Smith River, CA Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Smith River Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Smith River, CA sits along the remote northern California coast where outdoor recreation and rugged coastal scenery drive seasonal vacation-rental demand. With just 44 active Airbnb listings, the market is small but offers an average annual revenue of $38,009 per listing at a comparatively modest average daily rate of $198—well below the state average of $551. An ROI score of 55 out of 100 signals attractive investment potential, supported by above-average occupancy stability and a balanced supply-demand dynamic that rewards well-positioned properties.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Smith River 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 Smith River

Investors are drawn to Smith River for its low competition, coastal-nature appeal, and revenue-to-price ratio that compares favorably to more saturated California beach markets.

Expert Market Assessment

"Smith River represents a moderate-opportunity market with meaningful seasonal upside for investors who price and manage their properties effectively. Summer months are the engine here: July listings average $5,943 in revenue compared to just $1,576 in January, making cash-flow planning around a four-to-five-month high season essential. The 55/100 ROI score reflects a market where revenue relative to property costs is average but occupancy stability stands out, giving owners a more predictable—if modest—baseline income through quieter months."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Smith River

Average revenue by month in Smith River

Smith River's revenue curve is sharply seasonal: July peaks at $5,943 per listing while January bottoms out at $1,576—a nearly 4x spread. Investors should plan for roughly 60% of annual income to arrive between May and September, with winter months providing only baseline cash flow.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Smith River

Two-bedroom properties overwhelmingly dominate Smith River's supply at 26 of 44 total listings, while one-bedrooms (6) and three-bedrooms (5) are far less common. The relative scarcity of three-bedroom units could signal an opportunity for investors willing to offer more space to families and groups.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Smith River

ADR increases modestly with size, from $108 for one-bedroom listings to $203 for three-bedrooms—a gap of less than double despite triple the sleeping capacity. The two-bedroom sweet spot at $192 offers nearly the same nightly rate as a three-bedroom, suggesting the premium for adding a third bedroom is thin in this market.

Average RevPAN by property size in Smith River

Two-bedroom listings deliver the strongest RevPAN at $34, outpacing both one-bedrooms ($23) and three-bedrooms ($20). The three-bedroom RevPAN lag is driven by much lower occupancy, indicating that while nightly rates are competitive, filling those larger properties consistently remains a challenge.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Smith River

One-bedroom units lead occupancy at 21%, with two-bedrooms close behind at 18%, while three-bedroom properties manage just 10%. This pattern suggests smaller units attract a broader base of solo travelers and couples, offering more reliable booking frequency for cash-flow-focused investors.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Smith River

Two-bedroom listings top the monthly revenue rankings at $3,429, roughly double what one-bedroom units earn ($1,620) and meaningfully ahead of three-bedrooms ($2,461). The combination of solid nightly rates and adequate occupancy makes two-bedrooms the revenue leader in Smith River.

Average annual revenue by property size in Smith River

Two-bedroom properties generate the highest annual revenue at $41,156, compared to $29,537 for three-bedrooms and $19,451 for one-bedrooms. For investors evaluating return potential, the two-bedroom configuration clearly delivers the best top-line income in this market.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Smith River

Kitchens and parking are near-universal at 96% of listings, reflecting the rural, drive-to nature of Smith River where guests expect self-catering and convenient vehicle access. Beach access (52%), waterfront views (48%), and hot tubs (48%) are common differentiators, signaling that outdoor and nature-oriented amenities are essential to meeting guest expectations in this coastal market.

Understanding Smith River's ROI Score: 55/100

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

Smith River's ROI score of 55 out of 100 places it in the Attractive Opportunity band, reflecting a market where revenue relative to property costs is average but occupancy stability stands above the norm—giving investors a more predictable income baseline than many seasonal markets. The below-average market growth trend is the primary drag on the score, so returns here depend more on execution and amenity differentiation than on riding a rising tide. Pairing this data with up-to-date local regulatory research from Del Norte County will help investors build a realistic pro forma before committing capital.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Smith River

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Smith River should verify whether Del Norte County or the broader state of California requires a specific permit, business license, or registration before listing a property. Investors are strongly encouraged to contact the Del Norte County planning department directly, as requirements can change and may differ from neighboring jurisdictions.

Key Restrictions

Common STR restrictions in California coastal communities can include occupancy limits tied to bedroom count, minimum-stay requirements (especially in residential zones), noise and parking rules designed to protect neighborhood character, and potential caps on the total number of permits issued. HOA covenants, where applicable, may impose additional limitations that override local allowances.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental hosts in California are generally subject to transient occupancy tax (TOT) collected at the county level, and may also owe state sales tax depending on local rules. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit some of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full obligations with Del Norte County's tax collector.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Smith River's pronounced summer peak—July revenue nearly four times that of January—suggests demand will continue to concentrate in the June-through-August window. Investors can reasonably expect ADRs to hold steady or edge up 1–3% as supply remains limited, though the market's below-average growth trend and low off-season occupancy mean annual revenue gains are more likely to come from improved pricing strategy than from a surge in new bookings. Shoulder months like May and September may see incremental improvement as remote workers and eco-travelers extend their travel calendars, potentially pushing market-wide occupancy from the current 18% toward the low 20s over time."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Smith River, CA

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Smith River?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Smith River is currently 18%, which is notably below the California state average of 43%. This reflects the market's strong seasonality—demand concentrates heavily in summer—and a small year-round traveler base. Properties that cater to niche audiences like pet owners, remote workers, or fishing enthusiasts may outperform the average during off-peak months.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Smith River?

On a trailing 12-month basis, the average Smith River Airbnb listing generates approximately $38,009 in annual revenue, or about $3,167 per month. Earnings swing significantly by season, from around $1,576 in January to roughly $5,943 in July. Two-bedroom properties lead the pack at $41,156 in average annual revenue, while one-bedroom units bring in closer to $19,451.

Is Smith River a good market for Airbnb investment?

Smith River earns a Rabbu ROI score of 55 out of 100—categorized as an Attractive Opportunity. The market benefits from above-average occupancy stability, limited competition with only 44 active listings, and coastal appeal that supports summer tourism. However, low off-season occupancy and a below-average growth trend mean investors should plan for concentrated seasonal income rather than consistent year-round cash flow.

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

The current average daily rate in Smith River is $198, which is significantly below the California state average of $551. ADR scales modestly with property size: one-bedroom units average $108 per night, two-bedrooms come in at $192, and three-bedroom properties reach $203. The lower rates relative to the state reflect Smith River's rural, off-the-beaten-path location rather than a lack of demand.

Are short-term rentals legal in Smith River?

Short-term rentals can generally operate in Smith River, but investors should verify current permit, licensing, and zoning requirements with Del Norte County before listing a property. California's regulatory landscape for STRs varies by jurisdiction and can change, so checking with local planning and tax authorities is an important step before purchasing or operating a rental.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Smith River?

Peak season in Smith River runs from June through August, with July being the strongest month at an average revenue of $5,943 per listing. August follows closely at $5,515. Shoulder months like May ($3,113) and September ($3,489) also perform well relative to winter, when revenues dip to around $1,576–$1,608 in January and February.

How many Airbnbs are there in Smith River?

As of April 2026, there are 44 active Airbnb listings in Smith River. Two-bedroom properties dominate the supply with 26 listings, followed by one-bedroom units (6 listings) and three-bedroom properties (5 listings). The small total supply means new entrants face limited direct competition but should also be mindful of how additional listings could impact occupancy in a small market.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Smith River?

The annual and monthly revenue figures shown for Smith River are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market—not a forward-looking projection. We average each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, remove regional outliers, and roll the remainder up to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors the figures to what hosts have actually earned recently rather than to forecasts, while still reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months 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 Smith River market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics tracked over time
• Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Property-size breakdowns for supply, pricing, occupancy, and revenue
• Data sourced from Rabbu proprietary analytics and Zillow Home Value Index 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 averages as of April 2026 and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, permit requirements, and tax obligations can change; investors should verify current rules with Del Norte County authorities before purchasing or operating a short-term rental.