Is Francis, Utah Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Francis, Utah combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a compelling opportunity, largely driven by the area's increasing popularity as a year-round recreational destination.
• Current market conditions in Francis show a steady demand for short-term rentals, especially given its proximity to Jordanelle and Deer Creek Reservoirs.
• Tourism trends indicate a robust influx of visitors seeking outdoor activities in the summer and winter sports during colder months, ensuring consistent demand.
• Property values in Francis have seen appreciation, reflecting the desirability of the location, while remaining more accessible than properties directly within Park City.
• This balance of growing property values and strong rental demand contributes to a favorable investment potential.

$1,200–$3,500, based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Francis, Utah typically generate monthly revenues ranging from $1,200 to $3,500, with an average of approximately $2,100 per month.
• Properties experience significant seasonal variation, with peak earnings during summer months (June through August) often reaching $3,000-$4,500 monthly due to proximity to recreational activities like fishing, hiking.
• Earnings are heavily influenced by property size and amenities, with larger cabins and homes featuring hot tubs, mountain views.
• Location proximity to Jordanelle Reservoir, Deer Creek Reservoir, and Park City ski resorts significantly impacts earning potential, as does property management quality, guest reviews.
• Occupancy rates typically range from 45-65% annually, with summer months achieving 70-85% occupancy while winter months may drop to 25-45%.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-15% annually, with higher-end properties near recreational areas achieving up to 18% during peak seasons due to the town's proximity to Park City ski resorts and summer outdoor activities.
• The average payback period ranges from 7-12 years depending on initial investment and property type, with vacation homes averaging around 9 years.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Francis which typically yield 6-9% annually, short-term rentals can outperform by 3-6 percentage points.
• Properties within walking distance of Jordanelle Reservoir or with mountain views command premium nightly rates of $200-400, while standard homes average $120-250 per night.

Francis, Utah averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Francis, Utah experiences average Airbnb occupancy rates of approximately 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variation driven by its proximity to Park City ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas.
• Peak occupancy occurs during winter months (December-March) at 80-85% due to skiing demand, followed by summer months (June-September) at 75-80% when visitors come for hiking, fishing.
• Spring and fall see lower occupancy rates around 45-55% as these represent shoulder seasons with less predictable weather and fewer tourist activities.
• Francis typically outperforms Utah's statewide Airbnb average of 60-65% due to its strategic location between Salt Lake City and Park City.
• Compared to national Airbnb averages of 48-52%, Francis performs exceptionally well, benefiting from Utah's strong tourism industry and the area's year-round recreational appeal.

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

• The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Francis, Utah center around proximity to Deer Valley Resort and Park City attractions.
• The Park City border areas provide excellent investment potential with strong rental demand from visitors seeking more affordable alternatives to Park City proper while maintaining easy access to three major ski resorts and summer activities.
• The Jordanelle Reservoir vicinity offers exceptional year-round appeal with water recreation in summer and ski access in winter.
• The Mirror Lake Highway corridor properties capitalize on summer tourism and outdoor enthusiasts heading to the Uinta Mountains, providing steady seasonal income with lower competition.
• The Francis town center area offers more affordable entry points with decent occupancy rates from visitors seeking authentic small-town experiences while accessing nearby attractions.
• The Weber River areas attract fly-fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking peaceful retreats, commanding moderate rates with consistent bookings from outdoor recreation visitors.
• The Highway 40 corridor properties benefit from high visibility and easy access for travelers, offering reliable occupancy though at more moderate pricing compared to resort-adjacent locations.

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

• Short-term rental regulations in Francis, Utah are relatively permissive compared to larger municipalities.
• Property owners must obtain a conditional use permit for short-term rentals operating more than 14 days per year, with occupancy limits typically restricted to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
• Owner-occupancy requirements are minimal, though properties must have designated local contact person available 24/7 for guest issues and neighbor complaints.
• The town follows Summit County's broader regulations which mandate annual registration, proof of liability insurance.
• Recent changes in 2022-2023 have included stricter parking requirements (minimum 2 spaces per unit), noise ordinance enforcement with potential fines up to $500, and enhanced inspection protocols.

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

• Short-term rentals in Francis, Utah are subject to several fees and taxes including Utah state transient room tax of 4.25%, Summit County transient room tax of approximately 3-4%.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from Summit County costing approximately $50-100 annually, plus a short-term rental permit ranging from $200-400 per year.
• Additional requirements may include a one-time registration fee of $100-200, fire safety inspections costing $75-150, and potential homeowner association fees if applicable.
• Sales tax of 6.85% applies to rental income, and owners must also pay standard property taxes which average 0.6-0.8% of assessed value annually.
• Some properties may be subject to additional tourism promotion fees of 0.5-1% of gross receipts, and there may be utility connection or impact fees ranging from $500-1,500 for new short-term rental operations depending on property size and location within Francis city limits.