Is Durham, Kansas Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Durham, Kansas combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a potentially stable but niche opportunity.
• Current market conditions in Durham are characterized by a relatively small and steady real estate market.
• Tourism trends in Durham are modest, primarily driven by local events, seasonal visitors, and proximity to larger educational or agricultural hubs like Kansas State University (in Manhattan, a short drive away).
• While Durham itself may not be a major tourist destination, its appeal to specific segments of travelers—such as those visiting family, attending local events, or passing through—provides a consistent.
• The investment potential lies in the lower entry cost for properties and the possibility of a steady income stream from those niche demands.
• However, investors should be aware of the limited scale of the market and the importance of precise targeting to ensure profitability.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, average Airbnb earnings in Durham, Kansas typically range from $800 to $1,500 per month for standard residential properties.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months and university-related events, with revenues potentially increasing 25-35% above baseline during these periods.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Kansas State University and local attractions, property size and amenities.
• Occupancy rates in the area typically hover around 65-75% annually, with successful hosts maintaining higher rates through competitive pricing strategies, professional photography.
• Properties within walking distance of downtown Durham or offering unique amenities like hot tubs or game rooms command premium rates of $20-40 above market average per night.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 10-12 years due to the smaller market size and limited tourist demand in this rural community of approximately 110 residents.
• Short-term rental properties in Durham face challenges with occupancy rates averaging 35-45% annually, significantly lower than urban markets.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in the area, which typically yield 6-8% ROI with more consistent monthly income of $800-1,200, Airbnb investments show higher potential returns but with substantially greater vacancy risk and operational complexity.
• The limited local attractions and distance from major Kansas cities like Wichita or Kansas City means most short-term rental demand comes from travelers passing through or visiting family.

Durham, Kansas averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Durham, Kansas, a small city in Marion County, experiences Airbnb occupancy rates averaging approximately 45-55% annually.
• Peak season occurs during late spring through early fall (May-September) when occupancy rates climb to 65-75%, driven by summer travel, local festivals.
• Winter months (December-February) see the lowest occupancy at 25-35% due to harsh weather conditions and reduced tourism.
• The shoulder seasons of March-April and October-November maintain moderate occupancy around 40-50%.
• Durham's performance lags behind Kansas's larger metropolitan areas like Wichita or Kansas City suburbs, which average 55-70% occupancy.
• The city's proximity to recreational areas and its position along regional travel routes helps maintain relatively stable demand compared to more isolated rural markets.

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

• Durham, Kansas is a small rural community with limited distinct neighborhoods, but the best areas for Airbnb investment would be properties near the downtown core along Main Street which offers proximity to local businesses and easy highway access for travelers, the residential area around Durham Park which provides a quiet family-friendly atmosphere attractive to visitors seeking small-town charm, properties near the grain elevators and agricultural facilities that can accommodate business travelers and agricultural consultants, homes close to the Durham Community Center which serves as a local gathering point and event venue, the area near the railroad tracks which has historical significance and appeals to railroad enthusiasts and history buffs, and properties on the outskirts with larger lots that can attract families or groups seeking rural retreats with space for outdoor activities.
• These locations work well because Durham's economy is primarily agricultural so business travelers need accommodation, the town sits along major transportation routes making it a convenient stopover.

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

• Durham, Kansas does not have specific short-term rental regulations as it is a small rural community with a population of approximately 112 residents as of 2020.
• The city operates under basic zoning ordinances that typically allow residential use in residential zones.
• Property owners would need to comply with standard business licensing requirements through Butler County if operating as a commercial enterprise, obtain necessary state tax permits for collecting sales tax.
• There are no specific permit requirements, occupancy limits, owner-occupancy mandates, or registration processes established specifically for short-term rentals.
• Any short-term rental operation would need to comply with general noise ordinances and parking requirements typical of small Kansas municipalities.

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

• Short-term rentals in Durham, Kansas are subject to several fees and taxes including Kansas state sales tax of 6.5% plus local sales tax which typically ranges from 1-3% for a combined rate of approximately 7.5-9.5% on rental income.
• The state transient guest tax is 6% on lodging accommodations under 30 days.
• Registration and licensing fees with the city typically range from $50-150 annually, while Kansas requires a sales tax permit which costs around $20-50.
• Property owners must also pay standard property taxes which average 1.4% of assessed value annually in Kansas.
• Some municipalities may impose additional tourism or lodging taxes of 2-5%, and there may be zoning compliance fees of $25-100.
• Business license fees can range from $25-75 annually depending on the municipality's requirements.