Vail, CO Short-Term Rental ROI Calculator
Analyze your Airbnb investment with live Vail market data. Pre-populated with real ADR, occupancy, and revenue benchmarks.
Investor Quick Take
Strengths
- Solid occupancy — 58% market average
- Premium ADR — $498/night average
- High revenue potential — $105K+ avg/yr
- STR-friendly regulations — low compliance burden
Risks
- High seasonality — significant off-season revenue drop
- High acquisition cost — median home $1.6M
Solid Market
Based on ADR, occupancy, and supply metrics
Vail properties generate above-average revenue with $105K in annual income potential.
We've pre-populated this calculator with Vail's market averages. Adjust the values to match your specific property.
Vail Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Vail is a world-class ski resort destination with a captive audience of high-spending visitors during peak winter season. The combination of premium nightly rates and strong shoulder-season activity (summer hiking, mountain biking, festivals) creates a compelling revenue profile across all 12 months.
The average STR in Vail generates approximately $105,400 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $498 and a 58% occupancy rate across the year. These metrics position Vail among the higher-performing US STR markets — particularly attractive to investors seeking premium nightly rates with a concentrated peak season.
Active listings in Vail grew by 4% year-over-year, currently sitting at approximately 2,900 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 Vail investors: regulatory risk is rated low — Vail 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
Vail Airbnb Revenue by Property Size
| Property Size | Avg ADR | Avg Occupancy | Avg Annual Revenue | Est. Cap Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $199 | 58% | $40K | 1.1–1.5% |
| 1BR | $299 | 58% | $63K | 1.8–2.4% |
| 2BR | $498 | 58% | $108K | 3.0–4.1% |
| 3BR | $797 | 58% | $181K | 5.1–6.9% |
| 4BR+ | $1245 | 58% | $287K | 8.1–11.0% |
Vail STR Revenue Calendar
Seasonal Insight: Peak season runs February, January, and December. Expect up to 58% higher revenue during peak months. Plan for October and May as your slowest period — approximately 38% below the annual average.
Is Vail a Good Market for Short-Term Rentals?
Why investors choose Vail
- ✓High revenue ceiling: top-performing properties average $148K+ annually
- ✓Reliable occupancy: 58% market average provides predictable income baseline
- ✓Premium pricing power: Vail's destination appeal supports $498/night average — significantly above national STR average of ~$180
- ✓Growing market: 4% annual listing growth signals strong investor and visitor confidence
Key risks to consider
- !High seasonality: Vail has significant off-peak periods where revenue can drop 40–60% — cash reserves are essential
Vail STR Regulatory Overview
LowVail has a sophisticated STR framework that balances a large tourism economy with residential character. Licensing is required but well-supported by local infrastructure.
Key Requirements
- ·Business license required
- ·State lodging tax plus local
- ·Annual renewal
- ·HOA rules common in resort complexes — verify before purchase
Source: Town of Vail · Last verified: 2026-01. Regulations change frequently — always verify current requirements with local authorities before investing.
Compare Vail to Similar Markets
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| Metric | Vail | Denver | Breckenridge | Aspen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADR | $498 | $176 | $412 | $687 |
| Occupancy | 58% | 55% | 61% | 62% |
| Avg Revenue | $105K | $35K | $92K | $156K |
| Median Home Value | $1.6M | $545K | $1.1M | $3.9M |
| Regulatory Risk | Low | Moderate | Low | Low |
Vail Short-Term Rental FAQs
Is Vail a good market for short-term rentals?+
Vail, CO is one of the stronger US STR markets. With an average daily rate of $498 and 58% occupancy, the average listing earns approximately $105,400 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 Vail?+
The average STR listing in Vail generates approximately $105,400 in gross annual revenue at a $498 average daily rate and 58% 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 Vail?+
The market-average occupancy in Vail is approximately 58%. 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 70–76% occupancy. This market is highly seasonal — plan for meaningful variation between peak and off-peak months.
What are the STR regulations in Vail?+
Regulatory risk in Vail is rated Low. Vail 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 Vail?+
In Vail, the highest-performing STR properties are typically 2–3 bedroom ski-in/ski-out units and mountain cabins. Guests in Vail prioritize privacy, unique ambiance, and well-equipped spaces. The premium segment by revenue-per-dollar-invested is typically the 2-bedroom category.
What is the best season for Airbnb in Vail?+
Vail sees peak STR demand during December through February and July. 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 Vail?+
The median home value in Vail is approximately $1,650,000. With a 20% down payment, you'd invest roughly $380K in cash (including closing costs and setup). At the market-average revenue of $105,400/year, a property at median value would generate a gross revenue yield of approximately 6.4%. Use this calculator to model your specific purchase price, financing terms, and expense assumptions.
How does Vail compare to other STR markets?+
Vail ranks among the top-tier US STR markets by revenue potential. The $498 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. Vail offers a strong combination of revenue potential and market accessibility.
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