Waitsfield, VT Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Waitsfield Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Waitsfield, VT sits in the heart of the Mad River Valley—one of Vermont's most sought-after mountain recreation corridors—and its short-term rental market reflects that draw. With 118 active Airbnb listings generating an average annual revenue of $36,044, the market offers a balanced entry point for investors who want exposure to New England's ski and summer tourism. An ADR of $368 trails the state average of $452, but the relatively modest property-price-to-revenue ratio keeps the opportunity accessible, and larger properties push annual earnings well above $60,000.

Key Market Statistics

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

Data sources: Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Mar, 17 2026.

Why Investors Consider Waitsfield

Waitsfield attracts investors with its dual-season demand from ski and summer recreation, manageable competition, and outsized revenue potential for larger properties relative to the broader Vermont market.

Expert Market Assessment

"Waitsfield presents an attractive—though not extraordinary—opportunity for STR investors, earning a 59 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score. The market's clear seasonality is its defining trait: February ($4,054) and August ($4,490) represent revenue peaks, while April ($1,428) and May ($1,610) dip significantly, meaning cash-flow planning around shoulder months is essential. Larger properties punch well above the market average, with 5-bedroom homes pulling in roughly $76,500 annually versus $20,655 for 1-bedroom units—an important consideration when sizing up acquisition targets. Investors who pair the right property type with competitive amenities and dynamic pricing can capture a meaningful share of the Mad River Valley's year-round visitor traffic."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Waitsfield

Average revenue by month in Waitsfield

Waitsfield's revenue cycle has two clear peaks—August at $4,490 and February at $4,054—separated by a pronounced spring trough where April drops to just $1,428. The roughly 3:1 spread between peak and trough months underscores the importance of dynamic pricing and cash reserves to cover the quieter shoulder seasons.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Waitsfield

One-bedroom units dominate supply with 49 of the market's 118 listings, while 4- and 5-bedroom homes are notably scarce at 15 and 7 listings respectively. Given that larger properties generate dramatically higher revenue and occupancy, the limited supply in the 4–5 bedroom segment may signal a real opportunity for investors willing to acquire bigger homes.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Waitsfield

ADR scales steadily from $210 for 1-bedroom units to $667 for 5-bedroom properties, more than tripling across the size spectrum. The jump from 2 bedrooms ($307) to 3 bedrooms ($470) is particularly steep, suggesting that adding a third bedroom unlocks meaningful pricing power for group-oriented guests.

Average RevPAN by property size in Waitsfield

RevPAN climbs from $76 for 1-bedroom listings all the way to $416 for 5-bedroom properties, reflecting both higher nightly rates and stronger occupancy at larger sizes. The 5-bedroom tier delivers more than five times the RevPAN of a 1-bedroom, making it the clear leader in per-night earning efficiency.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Waitsfield

Occupancy increases meaningfully with property size—1-bedroom units fill just 36% of available nights, while 3-, 4-, and 5-bedroom homes cluster between 58% and 63%. This pattern suggests that group travelers and families booking larger properties are the most consistent demand driver in the Waitsfield market, offering better cash-flow predictability.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Waitsfield

Five-bedroom homes lead at $6,375 in average monthly revenue, followed by 3-bedroom units at $5,178—both significantly outpacing the 1-bedroom average of $1,721. Interestingly, 4-bedroom properties ($4,781) earn slightly less per month than 3-bedrooms, possibly reflecting pricing or mix differences in that smaller sample of 15 listings.

Average annual revenue by property size in Waitsfield

Annual revenue ranges from $20,655 for 1-bedroom listings to $76,503 for 5-bedroom homes, a nearly fourfold difference that highlights the outsized return potential of larger properties. Three-bedroom units at $62,141 per year also stand out as a strong middle-ground option, especially for investors wary of the higher acquisition costs associated with 5-bedroom homes.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Waitsfield

Parking tops the amenity list at 95% prevalence—essential in a rural mountain setting—followed by self check-in (75%) and kitchen access (73%). Outdoor-oriented amenities like backyards (60%), BBQ grills (51%), and outdoor furniture (53%) reflect guest expectations for Vermont's lifestyle appeal, while hot tubs (15%) and EV chargers (17%) remain relatively uncommon differentiators that could help a listing stand out.

Understanding Waitsfield's ROI Score: 59/100

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

Waitsfield's ROI Score of 59 out of 100 places it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band, signaling a market with genuine income potential balanced by a few softer factors. Revenue-to-price ratio and occupancy stability both rate as average, while market growth trend is steady but the supply/demand balance sits below average—reflecting the 113% year-over-year listing growth that's introducing more competition. Investors should pair this score with on-the-ground research into local regulations and property-specific financials to build a complete picture before committing capital.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Waitsfield

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

Permit Requirements

Operators considering a short-term rental in Waitsfield should verify whether a local STR permit or registration is required by the Town of Waitsfield and comply with any applicable Vermont state-level requirements. It's advisable to check directly with the town clerk's office and Vermont's Department of Taxes before listing a property.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply in Vermont mountain towns like Waitsfield include occupancy limits tied to septic or well capacity, minimum-stay requirements during certain seasons, noise and parking regulations, and potential HOA or condominium association rules that limit short-term renting. Investors should also be aware that some municipalities impose caps on the number of STR permits issued or require owner-occupancy for certain permit types.

Tax Obligations

Vermont imposes a 9% rooms and meals tax on short-term rentals, and hosts should confirm whether any additional local assessment applies in Waitsfield. Major booking platforms typically collect and remit the state tax on behalf of hosts, but operators should verify their filing obligations with the Vermont Department of Taxes.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Waitsfield's STR market is likely to follow its established seasonal rhythm, with winter ski months and the late-summer foliage corridor driving the strongest returns. ADR could edge up 1–3% as hosts continue to professionalize amenity sets and pricing strategies, while occupancy is expected to hold in the 46–50% range given the seasonal nature of demand. The 113% year-over-year listing growth signals rising investor interest, which may tighten the supply/demand balance further—investors entering now should monitor how new supply affects per-listing revenue. Overall, the market's dual-season appeal (winter and summer/fall) provides a cushion that purely ski-dependent towns lack."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Waitsfield, VT

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Waitsfield?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Waitsfield is currently 48%, slightly below the Vermont state average of 51%. Occupancy varies meaningfully by property size—1-bedroom units average about 36%, while 3- to 5-bedroom homes reach 58–63%. The market's seasonality, driven by ski season and summer/fall recreation, means occupancy swings month to month, so investors should plan for quieter shoulder periods in spring and late fall.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Waitsfield?

On average, Airbnb hosts in Waitsfield earn approximately $3,003 per month or $36,044 per year based on the trailing 12 months of historical booking data. Earnings vary significantly by property size: 1-bedroom listings average about $20,655 annually, while 5-bedroom homes bring in roughly $76,503. Peak months like August and February can push monthly revenue above $4,000, whereas April is the softest month at around $1,428. Individual results depend on property quality, amenities, pricing strategy, and guest reviews.

Is Waitsfield a good market for Airbnb investment?

Waitsfield scores 59 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the "Attractive Opportunity" tier. The market benefits from dual-season demand—winter skiing at Sugarbush and Mad River Glen, plus summer and fall outdoor recreation—which helps smooth out revenue compared to single-season resort towns. Average home values sit around $800,398, and larger properties (3+ bedrooms) deliver the strongest returns relative to operating costs. Investors should factor in the seasonal revenue swings and rising supply when evaluating whether the numbers work for a specific property.

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

The average daily rate across all active Airbnb listings in Waitsfield is $368, which is below the Vermont state average of $452. ADR scales steeply with property size: 1-bedroom units average $210 per night, 3-bedroom homes average $470, and 5-bedroom properties command $667. Investors targeting higher nightly rates will find the best pricing power in larger, group-friendly properties that cater to families and ski groups.

Are short-term rentals legal in Waitsfield?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Waitsfield, VT, though hosts should confirm current local zoning rules, permit or registration requirements, and any applicable restrictions with the Town of Waitsfield. Vermont's statewide rooms and meals tax applies to all STRs. Regulations can change, so it's important to verify compliance before purchasing or listing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Waitsfield?

Waitsfield experiences two distinct revenue peaks. The winter ski season drives strong earnings from December through February, with February averaging $4,054 in monthly revenue. A second peak occurs in late summer and early fall—August is the single highest-revenue month at $4,490, bolstered by summer tourism and the lead-in to Vermont's famous foliage season. October ($3,401) and September ($3,084) also perform well. The slowest months are April ($1,428) and May ($1,610), during mud season.

How many Airbnbs are there in Waitsfield?

As of April 2026, there are 118 active Airbnb listings in Waitsfield. The supply is weighted toward smaller properties—1-bedroom units make up the largest share at 49 listings, followed by 3-bedroom (23) and 2-bedroom (20) homes. Larger properties with 4 or 5 bedrooms are less common (15 and 7 listings, respectively), which may represent an opportunity for investors given their significantly higher revenue potential.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Waitsfield?

The annual and monthly revenue figures shown for Waitsfield 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 results up into a market-level historical average. Because each month uses its own historical data, the figures naturally reflect seasonal peaks (like August and February) and slower periods (like April). Individual host results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, amenities, 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 Waitsfield market
• Average daily rates, occupancy rates, and RevPAN tracked over time
• Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Property-size breakdowns for listings, rates, 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 Mar, 17 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; actual conditions may have shifted since the last update. Local regulations, zoning rules, and tax obligations can change—always verify compliance with Waitsfield and Vermont authorities before investing.