New York 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 New York 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 6,385 Airbnb listings across the state of New York 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 34 cities in New York 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 New York
1. Geneva, NY
Geneva, NY, in the heart of the Finger Lakes, is a gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its picturesque Seneca Lake views, vibrant wineries, and the historic Smith Opera House, it draws tourists year-round. The Geneva Red Wings baseball team and events like the Musselman Triathlon boost tourism. With vacation rentals thriving, this area promises good return and cash flow for short-term rental properties. An ideal spot for AirBnB hosts seeking high rental income and guests seeking memorable experiences.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 18.9%
- Average Property Value: $333,432 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $63,053 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 145 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 86%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Geneva, NY →
2. Watkins Glen, NY
Watkins Glen, NY, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes, is a prime destination for short-term rental properties, attracting tourists with its stunning natural beauty and abundant attractions. Known for Watkins Glen State Park, featuring hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls, the area also hosts the famous Watkins Glen International racetrack, drawing motorsport enthusiasts. With vibrant events like the annual Wine Festival, real estate investors looking for good returns in the vacation homes market will find ample opportunities for cash flow and rental income from Airbnb guests.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 17.5%
- Average Property Value: $333,609 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $58,460 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 75 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 44%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Watkins Glen, NY →
3. Burdett, NY
Burdett, NY is a hidden gem for real estate investors seeking lucrative short-term rental markets. Located near the scenic Finger Lakes, it's popular for vacation rentals and offers guests breathtaking views and outdoor activities like hiking in Watkins Glen State Park and wine tasting along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. The area hosts events like the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, drawing tourists year-round. These attractions make Burdett a top spot for Airbnb hosts looking to generate rental income and achieve good cash flow from their investment properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 17.0%
- Average Property Value: $471,271 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $80,239 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 47% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 79 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 83%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Burdett, NY →
4. Niagara Falls, NY
Niagara Falls, NY, known for its breathtaking waterfalls, is a prime spot for short-term rentals, drawing tourists worldwide. Key attractions include the Niagara Falls State Park, thrilling Maid of the Mist boat tours, and the dynamic Aquarium of Niagara. The city's vibrant events, like the Niagara Falls Blues Festival, add to its allure. With a robust tourism presence, the local short-term rental market offers real estate investors an attractive opportunity for vacation homes and high rental income. It's an excellent place for Airbnb hosts seeking good returns.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 15.3%
- Average Property Value: $242,104 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $36,956 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 35% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 114 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 118%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Niagara Falls, NY →
5. Cooperstown, NY
Cooperstown, NY is a prime location for short-term rental investors with a rich blend of attractions and cultural events. Known for the National Baseball Hall of Fame, it draws sports enthusiasts year-round, while the scenic Otsego Lake offers a tranquil escape for vacationers. The summer Glimmerglass Festival and Farmers’ Museum enhance its appeal, ensuring steady tourism and rental income for Airbnb hosts and real estate investors. The robust short-term rental market presents a good return, making it one of the best places for investment property in New York.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 13.7%
- Average Property Value: $618,962 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $84,649 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 50% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 82 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 96%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Cooperstown, NY →
6. Monticello, NY
Monticello, NY, is a premier destination for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market in 2025. Set in the scenic Catskills, it offers vibrant attractions like the Monticello Motor Club and Resorts World Catskills, drawing countless visitors annually. With the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts hosting year-round events, this area promises steady rental income. As a vacation rental hotspot, Monticello's tourism appeal makes it one of the best places for airbnb hosts seeking good returns and cash flow from their investment properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 12.3%
- Average Property Value: $397,160 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $48,788 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 31% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 76 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 68%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Monticello, NY →
7. Ballston Spa, NY
Ballston Spa, NY, in the heart of Saratoga County, offers a vibrant short-term rental market for real estate investors seeking good returns and consistent cash flow. Known for its charming village atmosphere, Ballston Spa attracts tourists with its proximity to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the Saratoga Race Course, both of which boost tourism significantly. With annual events like the Ballston Spa Film Festival, real estate investing in vacation homes here is lucrative, and hosting STR guests offers a reliable rental income for Airbnb hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 12.2%
- Average Property Value: $527,585 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $64,300 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 35% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 92 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 115%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Ballston Spa, NY →
8. Syracuse, NY
Syracuse, NY, offers a vibrant short-term rental market with diverse attractions ideal for real estate investors. Home to famed sites like the Erie Canal Museum and Rosamond Gifford Zoo, it draws tourists year-round. Sports enthusiasts can catch a Syracuse Orange game, enhancing the city's appeal for vacation rentals. The housing market here provides excellent opportunities for vacation homes, ensuring good cash flow and rental income. Hosting special events like the Great New York State Fair, Syracuse is a top choice for Airbnb hosts and guests alike.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 11.5%
- Average Property Value: $285,765 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $32,880 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 165 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 113%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Syracuse, NY →
9. North Creek, NY
In the Adirondacks, North Creek, NY, is a hotspot for short-term rental properties, offering lucrative opportunities for real estate investors. With Gore Mountain's skiing and hiking trails drawing visitors year-round, vacation homes in the area promise good returns. The town is a magnet for tourists attending events like the Hudson River Whitewater Derby and enjoying local attractions such as North Creek Depot Museum. This vibrant tourism scene ensures strong rental income for Airbnb hosts and makes the local real estate market an attractive option for investing.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 11.4%
- Average Property Value: $418,431 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $47,662 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 29% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 88 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 73%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in North Creek, NY →
10. Rochester, NY
Rochester, NY, is a top destination for short-term rental market investors in 2025, offering rich tourism opportunities and good returns. Known for its cultural attractions such as the Strong National Museum of Play and George Eastman Museum, it also hosts popular events like the Lilac Festival and Rochester International Jazz Festival. Home to the Red Wings baseball team, it attracts sports fans year-round. These features make Rochester's short-term rental properties an attractive option for real estate investors seeking lucrative rental income and enhanced cash flow.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.8%
- Average Property Value: $304,108 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $32,850 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 441 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 95%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Rochester, NY →
11. Greenport, NY
Greenport, NY, is a charming seaside village perfect for short-term rental property investors seeking attractive returns. Located on the North Fork of Long Island, it offers enticing attractions like the historic Greenport Harbor, the unique Railroad Museum, and the beautiful beaches of Long Island Sound. The lively maritime atmosphere, complemented by local vineyards, and events like the Maritime Festival, entices tourists year-round. With a thriving vacation rental market, it's one of the best places for real estate investing, promising good cash flow and rental income for AirBnB hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.4%
- Average Property Value: $1,364,356 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $141,255 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 33% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 118 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 75%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Greenport, NY →
12. Buffalo, NY
Buffalo, NY, is a vibrant destination for short-term rental properties with its rich history, thriving arts scene, and lively sports culture. Home to the iconic Niagara Falls and attractions like the Buffalo Zoo and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the city draws tourists year-round. As an emerging real estate market, Buffalo offers real estate investors an opportunity for good returns and rental income, especially with events like Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres games attracting guests. The city's buzzing tourism scene makes it one of the best places for vacation rentals and Airbnb hosts.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.3%
- Average Property Value: $314,678 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $32,332 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 41% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 625 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 101%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Buffalo, NY →
13. Lake Placid, NY
Lake Placid, NY is a top destination for short-term rental investors due to its vibrant tourism scene and robust real estate market. Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, it hosts iconic events like the Winter Olympics and Ironman triathlons, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The area offers enticing attractions such as Mirror Lake, Whiteface Mountain, and Olympic facilities, making it one of the best places for vacation rentals. With steady rental income and great potential for good return on investment, Lake Placid is ideal for real estate investing in short-term rental properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 10.1%
- Average Property Value: $759,029 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $76,650 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 299 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 76%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Lake Placid, NY →
14. Livingston Manor, NY
Livingston Manor, NY, is a hidden gem in the Catskills, making it one of the best places for short-term rental market investments. Boasting attractions like the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum and the scenic Mongaup Pond, this charming town draws numerous tourists. Special events like the annual Trout Parade offer unique experiences to visitors. With its flourishing tourism, real estate investors eyeing vacation homes or Airbnb properties can expect good rental income and cash flow, making it a viable choice for real estate investing in the region.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.9%
- Average Property Value: $540,435 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $53,655 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 33% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 104 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 79%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Livingston Manor, NY →
15. Hammondsport, NY
Hammondsport, NY is a charming destination at the southern tip of Keuka Lake, renowned for its vibrant short-term rental market. This picturesque village attracts visitors with its award-winning wineries, scenic lake views, and aviation history, including the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. Perfect for real estate investors seeking vacation homes, Hammondsport offers a good return on investment property by captivating tourists year-round with events like the annual Wine Country Classic Boat Show. As an Airbnb host here, expect steady rental income and positive cash flow from guests eager to explore its unique attractions.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.7%
- Average Property Value: $724,853 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $70,627 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 101 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 108%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Hammondsport, NY →
16. Penn Yan, NY
Set in the heart of the Finger Lakes, Penn Yan, NY, offers real estate investors a vibrant short-term rental market perfect for vacation rentals. Known for its stunning Keuka Lake views, it's a top destination for tourists seeking an escape. Attractions include the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, charming Main Street shops, and outdoor adventures like boating and hiking. Special events like the Wine Country Classic Boat Show draw visitors year-round. With its strong tourism appeal, Penn Yan promises solid rental income and good returns for real estate investors eyeing investment properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.7%
- Average Property Value: $717,440 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $69,562 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 131 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 138%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Penn Yan, NY →
17. Saranac Lake, NY
Saranac Lake, NY, is a gem in the Adirondacks, making it a prime spot for short-term rental properties. Known for its stunning lakes and lush forests, it attracts tourists year-round, enhancing the local short-term rental market. Visitors enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, plus unique events like the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival. This tourism hotspot provides a good return for real estate investors looking to capitalize on vacation homes and Airbnb properties, offering robust rental income potential.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.5%
- Average Property Value: $594,893 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $56,392 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 124 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 63%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Saranac Lake, NY →
18. Hampton Bays, NY
Hampton Bays, NY, is a prime spot for real estate investors seeking a good return in the short-term rental market. Known for its beautiful beaches and boating activities, it's a top choice for tourists wanting coastal attractions. Vacation rentals here benefit from events like the Hampton Bays Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Summer Concert Series and proximity to the renowned Hamptons Classic horse show. The local tourism offers ample opportunities for Airbnb hosts to generate rental income, making it one of the best places for short-term rental properties in the housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.5%
- Average Property Value: $1,251,399 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $118,351 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 29% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 157 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 119%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Hampton Bays, NY →
19. Margaretville, NY
Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, Margaretville, NY, is a burgeoning hotspot for short-term rental properties, ideal for real estate investors seeking good returns in the vacation homes sector. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor attractions, such as hiking and skiing, the area is perfect for tourists year-round. Annual events like the Margaretville Cauliflower Festival attract visitors, enhancing rental income potential. With a vibrant housing market and tourism appeal, it's among the best places for Airbnb hosts to capitalize on str opportunities.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.4%
- Average Property Value: $527,344 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $49,731 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 36% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 99 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 100%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Margaretville, NY →
20. Kerhonkson, NY
Kerhonkson, NY, in the scenic Hudson Valley, offers a vibrant short-term rental market ideal for real estate investors seeking strong rental income. Known for its proximity to stunning attractions like Minnewaska State Park and the Shawangunk Ridge, Kerhonkson draws tourists year-round. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking, while seasonal events like local farmers markets enhance the appeal for vacation rentals. This charming town promises a good return for Airbnb hosts in the vacation homes sector, with its thriving tourism scene.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 9.0%
- Average Property Value: $637,713 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $57,213 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 140 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 80%
