The short-term rental market never stands still, and 2024 was no exception. While some investors looked to sell their properties, others were just as eager to jump into these high-demand markets. At GetChalet.com, we track investor activity across the country, and the data from this past year gives us a unique look at where Airbnb owners were most interested in selling—and where new opportunities are emerging for buyers.
Let’s take a deep dive into the top short-term rental markets where investors were looking to sell in 2024 and what this means for those looking to buy. 👇
🏆 #1 – Flagstaff, AZ (979 inquiries)
🏔️ Why investors sold: Flagstaff is a stunning vacation market with strong year-round demand, but rising home prices and regulatory shifts have led some investors to cash out at peak value.
💰 Why it’s a great opportunity: The city remains a top destination for outdoor lovers and Grand Canyon visitors, making well-positioned Airbnbs a solid investment. If you’re looking to buy, expect strong seasonal occupancy and high nightly rates.
🎰 #2 – Las Vegas, NV (610 inquiries)
🏙️ Why investors sold: Las Vegas continues to be a short-term rental hotspot, but local regulations have limited Airbnb operations in residential areas, making compliance more challenging.
🔑 Why it’s a great opportunity: With nearly 40 million annual visitors, investors who navigate the regulations correctly can tap into a high-demand, high-revenue market.
🏙️ #3 – Jersey City, NJ (498 inquiries)
🚆 Why investors sold: Jersey City was once a go-to market for New York-bound travelers, but strict owner-occupancy rules have made Airbnb operations more complicated.
🏡 Why it’s a great opportunity: With fewer competitors in the market, legally operating Airbnbs can command premium rates—especially for longer stays targeting business travelers.
🏖️ #4 – Indian Rocks Beach, FL (486 inquiries)
🌴 Why investors sold: Florida’s Gulf Coast has seen huge property appreciation, leading some investors to sell while values are high.
☀️ Why it’s a great opportunity: The area remains one of the most sought-after vacation spots in Florida, with consistent demand from snowbirds and beachgoers.
Top 15 STR Markets for 2025 – Where to Invest Next
Airbnb Rental Markets Set to Outperform in 2025
Download our comprehensive guide to learn:
- 📊 Which STR markets are set to outperform in 2025 based on revenue growth, occupancy trends, and supply shifts.
- 🏡 Where home prices are still affordable while generating high rental income.
- 📈 How to identify markets with strong appreciation potential for both short-term cash flow and long-term gains.
- ⚖ Which cities have the best (and worst) STR regulations—so you don’t get caught off guard.
- 🔎 The demand trends driving guest bookings and what amenities maximize revenue in each market.
🌄 #5 – Asheville, NC (438 inquiries)
⛰️ Why investors sold: Asheville has been a booming market for years, but new zoning restrictions on STRs have prompted some investors to exit.
🍷 Why it’s a great opportunity: Demand for unique, high-quality stays is still strong here, making well-positioned rentals highly profitable for those who secure permits.
🏝️ #6 – Pensacola, FL (430 inquiries)
🌊 Why investors sold: Some investors have exited due to hurricane insurance costs and rising competition.
📈 Why it’s a great opportunity: Pensacola remains a top-performing beach rental market, and demand continues to outpace supply for well-managed STRs.
🌵 #7 – Tucson, AZ (419 inquiries)
🌞 Why investors sold: Tucson has seen rising STR supply, increasing competition among hosts.
🎾 Why it’s a great opportunity: With its thriving snowbird and event-driven rental market, the right property can still deliver strong returns year-round.
🏡 #8 – Plano, TX (398 inquiries)
🏗️ Why investors sold: Investors are adjusting as demand in Dallas suburbs shifts toward mid-term rentals.
📊 Why it’s a great opportunity: Well-located homes near corporate hubs can attract high-paying business travelers.
🌵 #9 – Joshua Tree, CA (390 inquiries)
🌟 Why investors sold: This once Airbnb goldmine has seen high saturation and increased operating costs.
🏡 Why it’s a great opportunity: Unique, high-end stays with strong branding still perform well in this market.
🌴 #10 – Sarasota, FL (375 inquiries)
📉 Why investors sold: Some investors are locking in gains after years of home appreciation.
🏖️ Why it’s a great opportunity: Sarasota remains a top destination for retirees and luxury travelers, meaning well-located Airbnbs can charge premium rates.
🎶 #11 – Memphis, TN (246 inquiries)
🎸 Why investors sold: Increased STR competition and a shift toward longer-term stays have made some hosts rethink their strategy.
🎷 Why it’s a great opportunity: Tourists and business travelers still flock to Memphis, making well-positioned rentals a smart buy.
🏛️ #12 – Philadelphia, PA (230 inquiries)
📜 Why investors sold: Philly introduced new permit requirements, causing many non-owner-occupied hosts to sell.
🔑 Why it’s a great opportunity: STRs near hospitals and universities still see strong demand year-round.
🌊 #13 – Venice, FL (151 inquiries)
🏝️ Why investors sold: Increasing local regulations have made short-term renting more restrictive.
☀️ Why it’s a great opportunity: Venice remains a prime market for luxury beach rentals, particularly for snowbird travelers.
🎡 #15 – Nashville, TN (188 inquiries)
🎤 Why investors sold: New rules limiting non-owner-occupied STRs have made some properties harder to operate.
🎶 Why it’s a great opportunity: Nashville’s tourism boom means STRs that comply with regulations can still thrive.
🏖️ #16 – Miramar Beach, FL (210 inquiries)
🌅 Why investors sold: Some investors are moving to less crowded beach markets with fewer restrictions.
💰 Why it’s a great opportunity: Luxury beachfront properties still command premium prices and strong occupancy rates.
🌆 #17 – Oklahoma City, OK (141 inquiries)
📈 Why investors sold: Some owners are shifting toward longer-term rentals as demand changes.
🏡 Why it’s a great opportunity: Short-term rentals near event venues and downtown still perform well.
What This Means for Buyers & Sellers
📊 If you’re an investor looking to sell, now could be a great time to cash out at peak value in markets that have appreciated significantly.
🔎 If you’re looking to buy, many of these areas still offer strong investment potential, especially for investors who can navigate local regulations and optimize operations.
At GetChalet.com, we help investors make smart, data-driven decisions—whether you’re looking to sell, buy, or optimize your short-term rental portfolio.
👉 Thinking about selling? Get a free market analysis here: Sell Your STR
👉 Looking to buy? Explore available listings here: Airbnbs for Sale
Which market surprised you the most? Drop your thoughts below! ⬇️
