Missouri 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 17 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 Missouri 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 5,532 Airbnb listings across the state of Missouri 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 17 cities in Missouri 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 17 STR Markets in Missouri
1. Wright City, MO
Wright City, MO, offers a promising short-term rental market, attracting tourists with its proximity to scenic Katy Trail and Innsbrook Resort. This charming locale is ideal for real estate investors seeking good returns from vacation homes. Visitors can enjoy local festivals and nearby wineries, making it a popular destination. With its growing tourism scene, Wright City is one of the best places for real estate investing. Airbnb hosts can benefit from steady rental income in this burgeoning real estate market, appealing to guests year-round.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 17.4%
- Average Property Value: $396,898 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $69,137 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 37% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 100 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 124%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Wright City, MO →
2. Hollister, MO
Hollister, MO is a gem for real estate investors seeking promising short-term rental properties in 2025. Nestled near the beautiful Table Rock Lake, this area attracts tourists year-round, offering lucrative rental income potential. As a gateway to Branson’s theaters and Silver Dollar City theme park, Hollister entices guests with its vibrant tourism scene. The city is also known for hosting the annual Turkey Trot Festival, enriching the local housing market landscape. With its charming attractions, Hollister ranks among the best places for vacation homes, promising good return and cash flow.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 13.7%
- Average Property Value: $490,706 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $67,403 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 41% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 166 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 105%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Hollister, MO →
3. Hermann, MO
Nestled in the heart of Missouri wine country, Hermann, MO is an ideal destination for those considering short-term rental properties. With its charming vineyards, scenic views, and vibrant festivals like Oktoberfest and the Hermann Wine Trail, the area draws tourists year-round. The growing housing market offers promising opportunities for real estate investors seeking strong rental income and good cash flow. Hermann's rich history and picturesque setting make it a top spot for Airbnb hosts to capitalize on an active tourism scene.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 13.5%
- Average Property Value: $318,896 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $42,917 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 33% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 148 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 154%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Hermann, MO →
4. Kimberling City, MO
Kimberling City, MO is a hidden gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its stunning views of Table Rock Lake, it attracts tourists with boating, fishing, and water sports. The nearby Silver Dollar City amusement park and Dogwood Canyon Nature Park are major attractions that keep guests entertained year-round. With charming vacation homes offering a good return and constant rental income, it's an ideal spot for Airbnb hosts. As tourism thrives, real estate investing here promises steady cash flow amidst a booming housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 11.7%
- Average Property Value: $493,086 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $57,457 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 32% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 106 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 185%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Kimberling City, MO →
5. Kansas City, MO
Kansas City, MO, is a vibrant destination for tourists and a promising spot for real estate investors focusing on vacation rentals. Known for its jazz heritage, mouthwatering barbecue, and famous attractions like the National WWI Museum and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, this city offers ample opportunities for short-term rental income. Visitors flock here for major events like the Plaza Art Fair and to cheer on the Chiefs and Royals. With its dynamic housing market, Kansas City stands out as one of the best places for real estate investing, promising good returns and cash flow for Airbnb hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.1%
- Average Property Value: $388,553 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $39,328 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 44% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 565 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 56%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Kansas City, MO →
6. Saint Charles, MO
Saint Charles, MO is a prime spot for real estate investors exploring the short-term rental market. Known for its charming Main Street, filled with antique shops and eateries, it attracts both history enthusiasts and shoppers. The city hosts events like the Festival of the Little Hills and Legends & Lanterns, drawing crowds year-round. Close to the Katy Trail and home to the Missouri Riverfront, it's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Sports fans can enjoy nearby events in St. Louis, making vacation homes here a lucrative investment property with promising rental income potential.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.9%
- Average Property Value: $438,821 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $43,222 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 45% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 117 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 86%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Saint Charles, MO →
7. Branson, MO
Branson, MO is a thriving hub for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its vibrant entertainment scene, Branson attracts tourists year-round with its famous attractions like Silver Dollar City and live shows on 76 Country Boulevard. The city hosts numerous sports events and festivals, offering Airbnb hosts consistent rental income opportunities. With a booming tourism industry and a dynamic housing market, Branson is among the best places for investment property, promising good return and cash flow for real estate investing in 2025.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.5%
- Average Property Value: $405,588 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $38,446 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 36% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 1,425 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 96%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Branson, MO →
8. Saint Louis, MO
Saint Louis, MO, is a top choice for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for iconic attractions like the Gateway Arch and vibrant neighborhoods such as The Delmar Loop, this city draws tourists year-round. Home to storied sports franchises including the Cardinals and Blues, and host to popular events like Fair Saint Louis, the city offers a dynamic backdrop for vacation homes. For Airbnb hosts seeking rental income and good returns, Saint Louis's housing market presents promising opportunities in vacation rentals.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.3%
- Average Property Value: $295,769 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $27,648 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 1,080 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 66%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Saint Louis, MO →
9. Saint Joseph, MO
Saint Joseph, MO, is a hidden gem for the savvy real estate investor looking to tap into the booming short-term rental market. This charming city offers a tapestry of historical attractions like the Pony Express National Museum and Jesse James Home Museum. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy cheering for the Missouri Western State Griffons, while annual events like the Trails West! festival attract thousands of visitors. With its vibrant history and growing tourism, Saint Joseph offers excellent potential for real estate investing, promising good returns and steady rental income.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.3%
- Average Property Value: $266,908 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $24,850 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 77 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 76%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Saint Joseph, MO →
10. Camdenton, MO
Camdenton, MO, offers vibrant opportunities in the short-term rental market for real estate investors seeking lucrative rental income. Nestled by the picturesque Lake of the Ozarks, Camdenton attracts tourists with its stunning water activities and sprawling golf courses. The annual Shootout boat races draw visitors eager for thrilling events, perfect for an Airbnb host to capitalize on high demand. Investors can find good returns in vacation homes near attractions like the Bridal Cave, making it one of the best places for short-term rental properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 8.0%
- Average Property Value: $484,925 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $38,781 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 30% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 92 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 116%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Camdenton, MO →
11. Reeds Spring, MO
Reeds Spring, MO, offers a vibrant short-term rental market, attracting tourists with its proximity to Table Rock Lake and Silver Dollar City theme park. Known for its outdoor activities, visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating. The area hosts popular events like the Stone County Fair, ensuring a steady flow of tourists seeking vacation homes. With a growing real estate market, investing in short-term rental properties here promises good cash flow and rental income for real estate investors looking to capitalize on this thriving tourism spot.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.9%
- Average Property Value: $467,284 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $36,956 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 257 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 25%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Reeds Spring, MO →
12. Columbia, MO
Columbia, MO offers a vibrant short-term rental market, perfect for real estate investors seeking vacation homes with good return potential. Known for its educational and cultural attractions, visitors flock to the University of Missouri for events and sports games, such as Mizzou Tigers football. The city hosts the True/False Film Festival and Roots N Blues Festival, drawing tourists annually. With a rich blend of attractions and consistent rental income opportunities, Columbia stands out as one of the best places for investing in rental property and catering to airbnb guests.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.3%
- Average Property Value: $459,273 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $33,306 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 212 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 85%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Columbia, MO →
13. Osage Beach, MO
Osage Beach, MO is a hotspot for short-term rental properties, offering real estate investors a robust market for vacation homes. Nestled on the shores of the stunning Lake of the Ozarks, it attracts tourists year-round with boating, fishing, and hiking. The city hosts lively events like the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout and AquaPalooza. Its vibrant tourism scene offers a good return on investment property through Airbnb. Sports enthusiasts enjoy local golf courses, making it appealing for both visitors and Airbnb hosts seeking rental income in this thriving housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.2%
- Average Property Value: $553,515 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $40,028 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 31% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 380 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 77%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Osage Beach, MO →
14. Sunrise Beach, MO
Sunrise Beach, MO, offers a vibrant short-term rental market ideal for real estate investors seeking lucrative vacation rentals. Nestled along Lake of the Ozarks, it's a haven for water sports enthusiasts and boasts attractions like the Ozark Amphitheater and Ha Ha Tonka State Park. The area is a magnet for tourists, hosting events like the Shootout Boat Race. Visitors enjoy diverse recreational activities, making it a top choice for vacation homes that promise good cash flow and rental income. With its robust tourism, it’s a prime spot for Airbnb hosts to capitalize on the thriving STR scene.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.2%
- Average Property Value: $755,706 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $54,537 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 29% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 123 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 107%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Sunrise Beach, MO →
15. Springfield, MO
Springfield, MO offers a dynamic short-term rental market for real estate investors seeking vacation homes. With attractions like the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium and vibrant events such as the Route 66 Festival, this city entices visitors year-round. It’s also home to the Springfield Cardinals, providing sports fans plenty of action. Ideal for Airbnb hosts, Springfield provides a good return on investment as tourists flock to explore its cultural heritage, promising attractive rental income potential for investors in this growing housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 7.2%
- Average Property Value: $353,586 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $25,337 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 296 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 66%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Springfield, MO →
16. Joplin, MO
Joplin, MO, is a hidden gem for real estate investors seeking lucrative short-term rental properties. Nestled in the scenic Ozarks, Joplin attracts tourists with attractions like the Precious Moments Chapel and Grand Falls. Sports enthusiasts can catch minor league baseball games and enjoy local events like the Joplin Arts Fest. With a growing vacation rental market, this city offers promising rental income and cash flow opportunities. Whether you're an Airbnb host or real estate investing, Joplin's vibrant tourism scene makes it one of the best places for STR investment property in 2025.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 6.8%
- Average Property Value: $296,251 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $20,075 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 91 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 89%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Joplin, MO →
17. Lake Ozark, MO
Lake Ozark, MO, a prime spot for vacation homes and investment properties, draws tourists with its picturesque lakeside views and vibrant nightlife. The area buzzes with activities, from boating and fishing on the lake to golfing at premier courses. Special events like the annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout and Hot Summer Nights car shows captivate visitors. The strong short-term rental market provides a good return for real estate investors as tourists flood in year-round, seeking the perfect Airbnb stay and unforgettable experiences in one of the best places in the region.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 6.4%
- Average Property Value: $559,347 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $35,557 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 30% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 297 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 80%