Cape Cod, MA Short-Term Rental ROI Calculator
Analyze your Airbnb investment with live Cape Cod market data. Pre-populated with real ADR, occupancy, and revenue benchmarks.
Investor Quick Take
Strengths
- Premium ADR — $312/night average
- STR-friendly regulations — low compliance burden
Risks
- High seasonality — significant off-season revenue drop
- Below-average occupancy — careful underwriting required
Moderate Market
Based on ADR, occupancy, and supply metrics
Cape Cod is a beach market with 52% average occupancy and $312 ADR.
We've pre-populated this calculator with Cape Cod's market averages. Adjust the values to match your specific property.
Cape Cod Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Cape Cod is one of the nation's premier beach destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually seeking sun, surf, and waterfront accommodations. Demand peaks sharply in summer but the mild climate extends the shoulder season well into spring and fall, giving STR operators a longer revenue window than inland markets.
The average STR in Cape Cod generates approximately $59,300 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $312 and a 52% occupancy rate across the year. These metrics position Cape Cod as a solid mid-tier STR market — particularly attractive to investors seeking consistent year-round cash flow.
Active listings in Cape Cod grew by 9% year-over-year, currently sitting at approximately 5,600 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 Cape Cod investors: regulatory risk is rated low — Cape Cod currently has minimal STR regulation, making it an investor-friendly market from a compliance perspective. Monitor local policy, as regulations can change. 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
Cape Cod Airbnb Revenue by Property Size
| Property Size | Avg ADR | Avg Occupancy | Avg Annual Revenue | Est. Cap Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $156 | 52% | $30K | 2.0–2.7% |
| 1BR | $218 | 52% | $43K | 2.9–3.9% |
| 2BR | $328 | 52% | $65K | 4.5–6.0% |
| 3BR | $474 | 52% | $96K | 6.6–8.9% |
| 4BR+ | $686 | 52% | $142K | 9.7–13.1% |
Cape Cod STR Revenue Calendar
Seasonal Insight: Peak season runs July, June, and August. Expect up to 58% higher revenue during peak months. Plan for January and November as your slowest period — approximately 32% below the annual average.
Is Cape Cod a Good Market for Short-Term Rentals?
Why investors choose Cape Cod
- ✓Solid revenue potential: market average of $59,300 per year with upside for well-managed properties
- ✓Premium pricing power: Cape Cod's destination appeal supports $312/night average — significantly above national STR average of ~$180
- ✓Growing market: 9% annual listing growth signals strong investor and visitor confidence
Key risks to consider
- !High seasonality: Cape Cod has significant off-peak periods where revenue can drop 40–60% — cash reserves are essential
- !Below-average occupancy: 52% market average means careful property selection and pricing strategy are critical to profitability
Cape Cod STR Regulatory Overview
LowCape Cod towns (Barnstable County municipalities) allow STRs with Massachusetts state registration and local tax compliance. The beach vacation rental tradition is deeply embedded in local culture.
Key Requirements
- ·Massachusetts short-term rental registration (state, free)
- ·Room occupancy tax collection (5.7% state + local options tax)
- ·Local town bylaws vary — check each municipality
- ·Health board compliance for water/septic
Source: Massachusetts Department of Revenue · Last verified: 2026-01. Regulations change frequently — always verify current requirements with local authorities before investing.
Compare Cape Cod to Similar Markets
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| Metric | Cape Cod | New York | Boston | Portland |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADR | $312 | $287 | $231 | $198 |
| Occupancy | 52% | 62% | 60% | 54% |
| Avg Revenue | $59K | $65K | $51K | $39K |
| Median Home Value | $685K | $1.1M | $785K | $545K |
| Regulatory Risk | Low | High | Moderate | Moderate |
Cape Cod Short-Term Rental FAQs
Is Cape Cod a good market for short-term rentals?+
Cape Cod, MA is a solid US STR markets. With an average daily rate of $312 and 52% occupancy, the average listing earns approximately $59,300 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 Cape Cod?+
The average STR listing in Cape Cod generates approximately $59,300 in gross annual revenue at a $312 average daily rate and 52% 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 Cape Cod?+
The market-average occupancy in Cape Cod is approximately 52%. 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 64–70% occupancy. This market is highly seasonal — plan for meaningful variation between peak and off-peak months.
What are the STR regulations in Cape Cod?+
Regulatory risk in Cape Cod is rated Low. Cape Cod currently has minimal STR regulation, making it investor-friendly from a compliance standpoint. Always verify current requirements — local policies can change. Regulations change frequently; always confirm current rules with local authorities.
What type of property performs best as an Airbnb in Cape Cod?+
In Cape Cod, the highest-performing STR properties are typically 3-bedroom beach houses and condos with ocean views. Guests in Cape Cod prioritize proximity to key attractions, unique character, and outdoor space. The premium segment by revenue-per-dollar-invested is typically the 2-bedroom category.
What is the best season for Airbnb in Cape Cod?+
Cape Cod sees peak STR demand during June through August. During peak season, top properties can command rates 58% above their annual average. The off-peak period sees materially lower rates and occupancy — conservative underwriting should assume 40–50% of peak revenue during the slowest months.
How much does it cost to buy an STR investment property in Cape Cod?+
The median home value in Cape Cod is approximately $685,000. With a 20% down payment, you'd invest roughly $158K in cash (including closing costs and setup). At the market-average revenue of $59,300/year, a property at median value would generate a gross revenue yield of approximately 8.7%. Use this calculator to model your specific purchase price, financing terms, and expense assumptions.
How does Cape Cod compare to other STR markets?+
Cape Cod performs above the national average for STR revenue. The $312 ADR is above the national STR average of roughly $185. For comparison, markets like Aspen and Malibu exceed $450 ADR but require significantly higher acquisition costs. Cape Cod offers a strong combination of revenue potential and market accessibility.
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