West Plains, MO Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

West Plains Short-Term Rental Market Overview

West Plains, MO presents an intriguing niche opportunity for short-term rental investors drawn to smaller rural markets with favorable property pricing. With an average home value of $356,520 and annual STR revenue averaging $16,942, the revenue-to-price ratio sits at an average level — enough to merit a closer look, especially given occupancy rates that outpace the Missouri state average (37% vs. 28%). The market is compact at just 26 active listings, which means less competition but also a narrower demand base that investors should weigh carefully.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the West Plains 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 West Plains

Investors are drawn to West Plains for its affordable entry point relative to state averages and its above-average occupancy rate, making it a viable low-cost STR play in southern Missouri.

Expert Market Assessment

"With an ROI score of 55 out of 100 — categorized as an "Attractive Opportunity" — West Plains offers a moderate investment profile that leans on affordable property costs and above-average occupancy rather than high nightly rates. Revenue is heavily seasonal: June leads at $3,528 in average monthly revenue, while February bottoms out at just $276, creating a roughly 13:1 peak-to-trough ratio that investors need to plan around. The market rewards operators who can maximize summer bookings and keep costs lean during the quiet winter months. For investors comfortable with pronounced seasonality and a smaller, less liquid market, West Plains can deliver reasonable returns — particularly in the 3-bedroom segment."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in West Plains

Average revenue by month in West Plains

West Plains shows extreme seasonality, with June generating the highest average revenue at $3,528 and February hitting a low of just $276 — a spread that underscores the importance of summer-season pricing optimization. A secondary spike in January ($1,898) adds an unexpected revenue boost, potentially tied to regional hunting or holiday travel.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in West Plains

The market's 26 active listings are concentrated in 2-bedroom units (16 listings, roughly 62% of supply), with only 6 three-bedroom properties. The absence of 1-bedroom and 4+ bedroom listings could represent either limited demand for those sizes or an untapped niche worth exploring.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in West Plains

ADR scales modestly from $115 for 2-bedroom units to $150 for 3-bedroom properties — a 30% premium that may be worth pursuing given that larger homes command higher nightly rates without dramatically higher acquisition costs in this affordable market.

Average RevPAN by property size in West Plains

Two-bedroom properties deliver a stronger RevPAN of $44 compared to $37 for 3-bedroom units, driven primarily by their higher occupancy rates. Investors focused on maximizing revenue per available night may find 2-bedroom configurations more efficient in this market.

Average occupancy rates by property size in West Plains

Two-bedroom listings maintain a 39% occupancy rate — substantially higher than the 25% seen for 3-bedroom properties. This 14-percentage-point gap means 2-bedroom investors can expect more consistent booking flow, though 3-bedroom owners compensate somewhat with higher nightly rates.

Average monthly revenue by property size in West Plains

Three-bedroom properties edge out 2-bedrooms on average monthly revenue ($1,620 vs. $1,409), a $211 monthly advantage driven by their higher ADR despite lower occupancy. For investors prioritizing raw revenue over booking frequency, the larger format has a slight edge.

Average annual revenue by property size in West Plains

On an annual basis, 3-bedroom properties generate approximately $19,440 compared to $16,916 for 2-bedroom units — a $2,524 difference that investors should weigh against the typically higher purchase price and operating costs of larger homes. Both configurations offer modest but accessible return potential in this affordable market.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in West Plains

Parking (100%) and kitchen access (96%) are essentially table stakes in West Plains, while backyard space (81%) and self check-in (81%) round out the top tier — signaling a guest base that values independence, outdoor space, and a home-like experience. Half of listings allow pets, which is a smart differentiator in a market likely attracting road-trippers and families exploring the Ozarks.

Understanding West Plains'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

West Plains earns a 55 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the "Attractive Opportunity" band — a mid-range rating that reflects average revenue-to-price ratios and market growth trends, tempered by below-average occupancy stability. The supply/demand balance sits at an average level, though the 52% year-over-year growth in listings warrants attention as it could shift this equilibrium. Investors should pair these metrics with on-the-ground regulatory research and a clear seasonal pricing strategy to make the most of this market's potential.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in West Plains

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in West Plains, Missouri may be required to obtain a business license or STR-specific permit from the city. Investors should verify current registration requirements directly with West Plains city hall and the Howell County clerk's office before listing a property.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions that may apply include occupancy limits tied to bedroom count, noise and nuisance ordinances, parking requirements for guests, and potential HOA covenants that could limit or prohibit short-term rentals. Some jurisdictions in Missouri also enforce minimum-stay rules or cap the number of permits issued in a given area, so local research is essential.

Tax Obligations

STR hosts in Missouri are generally subject to state sales tax and may owe local transient occupancy or tourism taxes. Platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit state-level taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm whether any additional city or county taxes apply in West Plains.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, West Plains is likely to see continued seasonal swings, with summer months driving the bulk of annual revenue and winter demand remaining soft. Listing supply grew 52% year-over-year, so investors should monitor whether demand keeps pace with new inventory entering the market. ADR may hold steady in the $120–$155 range depending on property size, though occupancy could face mild downward pressure if supply growth continues at this pace. We estimate annual revenue for well-managed properties could remain in the $16,000–$20,000 range, with upside for hosts who optimize pricing during the June–September peak window."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in West Plains, MO

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in West Plains?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in West Plains is currently 37%, which is notably higher than the Missouri state average of 28%. Occupancy varies by property size — 2-bedroom units average 39% while 3-bedroom properties come in at 25%. The higher occupancy among smaller units reflects the demand profile of this market, where travelers tend to book more modestly sized accommodations.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in West Plains?

Airbnb hosts in West Plains earn an average of $1,411 per month, or approximately $16,942 per year based on trailing 12-month performance data. Revenue varies significantly by season, ranging from as low as $276 in February to as high as $3,528 in June. Three-bedroom properties tend to earn more on an annual basis ($19,440) compared to 2-bedroom units ($16,916), though 2-bedrooms generate more consistent occupancy.

Is West Plains a good market for Airbnb investment?

West Plains scores 55 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, placing it in the "Attractive Opportunity" category. The market benefits from above-average occupancy relative to Missouri as a whole and affordable property prices averaging $356,520. However, investors should be aware of pronounced seasonality — summer months drive the lion's share of revenue — and below-average occupancy stability. It's best suited for investors who can manage costs during slower months and capitalize on peak-season demand.

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

The average daily rate in West Plains is $123, which is well below the Missouri state average of $240. This lower ADR reflects the market's rural positioning and more affordable local economy. ADR ranges from $115 for 2-bedroom properties to $150 for 3-bedroom listings, offering a clear step-up for investors willing to acquire larger units.

Are short-term rentals legal in West Plains?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in West Plains, Missouri, though operators may need to obtain appropriate business licenses or permits. Regulations can vary and may be subject to change, so prospective hosts should check directly with the City of West Plains and relevant Howell County offices to confirm current requirements, zoning rules, and any applicable restrictions before launching a listing.

When is peak season for Airbnb in West Plains?

Peak season in West Plains runs from June through September, with June being the strongest month at $3,528 in average revenue. July ($2,565), August ($1,878), and September ($1,654) round out the high-demand period. January also shows a notable spike at $1,898, which may reflect holiday travel or hunting season in the Ozarks. The slowest months are February ($276), March ($643), and April ($504).

How many Airbnbs are there in West Plains?

As of April 2026, there are 26 active Airbnb listings in West Plains. The market is dominated by 2-bedroom properties (16 listings) with 3-bedroom units making up the remainder (6 listings). Year-over-year listing growth has been significant at 52%, indicating rising investor and host interest in this small market.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in West Plains?

The annual and monthly revenue figures shown for West Plains 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 remainder into a market-level historical average. This approach anchors figures to what hosts have actually earned recently while naturally reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months, since each month uses its own historical performance. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and how actively an owner manages their listing.

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 West Plains market
• Occupancy rate and average daily rate trends by property size and month
• Revenue and yield metrics including RevPAN, monthly revenue, and annual revenue estimates
• Property value benchmarks sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)
• Data aggregated from multiple providers and proprietary Rabbu analytics 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. Market data reflects trailing 12-month performance and conditions may change as new listings enter or local regulations evolve. Individual property results will vary based on location, condition, pricing strategy, and management quality.