Is Bowling Green, Kentucky Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Bowling Green, Kentucky Airbnb Investment Overview

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

Investing in Airbnb properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky, presents a potentially favorable opportunity due to the city's steady tourism, affordable property values, and growing economy. Bowling Green benefits from attractions such as Mammoth Cave National Park nearby, the National Corvette Museum, and Western Kentucky University, which draw a consistent flow of visitors for leisure, education, and events. Current market conditions indicate a relatively accessible entry point for real estate investors compared to larger metropolitan areas, with property values that offer reasonable acquisition costs. While not a major international hub, the consistent regional tourism and local demand contribute to stable occupancy rates and a solid investment potential for short-term rentals, especially for properties strategically located near key attractions or the university.

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Bowling Green?

Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Bowling Green, Kentucky typically earn between $800 to $2,200 per month, with the average falling around $1,400 monthly for a standard two-bedroom property. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during Western Kentucky University's academic calendar, particularly during graduation ceremonies, homecoming, and major sporting events, when nightly rates can increase by 30-50% above the typical $65-85 base rate. Summer months generally see higher occupancy rates due to tourism at nearby Mammoth Cave National Park and Corvette Museum visitors, while winter months typically experience a 20-25% decrease in bookings. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to WKU campus (properties within two miles command premium rates), property amenities such as parking availability and modern furnishings, guest capacity with larger homes accommodating families earning significantly more, and host responsiveness ratings which directly correlate with booking frequency. Properties near the historic downtown area and those offering unique features like hot tubs or game rooms consistently outperform standard listings, with top-performing hosts reporting monthly revenues exceeding $3,000 during peak periods.

Airbnb Return on Investment in Bowling Green

Airbnb investments in Bowling Green, Kentucky typically generate ROI between 8-14% annually, with higher-performing properties near Western Kentucky University achieving up to 16% during peak academic periods. The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years, depending on initial investment and property location, with downtown and university-adjacent properties recovering costs faster at 6-8 years. Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Bowling Green that average 6-9% ROI, short-term rentals command premium rates of $75-120 per night versus $800-1200 monthly for long-term leases, though Airbnb properties require higher operational costs including cleaning fees, utilities, and more frequent maintenance. Properties within 2 miles of WKU campus and downtown attractions like the National Corvette Museum perform strongest, with occupancy rates averaging 65-75% annually, while suburban locations typically see 45-60% occupancy and correspondingly lower returns in the 6-10% range.

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Bowling Green

Bowling Green, Kentucky maintains an average Airbnb occupancy rate of approximately 62-68% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during Western Kentucky University's academic calendar and local event periods. The highest occupancy rates occur from August through November (75-82%) coinciding with the fall semester, football season, and the National Corvette Museum's anniversary celebrations, while spring months of March through May also see elevated rates of 70-78% due to graduation events and pleasant weather. Winter months typically experience the lowest occupancy at 45-55%, with January and February being particularly slow. Bowling Green's occupancy rates generally outperform the Kentucky state average of 58-63% due to its combination of university activity, tourism attractions like Mammoth Cave proximity, and the National Corvette Museum, though it falls slightly below the national Airbnb average of 68-72%. The city benefits from consistent mid-week bookings from business travelers and university visitors, while weekends see higher rates driven by leisure tourism and sporting events, creating a more stable year-round occupancy pattern compared to purely seasonal tourist destinations.

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Bowling Green

The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Bowling Green, Kentucky include Downtown Bowling Green, which offers proximity to the Historic State Theater, Fountain Square Park, and numerous restaurants, attracting both business travelers and tourists with strong pricing power due to walkability and entertainment options. The Western Kentucky University area provides consistent demand from visiting parents, prospective students, and university events, with moderate pricing and year-round occupancy potential. The Corvette Museum District near the National Corvette Museum and GM Assembly Plant draws automotive enthusiasts and industrial visitors, commanding premium rates during peak tourism seasons and special events. The Historic District features charming older homes that appeal to guests seeking authentic experiences, with proximity to antique shops, local eateries, and cultural attractions supporting steady mid-range pricing. The Medical District around The Medical Center benefits from medical tourism, visiting families of patients, and healthcare professionals, providing reliable occupancy with less seasonal variation. The Greenwood area offers newer construction properties that attract families and longer-term stays, with good access to shopping and dining while maintaining competitive rates. Finally, the Fairview Avenue corridor provides a balance of residential charm and commercial accessibility, appealing to both leisure and business travelers with moderate investment costs and solid rental potential due to its central location and proximity to major thoroughfares.

Short-term Rental Regulations in Bowling Green

Bowling Green, Kentucky requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register their properties with the city, with applications processed through the Planning and Development Services Department for approximately $50-75 annually. Properties are limited to a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, with total occupancy not exceeding 10 people regardless of bedroom count. Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals, allowing for non-resident ownership and management. Zoning restrictions permit short-term rentals in most residential districts including R-1, R-2, and R-3 zones, but they are prohibited in certain historic overlay districts and must maintain minimum 200-foot separation from other short-term rentals in some neighborhoods. The registration process requires proof of property ownership, liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000, contact information for a local responsible party available 24/7, and compliance with fire safety and building codes including smoke detectors in all bedrooms and common areas. Recent changes implemented in 2022-2023 include stricter noise ordinance enforcement with fines up to $500 for violations, mandatory posting of house rules regarding quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM, required annual inspections for properties with more than four bedrooms, and enhanced parking requirements ensuring adequate off-street parking for the maximum occupancy load without impacting neighboring properties.

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Bowling Green

Short-term rentals in Bowling Green, Kentucky are subject to several fees and taxes including a 6% Kentucky state sales tax, a 3% transient room tax collected by the city, and an estimated $50-100 annual business license fee. Property owners must register their rental with the city planning department for approximately $25-50, and may need to obtain a conditional use permit costing around $150-300 depending on zoning. Additional costs include potential fire safety inspections at $75-125 per visit and health department permits if applicable at roughly $50-100 annually. The Kentucky Department of Revenue requires registration for tax collection purposes with no upfront fee but mandates quarterly tax filings, while Warren County may assess additional local occupancy taxes of 1-2% in certain areas. Property owners should also budget for potential homeowner association fees if applicable and increased property insurance costs of 10-20% above standard rates due to short-term rental usage.

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

Investing in Airbnb properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky, presents a potentially favorable opportunity due to the city's steady tourism, affordable property values, and growing economy. Bowling Green benefits from attractions such as Mammoth Cave National Park nearby, the National Corvette Museum, and Western Kentucky University, which draw a consistent flow of visitors for leisure, education, and events. Current market conditions indicate a relatively accessible entry point for real estate investors compared to larger metropolitan areas, with property values that offer reasonable acquisition costs. While not a major international hub, the consistent regional tourism and local demand contribute to stable occupancy rates and a solid investment potential for short-term rentals, especially for properties strategically located near key attractions or the university.

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Bowling Green?

Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Bowling Green, Kentucky typically earn between $800 to $2,200 per month, with the average falling around $1,400 monthly for a standard two-bedroom property. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during Western Kentucky University's academic calendar, particularly during graduation ceremonies, homecoming, and major sporting events, when nightly rates can increase by 30-50% above the typical $65-85 base rate. Summer months generally see higher occupancy rates due to tourism at nearby Mammoth Cave National Park and Corvette Museum visitors, while winter months typically experience a 20-25% decrease in bookings. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to WKU campus (properties within two miles command premium rates), property amenities such as parking availability and modern furnishings, guest capacity with larger homes accommodating families earning significantly more, and host responsiveness ratings which directly correlate with booking frequency. Properties near the historic downtown area and those offering unique features like hot tubs or game rooms consistently outperform standard listings, with top-performing hosts reporting monthly revenues exceeding $3,000 during peak periods.

Airbnb Return on Investment in Bowling Green

Airbnb investments in Bowling Green, Kentucky typically generate ROI between 8-14% annually, with higher-performing properties near Western Kentucky University achieving up to 16% during peak academic periods. The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years, depending on initial investment and property location, with downtown and university-adjacent properties recovering costs faster at 6-8 years. Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Bowling Green that average 6-9% ROI, short-term rentals command premium rates of $75-120 per night versus $800-1200 monthly for long-term leases, though Airbnb properties require higher operational costs including cleaning fees, utilities, and more frequent maintenance. Properties within 2 miles of WKU campus and downtown attractions like the National Corvette Museum perform strongest, with occupancy rates averaging 65-75% annually, while suburban locations typically see 45-60% occupancy and correspondingly lower returns in the 6-10% range.

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Bowling Green

Bowling Green, Kentucky maintains an average Airbnb occupancy rate of approximately 62-68% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during Western Kentucky University's academic calendar and local event periods. The highest occupancy rates occur from August through November (75-82%) coinciding with the fall semester, football season, and the National Corvette Museum's anniversary celebrations, while spring months of March through May also see elevated rates of 70-78% due to graduation events and pleasant weather. Winter months typically experience the lowest occupancy at 45-55%, with January and February being particularly slow. Bowling Green's occupancy rates generally outperform the Kentucky state average of 58-63% due to its combination of university activity, tourism attractions like Mammoth Cave proximity, and the National Corvette Museum, though it falls slightly below the national Airbnb average of 68-72%. The city benefits from consistent mid-week bookings from business travelers and university visitors, while weekends see higher rates driven by leisure tourism and sporting events, creating a more stable year-round occupancy pattern compared to purely seasonal tourist destinations.

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Bowling Green

The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Bowling Green, Kentucky include Downtown Bowling Green, which offers proximity to the Historic State Theater, Fountain Square Park, and numerous restaurants, attracting both business travelers and tourists with strong pricing power due to walkability and entertainment options. The Western Kentucky University area provides consistent demand from visiting parents, prospective students, and university events, with moderate pricing and year-round occupancy potential. The Corvette Museum District near the National Corvette Museum and GM Assembly Plant draws automotive enthusiasts and industrial visitors, commanding premium rates during peak tourism seasons and special events. The Historic District features charming older homes that appeal to guests seeking authentic experiences, with proximity to antique shops, local eateries, and cultural attractions supporting steady mid-range pricing. The Medical District around The Medical Center benefits from medical tourism, visiting families of patients, and healthcare professionals, providing reliable occupancy with less seasonal variation. The Greenwood area offers newer construction properties that attract families and longer-term stays, with good access to shopping and dining while maintaining competitive rates. Finally, the Fairview Avenue corridor provides a balance of residential charm and commercial accessibility, appealing to both leisure and business travelers with moderate investment costs and solid rental potential due to its central location and proximity to major thoroughfares.

Short-term Rental Regulations in Bowling Green

Bowling Green, Kentucky requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register their properties with the city, with applications processed through the Planning and Development Services Department for approximately $50-75 annually. Properties are limited to a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, with total occupancy not exceeding 10 people regardless of bedroom count. Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals, allowing for non-resident ownership and management. Zoning restrictions permit short-term rentals in most residential districts including R-1, R-2, and R-3 zones, but they are prohibited in certain historic overlay districts and must maintain minimum 200-foot separation from other short-term rentals in some neighborhoods. The registration process requires proof of property ownership, liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000, contact information for a local responsible party available 24/7, and compliance with fire safety and building codes including smoke detectors in all bedrooms and common areas. Recent changes implemented in 2022-2023 include stricter noise ordinance enforcement with fines up to $500 for violations, mandatory posting of house rules regarding quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM, required annual inspections for properties with more than four bedrooms, and enhanced parking requirements ensuring adequate off-street parking for the maximum occupancy load without impacting neighboring properties.

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Bowling Green

Short-term rentals in Bowling Green, Kentucky are subject to several fees and taxes including a 6% Kentucky state sales tax, a 3% transient room tax collected by the city, and an estimated $50-100 annual business license fee. Property owners must register their rental with the city planning department for approximately $25-50, and may need to obtain a conditional use permit costing around $150-300 depending on zoning. Additional costs include potential fire safety inspections at $75-125 per visit and health department permits if applicable at roughly $50-100 annually. The Kentucky Department of Revenue requires registration for tax collection purposes with no upfront fee but mandates quarterly tax filings, while Warren County may assess additional local occupancy taxes of 1-2% in certain areas. Property owners should also budget for potential homeowner association fees if applicable and increased property insurance costs of 10-20% above standard rates due to short-term rental usage.

* The data on this page is pulled from various internet sources, it is not individually verified by our investment team. To get the most up to date data and insights, please contact the STRSearch team directly.

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How to start an Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

To start an Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky, begin by researching local regulations through the Bowling Green Planning and Zoning Commission, as the city requires short-term rental operators to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for properties in residential zones, with applications costing approximately $200-300 and requiring neighbor notification. Contact the Warren County Health Department for any required health permits and ensure compliance with Kentucky state tax requirements by registering with the Department of Revenue for transient room tax collection (typically 1-3% locally plus 6% state sales tax). Find a suitable property by analyzing neighborhoods like Historic Downtown, Fairview Avenue, or areas near Western Kentucky University for high demand, ensuring the property meets zoning requirements and HOA restrictions if applicable. Furnish the space with essential amenities including quality bedding, kitchen supplies, WiFi, smart locks, and safety equipment like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers as required by local fire codes. Create your listing on Airbnb and VRBO platforms with professional photography, competitive pricing research showing Bowling Green rates typically range $60-150 per night depending on location and size, and highlight proximity to attractions like the National Corvette Museum, Lost River Cave, and WKU campus. Manage operations by establishing cleaning protocols, guest communication systems, coordinating with local cleaning services (averaging $40-80 per turnover), and maintaining compliance with ongoing permit renewals and tax remittance requirements to both local and state authorities.

What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

To identify profitable short-term rental properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky, focus on locations within 2-3 miles of Western Kentucky University campus, downtown historic district, and near Corvette Museum and Lost River Cave attractions, as these areas generate consistent demand from students, tourists, and business travelers. Target 2-4 bedroom properties built after 1990 with modern amenities, parking, and outdoor spaces, particularly houses with character in established neighborhoods like State Street or Fairview Avenue areas. Analyze pricing by researching comparable Airbnb listings showing average daily rates of $80-150 depending on size and location, while calculating potential gross yields of 8-12% annually based on 60-70% occupancy rates during peak university and tourist seasons. Conduct competition research using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify market saturation levels, noting that Bowling Green has moderate STR competition with opportunities in underserved neighborhoods near campus and attractions. Utilize local resources including Warren County property records, Bowling Green MLS data, and connect with local real estate agents familiar with investment properties, while monitoring city regulations as Bowling Green requires business licenses for short-term rentals and has specific zoning requirements that vary by district.

How to get an Airbnb permit in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Bowling Green, Kentucky, you must first contact the Bowling Green Planning and Development Services Department at City Hall located at 1001 College Street to determine if short-term rentals are permitted in your specific zoning district. Submit an application for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) which typically requires a completed application form, property survey, site plan showing parking and access, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, and a $350-500 application fee. Required documents also include a business license from the Kentucky Secretary of State, liability insurance certificate with minimum $1 million coverage, fire safety inspection certificate from the Bowling Green Fire Department, and compliance with all building codes. The city requires STR properties to maintain adequate off-street parking (typically 2 spaces minimum), provide trash collection arrangements, display the permit number in all advertisements, and maintain a local contact person available 24/7 for issues. The approval process involves a public hearing before the Planning Commission and typically takes 60-90 days from application submission. Once approved, you must also register with the Kentucky Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes and may need additional permits from Warren County depending on your location within city limits.

Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

Short-term rentals (STRs) are legal in Bowling Green, Kentucky, but operate under specific regulations established by the city. The city 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. Properties must meet safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, and operators must provide emergency contact information to the city. The city has implemented occupancy limits based on property size and requires adequate parking for guests. Recent changes around 2019-2021 included stricter enforcement of existing regulations and enhanced complaint procedures for neighbors, with the city taking a more active role in monitoring compliance. Violations can result in fines and license revocation, and the city maintains a registry of approved STR properties to ensure ongoing compliance with local ordinances.

What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

The most promising Airbnb investment areas in Bowling Green, Kentucky include the Historic Downtown District, which attracts tourists visiting the National Corvette Museum and Bowling Green Ballpark, along with business travelers attending conferences at the Sloan Convention Center. The Western Kentucky University campus area offers consistent demand from visiting families, prospective students, and academic conference attendees throughout the academic year. The Fairview Avenue and State Street corridors near WKU provide easy access to both the university and downtown attractions while maintaining residential charm. The Riverfront area along Barren River offers scenic properties that appeal to leisure travelers seeking unique experiences, particularly during summer months and fall foliage season. The Medical Center vicinity near The Medical Center and Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital generates steady demand from medical tourists, visiting families of patients, and traveling healthcare professionals. Properties near Lost River Cave, one of Kentucky's most visited tourist attractions, benefit from year-round visitor traffic seeking adventure tourism and educational experiences.

Airbnb and lodging taxes in Bowling Green, Kentucky

In Bowling Green, Kentucky, Airbnb hosts are subject to both state and local lodging taxes. The Kentucky state transient room tax is 1% on gross rental receipts, while Warren County imposes an additional 3% transient room tax, bringing the total occupancy tax to approximately 4%. These taxes apply to all short-term rental stays of less than 30 consecutive days. Airbnb typically collects and remits the state 1% tax automatically for hosts through their platform as of 2019, but hosts remain responsible for collecting and remitting the local 3% Warren County tax directly to the Warren County Clerk's office on a monthly basis by the 20th of the following month. Hosts must register with Warren County to obtain a transient room tax account and file monthly returns even if no rentals occurred. The city of Bowling Green also requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and may impose additional regulatory fees. Exemptions generally apply to stays of 30 days or longer, which are considered long-term rentals rather than transient accommodations, and certain government or charitable organization bookings may qualify for exemptions with proper documentation.

Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky

To start an Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky, the total estimated costs would be approximately $180,000-$220,000. Property purchase costs around $150,000 based on the median home price in the area as of 2023. Furnishing a 2-3 bedroom property would cost $8,000-$12,000 including furniture, appliances, linens, and decor. Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic renovations would be $2,000-$3,000. Permits and fees including business license, short-term rental permit, and tax registration would cost $300-$500. Insurance for short-term rental coverage would be $1,200-$1,800 annually. Utilities including electricity, water, internet, and cable would cost $200-$300 monthly. First six months operating costs including utilities ($1,200-$1,800), cleaning supplies and services ($600-$900), maintenance and repairs ($500-$1,000), marketing ($300-$500), and platform fees would total approximately $3,000-$4,500. Additional working capital of $2,000-$3,000 should be reserved for unexpected expenses and vacancy periods during the initial launch phase.

Are Airbnb properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky profitable?

Airbnb properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky typically generate annual revenues between $15,000-$35,000 for entire homes and $8,000-$18,000 for private rooms, with average daily rates ranging from $65-$120 depending on property size and location proximity to Western Kentucky University and the National Corvette Museum. Operating expenses generally consume 40-60% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($25-$40 per turnover), utilities ($150-$250 monthly), property management (10-20% of revenue), insurance ($800-$1,500 annually), and maintenance costs ($2,000-$4,000 yearly). Properties near WKU campus achieve higher occupancy rates of 65-75% due to consistent demand from visiting families, prospective students, and university events, while downtown properties benefit from tourism related to the Corvette Museum and Lost River Cave, maintaining 50-65% occupancy. Successful hosts in Bowling Green typically achieve net profit margins of 15-25% by focusing on properties within 2 miles of major attractions, maintaining 4.8+ star ratings through professional cleaning and responsive communication, and implementing dynamic pricing strategies that capitalize on peak demand periods including WKU graduation, Corvette events, and summer tourism season. The market shows particular strength for 2-3 bedroom homes that can accommodate families visiting the university or tourist attractions, with some properties reporting monthly profits of $800-$1,500 during peak seasons.

What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

Airbnb investments in Bowling Green, Kentucky typically generate annual ROI of 12-18% with cash-on-cash returns ranging from 8-14%, driven by Western Kentucky University's student population and regional tourism. Properties near WKU campus or downtown areas command $75-120 per night with 65-75% occupancy rates, while single-family homes in residential neighborhoods average $60-90 nightly with 55-65% occupancy. Initial investment costs range from $80,000-150,000 for suitable properties, with renovation expenses of $15,000-25,000 to meet short-term rental standards. Most investors achieve profitability within 18-24 months, factoring in mortgage payments, property management fees of 15-25%, cleaning costs, and local taxes. The market benefits from consistent demand during the academic year (August-May) and summer tourism related to Mammoth Cave National Park and Corvette Museum proximity, though seasonal fluctuations require careful cash flow management during slower winter months.

What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

STRSearch is a leading national platform that helps investors identify profitable short-term rental properties in Bowling Green, Kentucky, using data analytics and market insights. Local real estate agents specializing in investment properties include Coldwell Banker Legacy Group, RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals, and Keller Williams First Choice Realty, with agents like those at Bowling Green Properties and Century 21 Service Realty who understand the local vacation rental market. National services include AirDNA for market analysis, Mashvisor for property investment analytics, and BiggerPockets for investor networking and deal sourcing. Property management companies like RedAwning, AvantStay, and local firms such as BG Property Management can help optimize rental performance. Additional services include Roofstock for turnkey rental properties, Awning for short-term rental property loans, and consultants like AirBnB Automated and STR Wealth who provide market analysis and investment guidance specifically for the Bowling Green area, which benefits from Western Kentucky University student housing demand and tourism to nearby attractions like Mammoth Cave National Park.

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