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

Smithfield Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Smithfield, NC is a compact short-term rental market with just 13 active Airbnb listings, creating a low-competition environment for investors willing to enter early. With an average annual revenue of $17,275 against average home values of $392,298, the market offers a modest but real income stream — and a favorable supply/demand balance rated above average. The 150% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest, though occupancy at 22% remains below the North Carolina state average of 34%.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Smithfield 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 Smithfield

Smithfield appeals to investors seeking an early-mover advantage in a small, supply-constrained market where property costs remain accessible relative to many North Carolina metros.

Expert Market Assessment

"Smithfield presents a moderate opportunity for STR investors — not a blockbuster revenue market, but one with structural advantages that reward disciplined operators. The above-average supply/demand balance is the standout factor, meaning demand hasn't been diluted by oversupply the way it has in larger North Carolina metros. Revenue peaks in April ($1,710) and troughs in January ($944), creating a seasonal spread of roughly 45% that investors should budget around. Pairing realistic occupancy expectations with competitive pricing and strong amenities could help operators outperform the current market average."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Smithfield

Average revenue by month in Smithfield

Smithfield's revenue peaks in April at $1,710 and holds relatively strong through August ($1,693), while January marks the clear low point at $944 — a seasonal spread of about 45%. This moderate but noticeable seasonality means investors should plan for softer winter months but can count on a broad spring-through-summer earning window.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Smithfield

The entire breakout of listings by size shows only 2-bedroom properties (6 listings), suggesting the remaining 7 listings fall into bedroom counts with too few data points to report individually. This heavy concentration in 2-bedrooms could signal an opportunity for investors willing to offer larger or smaller configurations that are currently underrepresented.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Smithfield

Two-bedroom listings in Smithfield command an average daily rate of $116, which aligns with the market's value-oriented positioning well below the $262 state average. Without data on other property sizes, it's difficult to assess ADR scaling, but the $116 rate suggests a price-sensitive guest base where amenities and presentation can meaningfully differentiate a listing.

Average RevPAN by property size in Smithfield

Two-bedroom properties generate $34 in revenue per available night, compared to the overall market RevPAN of $27. This higher figure reflects stronger occupancy among 2-bedrooms (29% vs. the 22% market average), making this property size the most data-supported configuration for consistent per-night returns in Smithfield.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Smithfield

Two-bedroom properties achieve a 29% occupancy rate, outperforming the broader market average of 22% by a meaningful margin. While still below the North Carolina state average, this suggests 2-bedrooms are the most in-demand configuration and offer more reliable booking flow for investors in this market.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Smithfield

Two-bedroom listings average $1,356 per month, slightly below the overall market average of $1,439, which implies that some unlisted property sizes may be pulling the market average up. For investors focused on the most common and data-rich configuration, $1,356 per month provides a conservative baseline for financial modeling.

Average annual revenue by property size in Smithfield

At $16,274 annually, 2-bedroom properties deliver a clear revenue benchmark for Smithfield investors. Against an average home value of $392,298, this translates to a gross yield of roughly 4.1%, which underscores the importance of keeping acquisition and operating costs lean to achieve meaningful returns.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Smithfield

Parking (100%) and kitchen access (92%) are near-universal in Smithfield, reflecting a guest base that expects practical, home-like conveniences rather than resort-style luxuries. Self check-in (85%) and washer/dryer availability (77%/69%) round out the essentials, while pet-friendliness at 54% suggests an opportunity to differentiate — especially since backyard space (69%) already supports it.

Understanding Smithfield'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

Smithfield's ROI Score of 58 out of 100 places it in the 'Attractive Opportunity' band, reflecting a market that balances decent revenue-to-price fundamentals and a favorable supply/demand dynamic against below-average market growth and middling occupancy stability. The above-average supply/demand balance is the standout factor — with only 13 listings, well-run properties have room to capture demand without heavy competitive pressure. Investors should pair this data with on-the-ground regulatory research and conservative occupancy assumptions to build a realistic investment case.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Smithfield

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

Permit Requirements

Investors operating short-term rentals in Smithfield, NC should verify whether a local business license, zoning permit, or STR-specific registration is required by the Town of Smithfield or Johnston County. North Carolina does not impose a statewide STR permitting framework, so requirements vary by jurisdiction — always confirm with local planning and zoning offices before listing.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply in smaller North Carolina municipalities like Smithfield include occupancy limits, noise ordinances, parking requirements, and HOA covenants that could prohibit or limit short-term rentals. Some areas also enforce minimum-stay rules or cap the number of STR permits issued, so reviewing local ordinances and any applicable homeowners association rules is essential before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental operators in North Carolina are generally subject to state sales tax and local occupancy taxes, which can vary by county. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit some of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full obligations with Johnston County and the NC Department of Revenue to ensure compliance.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Smithfield's STR market is likely to see continued supply growth as more investors discover the area, though the pace may moderate from the recent 150% surge. Occupancy rates could drift toward 25–28% if demand keeps pace with new listings, and ADR may hold steady in the $120–$130 range given the market's price-sensitive guest profile. Seasonal patterns suggest spring and summer months (April through August) will continue to drive the bulk of revenue, with January remaining the softest period. Investors should plan for meaningful off-season dips and factor conservative occupancy estimates into their projections."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Smithfield, NC

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Smithfield?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Smithfield is currently 22%, which falls below the North Carolina state average of 34%. For 2-bedroom properties specifically, occupancy runs slightly higher at 29%. While these figures leave room for improvement, a well-positioned listing with competitive pricing and strong amenities can outperform the market average.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Smithfield?

Airbnb hosts in Smithfield earn an average of $1,439 per month or approximately $17,275 per year, based on trailing 12-month booking data from active comparable listings. Revenue varies by season — April is the strongest month at $1,710, while January dips to around $944. Individual results depend on property quality, pricing strategy, and how consistently the listing is managed.

Is Smithfield a good market for Airbnb investment?

Smithfield 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 13 active listings, keeping competition low. However, occupancy and market growth trend below average, so investors should focus on operational excellence and realistic revenue expectations. The relatively accessible home values of $392,298 help keep the barrier to entry manageable.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Smithfield is $123, which is significantly below the North Carolina state average of $262. For 2-bedroom properties — the dominant listing type — ADR sits at $116. This lower rate reflects the market's positioning as an affordable, value-oriented destination rather than a premium vacation market.

Are short-term rentals legal in Smithfield?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in North Carolina, but local regulations in Smithfield and Johnston County may impose specific requirements such as permits, zoning restrictions, or business licenses. Investors should check directly with the Town of Smithfield's planning department and review any applicable HOA rules before purchasing or listing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Smithfield?

Peak season in Smithfield runs from April through August, with April generating the highest average monthly revenue at $1,710 and August close behind at $1,693. The off-season low hits in January at $944. This spring-summer concentration means investors should plan cash reserves or supplemental income strategies to bridge the slower winter months.

How many Airbnbs are there in Smithfield?

As of April 2026, there are 13 active Airbnb listings in Smithfield. This represents a 150% increase year over year, indicating growing investor interest in the market. The small total supply means new entrants face limited competition, but it also means the market data is based on a relatively small sample size.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Smithfield?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Smithfield 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 aggregate the results into a market-level historical average. Because each month uses its own historical performance data, 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 for the Smithfield market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics benchmarked against state averages
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Property size breakdowns for listings, rates, occupancy, and revenue where data is sufficient
• 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. With only 13 active listings, market-level averages may be more sensitive to individual listing performance than in larger markets. Local regulations and tax obligations may change; investors should verify current requirements with Smithfield and Johnston County authorities.