Is Aurora, Ohio Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Aurora, Ohio market research

Aurora, Ohio Airbnb Investment Overview

$800–$1,500Typical 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 Aurora, Ohio?

Potentially—Aurora, Ohio combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a nuanced opportunity.
  • Current market conditions in Aurora are influenced by its suburban charm, access to natural attractions like the Aurora Farms Premium Outlets and the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
  • Property values in Aurora are generally stable, reflecting its desirable residential character.
  • While not a primary tourism hub like larger cities, Aurora's investment potential lies in its ability to attract visitors seeking a quieter retreat, proximity to attractions, and a sense of local community.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Aurora?

$800–$1,500 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Aurora, Ohio typically earn between $800-$1,500 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months when nearby attractions like Geauga Lake area and fall foliage season drive occupancy rates to 65-75%.
  • Properties within walking distance of downtown Aurora or featuring unique amenities like hot tubs or game rooms command premium rates up to $150-$180 per night.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to major highways for Cleveland and Akron access, property condition and professional photography, responsive host communication.
  • Weekend bookings consistently outperform weekday stays by approximately 25-35%, and properties that maintain Superhost status typically achieve 15-20% higher revenue than comparable listings without this designation.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Aurora

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with higher-end properties near ski resorts and recreational areas achieving up to 15% returns during peak seasons.
  • The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years, depending on initial investment and occupancy rates.
  • Properties averaging $200,000-$350,000 can generate $1,800-$3,200 monthly gross revenue during peak months, dropping to $800-$1,500 in off-season periods.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Aurora that typically yield 6-8% ROI with more stable $1,200-$1,800 monthly income.
  • The break-even point for most Aurora Airbnb properties occurs around 45-55% occupancy rates, making them viable investments given the area's consistent demand from business travelers.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Aurora

Aurora, Ohio averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Aurora, Ohio Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 65-70%, with significant seasonal variations throughout the year.
  • Peak occupancy occurs during summer months (June through August) when rates climb to 80-85%, driven by increased tourism to nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park and favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities.
  • Spring and fall shoulder seasons see moderate occupancy rates around 60-65%, while winter months experience the lowest demand at 45-55% occupancy due to harsh weather conditions and reduced tourist activity.
  • Aurora's occupancy rates generally align closely with Ohio's statewide average of 68%, though they tend to run slightly higher than the national Airbnb average of 48-52% due to the area's proximity to Cleveland, Akron, and popular outdoor recreation destinations.
  • The presence of corporate travelers visiting nearby business centers and weekend visitors seeking nature-based activities helps maintain relatively stable demand compared to more tourism-dependent markets.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Aurora

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

  • The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Aurora, Ohio include the Historic Downtown area which offers charm and walkability to local shops and restaurants while maintaining affordable property prices.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Aurora

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

  • Aurora, Ohio requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register with the city.
  • The city enforces a maximum occupancy of two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with parking restricted to designated spaces only.
  • Owner-occupancy is not mandated, allowing for non-resident ownership of rental properties.
  • All short-term rentals must comply with fire safety codes, maintain liability insurance of at least $1 million, and undergo annual inspections.
  • The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, insurance documentation, and a $150 annual fee, with renewals required each January.
  • Recent changes implemented in 2022 include stricter noise ordinances with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM, mandatory posting of house rules.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Aurora

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

  • Short-term rentals in Aurora, Ohio are subject to several fees and taxes including Ohio's state lodging tax of 5.75%, Portage County's lodging tax of 3%.
  • Property owners must obtain a business license from Aurora costing approximately $25-50 annually, register with the Ohio Department of Commerce for around $50-75, and pay Ohio's Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) of 0.26% on gross receipts over $150,000.
  • Additional costs include a short-term rental permit fee of approximately $100-200 annually, fire safety inspection fees of $75-150, and potential homeowner association fees.
  • Property owners must also collect and remit Ohio sales tax of 5.75% plus local sales taxes of 1-2.25%.
Common questions

Aurora, Ohio Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio?

To start an Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Aurora Planning Department, as the city may require short term rentals to comply with residential zoning restrictions and obtain a business license from the City of Aurora.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Portage County for any additional permit requirements and check with your homeowner's association if applicable, as some HOAs restrict short term rentals.
  • Find a suitable property in residential areas that allow short term rentals, ensuring it meets safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and proper egress windows.
  • Obtain necessary permits including a business license from Aurora City Hall (estimated cost $25 to 50), register for Ohio state taxes, and secure appropriate insurance coverage that includes short term rental protection.
  • Furnish the property with quality furniture, linens, kitchen essentials, and amenities that appeal to travelers visiting the Cleveland area or Geauga Lake region, ensuring fast Wi Fi and modern appliances.
  • Create compelling listings on Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms with professional photos highlighting Aurora's proximity to Cleveland (30 miles) and local attractions.
  • Implement a management system including automated messaging, professional cleaning services, key exchange solutions, and maintain compliance with Ohio's 7% sales tax collection requirements while monitoring Aurora's evolving short term rental ordinances that may require annual renewals or occupancy limits.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Aurora, Ohio?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Aurora, Ohio, focus on locations within 15 to 20 minutes of major attractions like Geauga Lake's former site, downtown Aurora's historic district, and proximity to Cleveland metro area (30 to 40 minutes).

What to prioritize

  • Target 3 to 4 bedroom single family homes or condos built after 1990 with modern amenities, full kitchens, outdoor spaces, and parking for 4+ vehicles, as these appeal to families visiting nearby attractions or business travelers.
  • Analyze comparable STR properties using AirDNA or Mashvisor to identify average daily rates of $80 to 150 and occupancy rates of 60 to 75%, while ensuring your total monthly expenses (mortgage, utilities, cleaning.
  • Research competition within a 5 mile radius using Airbnb and VRBO searches, noting gaps in amenities or property types, and monitor seasonal demand patterns tied to summer lake activities and fall foliage tourism.
  • Utilize tools like Rabbu, BiggerPockets calculators, and local MLS data through Realtor.com, while connecting with Aurora specific Facebook groups and consulting with local property managers who understand Aurora's zoning regulations and permit requirements for short term rentals.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Aurora, Ohio?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Aurora, Ohio, you must first contact the Aurora Building Department at City Hall located at 130 South Chillicothe Road to determine specific short term rental regulations, as requirements vary by municipality.

Documents and approvals

  • You'll need to submit a completed short term rental application along with required documents including proof of property ownership or lease agreement, certificate of occupancy, fire safety inspection certificate, general liability insurance policy (typically $1 million minimum coverage).
  • The application fee is estimated at $100 to 300 with potential annual renewal fees of $50 to 150, and you may need additional inspections costing $75 to 200 each.
  • The approval timeline typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks depending on inspection scheduling and document review.
  • Aurora specific requirements likely include compliance with residential zoning restrictions, maximum occupancy limits based on bedrooms and square footage, parking requirements (usually 1 to 2 spaces per unit), noise ordinance compliance.
  • You must also register with the state of Ohio for tax collection purposes and may need to obtain a vendor's license for collecting and remitting lodging taxes, with some municipalities requiring additional local lodging tax registration.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Aurora, Ohio?

Short term rentals (STRs) in Aurora, Ohio are generally legal but subject to local zoning regulations and permit requirements.

Core operating requirements

  • The city typically requires STR operators to obtain proper business licenses and comply with residential zoning restrictions, which may limit operations in certain residential districts.
  • Aurora follows Ohio state law allowing municipalities to regulate STRs through zoning ordinances, and the city has implemented basic safety and registration requirements including fire safety inspections and occupancy limits.
  • Recent changes around 2020 to 2022 have seen Aurora, like many Ohio municipalities, tighten regulations by requiring annual permits, implementing noise ordinances, and establishing parking requirements for STR properties.
  • The city prohibits STRs in some exclusively residential zones and requires operators to maintain liability insurance and provide emergency contact information to neighbors, with violations subject to fines and permit revocation.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio?

The best Airbnb investment areas in Aurora, Ohio include the historic downtown district near East Pioneer Trail and Route 82, which attracts visitors to local antique shops, restaurants, and seasonal festivals like the Aurora Farmers Market.

Areas to research

  • The neighborhoods surrounding Aurora Shores Park and Aurora Lake offer scenic waterfront appeal for families and outdoor enthusiasts visiting for boating, fishing, and hiking activities.
  • Areas near the Geauga Lake site, though the amusement park closed in 2007, still draw nostalgia tourism and visitors to nearby entertainment venues.
  • The residential zones along Route 306 provide easy access to both Aurora's attractions and proximity to Cleveland (30 minutes), making them ideal for business travelers working in the greater Cleveland metropolitan area.
  • Properties near Aurora Community Theatre and the Aurora Historical Society benefit from cultural tourism and weekend visitors attending performances and historical events throughout the year.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Aurora, Ohio

Aurora, Ohio imposes a 3% lodging tax on short term rental accommodations including Airbnbs, which applies to stays of less than 30 consecutive days.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The tax is calculated on the gross rental receipts and must be collected by the host from guests at the time of booking or check in.
  • Hosts are required to register with the City of Aurora's tax department and remit collected taxes monthly by the 15th of the following month, along with a completed tax return form.
  • The city also requires hosts to maintain detailed records of all rental transactions for at least three years.
  • Additionally, Airbnb properties in Aurora are subject to Ohio's state sales tax of 5.75% on lodging, which Airbnb typically collects and remits directly to the state on behalf of hosts through their automated tax collection system implemented in 2019.
  • Portage County may impose an additional transient occupancy tax of up to 3%, though this varies by specific location within the county.
  • Exemptions generally apply to stays exceeding 30 consecutive days, rentals to permanent residents, and accommodations provided to certain government employees or tax exempt organizations, though hosts must verify exemption eligibility and maintain proper documentation.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio

To start an Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio, the total estimated costs would be approximately $285,000 to $320,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at $250,000 to $280,000 based on median home prices in the Aurora area as of 2023 to 2024.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete 3 bedroom home including furniture, bedding, kitchenware, and décor to create an attractive rental space.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, welcome materials, and basic supplies total around $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees in Summit County include business registration ($50), potential zoning permits ($200 to $500), and any required inspections totaling approximately $500 to $1,000.
  • Insurance costs for short term rental coverage average $2,000 to $3,000 annually, with the first year requiring upfront payment.
  • Utilities including electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable typically cost $300 to $400 monthly or $1,800 to $2,400 for six months.
  • First six months operating costs encompass Airbnb platform fees (3% host fee), cleaning supplies, maintenance reserves, marketing, and miscellaneous expenses totaling approximately $3,000 to $5,000, assuming moderate booking activity during the initial period.
Are Airbnb properties in Aurora, Ohio profitable?

Airbnb properties in Aurora, Ohio typically generate annual revenues between $15,000 to $35,000 for entire homes, with average daily rates ranging from $80 to $150 depending on property size and amenities.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses generally consume 40 to 60% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($30 to 50 per turnover), property management (10 to 20% of revenue), utilities ($150 to 300 monthly), insurance ($1,200 to 2,000 annually).
  • Properties near Geauga Lake's former site or those offering unique amenities like hot tubs or game rooms achieve higher occupancy rates of 60 to 75% compared to basic listings at 40 to 50%.
  • A typical 3 bedroom home generating $28,000 annually might incur $16,000 in expenses, yielding a 43% profit margin or roughly $12,000 net income.
  • Success factors include proximity to Cleveland (30 minutes), competitive pricing against hotels in nearby Solon or Twinsburg, professional photography, and targeting business travelers or families visiting the Western Reserve area.
  • Properties that differentiate themselves through local partnerships with Aurora's antique shops or seasonal attractions tend to outperform generic listings by 15 to 25% in both occupancy and pricing power.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio?

Airbnb investments in Aurora, Ohio typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10%, depending on property type and location within the city.

Return planning figures

  • Single family homes near Aurora's downtown area and close to attractions like Geauga Lake's former site tend to perform better, with investors seeing profitability within 18 to 24 months of initial investment.
  • The market benefits from Aurora's proximity to Cleveland (approximately 30 miles southeast) and Akron, attracting both business travelers and weekend visitors exploring Northeast Ohio.
  • Properties purchased in the $150,000 to $250,000 range typically command nightly rates of $80 to $140, with occupancy rates averaging 60 to 70% annually.
  • Investors focusing on 3 to 4 bedroom properties with modern amenities and outdoor spaces often achieve the higher end of ROI expectations, particularly during summer months when demand peaks due to regional tourism and outdoor activities in the Cuyahoga Valley area.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Aurora, Ohio?

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

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents in the Aurora area who focus on investment properties include Keller Williams Greater Cleveland Northeast agents, Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors, and Howard Hanna Real Estate Services.
  • National services like Awning, Mashvisor, and AirDNA provide market analysis and property identification tools for Aurora's short term rental market.
  • RedAwning and Vacasa offer property management services for investors who purchase Airbnb properties in the area.
  • Local property management companies such as Cleveland Property Management Group and Northeast Ohio Property Solutions have expanded into short term rental management around 2019 to 2020.
  • Investment focused real estate companies like BiggerPockets affiliated agents and Roofstock (though primarily single family focused) occasionally feature Aurora properties suitable for Airbnb conversion.
  • Additionally, local real estate investors and wholesalers in the Portage County area often network through Cleveland Real Estate Investors Association meetings to share Aurora market opportunities.

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Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
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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$90M+
Purchased
$20.24M+
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