Is Clive, Iowa Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Clive, Iowa combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a potentially attractive opportunity, largely influenced by its proximity to Des Moines and the consistent regional demand for accommodation.
• Current market conditions in Clive show a stable real estate market with moderate property values, making initial investment more accessible compared to larger metropolitan areas.
• Tourism trends are primarily driven by business travelers attending events in the Des Moines area, as well as visitors exploring local attractions and attending family events.
• While Clive itself is a quieter suburban area, its connection to the larger Des Moines market ensures a steady, albeit less volatile, stream of short-term rental demand.
• The investment potential lies in targeting guests seeking a comfortable, home-like experience outside the bustling city center, often at a more competitive price point.
• Strategic investors focusing on amenities that appeal to both business and leisure travelers, such as dedicated workspaces and family-friendly features.

$1,200–$2,800 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Clive, Iowa typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenues can increase by 25-40% due to higher tourism activity and local events.
• Spring and fall months generally maintain steady occupancy rates around 60-70% with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $125 depending on property size and amenities.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to downtown Des Moines (approximately 15 minutes away), property condition and amenities, professional photography quality, responsive host communication.
• Properties with unique features, hot tubs, or business-friendly amenities tend to command premium rates of $140-180 per night, while basic accommodations typically range from $75-110 per night.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 7-10 years depending on property acquisition costs and renovation expenses.
• The average daily rate for Airbnb properties in Clive ranges from $85-120, with occupancy rates averaging 65-75% throughout the year.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Clive, which typically yield 6-8% ROI with monthly rents averaging $1,200-1,800 for similar properties.
• The higher ROI potential comes with increased operational costs including cleaning fees, utilities, furnishing, and platform commissions that can consume 25-35% of gross revenue.

Clive, Iowa averages 55–65% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Clive, Iowa typically average around 55-65% annually, with peak seasons occurring during summer months (June-August) when rates can reach 70-75% due to increased tourism and business travel to the Des Moines metropolitan area.
• Spring and fall months generally see moderate occupancy rates of 50-60%, while winter months (December-February) experience the lowest occupancy at approximately 40-50%.
• Clive's occupancy rates tend to be slightly higher than the Iowa state average of 50-55% due to its proximity to Des Moines and corporate headquarters.
• The city benefits from consistent business travel demand and its location near major employers and the Des Moines International Airport.

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

• The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Clive, Iowa include the Westown area near Jordan Creek Town Center.
• The neighborhoods around Clive Greenbelt Trail provide strong appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking recreational activities.
• Areas near the West Des Moines border benefit from spillover demand from the larger city's business district while offering more affordable property acquisition costs.
• The residential zones around Clive Aquatic Center and Campbell Recreation Area draw families during summer months and sports teams throughout the year.
• Neighborhoods near major corporate offices and business parks along University Avenue attract consistent business traveler demand with higher weekday occupancy rates and less seasonality.
• The established residential areas in central Clive offer a balance of affordability for property purchase and steady demand from visitors seeking quiet.
• Properties near Clive's community centers and event venues benefit from wedding parties, family reunions.

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

• Short-term rental regulations in Clive, Iowa require property owners to obtain a business license and comply with the city's zoning ordinances.
• Properties must limit occupancy to two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 10 occupants total, and parking must be provided on-site for each rental unit.
• Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals, but properties must meet all building and fire safety codes, including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors.
• The registration process involves submitting an application to the City Clerk's office along with proof of insurance, a site plan, and payment of applicable fees.
• Zoning restrictions primarily limit short-term rentals in single-family residential districts, though some may be permitted through conditional use permits after neighborhood notification and city council approval.
• Recent regulatory changes implemented around 2022-2023 have strengthened enforcement mechanisms and increased penalties for non-compliance.

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

• Short-term rentals in Clive, Iowa are subject to Iowa's state lodging tax of 7% on gross receipts, which includes the 6% state sales tax plus an additional 1% state hotel/motel tax.
• Clive does not impose a separate municipal lodging tax, but operators must register for an Iowa sales tax permit through the Iowa Department of Revenue, which typically costs around $20-30.
• The city of Clive requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license, which costs approximately $25-50 annually.
• Additionally, operators are responsible for collecting and remitting the 7% combined tax monthly to the Iowa Department of Revenue.
• Property owners may also need to factor in potential increases in property taxes due to commercial use classification, though this varies by assessment.