Is Bothell, Washington Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Bothell, Washington combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a potentially lucrative opportunity, driven by its strategic location, growing economy, and consistent demand for short-term accommodations.
• Current market conditions in Bothell are robust, characterized by competitive property values and an evolving real estate market, fueled by a growing influx of tech professionals, university visitors.
• Tourism trends in Bothell are steady, benefiting from both leisure visitors exploring the Burke-Gilman Trail and McMenamins Anderson School.
• This consistent demand, coupled with Bothell's more affordable entry point compared to neighboring cities and limited hotel inventory.
• While property values are appreciating, the potential for strong rental yields and long-term appreciation, particularly in well-located properties near the university or downtown.

$2,800–$4,200 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Bothell, Washington typically earn between $2,800 to $4,200 per month for entire home listings.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenue can increase by 25-35% due to higher tourism demand and favorable weather.
• Properties near popular attractions like the McMenamins Anderson School or with easy access to Seattle via Interstate 405 command premium rates, often 20-30% above average.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, with three-bedroom homes averaging $150-200 per night compared to $80-120 for private rooms.
• Market saturation has increased competition, making professional photography, responsive hosting, and competitive pricing essential for maximizing revenue potential in this suburban Seattle market.

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–14%.

• Typically generate ROI between 8-14% annually, with average nightly rates ranging from $120-180 depending on property size and amenities.
• The payback period for initial investment and setup costs averages 7-10 years, considering Bothell's median home prices around $650,000-750,000 and occupancy rates of 65-75% throughout the year.
• Short-term rentals in Bothell outperform traditional rentals by roughly 3-5 percentage points due to the city's proximity to Seattle tech corridors, outdoor recreation access, and business traveler demand.
• The market benefits from consistent demand driven by Microsoft and Amazon employees, university visitors, and tourists exploring the Cascade foothills.

Bothell, Washington averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Bothell, Washington typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variation that peaks during summer months (July-September) at approximately 75-85% occupancy due to favorable weather and increased tourism to the Pacific Northwest region.
• Winter months (December-February) see the lowest occupancy rates at around 45-55%, while spring and fall maintain moderate levels of 60-70%.
• Bothell's occupancy rates generally align closely with Washington state averages of 68-72% but tend to run slightly below national Airbnb averages of 70-75%.
• The city benefits from its proximity to Seattle and outdoor recreational opportunities, which drive demand during peak seasons.

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

• The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Bothell include Downtown Bothell, which offers excellent walkability to restaurants, breweries.

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

• Bothell, Washington requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and comply with the city's lodging tax requirements.
• The city mandates owner-occupancy for short-term rentals in single-family residential zones, meaning the property must serve as the owner's primary residence.
• Short-term rentals are generally prohibited in multi-family zones and must comply with residential zoning requirements.
• The registration process involves submitting an application through the city's business licensing department, providing proof of insurance, emergency contact information, and agreeing to regular inspections.
• Recent regulatory changes implemented around 2022-2023 have strengthened enforcement mechanisms, increased penalties for non-compliance.

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

• Short-term rentals in Bothell, Washington are subject to several fees and taxes including Washington State's 6.5% sales tax, King County's 0.3% sales tax.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Bothell costing around $75-150 annually, register with the Washington State Department of Revenue (free).
• Additional requirements include transient accommodation taxes collected by the Washington State Department of Revenue, potential homeowner association fees if applicable.
• The total tax burden typically ranges from 9-11% of gross rental income, while annual regulatory costs including permits, licenses.