Airbnb Market Data

13 min read

20 Best Short Term Rental Markets In Virginia For 2025

We’ve identified the top 20 cities in Virginia that offer promising opportunities to investors looking for high-yield STR markets.

Written By

Emir Dukic

Jan 23, 2025

Virginia 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 Virginia 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 5,809 Airbnb listings across the state of Virginia 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 30 cities in Virginia 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 Virginia

1. Shenandoah, VA

Shenandoah, VA, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, offers a promising short-term rental market for real estate investors. Known for its breathtaking scenery, Shenandoah National Park attracts countless tourists and hikers. The area hosts vibrant events, such as the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, enticing visitors year-round. With its charming vacation homes and potential rental income, Shenandoah is one of the best places for STR investment properties. Its thriving tourism scene provides Airbnb hosts with excellent cash flow potential.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 13.2%
  • Average Property Value: $357,514 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $47,115 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 44% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 75 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 154%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Shenandoah, VA →

2. Hampton, VA

Hampton, VA is a top choice for short-term rental properties, offering rich attractions like the Virginia Air and Space Center and Fort Monroe National Monument. With events such as the annual Hampton Jazz Festival, it's a magnet for tourists. The city's vibrant sports scene includes the Hampton Coliseum hosting concerts and sports events. These features make it ideal for real estate investors focusing on vacation homes and short-term rentals. An Airbnb host can expect consistent rental income and good return on investment in this thriving real estate market.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 11.9%
  • Average Property Value: $350,398 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $41,731 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 38% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 151 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 69%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Hampton, VA →

3. Front Royal, VA

Front Royal, VA, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, is an attractive prospect for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its scenic landscape and proximity to Shenandoah National Park, it draws nature-loving tourists year-round. Popular activities include hiking, kayaking, and exploring Skyline Drive. Visitors enjoy local attractions like the Shenandoah Valley Golf Club and annual events like the Virginia Wine & Craft Festival. These factors make Front Royal an ideal location for vacation rentals, promising solid rental income and cash flow for Airbnb hosts.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 11.2%
  • Average Property Value: $494,274 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $55,115 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 37% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 105 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 75%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Front Royal, VA →

4. Luray, VA

Luray, VA, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, is a prime spot for vacation rentals thanks to its proximity to the stunning Luray Caverns and Shenandoah National Park. Real estate investors are eyeing this burgeoning short-term rental market, as its natural beauty and historic downtown draw tourists year-round. Special events like the Luray Triathlon and the Festival of Spring boost tourism, offering Airbnb hosts robust potential for rental income. With its scenic charm and endless attractions, Luray promises a good return for those investing in vacation homes.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 10.4%
  • Average Property Value: $436,090 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $45,533 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 38% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 235 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 98%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Luray, VA →

5. Blacksburg, VA

Blacksburg, VA is a prime location for real estate investors seeking short-term rental properties with strong rental income potential. Home to Virginia Tech, attracting thousands of visitors for sporting events and cultural festivals, the area's vibrant atmosphere makes it perfect for Airbnb hosts. The town offers a rich blend of attractions, from the scenic Appalachian Trail to the popular Lane Stadium. These factors, coupled with a thriving tourism scene, position Blacksburg as one of the best places in the short-term rental market, promising a good return and steady cash flow for investors.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 10.4%
  • Average Property Value: $596,884 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $61,806 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 177 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 99%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Blacksburg, VA →

6. Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, VA, stands as a top contender for short-term rentals, offering a thriving housing market ideal for real estate investors seeking good returns. With a bustling tourism scene, attractions like the Virginia Aquarium, Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and iconic boardwalk draw millions of visitors annually. The city's sports events, such as the East Coast Surfing Championships, and vibrant festivals lure tourists, providing Airbnb hosts and STR investors plentiful rental income opportunities. The city's blend of vacation homes and investment properties cements it as a prime spot for real estate investing.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 10.3%
  • Average Property Value: $646,455 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $66,673 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 451 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 96%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Virginia Beach, VA →

7. Norfolk, VA

Norfolk, VA offers a dynamic short-term rental market, ideal for real estate investors seeking good returns. This coastal city boasts attractions like the USS Wisconsin and Norfolk Botanical Garden, appealing to tourists year-round. Sports fans can catch the Norfolk Tides in action, while events like the NATO Festival draw visitors from afar. Vacation homes here benefit from steady rental income, as Norfolk's tourism thrives. With cultural festivals and scenic waterfronts, Norfolk is one of the best places for short-term rental properties in the thriving real estate market.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 10.1%
  • Average Property Value: $425,648 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $43,191 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 42% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 239 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 124%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Norfolk, VA →

8. Lexington, VA

Lexington, VA, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, is an enticing spot for real estate investors seeking vibrant vacation rentals. Known for attractions like the Virginia Military Institute, Washington and Lee University, and the Natural Bridge State Park, it offers rich tourism experiences. The city's thriving arts scene and events such as the Rockbridge Festival attract numerous visitors year-round, enhancing the short-term rental market. With strong rental income potential, Lexington stands out as one of the best places for investment property in 2025.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 9.3%
  • Average Property Value: $528,563 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $49,092 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 76 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 104%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Lexington, VA →

9. Basye, VA

Nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Basye, VA is a gem for real estate investors focusing on short-term rental properties. The area is famous for Bryce Resort, offering year-round attractions like skiing, golf, mountain biking, and zip lining, making it ideal for vacation rentals. Special events like the Bryce Resort Oktoberfest attract numerous tourists, ensuring good return and rental income for airbnb hosts. With its robust real estate market and picturesque setting, Basye is one of the best places for real estate investing in short-term rental properties.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 9.1%
  • Average Property Value: $457,545 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $41,640 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 37% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 125 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 116%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Basye, VA →

10. Portsmouth, VA

Portsmouth, VA, is a burgeoning destination for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its historic charm, waterfront views, and vibrant cultural scene, Portsmouth offers attractions like the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and annual events such as the Umoja Festival, drawing tourists year-round. With vacation homes and short-term rental properties booming, Airbnb hosts can capitalize on steady rental income. The local real estate market presents good return opportunities, making it one of the best places for vacation rentals in 2025.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 9.1%
  • Average Property Value: $325,691 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $29,565 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 78 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 64%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Portsmouth, VA →

11. Cape Charles, VA

Cape Charles, VA, boasts a vibrant short-term rental market, attracting real estate investors seeking good returns. This charming coastal town offers vacation rentals with access to stunning beaches, exquisite golf courses, and the Cape Charles Historic District. Tourists are drawn to events like the popular Cape Charles Seafood Festival and Harbor for the Arts. Situated near the Chesapeake Bay, it's a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, promising strong rental income for Airbnb hosts and vacation home owners.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 8.7%
  • Average Property Value: $716,772 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $62,354 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 38% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 120 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 220%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Cape Charles, VA →

12. Mineral, VA

Mineral, VA, nestled near Lake Anna, is a burgeoning hotspot for short-term rental properties, attracting both tourists and real estate investors. This charming town offers visitors outdoor activities such as fishing and boating, alongside local attractions like the Mineral Museum. The vibrant real estate market provides ample opportunities for real estate investing, with vacation homes yielding good returns and steady rental income. Annual events like the Louisa Arts Festival ensure consistent tourism, making it one of the best places for vacation rentals and Airbnbs.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 8.6%
  • Average Property Value: $853,949 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $73,182 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 30% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 88 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 123%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Mineral, VA →

13. Stanardsville, VA

Stanardsville, VA, nestled in the heart of Virginia's picturesque countryside, is emerging as one of the best places for short-term rental markets by 2025. This charming town offers visitors a delightful escape with attractions like the Shenandoah National Park and the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains. Acting as a gateway for tourism, it's perfect for vacation rentals, promising good returns for real estate investors. With its vibrant local festivals and historical landmarks, Stanardsville attracts numerous tourists seeking unique Airbnb experiences, boosting rental income for savvy Airbnb hosts.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 8.5%
  • Average Property Value: $486,064 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $41,549 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 89 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 40%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Stanardsville, VA →

14. Abingdon, VA

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Abingdon, VA, is a charming town known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor attractions, making it one of the best places for short-term rental markets in 2025. Home to the Barter Theatre and the Virginia Creeper Trail, it draws tourists year-round. The annual Virginia Highlands Festival further boosts tourism, offering real estate investors promising rental income opportunities. With a lively housing market, Abingdon is ideal for vacation homes and Airbnb hosts seeking a good return and positive cash flow.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 8.5%
  • Average Property Value: $424,072 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $36,226 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 78 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 68%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Abingdon, VA →

15. Damascus, VA

Nestled in the heart of Appalachia, Damascus, VA is a gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known as the "Trail Town," it serves as a major crossover for the Appalachian Trail, attracting hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers year-round. Its close proximity to the Virginia Creeper Trail further entices tourists seeking outdoor adventure. With charming vacation homes and a robust real estate market, Damascus offers promising rental income and good return on investment for those seeking to capitalize on its thriving tourism scene.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 8.1%
  • Average Property Value: $319,185 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $25,915 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 35% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 77 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 94%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Damascus, VA →

16. Colonial Beach, VA

Colonial Beach, VA, offers a charming blend of attractions and a thriving short-term rental market, making it ideal for real estate investors seeking vacation homes and investment properties. Known for its sandy beaches along the Potomac River, it's a hotspot for tourists seeking relaxation and water activities. Visitors enjoy the Colonial Beach Bike Fest and the quaint, historic downtown. The housing market here promises good rental income and cash flow for Airbnb hosts, making it one of the best places for short-term rental properties.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 8.1%
  • Average Property Value: $427,938 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $34,644 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 37% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 119 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 82%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Colonial Beach, VA →

17. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA, is a captivating destination for short-term rental properties, attracting tourists with its rich history and vibrant culture. Renowned for Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens, the area offers year-round attractions. Events like Williamsburg Harvest Celebration enhance tourism appeal, while sports enthusiasts appreciate the Williamsburg Indoor Sports Complex. As the short-term rental market in Williamsburg evolves, real estate investors and Airbnb hosts can enjoy good return and steady cash flow from vacation rentals in this thriving tourist hub.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 7.7%
  • Average Property Value: $649,902 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $50,309 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 17% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 309 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 82%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Williamsburg, VA →

18. Roseland, VA

Roseland, VA offers a vibrant short-term rental market perfect for real estate investors seeking vacation homes with potential for high rental income. Nestled near the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, it attracts tourists year-round with outdoor activities and wineries. Key attractions include the Wintergreen Resort for skiing and golf, as well as the scenic Crabtree Falls. Popular events like the Nelson County Summer Festival draw in crowds, enhancing the area's tourism. Its blend of natural beauty and events makes it one of the best places for Airbnb hosts to enjoy a good return on investment property.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 7.7%
  • Average Property Value: $542,301 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $41,853 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 34% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 342 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 94%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Roseland, VA →

19. Afton, VA

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Afton is a prime destination for short-term rental properties and vacation homes, ideal for real estate investors seeking good return and stable rental income. Known for attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers flock here year-round. The area's vibrant tourism scene is boosted by events like the Afton Mountain Vineyards festivals and the Brew Ridge Trail, attracting countless visitors. With its scenic beauty and burgeoning housing market, Afton promises a fruitful venture for Airbnb hosts and investors alike.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 7.7%
  • Average Property Value: $819,013 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $62,962 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 38% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 106 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 75%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Afton, VA →

20. Staunton, VA

Staunton, VA, with its vibrant short-term rental market, offers investment property opportunities catering to tourists and Airbnb hosts alike. Known for its historic downtown and attractions like the American Shakespeare Center, Staunton entices visitors with cultural experiences. The city hosts special events such as the Staunton Music Festival and the Queen City Mischief & Magic festival, drawing guests year-round. Real estate investors will find Staunton's vacation homes provide good return and cash flow, making it one of the best places for real estate investing in 2025.

Key STR Metrics:

  • Average Gross Yield: 7.2%
  • Average Property Value: $432,852 (as of December 2024)
  • Average Annual Revenue: $31,025 (past 12 months)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 38% (past 12 months)
  • Qualifying Airbnbs: 88 (as of January 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 102%

Find Airbnbs For Sale in Staunton, VA →

Categories: Airbnb Market Data

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About the author

Emir Dukic

CEO @ Rabbu.com

With a passion for real estate innovation and technology, Emir has transformed Rabbu into a go-to marketplace for real estate investors seeking high-yield opportunities in the short-term rental market. Drawing on his background in entrepreneurship and operational strategy, Emir has been instrumental in simplifying the complexities of the short-term rental industry, empowering investors to maximize their returns with data-driven insights and streamlined tools.

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