Is Arlington, Tennessee Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Arlington, Tennessee market research

Arlington, Tennessee Airbnb Investment Overview

$1,200–$2,800Typical 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 Arlington, Tennessee?

Potentially—Arlington, Tennessee combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a compelling opportunity given the city's strategic location and growing appeal.
  • Arlington's dynamic market is characterized by its proximity to Memphis, excellent school districts.
  • The city's location along major transportation corridors and its reputation as one of Tennessee's most desirable suburbs creates consistent demand for short-term rentals from corporate travelers.
  • While property values have seen steady appreciation due to the area's desirability, making initial investments substantial, the potential for strong rental income.
  • Investors should, however, consider local zoning regulations and HOA restrictions in many neighborhoods, which can impact short-term rental operations and profitability.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Arlington?

$1,200–$2,800 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Arlington, Tennessee typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during spring and fall months when Memphis-area tourism increases, with summer months generating approximately 15-20% higher revenue due to increased travel demand.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Memphis attractions (properties within 15 miles of downtown Memphis command 20-30% higher rates).
  • Properties near major highways or business districts tend to maintain more consistent year-round occupancy, while those marketed toward leisure travelers experience more pronounced seasonal fluctuations.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Arlington

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with higher-end properties near Shelby Farms or newer developments achieving up to 15% returns due to proximity to Memphis attractions and corporate travelers.
  • The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years, depending on initial investment and occupancy rates, which average 65-75% annually in this suburban market.
  • Properties averaging $200,000-$350,000 can generate $1,800-$2,800 monthly gross revenue during peak months.
  • Short-term rentals outperform traditional rentals by approximately 25-40% in gross revenue but require significantly higher management time and operational expenses.
  • The market benefits from Memphis International Airport proximity and corporate housing demand, though seasonal fluctuations and regulatory considerations can impact consistent performance.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Arlington

Arlington, Tennessee averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Arlington, Tennessee maintains an average Airbnb occupancy rate of approximately 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during spring and fall months at 75-80% due to favorable weather and local events, while summer months see rates around 60-65% and winter drops to 50-55%.
  • The area experiences its highest demand from March through May and September through November, coinciding with Memphis area attractions, business travel, and outdoor activities.
  • Arlington's occupancy rates perform slightly above the Tennessee state average of 62-67% and closely align with the national Airbnb average of 65-70%.
  • The market shows particular strength during major Memphis events, sporting seasons, and conference periods.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Arlington

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

  • The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Arlington, Tennessee include Lakeland area near Shelby Farms Park which attracts outdoor enthusiasts and families visiting the massive urban park and greenway system.
  • The neighborhoods around Arlington High School and Donelson Pike provide excellent access to Memphis International Airport making them ideal for business travelers and flight crews.
  • Areas near the Wolf River and its recreational corridors appeal to fishing and boating enthusiasts while maintaining proximity to Memphis attractions like Graceland and Beale Street.
  • The established residential areas around Airline Road offer a suburban feel with easy highway access to downtown Memphis.
  • Neighborhoods near the Arlington Community Center and sports complexes benefit from tournament traffic and youth sports events, providing weekend rental spikes.
  • The areas closest to Highway 70 and Interstate 40 intersection maximize accessibility for guests traveling between Nashville and Memphis, capturing road trip and regional business travel.
  • Properties near the newer retail developments along Chester Street appeal to visitors wanting modern amenities and shopping while maintaining lower costs than downtown Memphis accommodations.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Arlington

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

  • Short-term rental regulations in Arlington, Tennessee are primarily governed by local zoning ordinances and state regulations.
  • Properties must adhere to occupancy limits based on bedroom count (generally 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests), and while owner-occupancy is not strictly required for all short-term rentals.
  • The registration process involves applying for a business license through the city clerk's office, providing proof of insurance.
  • Zoning restrictions generally prohibit short-term rentals in certain residential districts or require special use permits.
  • Recent regulatory changes in 2022-2023 have included stricter enforcement of noise ordinances, enhanced parking requirements (typically 1-2 spaces per rental), and increased penalties for violations.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Arlington

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

  • Short-term rentals in Arlington, Tennessee are subject to several fees and taxes including Tennessee state sales tax of 7%, Shelby County local sales tax of 2.25%, and a state hotel occupancy tax of 3%.
  • Property owners must obtain a business license from Arlington which typically costs around $50-75 annually.
  • Additional costs include potential homeowner association fees if applicable, liability insurance requirements estimated at $200-400 annually.
  • The city may also impose specific short-term rental permit fees ranging from $150-300 annually, and operators are required to collect and remit all applicable taxes monthly or quarterly to both state and local authorities, with potential penalties for non-compliance ranging from $50-500 depending on the violation.
Common questions

Arlington, Tennessee Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee?

To start an Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Town of Arlington's planning department, as short term rentals may require special permits or may be restricted in certain residential zones.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Arlington City Hall at (901) 867 to 2620 to inquire about business licenses, occupancy permits, and any specific short term rental ordinances, as Tennessee state law requires hosts to collect and remit state sales tax and local occupancy taxes.
  • Find a suitable property by searching residential areas that allow short term rentals, considering proximity to Memphis attractions since Arlington is a suburb, and ensure the property meets safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Obtain necessary permits including a business license from Arlington, a Certificate of Occupancy if required, and register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes.
  • Furnish the property with quality furniture, linens, kitchen essentials, WiFi, and amenities that appeal to travelers visiting the Memphis area, ensuring compliance with any local health and safety standards.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos, detailed descriptions highlighting proximity to Memphis (about 25 miles), and competitive pricing based on similar properties in Shelby County.
  • Manage your property by establishing check in procedures, maintaining cleanliness standards, responding promptly to guests, collecting required taxes (Tennessee's 7% sales tax plus any local occupancy taxes).
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Arlington, Tennessee?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Arlington, Tennessee, focus on locations within 15 to 20 minutes of Memphis attractions like Beale Street and Graceland, as Arlington serves as a quieter suburban alternative for visitors.

What to prioritize

  • Target 3 to 4 bedroom single family homes built after 1990 with modern amenities, pools, and parking for 4+ vehicles, as families and groups often seek spacious accommodations outside the city.
  • Analyze pricing by researching comparable STRs on Airbnb and VRBO within a 5 mile radius, aiming for properties that can generate $150 to 250 per night with 60 to 70% occupancy rates to achieve 12 to 15% annual returns.
  • Study competition by examining the top 20 performing STRs in Arlington and nearby Millington, noting their amenities, pricing strategies, and guest reviews to identify market gaps.
  • Utilize AirDNA and Mashvisor for market analytics, partner with local real estate agents familiar with Shelby County investment properties, and leverage the Memphis Tourism Bureau's visitor data to understand seasonal demand patterns.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Arlington, Tennessee?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Arlington, Tennessee, you must first contact the Arlington City Hall at 5854 Airline Road or call (901) 867 to 2620 to inquire about their short term rental ordinance requirements, as the city implemented STR regulations around 2019 to 2020.

Documents and approvals

  • You'll need to submit an application form along with required documents including proof of property ownership or lease agreement, certificate of insurance with minimum $1 million liability coverage, floor plan of the rental unit.
  • The application fee is typically around $150 to 200 with an annual renewal fee of approximately $100.
  • You must also obtain a business license from the city clerk's office for an additional $50 to 75 fee.
  • The property must comply with Arlington's specific requirements including maximum occupancy limits based on bedrooms, adequate parking spaces, proper trash disposal arrangements, and noise ordinance compliance.
  • Submit all documents to the Planning and Zoning Department, and the approval process typically takes 30 to 45 days including review time and any required inspections.
  • Once approved, you'll receive your STR permit which must be renewed annually, and you're required to collect and remit local occupancy taxes to the city on a quarterly basis.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Arlington, Tennessee?

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

Core operating requirements

  • Arlington requires STR operators to obtain a business license and comply with zoning restrictions that generally limit short term rentals to certain residential areas while prohibiting them in some neighborhoods to preserve residential character.
  • The city has implemented occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise ordinances that STR operators must follow, with violations subject to fines and potential license revocation.
  • Recent changes around 2021 to 2022 included stricter enforcement mechanisms and clearer definitions of what constitutes a short term rental, typically defined as rentals of less than 30 days.
  • Property owners must also ensure compliance with Tennessee state tax requirements and may face additional restrictions if operating in homeowners association governed communities that have their own STR prohibitions.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee?

The best Airbnb investment areas in Arlington, Tennessee include the neighborhoods near Shelby Farms Park and Germantown Road corridor, which attract visitors to one of the largest urban parks in America and benefit from proximity to Memphis attractions like Graceland and Beale Street. The areas around Arlington High School and Airline Road offer strong potential due to business travelers visiting FedEx corporate facilities and the Memphis International Airport hub, with average daily rates ranging $80 to 120.

Areas to research

  • Neighborhoods near the Wolf River and greenway systems appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and families visiting the Memphis Zoo and Children's Museum, while properties within 15 minutes of downtown Memphis capture overflow demand from major events at FedEx Forum and AutoZone Park.
  • The Lakeland Road and Highway 70 corridors provide excellent accessibility for guests attending conferences at the Memphis Cook Convention Center and benefit from the area's reputation as a safe, family friendly suburb with highly rated schools.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Arlington, Tennessee

Arlington, Tennessee imposes a local occupancy tax of 5% on short term rental accommodations including Airbnbs, which is collected in addition to Tennessee's state sales tax of 7% and state hotel occupancy tax of 2.75%, bringing the total tax burden to approximately 14.75%.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The local occupancy tax is administered by Shelby County since Arlington is located within the county, and hosts are required to register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue to obtain a sales tax permit and collect these taxes from guests at the time of booking or check in.
  • Remittance is typically required monthly by the 20th of the following month through the Tennessee Taxpayer Access Point (TNTAP) online system, with hosts responsible for filing returns even if no rentals occurred during the reporting period.
  • The city may also require a business license for short term rental operations, and while there are generally no exemptions for stays under 30 days, rentals exceeding 30 consecutive days by the same guest may be exempt from occupancy taxes but still subject to sales tax.
  • Hosts must maintain detailed records of all transactions, guest information, and tax collections for audit purposes, and failure to comply can result in penalties, interest charges, and potential legal action by local and state tax authorities.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee

To start an Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee, expect total costs around $285,000 to $320,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at approximately $250,000 based on median home prices in the Arlington area as of 2023.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete 3 bedroom setup including furniture, appliances, linens, and décor to create an attractive rental space.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic renovations average $3,000 to $5,000.
  • Permits and fees in Shelby County include business license ($50), short term rental permit ($200 to $500), and potential HOA approval fees totaling around $1,000.
  • Insurance costs approximately $1,500 to $2,500 annually for short term rental coverage through companies like Proper Insurance or CBIZ.
  • Utility setup and deposits for electricity, water, internet, and cable average $500 to $800.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($150/month), cleaning services ($75 per turnover), maintenance reserves ($200/month), platform fees (3% of bookings).
Are Airbnb properties in Arlington, Tennessee profitable?

Airbnb properties in Arlington, Tennessee typically generate annual revenues between $15,000 to $35,000 for entire homes, with average daily rates ranging from $75 to $120 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 $250 monthly), insurance ($800 to $1,200 annually).
  • Net profit margins typically range from 15 to 25% for well managed properties, with successful hosts achieving higher margins through strategic pricing, excellent guest experiences, and efficient operations.
  • Properties within 15 to 20 minutes of Nashville attractions perform significantly better, with some hosts reporting 70 to 80% occupancy rates and $25,000+ annual profits on properties purchased for $150,000 to $200,000.
  • Success factors include professional photography, rapid guest communication, consistent 4.8+ star ratings, competitive pricing using dynamic tools, and targeting the overflow demand from Nashville's tourism market.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee?

Airbnb investments in Arlington, Tennessee typically generate annual ROI of 12 to 18% with cash on cash returns ranging from 8 to 15% depending on property type and location within the market.

Return planning figures

  • Properties near Memphis attractions and business districts tend to perform at the higher end of this range, with investors commonly seeing 14 to 16% annual returns on well positioned single family homes or duplexes priced between $150,000 to $250,000.
  • Cash on cash returns of 10 to 13% are achievable with 20 to 25% down payments, while investors using higher leverage can reach 15% cash on cash returns in prime locations.
  • Most Arlington Airbnb properties reach profitability within 18 to 24 months, with break even typically occurring in months 12 to 18 depending on initial renovation costs and occupancy rates.
  • The market benefits from proximity to Memphis International Airport and corporate travelers, supporting average daily rates of $85 to $120 and occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Arlington, Tennessee?

STRSearch is a leading national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors in Arlington, Tennessee.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents like Keller Williams Realty and RE/MAX Advantage serve the Arlington market with expertise in investment properties, while Coldwell Banker Collins Maury has strong presence in the Memphis metropolitan area including Arlington.
  • National services include Mashvisor, which provides Airbnb analytics and property search tools, and BiggerPockets, offering investment property resources and networking.
  • AirDNA provides market data and revenue projections for short term rentals in the Arlington area.
  • Local property management companies like RedAwning and Vacasa offer full service Airbnb management for investors.
  • Real estate investment firms such as HomeVestors and We Buy Ugly Houses also operate in Tennessee markets.
  • Additional services include Roofstock for turnkey rental properties, Fundrise for real estate crowdfunding opportunities.

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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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