Is Albany, Oregon Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Albany, Oregon market research

Albany, Oregon Airbnb Investment Overview

$800–$1,800Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
65–70%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Albany, Oregon?

Potentially—Albany, Oregon combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a nuanced opportunity.
  • Current market conditions in Albany show a steady but not explosive growth in property values, making it a relatively stable environment for real estate investment.
  • Tourism trends in the Willamette Valley, where Albany is located, are generally consistent due to its agricultural attractions, wineries, and proximity to outdoor activities.
  • The investment potential largely depends on targeting specific niches, such as visitors for Oregon State University events or those seeking a quieter base for exploring the region.
  • While not a high-payout speculative market, a well-managed Airbnb in Albany can offer a consistent return.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Albany?

$800–$1,800 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Albany, Oregon typically earn between $800 to $1,800 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months when revenue can increase by 25-40% due to Oregon's tourism season and favorable weather.
  • Properties near the Willamette River or historic downtown Albany command premium rates of $85-120 per night, while suburban listings average $65-95 nightly.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Oregon State University in nearby Corvallis (driving weekday demand), property amenities like hot tubs or river access.
  • Revenue is also influenced by local events, wine country tourism from the nearby Willamette Valley, and business travelers visiting local industries.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Albany

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–12%.

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $120-180 per night and occupancy rates around 65-75% due to the city's proximity to Oregon State University in Corvallis and Willamette Valley tourism.
  • The average payback period ranges from 8-12 years depending on initial investment and property type, with single-family homes near downtown or university areas performing best.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Albany that yield approximately 6-8% ROI with monthly rents averaging $1,200-1,800 for similar properties.
  • The Albany market benefits from limited hotel inventory and strong demand from visiting families, business travelers, and tourists exploring the mid-Willamette Valley.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Albany

Albany, Oregon averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Albany, Oregon's Airbnb occupancy rates average approximately 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variation peaking at 75-80% during summer months (June through August) when tourists visit the Willamette Valley for wine tours, outdoor activities, and favorable weather, while winter months (December through February) see occupancy drop to around 45-55% due to Oregon's rainy season and reduced tourism.
  • Spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy rates of 60-65%, with slight increases during Oregon State University events in nearby Corvallis and local festivals.
  • Albany's occupancy rates typically run 5-10 percentage points below Oregon's statewide average of 70-75%, which benefits from major destinations like Portland, the Oregon Coast, and Bend.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Albany

The strongest opportunities balance visitor demand, nightly rates, and acquisition cost.

  • The downtown Albany Historic District offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its proximity to the Willamette River waterfront, historic carousel, and numerous antique shops.
  • The Monteith District provides solid investment opportunities with its walkable access to restaurants, breweries, and cultural events.
  • The Timber Ridge area attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts with its newer housing stock, proximity to hiking trails and parks.
  • The Sunrise neighborhood offers affordable entry points for investors while maintaining good occupancy rates due to its central location and access to shopping centers and restaurants along Pacific Boulevard.
  • The Oak Creek area provides premium rental opportunities with larger homes suitable for group bookings, positioned near golf courses and upscale dining, commanding higher nightly rates.
  • The Hackleman District combines historic charm with modern conveniences, attracting guests interested in Albany's heritage while offering easy access to Interstate 5 for travelers exploring the Willamette Valley.
  • The North Albany residential area appeals to investors seeking newer construction properties that attract business travelers and families.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Albany

Yes, but only where zoning permits short-term rentals and every required license is current.

  • Albany, Oregon requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and conditional use permit through the city's planning department.
  • Properties are generally limited to 8 occupants maximum with no more than 2 occupants per bedroom, and parking must be provided on-site for all guests.
  • Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals, allowing for non-hosted rentals throughout the city.
  • Short-term rentals are permitted in residential zones including R-1, R-2, and R-3 districts but may face additional restrictions in historic overlay districts.
  • The registration process involves submitting detailed property information, floor plans, emergency contact details, and proof of adequate insurance coverage, with annual renewals required.
  • Recent changes implemented around 2019-2020 strengthened noise ordinance enforcement, established clearer parking requirements.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Albany

Tax rates vary by jurisdiction; licensing, inspection, and insurance costs are additional.

  • Short-term rentals in Albany, Oregon are subject to several fees and taxes including Oregon's statewide transient lodging tax of 1.8% on gross rental receipts.
  • Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Albany costing approximately $50-75 annually.
  • Additionally, operators must collect and remit Oregon state income tax on rental income and may be subject to local business taxes estimated at $25-50 annually depending on gross receipts.
  • Fire safety inspections may be required with fees ranging from $75-150 per inspection, and some properties may need conditional use permits costing $200-500 depending on zoning requirements.
  • Total annual compliance costs typically range from $300-800 per property excluding the percentage-based lodging taxes collected from guests.
Common questions

Albany, Oregon Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Albany, Oregon?

To start an Airbnb in Albany, Oregon, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the City of Albany Planning Department.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Albany's Code Enforcement Division to understand parking requirements (usually 1 space per bedroom), safety standards, and noise ordinances that apply to short term rentals.
  • Obtain necessary permits including a business license from the City of Albany, register with the Oregon Department of Revenue for transient lodging tax collection (currently 1.8% statewide).
  • Find a suitable property by evaluating neighborhoods near Oregon State University, downtown Albany, or areas with easy access to I 5 for travelers, ensuring the property meets Albany's minimum square footage requirements and has adequate parking.
  • Furnish the space with quality furniture, linens, kitchen essentials, and safety equipment including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers as required by Albany fire codes.
  • Create your listing on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com with professional photos, detailed descriptions highlighting proximity to local attractions like Historic Downtown Albany or Willamette River activities.
  • Manage your property by establishing check in procedures, maintaining cleanliness standards, responding promptly to guest communications, collecting and remitting the required transient lodging taxes to both Oregon Department of Revenue and potentially Linn County.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Albany, Oregon?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Albany, Oregon, focus on locations within walking distance of downtown's historic district, near Willamette River access points, and close to Oregon State University (30 minutes away) for visiting families and academics.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom single family homes or duplexes built after 1980 with modern amenities, full kitchens, parking, and outdoor spaces that showcase Albany's small town charm.
  • Analyze pricing by researching comparable STRs on Airbnb and VRBO, aiming for properties under $300,000 that can command $80 to 150 nightly rates during peak seasons (summer festivals, OSU events, and fall foliage).
  • Study competition by examining occupancy rates of existing rentals within 5 miles, noting gaps in luxury amenities or unique themes like historic charm or riverfront access.
  • Utilize AirDNA and Mashvisor for market analytics, partner with local real estate agents familiar with Albany's rental regulations, monitor the city's STR permit requirements, and leverage Albany's proximity to Corvallis, Salem.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Albany, Oregon?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Albany, Oregon, you must first contact the Albany Community Development Department at 333 Broadalbin Street SW to apply for a Conditional Use Permit and business license.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents typically include a completed application form, site plan showing the property layout, proof of property ownership or authorization from owner, insurance documentation showing minimum $1 million liability coverage, parking plan demonstrating adequate off street parking.
  • The application fee is approximately $500 to 800 for the conditional use permit plus $50 to 100 for the business license, with additional fees possible for inspections.
  • The timeline generally takes 60 to 90 days from submission to approval, including a public hearing process where neighbors can provide input.
  • Albany specific requirements include maintaining the property as a single family dwelling appearance, providing one off street parking space per bedroom being rented, ensuring 24/7 local contact availability within 30 minutes response time.
  • Properties must also comply with fire safety codes, have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all sleeping areas, and meet all building and zoning requirements for residential use.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Albany, Oregon?

Short term rentals (STRs) are legal in Albany, Oregon, but operate under specific regulations established by the city.

Core operating requirements

  • Albany allows STRs in residential zones with proper licensing and registration requirements, including obtaining a business license and meeting safety standards such as smoke detectors and emergency egress requirements.
  • The city prohibits STRs in certain residential areas and limits the number of guests and parking requirements.
  • Property owners must also comply with noise ordinances and maintain good neighbor policies.
  • Recent changes around 2019 to 2020 included stricter enforcement mechanisms and updated registration processes, with the city requiring annual renewals and inspections.
  • Albany's regulations are generally more permissive than some Oregon cities like Portland or Bend, but still maintain oversight to balance tourism benefits with neighborhood livability concerns.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Albany, Oregon?

The best Airbnb investment areas in Albany, Oregon include the Historic Downtown District along First Avenue and Ellsworth Street, which attracts visitors to the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum, antique shops, and the annual River Rhythms summer concert series.

Areas to research

  • The Monteith Historic District offers charm with its preserved 1800s architecture and proximity to Monteith Riverpark, drawing heritage tourists and families visiting the area's historic sites.
  • The Timber Linn Memorial Park area is attractive for its recreational amenities including the golf course, lake activities, and sports facilities that bring tournament participants and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The Willamette Riverfront neighborhoods provide scenic appeal for guests seeking waterfront experiences and easy access to the Dave Clark Path for cycling and walking.
  • The area near Linn Benton Community College sees demand from visiting families, prospective students, and academic conference attendees.
  • Properties near the intersection of Highway 20 and I 5 benefit from business travelers and those visiting nearby Corvallis (Oregon State University) or Salem, as Albany serves as a convenient midpoint location with lower accommodation costs than larger cities.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Albany, Oregon

In Albany, Oregon, Airbnb hosts are subject to Oregon's statewide transient lodging tax of 1.8% on gross rental receipts, which applies to stays of less than 30 consecutive days, and this tax is typically collected by Airbnb directly from guests and remitted to the Oregon Department of Revenue on behalf of hosts.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Additionally, hosts may be subject to Linn County's transient room tax of approximately 6% on gross lodging receipts, which also applies to short term rentals under 30 days.
  • The City of Albany does not currently impose a separate municipal lodging tax on short term rentals.
  • Airbnb's automated tax collection service handles most of these obligations for hosts, with taxes appearing as separate line items on guest invoices.
  • Exemptions typically apply to stays of 30 days or longer, which are considered long term rentals in preference to transient lodging, and certain government or charitable organization bookings may also qualify for exemptions under specific circumstances.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Albany, Oregon

To start an Airbnb in Albany, Oregon, the total initial investment would be approximately $485,000 to $520,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs around $400,000 based on Albany's median home price as of 2023.
  • Furnishing a 3 bedroom property typically runs $15,000 to $25,000 including beds, linens, kitchen essentials, living room furniture, and décor.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic renovations total $3,000 to $5,000.
  • Permits and fees in Albany include business license ($50), transient lodging tax registration ($25), and potential HOA approval costs totaling $200 to $500.
  • Insurance premiums for short term rental coverage average $2,000 to $3,000 annually.
  • Utility deposits and connections for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable run $500 to $800.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($900/month), cleaning supplies ($200/month), maintenance reserves ($300/month), property management software ($50/month), and marketing ($100/month) total approximately $9,300.
  • Additional considerations include potential property improvements ($5,000 to $10,000) and working capital reserves ($3,000 to $5,000) for unexpected expenses during the initial months of operation.
Are Airbnb properties in Albany, Oregon profitable?

Airbnb properties in Albany, Oregon typically generate annual revenues between $18,000 to $35,000 for entire homes, with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $140 depending on property size and amenities.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses generally consume 40 to 60% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($25 to $40 per turnover), property management (10 to 20% of revenue), utilities ($150 to $300 monthly), insurance ($1,200 to $2,000 annually).
  • Net profit margins typically range from 15 to 35% for well managed properties, with higher end homes near Willamette River or historic downtown achieving better performance.
  • Success factors include proximity to Oregon State University (30 minutes away), competitive pricing during peak summer months and football season, professional photography, and maintaining 4.8+ star ratings.
  • Properties with unique features like hot tubs, river access, or pet friendly policies command premium rates, while those offering monthly discounts for traveling professionals working at local manufacturers like ATI Wah Chang capture steady occupancy.
  • The market benefits from limited hotel inventory in Albany, though hosts must navigate seasonal fluctuations with occupancy dropping 20 to 30% during winter months.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Albany, Oregon?

Airbnb investments in Albany, Oregon typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10% based on current market conditions. Properties in Albany's downtown core and near Oregon State University areas command higher nightly rates of $80 to 120, while suburban locations average $60 to 90 per night with occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually.

Return planning figures

  • Initial investment recovery and profitability typically occurs within 18 to 24 months for well positioned properties, with average property acquisition costs of $350,000 to 450,000 requiring $70,000 to 90,000 in down payments and renovation expenses.
  • The market benefits from proximity to Corvallis, outdoor recreation demand, and business travelers, though seasonal fluctuations impact winter occupancy rates by 20 to 30%.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Albany, Oregon?

STRSearch is a national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors looking in Albany, Oregon.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents like Keller Williams Realty Mid Willamette and Coldwell Banker Mountain West Real Estate have agents experienced in investment properties and vacation rentals in the Albany area.
  • RE/MAX Integrity and Century 21 Lifestyles also serve the Albany market with agents knowledgeable about Airbnb investment opportunities.
  • National services include Mashvisor, which provides rental property analytics and market data for Albany, and BiggerPockets, which connects investors with local professionals and market insights.
  • AirDNA offers short term rental market analysis specifically for the Albany region, while Awning provides end to end Airbnb investment services including property identification and management.
  • Local property management companies like Vacasa and RedAwning can assist with both finding properties and managing them as short term rentals.
  • Real estate investment firms such as Roofstock and Fundrise also analyze markets like Albany for rental property opportunities, though their Albany specific inventory may be limited.

How Smart Investors Build Wealth

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Other Services
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
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Success Rate
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STR Search Logo
Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Service Scope
Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
No profitability screening
Expert Network
Limited or no partner access
275+
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Purchased
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