Is Cambridge, Ohio Good for Airbnb Investment?

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

• Presents a unique opportunity, particularly given its local charm and accessibility to various regional attractions.
• While not a major tourist hub like larger cities, Cambridge benefits from steady visitor traffic driven by its historical sites, recreational activities like those at Salt Fork State Park.
• Current market conditions in Cambridge generally show more affordable property values compared to metropolitan areas, which can translate to lower initial investment costs and potentially higher cash-on-cash returns.
• The investment potential for Airbnb in Cambridge is largely tied to its appeal as a quieter getaway destination and a base for exploring southeastern Ohio's natural beauty and small-town experiences.
• Investors should focus on properties that offer unique guest experiences or are strategically located near popular local attractions to maximize rental income and occupancy rates.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Cambridge, Ohio typically earn between $800-$1,500 per month, with properties averaging $45-$75 per night depending on size, amenities.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months and fall foliage season, with revenues increasing 25-40% above winter baseline due to tourism related to local festivals, antique shopping.
• Properties near downtown Cambridge or with unique features like historic charm tend to command premium rates, while standard residential listings perform at the lower end of the range.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property condition, professional photography, responsive host communication.
• Occupancy rates typically range from 45-65% annually, with successful hosts maintaining higher occupancy through competitive pricing strategies and consistent five-star reviews.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years depending on property acquisition costs and occupancy rates.
• The average nightly rate in Cambridge ranges from $75-120 for typical 2-3 bedroom properties, with seasonal occupancy rates averaging 45-60% due to proximity to Salt Fork State Park and local tourism attractions.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in the area that yield approximately 6-8% ROI with monthly rents of $600-900, short-term rentals can outperform by 2-4 percentage points when managed effectively.
• Properties within 10 miles of Salt Fork State Park or downtown Cambridge historic district tend to achieve the higher end of these returns.

Cambridge, Ohio averages 45–50% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Cambridge, Ohio Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 45-50%, with significant seasonal variations throughout the year.
• Peak occupancy occurs during summer months (June through August) when rates climb to 65-70%, driven by tourism to nearby attractions like the National Road and Zane Grey Museum.
• Spring and fall months see moderate occupancy rates around 50-55%, while winter months drop to 30-35% due to reduced travel and harsh weather conditions.
• Cambridge's occupancy rates generally lag behind Ohio's state average of approximately 55-60% and the national Airbnb average of 65-70%.
• The city experiences secondary peaks during local events and festivals, particularly in autumn, but overall performs below urban markets while remaining competitive with other small Ohio towns in similar rural settings.

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

• The downtown historic district offers the strongest Airbnb potential in Cambridge with its proximity to the National Road Zane Grey Museum, Dickens Victorian Village, and walkable antique shops.
• The Southgate area provides excellent value with affordable property acquisition costs around $60,000-90,000 and steady demand from business travelers visiting local manufacturing facilities.
• The Wheeling Avenue corridor appeals to families and groups visiting nearby Salt Fork State Park and lodge, with larger homes commanding $100-150 per night during peak seasons.
• The East Cambridge residential zone near the hospital and medical facilities attracts medical professionals and visiting families.
• The Northside neighborhood benefits from proximity to Interstate 70 and 77, capturing highway travelers and offering convenient access to both Columbus and Pittsburgh.
• The Byesville Road area provides access to outdoor recreation including fishing and hunting, appealing to sportsmen willing to pay $75-100 per night for rustic accommodations.
• The College Hill vicinity, while smaller, serves visitors to local educational events and youth sports tournaments, generating seasonal demand with rates ranging $70-95 per night.

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

• Cambridge, Ohio requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license through the city clerk's office and register their property with the zoning department.
• Properties are limited to a maximum occupancy of two guests 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 investment properties to operate as vacation rentals.
• Zoning restrictions permit short-term rentals in residential districts R-1, R-2, and R-3, as well as commercial zones.
• The registration process requires submission of floor plans, proof of insurance with minimum $1 million liability coverage, contact information for a local property manager if the owner lives more than 50 miles away.
• Recent changes implemented in 2023 include mandatory noise monitoring systems for properties with more than 4 bedrooms, stricter parking requirements of one space per bedroom plus one additional space.

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

• Short-term rentals in Cambridge, Ohio are subject to several fees and taxes including Ohio's state lodging tax of 5.75%, Guernsey County's lodging tax of approximately 3%.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the city costing approximately $25-50 annually, register with the Ohio Department of Commerce for around $50, and pay state sales tax registration fees of about $25.
• Tourism or bed tax may apply at 1-2% depending on local ordinances, and operators must collect and remit Ohio sales tax at 5.75% plus local rates.
• Additional costs include potential zoning permits ($100-200), fire safety inspections ($75-150), and health department permits if serving food ($50-100).
• Annual renewal fees for various permits typically range from $25-75 each, and operators may face penalty fees of $100-500 for non-compliance with registration or tax remittance requirements.