airbnb investment?
Raeford scores a 60 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 relatively affordable average home values of $356,705. However, occupancy stability is below average, so investors should be prepared for seasonal income fluctuations and plan their cash flow accordingly.
What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Raeford?
The average daily rate in Raeford is $148, which is below the North Carolina state average of $262. ADR varies by property size: three-bedroom listings average $151 per night while four-bedroom properties command $185 per night. The lower ADR relative to the state reflects Raeford's position as a more affordable, emerging market.
Are short-term rentals legal in Raeford?
Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Raeford, NC, though operators should verify local permit requirements and zoning regulations with the City of Raeford and Hoke County. North Carolina does not have a blanket statewide STR ban, but local jurisdictions may impose their own rules regarding registration, occupancy limits, and tax collection. It's recommended to consult with local authorities and review any applicable HOA restrictions before purchasing a property for STR use.
When is peak season for Airbnb in Raeford?
Peak season in Raeford runs from roughly June through October, with July delivering the highest average monthly revenue at $2,387. October is also strong at $2,239. The off-peak period hits its lowest point in February at just $917, meaning operators should budget carefully for the slower winter months while maximizing rates during the summer-fall window.
How many Airbnbs are there in Raeford?
As of April 2026, there are 22 active Airbnb listings in Raeford. The market has seen significant growth, with an 82% year-over-year increase in active listings. The supply is concentrated among three-bedroom (7 listings) and four-bedroom (9 listings) properties, suggesting the market primarily serves families and groups rather than solo travelers or couples.
How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Raeford?
The annual and monthly revenue figures for Raeford are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market—not a forward-looking projection. Rabbu averages each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, drops regional outliers, and rolls the remainder up to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors figures to what hosts have actually earned recently rather than to forecasts, while still naturally reflecting seasonal peaks (like July at $2,387) and slower months (like February at $917) because 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 the Raeford market
  • Historical occupancy and average daily rate trends across property sizes
  • Revenue and yield metrics including RevPAN, monthly, and annual revenue breakdowns
  • Amenity prevalence data based on active listing feature analysis
  • Home value data sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)

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 averages and market conditions may shift as new supply enters. Local regulations and tax obligations should be independently verified with municipal and state authorities before investing.

Next Steps

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