Stafford, VA Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Stafford Short-Term Rental Market Overview

With just 34 active Airbnb listings and an average annual revenue of $19,889, Stafford, VA is a small, early-stage short-term rental market that currently presents limited investment potential. Occupancy sits at 19% — well below the Virginia state average of 34% — and the average daily rate of $230 trails the statewide $339. While listing growth has been notable at 134% year-over-year, the low revenue-to-price ratio against average home values of $720,009 means investors will need to be highly selective to find workable deals here.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Stafford 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 Stafford

Stafford's proximity to major Northern Virginia employers and military installations provides a baseline of transient demand, though current performance metrics suggest the market has not yet matured into a reliable STR destination.

Expert Market Assessment

"Stafford currently rates as a limited-opportunity STR market, with an ROI score of 34 out of 100 reflecting below-average revenue-to-price ratios and occupancy stability. The summer months from June through July represent the clearest earning window, with revenue roughly doubling compared to January and February lows. For investors willing to conduct deep property-level diligence, a well-differentiated listing — particularly a 3-bedroom with strong amenities — could outperform the market average, but the high median home price makes the math challenging without above-average occupancy performance."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Stafford

Average revenue by month in Stafford

Stafford's revenue peaks in July at $2,122 and bottoms out in January at $1,093, a spread of nearly $1,000 that points to pronounced summer seasonality. The June–September window consistently outperforms the annual average, while the first quarter represents the softest earning period for hosts.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Stafford

The market is heavily concentrated in 1-bedroom listings (19 of 34 total), with 3-bedroom properties accounting for just 6. The absence of 2-bedroom, 4-bedroom, and larger listings in the data could signal either a gap in supply or limited demand for those configurations — something worth investigating for investors considering alternative property sizes.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Stafford

ADR more than doubles from $102 for 1-bedroom listings to $224 for 3-bedroom properties, reflecting a strong premium for larger accommodations. For investors, the 3-bedroom tier commands rates closer to the market-wide $230 average, making it the more viable option for revenue generation on a per-night basis.

Average RevPAN by property size in Stafford

Revenue per available night is $23 for 1-bedroom units and $27 for 3-bedroom properties, a relatively narrow gap considering the ADR difference. The modest RevPAN premium for 3-bedrooms suggests their higher nightly rates are partially offset by significantly lower occupancy (12% vs. 23%).

Average occupancy rates by property size in Stafford

One-bedroom listings fill nearly twice as often as 3-bedroom properties, at 23% versus 12% occupancy. Both figures sit well below the state average of 34%, indicating that even the most in-demand property size in Stafford struggles to maintain consistent bookings.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Stafford

Three-bedroom properties earn $2,235 per month on average — more than double the $1,043 generated by 1-bedroom listings — despite their lower occupancy rate. This gap is driven entirely by the ADR premium, making larger units the stronger revenue play in this market.

Average annual revenue by property size in Stafford

At $26,825 annually, 3-bedroom listings generate more than twice the $12,526 earned by 1-bedroom units. However, against an average home value of $720,009, even the higher-earning configuration delivers a gross yield under 4%, underscoring the market's challenging revenue-to-price dynamics.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Stafford

Parking (97%), self check-in (88%), and a kitchen (88%) are nearly universal among Stafford listings, signaling that guests expect a home-like, self-service experience. The prevalence of backyards (74%), outdoor furniture (65%), and workspaces (56%) suggests hosts are catering to families and remote workers — amenities that any new listing should match to stay competitive.

Understanding Stafford's ROI Score: 34/100

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

Stafford's ROI score of 34 out of 100 places it in the 'limited investment potential' band, driven primarily by a below-average revenue-to-price ratio and below-average occupancy stability. Market growth trend and supply/demand balance both register as average, suggesting the market isn't deteriorating but hasn't built enough momentum to reward most investors. Pairing this data with a close look at local regulations and property-specific comps is essential before pursuing any opportunities here.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Stafford

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

Permit Requirements

Stafford County, Virginia may require short-term rental operators to register or obtain a permit before listing a property. Investors should verify current requirements directly with Stafford County's planning and zoning department, as local STR regulations in Virginia can vary significantly by jurisdiction.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in Virginia localities include occupancy limits, minimum stay requirements, noise and parking regulations, and potential caps on the number of permits issued. HOA covenants can also restrict or prohibit short-term rentals entirely, so reviewing any applicable homeowner association rules is essential before purchasing.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental operators in Virginia are typically subject to state and local transient occupancy taxes, as well as applicable sales tax. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit some of these taxes on behalf of hosts, but operators should confirm their full obligations with the Virginia Department of Taxation and Stafford County.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Stafford's STR market is likely to remain a niche opportunity rather than a high-volume play. Summer months (June and July) drive peak revenue around $2,100, but the winter trough near $1,100 underscores meaningful seasonality that investors should plan for. With market growth trends rated as average and supply still very thin, ADR could see modest gains of 1–3% if demand from the broader Northern Virginia corridor continues to expand. However, occupancy improvements will be the more important metric to watch — if rates remain in the high teens, revenue potential will stay constrained."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Stafford, VA

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Stafford?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Stafford, VA is currently 19%, which is significantly below the Virginia state average of 34%. Occupancy varies by property size — 1-bedroom listings average 23% while 3-bedroom listings come in at 12%. These relatively low rates suggest that demand is still developing in this market, and individual results will depend heavily on pricing strategy, property quality, and seasonal timing.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Stafford?

Airbnb hosts in Stafford earn an average of $1,657 per month and approximately $19,889 per year based on trailing 12-month booking data. Revenue varies by property size: 1-bedroom listings average about $12,526 annually, while 3-bedroom properties generate roughly $26,825 per year. Peak months like June and July can bring in over $2,000, while winter months tend to dip below $1,200.

Is Stafford a good market for Airbnb investment?

Stafford currently carries a Rabbu ROI Score of 34 out of 100, placing it in the 'limited investment potential' category. Below-average occupancy rates and a high average home value of $720,009 create a challenging revenue-to-price ratio. That said, with only 34 active listings, competition is minimal, and a strategically located, well-amenitized property could outperform the market average. Investors should conduct thorough property-specific analysis before committing.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Stafford is $230, which is below the Virginia state average of $339. ADR varies significantly by property size — 1-bedroom listings average $102 per night, while 3-bedroom properties command $224 per night. These rates reflect the market's more suburban, commuter-oriented character compared to Virginia's resort and urban destinations.

Are short-term rentals legal in Stafford?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Stafford, VA, though operators may need to comply with local registration, permitting, or zoning requirements. Regulations can change, so it's important to check directly with Stafford County's planning and zoning office and review any applicable HOA restrictions before investing in or operating an STR.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Stafford?

Peak season for Airbnb in Stafford runs from June through July, when average monthly revenue reaches $2,096–$2,122. The shoulder months of May, August, September, and October also perform above the annual average. Winter months (January and February) represent the low point, with revenues dropping to around $1,100. This seasonality pattern means hosts should plan for meaningful revenue swings throughout the year.

How many Airbnbs are there in Stafford?

As of April 2026, there are 34 active Airbnb listings in Stafford, VA. The supply is concentrated in two property sizes: 19 one-bedroom listings and 6 three-bedroom listings. Year-over-year listing growth has been 134%, indicating that host interest is rising, though the market remains very small in absolute terms.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Stafford?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Stafford 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 remaining data up to a market-level historical average. Because each month uses its own historical performance, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks and slower months. 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 Stafford, VA
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics by property size
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Amenity prevalence across active listings to benchmark guest expectations
• Home value data sourced from 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. Actual results will vary based on property condition, location, pricing strategy, and management quality. Local regulations and tax obligations are subject to change — always verify current requirements with Stafford County and Virginia state authorities before investing.