Austin, TX Short-Term Rental ROI Calculator
Analyze your Airbnb investment with live Austin market data. Pre-populated with real ADR, occupancy, and revenue benchmarks.
Investor Quick Take
Strengths
- Competitive ADR — $201/night market rate
- Active market — 6,800+ active listings
Risks
- Moderate seasonality — plan for slower months
- Heavily regulated market — permits required, zone restrictions
Moderate Market
Based on ADR, occupancy, and supply metrics
Austin is a urban market with 57% average occupancy and $201 ADR.
We've pre-populated this calculator with Austin's market averages. Adjust the values to match your specific property.
Austin Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Austin draws consistent STR demand from business travelers, event tourism, and weekend visitors. As Texas's major urban center, the city generates year-round occupancy that insulates investors from the seasonal volatility common in resort markets.
The average STR in Austin generates approximately $41,800 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $201 and a 57% occupancy rate across the year. These metrics position Austin as a solid mid-tier STR market — particularly attractive to investors seeking consistent year-round cash flow.
Active listings in Austin grew by 6% year-over-year, currently sitting at approximately 6,800 active STR units. This moderate growth rate suggests a market finding equilibrium between supply and demand, which typically supports stable occupancy and ADR. Investors should track supply trends quarterly using tools like AirDNA or Rabbu before committing capital.
Key considerations for Austin investors: regulatory risk is rated high — Austin has active regulation, permit requirements, or zoning restrictions that limit STR operations. Verify current rules with the city before purchasing. Property management costs, cleaning turnover for short stays, and platform fee optimization are the primary levers operators use to improve net margin in this market.
Market Metrics
Austin Airbnb Revenue by Property Size
| Property Size | Avg ADR | Avg Occupancy | Avg Annual Revenue | Est. Cap Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $111 | 57% | $23K | 2.0–2.7% |
| 1BR | $153 | 57% | $32K | 2.7–3.7% |
| 2BR | $221 | 57% | $48K | 4.1–5.6% |
| 3BR | $291 | 57% | $65K | 5.6–7.5% |
| 4BR+ | $402 | 57% | $88K | 7.5–10.2% |
Austin STR Revenue Calendar
Seasonal Insight: Peak season runs October, April, and May. Expect up to 15% higher revenue during peak months. Plan for January and December as your slowest period — approximately 20% below the annual average.
Is Austin a Good Market for Short-Term Rentals?
Why investors choose Austin
- ✓Solid revenue potential: market average of $41,800 per year with upside for well-managed properties
- ✓Reliable occupancy: 57% market average provides predictable income baseline
- ✓Year-round demand: Austin's diverse visitor base prevents the seasonal cliffs common in resort markets
- ✓Growing market: 6% annual listing growth signals strong investor and visitor confidence
Key risks to consider
- !Regulatory risk: Austin has active STR restrictions — permits, zoning, or operational limits may constrain your strategy
Austin STR Regulatory Overview
HighAustin requires STR licenses and has different rules for Type 1 (owner-occupied) and Type 2 (non-owner-occupied). Type 2 licenses are capped and waitlisted; the city has explored further restrictions.
Key Requirements
- ·License required (Type 1 or Type 2)
- ·Type 2 cap in effect — waitlist likely
- ·Austin hotel occupancy tax
- ·Neighborhood notification requirements
- ·Annual renewal and inspection
Source: City of Austin Code Department · Last verified: 2026-01. Regulations change frequently — always verify current requirements with local authorities before investing.
Compare Austin to Similar Markets
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| Metric | Austin | San Antonio | Fredericksburg | South Padre Island |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADR | $201 | $163 | $287 | $198 |
| Occupancy | 57% | 55% | 62% | 52% |
| Avg Revenue | $42K | $33K | $65K | $38K |
| Median Home Value | $545K | $295K | $545K | $385K |
| Regulatory Risk | High | Low | Low | Low |
Austin Short-Term Rental FAQs
Is Austin a good market for short-term rentals?+
Austin, TX is a solid US STR markets. With an average daily rate of $201 and 57% occupancy, the average listing earns approximately $41,800 per year. Market performance varies significantly by property type, location within the city, and management quality — this calculator helps you model your specific scenario.
What is the average Airbnb income in Austin?+
The average STR listing in Austin generates approximately $41,800 in gross annual revenue at a $201 average daily rate and 57% occupancy. Top-performing listings with premium amenities, strong reviews, and professional management can earn 30–50% above the market average. After platform fees (3–5%), cleaning costs, and other expenses, net revenue typically ranges 60–75% of gross.
What occupancy rate can I expect for an Airbnb in Austin?+
The market-average occupancy in Austin is approximately 57%. New listings typically underperform the market average for the first 3–6 months while accumulating reviews. Properties with professional photography, competitive pricing, and consistently high ratings can reach 69–75% occupancy. This market is moderately seasonal — consistent occupancy is achievable year-round with good pricing strategy.
What are the STR regulations in Austin?+
Regulatory risk in Austin is rated High. Austin has enacted significant STR restrictions. Investors must research current zoning, permit requirements, and any owner-occupancy rules before purchasing. Violations can result in substantial fines. Regulations change frequently; always confirm current rules with local authorities.
What type of property performs best as an Airbnb in Austin?+
In Austin, the highest-performing STR properties are typically 1–2 bedroom apartments and condos near downtown. Guests in urban markets prioritize location, walkability, and modern amenities. The most efficient segment by revenue-per-dollar-invested is typically the 2-bedroom category.
What is the best season for Airbnb in Austin?+
Austin sees peak STR demand during spring (March–May) and fall (September–October). During peak season, top properties can command rates 15% above their annual average. Demand remains relatively stable throughout the year, with only moderate seasonal variation.
How much does it cost to buy an STR investment property in Austin?+
The median home value in Austin is approximately $545,000. With a 20% down payment, you'd invest roughly $125K in cash (including closing costs and setup). At the market-average revenue of $41,800/year, a property at median value would generate a gross revenue yield of approximately 7.7%. Use this calculator to model your specific purchase price, financing terms, and expense assumptions.
How does Austin compare to other STR markets?+
Austin offers accessible entry points relative to premium coastal markets. The $201 ADR is near the national STR average of roughly $185. For comparison, markets like Aspen and Malibu exceed $450 ADR but require significantly higher acquisition costs. Austin offers a lower barrier to entry with reliable occupancy fundamentals.
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