Maine is home to many thriving short-term rental markets, but identifying the top-performing cities can be overwhelming, especially when combing through data from countless locations across the state.
To simplify this process, we analyzed data from markets statewide and compiled a list of the top 20 cities for investors and landlords seeking potentially high-return rental properties in the coming year.
As always, we recommend thorough underwriting and analysis of any prospective property and a review of local short-term rental regulations before making any investment decisions.
How We Created This List
First, we looked at all Airbnb listings in Maine that met the following criteria as of January 2025:
- Average Rating: 4.8 stars and above
- Guest Review Count: Minimum of 10
- Average Daily Rate: $1 (minimum) to $2,000 (maximum)
- Occupancy Rate: 1% (minimum) to 99% (maximum)
- Property Size: 1 to 10 bedrooms
- Property Type: Entire homes
We did this to eliminate Airbnb listings from our analysis that fall outside of what we consider "realistic" situations. This left us with a total of 3,278 Airbnb listings across the state of Maine to work with.
Next, we grouped these listings by city and eliminated markets that didn't have at least 75 Airbnb listings meeting the above criteria. We took this step to avoid outlier cities we felt didn't have enough data to be considered at this current time. This left us with 21 cities in Maine to rank.
Then, we needed to arrive at a gross yield number for each of our remaining cities in order to create our rankings. We did this by taking the average annual Airbnb revenue for each city and combining it with the cities median property value (from Zillow as of December 2024) to calculate our gross yield for each city.
Finally, we ordered the cities by highest gross yield.
The Top 20 STR Markets in Maine
1. Ellsworth, ME
Ellsworth, ME, is a gem for real estate investors seeking lucrative opportunities in the short-term rental market. Known for its proximity to Acadia National Park, it draws tourists eager to explore stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy local attractions like Woodlawn Museum and the Downeast Scenic Railroad. The annual Autumn Gold Festival attracts guests with its lively events. With a thriving tourism scene, Ellsworth offers vacation homes and investment properties that promise good rental income and strong cash flow for Airbnb hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 15.9%
- Average Property Value: $498,734 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $79,144 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 52% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 315 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 73%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Ellsworth, ME →
2. Kingfield, ME
Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Western Mountains, Kingfield, ME, is an emerging hotspot in the short-term rental market, offering real estate investors lucrative opportunities in vacation rentals. With its proximity to Sugarloaf ski resort and access to year-round outdoor adventures, Kingfield draws tourists seeking both winter sports and summer hiking. This charming town hosts the Kingfield Festival Days and several other local events, enhancing its appeal as one of the best places for STR ventures, promising good return and consistent rental income.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 11.9%
- Average Property Value: $454,484 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $54,263 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 36% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 150 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 117%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Kingfield, ME →
3. Bridgton, ME
Bridgton, ME is a hidden gem in the vibrant short-term rental market, offering real estate investors lucrative opportunities. Known for its picturesque landscapes, it attracts tourists year-round with scenic spots like Moose Pond and Shawnee Peak. Visitors flock for skiing, hiking, and the annual Winter Carnival. Its robust tourism scene promises strong rental income for vacation rentals on platforms like Airbnb. With a mix of natural attractions and seasonal events, Bridgton is one of the best places for vacation homes, providing airbnb hosts a good return and steady cash flow.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 11.0%
- Average Property Value: $632,666 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $69,775 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 37% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 102 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 100%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Bridgton, ME →
4. Bar Harbor, ME
Bar Harbor, ME, a charming destination for real estate investors, stands out in the short-term rental market due to its picturesque landscapes and thriving tourism. Known for Acadia National Park's stunning vistas, it attracts millions of tourists annually, eager to explore hiking trails and wildlife. Vacation homes here promise lucrative rental income, especially during popular events like the Bar Harbor Music Festival. For Airbnb hosts, Bar Harbor offers good return and cash flow, making it one of the best places for short-term rental investment property.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.8%
- Average Property Value: $999,125 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $107,431 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 61% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 272 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 123%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Bar Harbor, ME →
5. York, ME
York, ME is a prime destination for short-term rental properties, attracting both tourists and real estate investors with its stunning beaches and charming historic sites. The short-term rental market thrives here thanks to attractions like Nubble Lighthouse, York's Wild Kingdom, and the scenic Mount Agamenticus. Visitors enjoy vibrant local events such as the Harvestfest and Marketfest. For real estate investors, York offers a strong housing market with promising rental income potential, making it one of the best places for investing in vacation homes.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.3%
- Average Property Value: $1,176,970 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $121,697 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 44% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 143 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 93%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in York, ME →
6. Kennebunk, ME
Kennebunk, ME, is a hidden gem in the short-term rental market with its charming beaches and historic New England appeal, making it one of the best places for real estate investors focusing on vacation homes. Tourists flock to the annual Kennebunkport Festival, enjoying local arts and gourmet events. The area's scenic coastal trails and Lobster Festival are major attractions, enticing guests to experience the rich culture. With robust rental income potential, Kennebunk offers a good return for Airbnb hosts, ensuring strong cash flow and appealing investment properties for real estate investing.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.3%
- Average Property Value: $966,747 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $99,614 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 126 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 113%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Kennebunk, ME →
7. Old Orchard Beach, ME
Old Orchard Beach, ME, is a thriving hub for short-term rental markets, ideal for real estate investors seeking lucrative returns. Known for its iconic 7-mile stretch of sandy beaches and the famous Old Orchard Beach Pier, this charming coastal town attracts tourists year-round. It hosts a range of significant events like the Beach Olympics and outdoor concerts, ensuring a steady stream of visitors. Proximity to golf courses and amusement parks enhances its appeal, making it one of the best places for vacation rentals, offering great rental income and cash flow opportunities for Airbnb hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.1%
- Average Property Value: $695,607 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $70,536 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 50% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 236 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 116%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Old Orchard Beach, ME →
8. Wells, ME
Wells, ME is a thriving destination in the short-term rental market, ideal for real estate investors seeking vacation homes with good return potential. Known for its picturesque beaches and seaside charm, Wells attracts numerous tourists year-round. Visitors can enjoy iconic attractions like the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and Wells Reserve at Laudholm. Events such as Wells HarborFest draw tourists, while the biking trails and local sports enhance its allure as a top spot for vacation rentals. With a burgeoning tourism scene, real estate investing in Wells promises attractive rental income and opportunities.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.1%
- Average Property Value: $834,691 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $84,527 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 44% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 172 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 88%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Wells, ME →
9. Portland, ME
Portland, ME, is a vibrant destination for tourists, boasting charming cobblestone streets, the historic Old Port district, and fresh seafood. As a poignant cultural hub, it hosts events like the Portland Flower Show and Sea Dogs baseball games. Its thriving tourism and bustling arts scene make it a lucrative short-term rental market, perfect for real estate investors seeking vacation homes with promising rental income. With investment properties offering good return and cash flow, Portland is among the best places for an Airbnb host to thrive.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.6%
- Average Property Value: $783,892 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $74,946 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 54% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 512 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 106%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Portland, ME →
10. Belfast, ME
Belfast, ME is a charming coastal town ideal for real estate investors seeking strong returns in the short-term rental market. Known for its picturesque harbor, vibrant arts scene, and historic architecture, Belfast attracts tourists year-round. Key attractions like the Belfast Harbor Walk and annual events such as the Maine Celtic Celebration draw visitors. This thriving vacation rental destination offers lucrative opportunities in real estate investing, making it one of the best places for Airbnb hosts to generate rental income and experience good cash flow.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.1%
- Average Property Value: $592,478 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $54,141 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 48% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 100 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 64%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Belfast, ME →
11. Bethel, ME
Bethel, ME, is a hidden gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its proximity to the Sunday River Resort, it attracts tourists year-round for skiing, snowboarding, and summer hiking adventures. The area's charm is amplified by annual events like the Bethel Harvestfest. Investing in vacation homes here promises strong rental income, as travelers flock to experience the quaint New England village vibe. With its rich attractions and steady tourism, Bethel is one of the best places for vacation rentals in Maine.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 8.9%
- Average Property Value: $659,277 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $58,704 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 32% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 169 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 80%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Bethel, ME →
12. Scarborough, ME
Scarborough, ME is an enticing destination for short-term rental investors with its scenic coastline and vibrant tourism. Known for its stunning beaches like Higgins Beach and Pine Point Beach, it's a haven for vacation home seekers and Airbnb hosts. The local real estate market is promising, offering investment properties that promise good cash flow and rental income. Visitors can enjoy outdoor attractions such as Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, while sports enthusiasts can catch events at nearby Portland Sea Dogs games. With special events throughout the year, Scarborough is a top pick for tourists seeking a unique getaway.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 8.3%
- Average Property Value: $946,913 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $79,052 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 49% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 86 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 90%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Scarborough, ME →
13. Southwest Harbor, ME
Southwest Harbor, ME, is a gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Nestled on Mount Desert Island, it offers breathtaking landscapes and proximity to Acadia National Park, a hotspot for adventure-seeking tourists. Known for its charming harbor, seafood delights, and vibrant art scene, Southwest Harbor hosts events like the Acadia Night Sky Festival, attracting numerous visitors. With thriving tourism, vacation homes here promise great rental income and potential for good return on investment, making it ideal for Airbnb hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 8.3%
- Average Property Value: $1,123,432 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $93,287 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 57% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 141 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 61%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Southwest Harbor, ME →
14. Newry, ME
Nestled in the scenic White Mountains, Newry, ME, is a sought-after destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventures, making it a prime spot for short-term rental properties. With attractions like the vibrant Sunday River Ski Resort, offering year-round activities from skiing to hiking, and events like the Fall Festival, Newry draws tourists in all seasons. Real estate investors eyeing Newry's vacation homes can expect good returns and reliable rental income, with Airbnb hosts catering to adventure-loving guests drawn by the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.7%
- Average Property Value: $953,267 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $73,091 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 33% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 131 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 88%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Newry, ME →
15. Rangeley, ME
Nestled in the heart of Maine's scenic wilderness, Rangeley is a prime destination for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its picturesque lakes and mountains, it offers year-round attractions like skiing at Saddleback Mountain, fishing, and hiking, making it ideal for vacation homes and rental income. The vibrant local events, like the Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Club's annual winterfest, draw countless tourists, ensuring a good return and solid cash flow for those listing on Airbnb.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.5%
- Average Property Value: $731,809 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $54,993 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 36% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 89 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 101%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Rangeley, ME →
16. Boothbay Harbor, ME
Boothbay Harbor, ME, is a prime location for short-term rental properties, offering vacation homes with strong rental income potential. Known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant tourism, the area attracts visitors with its picturesque marinas, botanical gardens, and the annual Windjammer Days festival. As a top choice for real estate investors seeking a good return and steady cash flow, the local real estate market offers enticing investment opportunities. Become an Airbnb host in one of the best places for vacation rentals and captivate guests with unforgettable Maine experiences.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.1%
- Average Property Value: $936,145 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $66,430 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 33% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 80 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 87%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Boothbay Harbor, ME →
17. Ogunquit, ME
Ogunquit, ME is a top destination for short-term rental properties, offering a vibrant summer tourism scene that draws thousands of visitors each year. Known for its pristine beaches, picturesque Marginal Way cliff walk, and thriving arts community, Ogunquit is an attractive spot for vacation rentals and provides a good return for real estate investors. The local real estate market is strong, with investment property opportunities abound. With its charm and amenities, Ogunquit stands as one of the best places for real estate investing and rental income in Maine's housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 6.5%
- Average Property Value: $1,558,111 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $101,226 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 82 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 104%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Ogunquit, ME →
18. Mount Desert, ME
Mount Desert, ME, a gem for real estate investors, is renowned for its stunning natural attractions like Acadia National Park and the charming village of Bar Harbor. As one of the best places for short-term rental properties, it promises lucrative rental income opportunities. Visitors flock here for hiking, biking, and whale-watching. This vibrant short-term rental market attracts savvy Airbnb hosts seeking good return and cash flow. With annual events like the Bar Harbor Music Festival, Mount Desert consistently entices tourists, making it a prime location for vacation rentals in 2025.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 5.9%
- Average Property Value: $2,333,923 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $137,361 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 55% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 97 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 97%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Mount Desert, ME →
19. Kennebunkport, ME
Kennebunkport, ME, is a charming coastal destination ideal for short-term rental market opportunities. With its stunning beaches, historic district, and attractions like the Seashore Trolley Museum, it entices tourists year-round. Known for its vibrant events like the Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude, this idyllic town promises strong rental income for real estate investors seeking profitable vacation homes. As an Airbnb host or potential investor, you're aligned with a tourism-friendly location that ensures good returns and positive cash flow amidst growing interest in investment properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 5.8%
- Average Property Value: $2,256,138 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $131,673 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 44% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 109 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 89%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Kennebunkport, ME →
20. Camden, ME
Camden, ME is a picturesque harbor town renowned for its vibrant short-term rental market, making it one of the best places for real estate investing. Visitors are drawn to its stunning coastline, historic downtown, and attractions like Camden Hills State Park. The thriving tourism scene is bolstered by annual events such as the Camden Windjammer Festival and the U.S. National Toboggan Championships. For real estate investors, Camden offers promising rental income and good return potential, making it ideal for Airbnb hosts seeking to capitalize on the town's charm and popularity.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 5.6%
- Average Property Value: $1,137,239 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $63,175 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 41% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 83 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 56%