Galena, IL Short-Term Rental ROI Calculator
Analyze your Airbnb investment with live Galena market data. Pre-populated with real ADR, occupancy, and revenue benchmarks.
Investor Quick Take
Strengths
- Accessible entry point — median home $295K
- STR-friendly regulations — low compliance burden
Risks
- Moderate seasonality — plan for slower months
- Below-average occupancy — careful underwriting required
Moderate Market
Based on ADR, occupancy, and supply metrics
Galena offers an accessible entry point at $295K median — lower capital requirement than comparable markets.
We've pre-populated this calculator with Galena's market averages. Adjust the values to match your specific property.
Galena Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Galena offers a distinctive STR opportunity: authentic regional character, affordable property prices relative to coastal markets, and a growing appetite among urban visitors for unique rural getaways. Wine tourism, outdoor recreation, and destination events drive demand in a market with far fewer listings competing for that attention.
The average STR in Galena generates approximately $29,300 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $167 and a 48% occupancy rate across the year. These metrics position Galena as an accessible entry-point STR market — particularly attractive to investors seeking consistent year-round cash flow.
Active listings in Galena grew by 12% year-over-year, currently sitting at approximately 980 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 Galena investors: regulatory risk is rated low — Galena 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
Galena Airbnb Revenue by Property Size
| Property Size | Avg ADR | Avg Occupancy | Avg Annual Revenue | Est. Cap Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $75 | 48% | $13K | 2.1–2.8% |
| 1BR | $109 | 48% | $19K | 3.0–4.1% |
| 2BR | $167 | 48% | $31K | 4.9–6.6% |
| 3BR | $259 | 48% | $48K | 7.7–10.4% |
| 4BR+ | $367 | 48% | $70K | 11.1–15.1% |
Galena STR Revenue Calendar
Seasonal Insight: Peak season runs July, June, and August. Expect up to 38% higher revenue during peak months. Plan for January and December as your slowest period — approximately 28% below the annual average.
Is Galena a Good Market for Short-Term Rentals?
Why investors choose Galena
- ✓Year-round demand: Galena's diverse visitor base prevents the seasonal cliffs common in resort markets
- ✓Growing market: 12% annual listing growth signals strong investor and visitor confidence
Key risks to consider
- !Moderate seasonality: revenue varies materially by month — budget conservatively for shoulder and off-peak periods
- !Below-average occupancy: 48% market average means careful property selection and pricing strategy are critical to profitability
Galena STR Regulatory Overview
LowGalena and Jo Daviess County have a well-established vacation rental market with minimal regulatory barriers. Illinois hotel operator's occupation tax applies.
Key Requirements
- ·Business license required
- ·Illinois hotel tax registration
- ·Annual fire inspection for properties with multiple units
- ·Standard zoning compliance
Source: City of Galena · Last verified: 2026-01. Regulations change frequently — always verify current requirements with local authorities before investing.
Compare Galena to Similar Markets
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| Metric | Galena | Chicago | Branson | Lake of the Ozarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADR | $167 | $198 | $142 | $178 |
| Occupancy | 48% | 57% | 58% | 52% |
| Avg Revenue | $29K | $41K | $30K | $34K |
| Median Home Value | $295K | $385K | $245K | $285K |
| Regulatory Risk | Low | High | Low | Low |
Galena Short-Term Rental FAQs
Is Galena a good market for short-term rentals?+
Galena, IL is an accessible US STR markets. With an average daily rate of $167 and 48% occupancy, the average listing earns approximately $29,300 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 Galena?+
The average STR listing in Galena generates approximately $29,300 in gross annual revenue at a $167 average daily rate and 48% 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 Galena?+
The market-average occupancy in Galena is approximately 48%. 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 60–66% occupancy. This market is moderately seasonal — plan for meaningful variation between peak and off-peak months.
What are the STR regulations in Galena?+
Regulatory risk in Galena is rated Low. Galena 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 Galena?+
In Galena, the highest-performing STR properties are typically unique properties: farmhouses, cabins, and historic homes. Guests in Galena prioritize privacy, unique ambiance, and well-equipped spaces. The most efficient segment by revenue-per-dollar-invested is typically the 2-bedroom category.
What is the best season for Airbnb in Galena?+
Galena sees peak STR demand during summer (June–August). During peak season, top properties can command rates 38% 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 Galena?+
The median home value in Galena is approximately $295,000. With a 20% down payment, you'd invest roughly $68K in cash (including closing costs and setup). At the market-average revenue of $29,300/year, a property at median value would generate a gross revenue yield of approximately 9.9%. Use this calculator to model your specific purchase price, financing terms, and expense assumptions.
How does Galena compare to other STR markets?+
Galena offers accessible entry points relative to premium coastal markets. The $167 ADR is below the national STR average of roughly $185. For comparison, markets like Aspen and Malibu exceed $450 ADR but require significantly higher acquisition costs. Galena offers a lower barrier to entry with reliable occupancy fundamentals.
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