Is Cameron, Louisiana Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Cameron, Louisiana combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a unique investment opportunity.
• Current market conditions are heavily influenced by the region's energy industry and its recovery from natural disasters.
• Tourism trends in Cameron are primarily driven by fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation, attracting a specific niche of visitors.
• While property values may be more affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas, investors should consider the potential for market volatility and the impact of extreme weather events.
• The investment potential largely depends on the long-term stability of the local economy and continued interest in outdoor tourism.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, average Airbnb earnings in Cameron, Louisiana typically range from $800 to $2,200 per month.
• Properties generally see peak earnings during spring and summer months when fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation attract visitors.
• Earnings are heavily influenced by property type, with waterfront or fishing-accessible properties commanding premium rates of $120-180 per night during peak seasons.
• The local economy's dependence on oil and gas industries creates additional demand from temporary workers.
• Occupancy rates typically hover around 45-65% annually, with successful hosts reporting higher earnings through strategic pricing during hunting seasons, fishing tournaments.
• Properties offering amenities like boat launches, fish cleaning stations, or proximity to Calcasieu Lake tend to outperform the market average by 20-35%.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years due to the area's limited tourism infrastructure and seasonal demand fluctuations primarily driven by fishing and hunting activities.
• The market experiences higher occupancy rates during peak hunting season (October-January) and fishing seasons, but suffers from low demand during hurricane season and summer months.
• Long-term rentals in Cameron generally provide more stable returns at 6-8% ROI with consistent monthly income.
• The recent industrial development and proximity to LNG facilities has created some demand for corporate housing, but the overall Airbnb market remains challenging due to Cameron's remote location.

Cameron, Louisiana averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Cameron, Louisiana experiences average Airbnb occupancy rates of approximately 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal fluctuations driven by its coastal location and outdoor recreation opportunities.
• Peak season occurs from May through September when occupancy rates can reach 70-80%, coinciding with fishing seasons, hurricane recovery tourism, and summer beach activities.
• The area experiences secondary peaks during hunting seasons in fall and winter months.
• Cameron's occupancy rates generally lag behind Louisiana's state average of approximately 60-65% and the national Airbnb average of 65-70%, primarily due to its remote location, limited year-round attractions.
• The region's occupancy is heavily dependent on outdoor enthusiasts, oil and gas workers seeking temporary housing, and disaster recovery personnel.

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

• The downtown Cameron area near the courthouse and main commercial district offers strong investment potential due to its central location and proximity to government offices.
• The Creole area, located along Highway 27, provides excellent access to fishing charters and marsh tours.
• Properties near Cameron Elementary School and the residential areas along Marshall Street benefit from stable local demand and proximity to community amenities while maintaining affordable acquisition costs.
• The waterfront areas along the Calcasieu River and Intracoastal Waterway command premium rates due to scenic views and direct access to boating and fishing.
• Neighborhoods near the Cameron Ferry landing capture transient traffic and visitors exploring the coastal region, offering consistent occupancy from travelers using this transportation hub.
• The residential areas around Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church provide a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere that appeals to longer-term stays and visiting families.

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

• Cameron, Louisiana currently operates under relatively permissive short-term rental regulations compared to larger Louisiana municipalities.
• Properties must comply with standard occupancy limits based on bedroom count (typically 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional).
• No owner-occupancy requirements exist, allowing for full property rentals, and zoning restrictions are minimal in most residential areas.
• The registration process involves submitting a simple application with property details, proof of insurance, and a $50-100 annual fee, with renewals required yearly.
• Recent changes implemented in 2022-2023 include enhanced requirements for hurricane evacuation plans to be provided to guests, stricter enforcement of septic system compliance for properties hosting more than 6 guests.

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

• Short-term rentals in Cameron, Louisiana are subject to several fees and taxes including Louisiana state sales tax of 4.45%, Cameron Parish sales tax of approximately 3-4%.
• Property owners must obtain a Louisiana Department of Revenue sales tax license which typically costs around $25-50, and may need local business permits ranging from $50-200 annually.
• The Louisiana Department of Health requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit occupancy taxes, with rates varying by municipality but generally falling between 8-13% total when combining state, parish.
• Additional costs may include fire safety inspections ($75-150), health department permits ($100-300 annually), and potential homeowner association fees if applicable.
• Cameron Parish may also require specific short-term rental registration which can cost $100-500 annually.