Shepherdstown, WV Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Shepherdstown Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Shepherdstown, WV presents an intriguing niche opportunity for short-term rental investors drawn to West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle. With just 32 active Airbnb listings and an above-average supply/demand balance, the market remains relatively uncrowded. Average annual revenue sits at $26,674, and while the 26% occupancy rate trails the state average of 38%, the small inventory suggests room for well-positioned properties to capture outsized demand during peak months like July and August, when monthly revenue climbs above $3,000.

Key Market Statistics

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

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

Why Investors Consider Shepherdstown

Investors are drawn to Shepherdstown for its favorable supply/demand dynamics, small-town charm near the Potomac River, and a compact inventory that limits direct competition.

Expert Market Assessment

"Shepherdstown earns an Attractive Opportunity designation, reflecting a market where healthy demand dynamics and manageable competition offset a below-average revenue-to-price ratio. Seasonality is pronounced — revenue nearly triples from January's $1,234 to August's $3,131 — so investors should plan cash flow around a distinct peak season running roughly May through October. The compact listing pool and favorable supply/demand balance create genuine upside for operators who can differentiate on amenities and guest experience, but the elevated average home value of $670,573 relative to annual revenue means careful underwriting is essential."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Shepherdstown

Average revenue by month in Shepherdstown

Revenue in Shepherdstown follows a clear seasonal arc, peaking in August at $3,131 and bottoming out in January at $1,234 — a spread of nearly $1,900. The strongest earning window runs May through October, with October's $2,703 suggesting that fall tourism provides a meaningful revenue extension beyond the traditional summer peak.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Shepherdstown

The market's supply is heavily weighted toward smaller properties, with 1-bedroom listings (12) outnumbering 2-bedroom units (8). The absence of larger 3+ bedroom listings in the tracked data could signal an underserved niche for investors willing to offer group-friendly accommodations.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Shepherdstown

ADR scales meaningfully from $111 for 1-bedroom properties to $171 for 2-bedrooms — a 54% premium for just one additional bedroom. This pricing jump suggests strong guest willingness to pay more for extra space, making 2-bedroom units an appealing option for maximizing nightly rate relative to acquisition cost.

Average RevPAN by property size in Shepherdstown

RevPAN is remarkably close across property sizes, with 1-bedrooms at $40 and 2-bedrooms at $38. Despite the higher ADR for 2-bedroom units, their lower occupancy (23% vs. 36%) narrows the revenue-per-available-night gap, indicating that 1-bedrooms are slightly more efficient at converting available nights into income.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Shepherdstown

One-bedroom listings maintain a notably higher occupancy rate of 36% compared to 23% for 2-bedroom properties, suggesting that solo travelers and couples make up a significant share of the guest base. Investors in larger units should plan for more vacant nights and consider dynamic pricing or minimum-stay strategies to improve fill rates.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Shepherdstown

Two-bedroom properties lead in monthly revenue at $2,403 versus $1,427 for 1-bedrooms, driven by their significantly higher nightly rate despite lower occupancy. This nearly $1,000 monthly gap makes 2-bedroom units the stronger revenue generators in absolute terms, though investors should weigh this against higher operating and acquisition costs.

Average annual revenue by property size in Shepherdstown

On an annual basis, 2-bedroom listings generate roughly $28,845 compared to $17,130 for 1-bedrooms — a 68% revenue advantage. For investors targeting total return, 2-bedroom configurations offer the best revenue potential in this market, though the higher entry price relative to the overall revenue-to-price ratio warrants careful financial modeling.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Shepherdstown

Parking is a universal offering at 100% of listings, and kitchens (88%) and patios or balconies (75%) round out the top three, reflecting guest expectations for self-sufficient, home-like stays. Outdoor amenities like backyards (59%), BBQ grills (56%), and outdoor furniture (69%) are heavily represented, signaling that Shepherdstown guests prioritize outdoor living — investors who lean into this with features like fire pits or waterfront access (currently just 28%) could gain a competitive edge.

Understanding Shepherdstown's ROI Score: 58/100

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

Shepherdstown's ROI Score of 58 out of 100 places it in the Attractive Opportunity band, reflecting a market where favorable supply/demand dynamics and steady seasonal demand partially offset a below-average revenue-to-price ratio. The occupancy stability and market growth trend both register as average, while the supply/demand balance scores above average — a meaningful advantage in a market with just 32 active listings. Investors should pair this data with thorough local regulatory research and realistic cash-flow modeling, especially given the gap between average home values and annual rental revenue.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Shepherdstown

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Shepherdstown, West Virginia may be required to obtain a local business license or STR permit before listing their property. Investors should verify current requirements directly with the Town of Shepherdstown and Jefferson County, as regulations in smaller municipalities can change with limited notice.

Key Restrictions

Common STR restrictions in West Virginia communities can include occupancy limits, noise ordinances, parking requirements, and HOA covenants that may prohibit or limit short-term rentals. Some jurisdictions also impose minimum stay requirements or cap the number of permits issued, so it's important to review both municipal and any neighborhood-level rules before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

West Virginia imposes a state sales tax and a hotel occupancy tax on short-term rental income, and Jefferson County may levy additional local lodging taxes. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit some of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full obligations with a tax professional to ensure compliance.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Shepherdstown's STR market is expected to see continued seasonal demand concentrated in the summer and fall months, with August historically generating the highest revenue at $3,131 per month. Year-over-year listing growth of 117% signals rising investor interest, though occupancy could face modest downward pressure if supply outpaces demand. Investors should anticipate ADR holding in the $180–$200 range market-wide, with monthly revenue estimates likely fluctuating between $1,200 and $3,200 depending on seasonality. Pairing a strong listing strategy with off-season pricing adjustments will be key to maximizing returns in this small but growing market."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Shepherdstown, WV

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Shepherdstown?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Shepherdstown is currently 26%, which falls below the West Virginia state average of 38%. Occupancy varies significantly by property size — 1-bedroom listings average 36% occupancy while 2-bedroom properties come in at 23%. The market's seasonal nature, with much stronger demand from May through October, is a primary driver of the overall figure. Investors who optimize pricing during off-peak months and maintain compelling listings can often outperform the market average.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Shepherdstown?

Airbnb hosts in Shepherdstown earn an average of $2,222 per month and roughly $26,674 per year based on trailing 12-month booking data. Revenue varies by property size: 1-bedroom listings average about $17,130 annually while 2-bedroom properties generate approximately $28,845. Peak months like July and August can push monthly income above $3,000, while January and February tend to dip below $1,300. Individual results will depend on property quality, location, pricing strategy, and guest experience.

Is Shepherdstown a good market for Airbnb investment?

Shepherdstown scores a 58 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the Attractive Opportunity tier. The market benefits from an above-average supply/demand balance with only 32 active listings and solid seasonal demand through the warmer months. However, the revenue-to-price ratio is below average given the area's elevated home values ($670,573 on average), so investors need to carefully evaluate whether projected rental income justifies acquisition costs. For those who can secure a property at a competitive price point, the limited competition and strong summer performance make it a market worth serious consideration.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Shepherdstown is $189, which is below the West Virginia state average of $242. ADR varies by property size, with 1-bedroom units averaging $111 per night and 2-bedroom properties commanding $171 per night. The more modest ADR relative to the state average reflects the market's small-town character, but it also means lower pricing barriers for guests — which can support bookings during shoulder seasons.

Are short-term rentals legal in Shepherdstown?

Short-term rentals operate in Shepherdstown, as evidenced by the 32 active Airbnb listings in the market. However, local regulations may require permits, business licenses, or compliance with zoning rules. Investors should check with the Town of Shepherdstown and Jefferson County for the latest requirements before purchasing or listing a property. West Virginia also imposes state-level tax obligations on STR income.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Shepherdstown?

Peak season in Shepherdstown runs from approximately May through October, with August generating the highest average monthly revenue at $3,131 and July close behind at $3,037. October also performs well at $2,703, likely driven by fall foliage tourism. The off-season stretches from November through February, with January being the slowest month at $1,234 in average revenue. This pronounced seasonality means investors should budget for leaner winter months while capitalizing on the strong summer and early fall demand.

How many Airbnbs are there in Shepherdstown?

As of April 2026, there are 32 active Airbnb listings in Shepherdstown. The supply is concentrated in smaller property types, with 12 one-bedroom and 8 two-bedroom listings making up the tracked inventory. Year-over-year listing growth stands at 117%, indicating that the market is attracting new hosts, though the overall count remains quite small — which is a potential advantage for early movers looking to establish a presence.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Shepherdstown?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Shepherdstown 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. We average each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, remove regional outliers, and roll the remaining data 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 data. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how effectively the listing is managed.

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 Shepherdstown market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN trends by property size
• Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Popular amenity prevalence across active listings
• Home value data from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for investment analysis

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 as of April 2026 and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, tax obligations, and permit requirements vary and should be independently verified before investing.