Is Daytona Beach, Florida Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Daytona Beach, Florida market research

Daytona Beach, Florida Airbnb Investment Overview

$1,800–$4,500,Typical monthly host earnings
8–15%Typical annual ROI
65–70%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Daytona Beach, Florida?

Potentially—Daytona Beach, Florida combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a promising opportunity, largely driven by its consistent appeal as a tourist destination.
  • The current market conditions benefit from a steady influx of visitors drawn to its famous beaches, motorsports events, and family-friendly attractions.
  • Property values in Daytona Beach have shown appreciation, offering potential for capital gains in addition to rental income.
  • The investment potential is strong due to the high demand for short-term accommodations, particularly during peak seasons and major events.
  • However, investors should be mindful of local regulations and competition to ensure profitability and long-term success.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Daytona Beach?

$1,800–$4,500, based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Airbnb properties in Daytona Beach typically generate average monthly revenues ranging from $1,800 to $4,500, with oceanfront and beachside properties commanding the higher end of this spectrum.
  • Seasonal variations are significant, with peak earnings during Daytona 500 race weeks, spring break periods, and summer months often reaching $6,000-$8,000 monthly.
  • Properties within walking distance of the beach generally earn 30-50% more than inland locations, and factors significantly affecting earnings include proximity to the beach, property size and amenities.
  • One-bedroom units typically average $2,200 monthly while larger 3-4 bedroom homes can achieve $3,800-$4,500 monthly averages, though these figures can vary substantially based on property condition, management quality.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Daytona Beach

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–15%.

  • Airbnb investments in Daytona Beach typically generate ROI between 8-15% annually, with oceanfront and beachside properties achieving the higher end of this range due to strong tourist demand during racing events.
  • The average payback period for initial investment ranges from 7-12 years, depending on property location and purchase price.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Daytona Beach which average 6-9% ROI annually, short-term rentals can generate 40-60% higher returns but require significantly more active management and carry higher vacancy risks during off-peak seasons.
  • Properties near the Daytona International Speedway command premium rates during race weekends, with some investors seeing monthly returns of 15-25% during peak events.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, Florida averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Daytona Beach Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 65-70%, with significant seasonal variations driven by the city's tourism patterns.
  • Peak occupancy occurs during March and April due to spring break activities and NASCAR events, reaching 85-90%.
  • Winter months see the lowest occupancy at 45-55%, while fall maintains moderate levels around 60-65%.
  • Daytona Beach's occupancy rates generally align with Florida's statewide Airbnb average of 68% but fall slightly below the national average of 72%.
  • The presence of major events like the Daytona 500 in February and Bike Week creates additional occupancy spikes that can reach 95% during those specific periods.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Daytona Beach

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

  • The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Daytona Beach include **Oceanfront/Beachside** which commands premium rates due to direct beach access and proximity to the Daytona International Speedway.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Daytona Beach

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

  • Daytona Beach requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business tax receipt and register with the city, with properties limited to a maximum occupancy of two people per bedroom plus two additional guests.
  • The city does not require owner-occupancy for short-term rentals, but properties must be located in areas zoned for residential use.
  • The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, emergency contact information.
  • Properties must comply with fire safety codes, provide adequate parking, maintain noise ordinances, and display the registration number in all advertisements.
  • Recent changes implemented around 2022-2023 have strengthened enforcement mechanisms, increased penalties for violations, and required more detailed reporting of rental activity.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Daytona Beach

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

  • Short-term rentals in Daytona Beach, Florida are subject to several fees and taxes including a 6% Florida state sales tax, a 5% Volusia County tourist development tax, and a 1% Daytona Beach municipal resort tax.
  • Property owners must obtain a business tax receipt from the City of Daytona Beach costing approximately $50-75 annually, register with the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax collection at no cost.
  • Additional costs include a one-time zoning compliance verification fee of around $150, potential homeowners association fees if applicable, and quarterly sales tax remittance to the state.
  • Some properties may also be subject to special assessment districts or community development district fees ranging from $200-500 annually.
Common questions

Daytona Beach, Florida Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida?

To start an Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida, begin by researching local regulations as the city requires short term rental operators to obtain a business tax receipt and comply with zoning restrictions that limit rentals to certain residential areas while prohibiting them in some historic districts.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Volusia County and Daytona Beach's planning department to verify your property's zoning allows vacation rentals.
  • Find a suitable property in permitted zones, focusing on areas near the beach, Daytona International Speedway, or downtown, with properties typically ranging from $150,000 to 400,000 depending on proximity to attractions.
  • Furnish the space with coastal themed décor, essential amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, beach equipment, and safety features including smoke detectors and fire extinguishers as required by Florida fire codes.
  • Create your listing on Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms with professional photos highlighting the beach location and NASCAR proximity, setting competitive rates of $80 to 200 per night based on seasonality and events like Daytona 500 or Bike Week.
  • Manage the property by establishing cleaning protocols between guests, responding promptly to inquiries, coordinating check ins/check outs, maintaining the property, and collecting the required 6% Florida sales tax plus 5% Volusia County tourist development tax.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Daytona Beach, Florida?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Daytona Beach, Florida, focus on locations within 0.5 to 1 mile of the beach, particularly in areas like Daytona Beach Shores, New Smyrna Beach vicinity.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom condos or single family homes with ocean views, pools, parking spaces, and modern amenities, as these command premium rates of $150 to 400+ per night depending on proximity to beach and property size.
  • Conduct pricing analysis using AirDNA and Mashvisor to evaluate average daily rates, occupancy rates (typically 60 to 75% for well positioned properties), and seasonal demand patterns.
  • Research competition by analyzing similar properties within a 2 mile radius on Airbnb and VRBO, noting their pricing, amenities, and guest reviews to identify market gaps.
  • Utilize tools like Rabbu, AllTheRooms, and local MLS data through Realtor.com to assess purchase prices, rental potential, and neighborhood trends.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Daytona Beach, Florida?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Daytona Beach, Florida, you must first apply through the City of Daytona Beach Planning and Development Department located at 301 S Ridgewood Avenue, either in person or online through their permitting portal.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents include a completed short term rental application, proof of property ownership or lease agreement with landlord consent, floor plan of the property, site plan showing parking spaces.
  • The application fee is approximately $150 with an additional $75 annual renewal fee, plus potential inspection fees of $100 to 200.
  • The timeline typically ranges from 30 to 60 days depending on completeness of application and inspection scheduling.
  • Daytona Beach specific requirements include maintaining minimum two off street parking spaces per unit, ensuring the property is located in zones where STRs are permitted (primarily tourist and commercial districts), providing 24/7 contact information for a responsible party.
  • Properties must also pass a city inspection covering fire safety, building codes, and zoning compliance before permit issuance, and operators must collect and remit tourist development tax to Volusia County.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Daytona Beach, Florida?

Short term rentals (STRs) are legal in Daytona Beach, Florida, but operate under specific regulations established by the city.

Core operating requirements

  • As of 2023, Daytona Beach requires STR operators to obtain a business tax receipt and comply with zoning restrictions that generally limit STRs to commercial and mixed use districts, while prohibiting them in most single family residential neighborhoods.
  • The city has implemented occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise ordinances specifically for STRs, with violations subject to fines and potential permit revocation.
  • Recent changes include stricter enforcement mechanisms and enhanced complaint procedures for neighbors, reflecting the city's effort to balance tourism revenue with residential quality of life concerns.
  • Properties must also comply with Florida state regulations regarding safety standards and tax collection, and operators are required to provide local contact information for 24 hour response to issues.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida?

The best Airbnb investment areas in Daytona Beach, Florida include the Oceanfront/Beachside district along Atlantic Avenue and Ocean Avenue. The Historic Downtown district near Beach Street offers appeal for cultural tourists visiting the Halifax Historical Museum and enjoying local dining, while also capturing business travelers to nearby corporate offices.

Areas to research

  • The Shores Resort area and Ormond Beach border provide upscale vacation rental opportunities for families and couples seeking quieter beach experiences with easy access to golf courses like LPGA International.
  • The Speedway Boulevard corridor is particularly valuable during major racing events, offering convenient accommodation for motorsports enthusiasts, while the Port Orange adjacent areas attract visitors to sugar sand beaches and the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Daytona Beach, Florida

In Daytona Beach, Florida, Airbnb properties are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the Florida state sales tax of 6%, the Volusia County tourist development tax of 5%, and the City of Daytona Beach resort tax of 2%, totaling approximately 13% in combined taxes on short term rental stays.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • These taxes are typically collected by Airbnb directly from guests at the time of booking through their automated tax collection system, which began around 2016 to 2017 for most Florida jurisdictions.
  • Airbnb remits the collected tourist development tax to Volusia County monthly and the resort tax to the City of Daytona Beach on a similar schedule, while state sales tax is forwarded to the Florida Department of Revenue.
  • Property owners must still register with local tax authorities and may need to file returns even when Airbnb collects taxes, and stays of 30 days or longer are generally exempt from tourist development and resort taxes but remain subject to sales tax.
  • The tourist development tax funds beach renourishment, tourism marketing, and related infrastructure projects, while the resort tax supports municipal services in tourist areas.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida

The total cost to start an Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida is approximately $285,000 to $320,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs around $250,000 based on median home prices in the area as of 2023.
  • Furnishing a 2 to 3 bedroom property requires $15,000 to $20,000 for quality furniture, appliances, linens, and decor suitable for vacation rentals.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials total $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees including business license, vacation rental permit, and inspection fees range from $500 to $1,500 depending on local regulations.
  • Insurance for short term rentals costs $2,000 to $3,000 annually, with the first year paid upfront.
  • Utility deposits and setup fees for electricity, water, internet, and cable total approximately $1,000 to $1,500.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($900/month), cleaning services ($150 per turnover, estimated 20 turnovers), maintenance and supplies ($300/month), platform fees (3% of estimated $3,000 monthly revenue).
Are Airbnb properties in Daytona Beach, Florida profitable?

Airbnb properties in Daytona Beach, Florida demonstrate strong profitability potential with average annual revenues ranging from $25,000 to $45,000 for typical 2 to 3 bedroom properties, driven by the city's year round tourism appeal including Daytona International Speedway events, beach proximity.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses typically run 40 to 50% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($75 to 125 per turnover), property management (15 to 25%), utilities ($150 to 250/month), insurance ($1,200 to 2,000 annually), and maintenance costs.
  • Success factors include strategic location within 2 miles of the beach or speedway, professional photography, competitive pricing ($80 to 180/night depending on season), and maintaining 4.5+ star ratings through consistent guest experience.
  • Properties near the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Ocean Walk Shoppes command premium rates during peak seasons (February April, July August), with some investors reporting 15 to 20% annual returns on investment.
  • The market benefits from strong occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually, though success heavily depends on property condition, marketing effectiveness, and ability to capitalize on major events like the Daytona 500, Bike Week, and college spring break periods.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida?

Airbnb investments in Daytona Beach, Florida typically generate annual ROI of 12 to 18% with cash on cash returns ranging from 8 to 15%, driven by the city's strong tourism market anchored by Daytona International Speedway events, beach tourism, and year round visitor demand. Properties within 2 to 3 miles of the beach or speedway command premium nightly rates of $120 to 200 during peak seasons (February March for racing, summer months), while off season rates average $80 to 120 per night.

Return planning figures

  • Initial profitability usually occurs within 18 to 24 months for well positioned properties, with investors typically seeing positive cash flow by month 6 to 12 after accounting for mortgage payments, property management fees of 15 to 25%, and operational expenses.
  • The market benefits from Daytona's established tourism infrastructure, with companies like Vacasa and RedAwning reporting strong booking rates of 65 to 75% annually for optimized listings.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Daytona Beach, Florida?

STRSearch leads the national market for Airbnb investment property analysis and market data for Daytona Beach, Florida.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents specializing in short term rental investments include Realty Pros Assured, Ocean Properties, and Daytona Beach Realty Group.
  • National services include Mashvisor for property analytics, AirDNA for market research, Awning for full service Airbnb investing, and RedAwning for vacation rental property sourcing.
  • Additional local companies serving the Daytona Beach market include Volusia County Investment Properties, Speedway Realty (capitalizing on NASCAR tourism), and Atlantic Coast Property Advisors.
  • Property management companies that also help with acquisitions include AvantStay, Vacasa, and local firm Daytona Vacation Rentals, while investment platforms like Roofstock and BiggerPockets connect investors with Daytona Beach opportunities.
  • Local mortgage brokers specializing in investment properties include First Coast Mortgage and Halifax Area Lending, and consulting services like STR Wealth and Short Term Rental University provide market analysis and investment guidance for the Daytona Beach area's strong tourism market driven by NASCAR events, Daytona International Speedway, and beach tourism.

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Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Service Scope
Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
No profitability screening
Expert Network
Limited or no partner access
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