Is Carthage, Missouri Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Carthage, Missouri combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a compelling opportunity, largely driven by its unique blend of historical attractions and local events that draw a steady stream of visitors.
• The current market conditions indicate stable property values and a growing interest in local tourism, particularly for attractions like the Precious Moments Chapel, the historic downtown square.
• These factors contribute to consistent demand for short-term rentals.
• While Carthage may not have the same volume of tourism as larger metropolitan areas, its niche appeal and affordable property values offer a favorable entry point for investors.
• The investment potential is further bolstered by the opportunity to cater to visitors seeking a quieter, more authentic experience.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Carthage, Missouri typically earn between $800-$1,500 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months and fall hunting season, with revenues increasing 25-40% above baseline.
• Properties near Precious Moments Chapel and historic downtown areas command premium rates, while proximity to Missouri Southern State University drives consistent demand during the academic year.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property condition, professional photography, responsive host communication, competitive pricing strategies.
• Rural properties with outdoor amenities like fire pits, fishing access, or hunting proximity tend to outperform standard residential listings.
• Market analysis suggests that well-managed properties with strong reviews maintain occupancy rates of 60-75% annually.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 7-9 years due to the city's modest tourism demand and lower property values ranging from $80,000-$150,000 for investment-suitable properties.
• The market benefits from proximity to Precious Moments Chapel and Park, Route 66 tourism, and business travelers to local manufacturing facilities.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Carthage that yield 6-8% ROI with monthly rents of $600-900, short-term rentals can provide 2-4 percentage points higher returns but require significantly more active management and face seasonal fluctuations, with peak performance during summer months and Route 66 festival periods while experiencing slower winter occupancy that can drop to 25-35%.

Carthage, Missouri averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Carthage, Missouri typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at approximately 65-70% due to increased tourism and family travel, while winter months (December-February) see occupancy drop to around 35-40%.
• Spring and fall maintain moderate rates of 50-60%, with particular strength during local events and Route 66 tourism season.
• Carthage's occupancy rates generally underperform compared to Missouri's statewide average of approximately 60-65% and the national Airbnb average of 48-52%.
• Louis, though the city benefits from its historic Route 66 location and proximity to Joplin, which helps maintain steady weekend bookings throughout the year.

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

• The downtown historic district offers the strongest Airbnb potential in Carthage due to its proximity to the Precious Moments Chapel and Figurine Factory, Civil War Museum.
• The Fairview neighborhood provides excellent value with affordable housing stock near Carthage's medical facilities and shopping centers.
• The area around Kellogg Lake Park attracts outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking recreational activities.
• The residential district near Missouri Southern State University captures consistent demand from visiting families, prospective students, and academic travelers.
• The neighborhoods surrounding the Maple Leaf Cemetery and Civil War sites appeal to history buffs and genealogy tourists, particularly during Civil War commemoration events.
• The area near Highway 71 and Interstate access provides convenience for business travelers and those exploring the broader Joplin metropolitan area.

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

• Short-term rental regulations in Carthage, Missouri are primarily governed at the municipal level, with the city requiring property owners to obtain a business license and special use permit before operating vacation rentals.
• Properties are typically limited to occupancy based on bedroom count plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 8-10 people depending on the specific property size and local fire codes.
• Owner-occupancy requirements vary by zoning district, with some residential areas requiring the owner to live on-site or within the same city limits.
• Zoning restrictions generally limit short-term rentals to specific residential districts (R-2, R-3) and commercial areas.
• The registration process involves submitting applications to the city planning department, paying fees ranging from $100-300 annually, providing proof of insurance.
• Recent regulatory changes implemented around 2022-2023 have included stricter noise ordinances, mandatory 24-hour contact information for guests, limits on the total number of short-term rental permits issued citywide.

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

• Short-term rentals in Carthage, Missouri are subject to several fees and taxes including the state lodging tax of 4.225% on gross rental receipts.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Carthage costing approximately $25-50 annually.
• Tourism taxes in Jasper County add an additional 2-3% to rental receipts, while some properties may require special use permits or conditional use permits ranging from $100-300 depending on zoning requirements.
• Annual inspection fees for rental properties typically cost $75-150, and owners must maintain proper insurance and may face additional utility deposits or connection fees of $50-200.
• The total tax burden on short-term rental income generally ranges from 8-12% of gross receipts when combining all state, local, and tourism-related taxes.