Is Findlay, Ohio Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Findlay, Ohio combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a moderate but potentially stable investment opportunity.
• Current market conditions in Findlay are characterized by a steady, albeit smaller, demand for short-term rentals, often driven by its strong local economy, particularly in the manufacturing and education sectors.
• Tourism trends are primarily linked to regional events, university activities (University of Findlay), and local attractions, leading to consistent but not dramatically high occupancy rates.
• Property values in Findlay are generally affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas, offering a lower entry barrier for investors.
• The investment potential, while not as high-growth as major tourist destinations, lies in consistent rental income and a stable local economy that can support long-term tenancy.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Findlay, Ohio typically earn between $800-$1,500 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months and University of Findlay events, with revenues increasing 20-30% above baseline during these periods.
• Properties near downtown Findlay or the university campus command premium rates, with entire homes averaging $85-$120 per night compared to $50-$75 for rooms in residential areas.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to major employers like Marathon Petroleum headquarters, seasonal tourism related to local festivals and sporting events.
• Occupancy rates typically range from 45-65% annually, with successful hosts maintaining higher rates through competitive pricing, professional photography, and responsive guest communication.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 7-10 years due to the city's modest tourism demand and lower property appreciation rates compared to major metropolitan areas.
• The average nightly rate ranges from $75-$110 for typical 2-3 bedroom properties, with occupancy rates hovering around 45-60% annually.
• This performance generally underperforms traditional long-term rentals in the area, which typically yield 10-14% ROI with more consistent cash flow.
• Properties near downtown or the university campus tend to perform better, achieving the higher end of the ROI range.

Findlay, Ohio averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Findlay, Ohio typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variation that peaks during summer months (June-August) at approximately 65-70% due to increased tourism and business travel, while winter months (December-February) see occupancy drop to around 35-40%.
• The city experiences secondary peaks during University of Findlay events and local festivals in spring and fall, pushing rates to 60-65%.
• Findlay's occupancy rates generally lag behind Ohio's state average of approximately 60-65% and the national average of 65-70%.
• The city's occupancy is heavily influenced by business travel related to Marathon Petroleum Corporation and other local industries.

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

• The downtown Findlay area near Main Street offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its proximity to the historic courthouse square, local restaurants, and cultural attractions.
• The University of Findlay vicinity provides strong rental demand from visiting families, prospective students, and academic conference attendees.
• The Blanchard River corridor neighborhoods appeal to guests seeking scenic waterfront stays while remaining close to downtown amenities.
• The area around Riverside Park attracts families and recreational visitors with easy access to outdoor activities, playgrounds, and community events, supporting consistent seasonal bookings.
• The historic residential district near Donnell Stadium benefits from sports tourism and events, particularly during high school and college athletic seasons.
• The neighborhoods surrounding the Hancock County Fairgrounds experience strong demand during fair season and other large events.
• The western residential areas near major employers like Marathon Petroleum offer steady demand from corporate travelers and contractors.

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

• Findlay, Ohio currently requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register their properties with the city.
• Occupancy limits are generally restricted to two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of eight people total regardless of property size.
• Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals in Findlay, allowing for investment properties to operate as vacation rentals, though properties must meet all building and safety codes including smoke detectors.
• The registration process involves submitting an application to the Building Department with property details, insurance information.
• Recent changes implemented around 2022-2023 have strengthened noise ordinance enforcement, required 24-hour contact information to be posted at properties, and established clearer guidelines for complaint resolution.

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

• Short-term rentals in Findlay, Ohio are subject to several fees and taxes including Ohio's state lodging tax of 5.75% on gross rental receipts, Hancock County's lodging tax of approximately 3%.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Findlay costing approximately $25-50 annually.
• Additional costs include potential fire safety inspections at $75-150 per inspection, health department permits if applicable at $50-100, and Ohio's Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) of 0.26% on gross receipts over $150,000 annually.
• Property owners must also collect and remit Ohio sales tax at 5.75% plus local sales tax of approximately 2.25%.