Is Hackensack, New Jersey Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Hackensack, New Jersey market research

Hackensack, New Jersey Airbnb Investment Overview

$1,200–$2,800Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
65–70%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Hackensack, New Jersey?

Potentially—Hackensack, New Jersey combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a nuanced opportunity.
  • Current market conditions in Hackensack generally reflect a stable suburban environment, with property values that are more accessible compared to neighboring New York City but still represent a significant investment.
  • While Hackensack itself isn't a primary tourism hub, its proximity to major transportation arteries and its position as a gateway to both New York City and various New Jersey attractions could appeal to a specific segment of short-term renters, such as business travelers, visitors for local events, or those seeking more affordable accommodation near the greater metropolitan area.
  • However, the investment potential largely hinges on local regulations regarding short-term rentals, which can vary significantly and impact profitability.
  • A thorough analysis would require researching specific zoning laws, permit requirements, and any limits on rental days to determine the true viability of an Airbnb investment in Hackensack.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Hackensack?

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

  • Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Hackensack, New Jersey typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June-August) with revenues increasing 25-35% above average.
  • Properties near MetLife Stadium and those offering easy Manhattan access via public transportation command premium rates of $85-150 per night for entire homes.
  • Key factors influencing earnings include proximity to NYC transportation hubs, property amenities like parking and WiFi, guest capacity, professional photography quality.
  • Weekend bookings during football season and major events at nearby venues can boost monthly revenues by 20-40%.
  • Market saturation has increased competition, with successful hosts maintaining 65-80% occupancy rates through competitive pricing and superior guest experiences.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Hackensack

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $120-180 per night and 65-75% occupancy rates throughout the year.
  • The payback period for initial investment and setup costs generally ranges from 7-10 years, depending on property acquisition price and renovation expenses.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Hackensack which yield approximately 6-8% ROI with monthly rents averaging $1,800-2,500 for similar properties.
  • The proximity to New York City, approximately 12 miles from Manhattan, drives consistent demand from business travelers and tourists.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Hackensack

Hackensack, New Jersey averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Hackensack, New Jersey typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variations that see peak occupancy rates of 75-85% during summer months (June through August) and major holiday periods, while winter months (December through February) experience lower rates of 45-55%.
  • The city benefits from its proximity to New York City, driving higher demand during business travel periods and summer tourism season.
  • Hackensack's occupancy rates generally align closely with New Jersey's statewide average of approximately 68%.
  • Peak demand periods include summer weekends, major NYC events, and holiday seasons when travelers seek more affordable accommodations outside Manhattan while maintaining easy access to the city via public transportation and major highways.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Hackensack

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

  • The downtown Hackensack area near Main Street offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its proximity to the Bergen County Courthouse, government buildings, and business district.
  • The Riverside neighborhood along the Hackensack River provides scenic waterfront appeal with easy access to parks and recreational activities.
  • The area near Hackensack University Medical Center is ideal for medical tourism and visiting families, offering consistent demand from patients' relatives and medical professionals.
  • The residential neighborhoods around Johnson Park combine suburban charm with excellent transportation links.
  • The historic district near the Green offers cultural appeal with its preserved architecture and walkable streets.
  • The neighborhoods near Route 4 and the shopping corridors benefit from retail proximity and highway access, making them convenient for business travelers and shopping-focused visitors.
  • The areas closest to NJ Transit stations provide exceptional value due to easy Manhattan access, attracting budget-conscious travelers who prefer staying outside the city while maintaining convenient commuting options.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Hackensack

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

  • Hackensack, New Jersey requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register with the city.
  • Properties are generally limited to occupancy based on bedroom count plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 8-10 occupants depending on the specific property size and local fire codes.
  • The city does not mandate owner-occupancy for short-term rentals, allowing investment properties to operate as vacation rentals.
  • Registration involves submitting applications with property details, insurance documentation, emergency contact information, and paying annual fees ranging from $200-500.
  • Recent changes have included stricter noise ordinances, requirements for 24-hour local contact persons, enhanced parking regulations mandating one space per bedroom.
  • Properties must also comply with state tax collection requirements, maintain liability insurance, and undergo periodic safety inspections.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Hackensack

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

  • Short-term rentals in Hackensack, New Jersey are subject to several fees and taxes including the state sales tax of 6.625% on rental income.
  • Property owners must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Hackensack which typically costs between $150-300 annually, register for state tax collection permits (approximately $50).
  • Additionally, hosts must collect and remit the Tourism Promotion Fee of $2 per room per night for stays in certain commercial districts.
Common questions

Hackensack, New Jersey Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey?

To start an Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Hackensack Planning and Zoning Department.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Hackensack City Hall at 65 Central Avenue to apply for necessary permits including a Certificate of Occupancy for short term rentals, business registration, and ensure compliance with fire safety codes which typically require smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Find a suitable property in residential zones like the area near Hackensack River or near Route 4 corridor, ensuring it meets the city's requirement for adequate parking and doesn't violate HOA restrictions.
  • Furnish the space with quality basics including comfortable bedding, kitchen essentials, WiFi, and local amenities information, while ensuring compliance with Bergen County health department standards for cleanliness and safety.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos highlighting proximity to New York City (15 minutes by bus), MetLife Stadium, and local attractions like Hackensack River County Park.
  • For ongoing management, establish relationships with local cleaning services, maintain 24/7 guest communication, implement keyless entry systems, and stay current with Hackensack's evolving short term rental ordinances which may require annual renewals and neighbor notification procedures.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Hackensack, New Jersey?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Hackensack, New Jersey, focus on locations within walking distance of major employers like Hackensack University Medical Center and close to NYC transportation hubs such as the Anderson Street NJ Transit station.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 3 bedroom properties built after 1980 with modern amenities, parking spaces, and updated kitchens, as these features command premium rates of $120 to 180 per night compared to older units averaging $80 to 120.
  • Conduct pricing analysis using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify properties where potential STR revenue exceeds long term rental income by at least 40%, typically requiring purchase prices under $400,000 for optimal ROI in Hackensack's market.
  • Research competition by analyzing existing Airbnb and VRBO listings within a 1 mile radius, identifying gaps in amenities or pricing strategies.
  • Utilize tools like Rabbu, STR Helper, and local MLS data through Realtor.com, while consulting Bergen County zoning regulations and Hackensack's municipal codes regarding short term rentals.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Hackensack, New Jersey?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Hackensack, New Jersey, you must first apply through the City of Hackensack's Building Department located at 65 Central Avenue, as the city requires short term rental operators to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy and business license.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents include a completed application form, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, floor plans, certificate of insurance with minimum $1 million liability coverage, fire safety inspection certificate.
  • The application fee is approximately $150 for the initial permit plus $75 for the annual renewal, with additional inspection fees of around $100.
  • The timeline typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for processing once all documents are submitted and inspections are completed.
  • Hackensack specific requirements include limiting occupancy to no more than 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, maintaining a 24 hour contact person available to address any issues, providing adequate parking spaces (minimum 1 space per rental unit).
  • Properties must also pass fire safety inspections and meet all zoning requirements, with some residential zones potentially restricting short term rentals entirely.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Hackensack, New Jersey?

Short term rentals (STRs) in Hackensack, New Jersey operate in a complex legal environment as the city has not established comprehensive STR specific regulations as of 2023.

Core operating requirements

  • While not explicitly prohibited, STRs must comply with existing zoning ordinances that typically restrict commercial activities in residential zones, effectively limiting most short term rental operations in single family residential areas.
  • The city's zoning code generally permits transient accommodations only in commercial and mixed use districts, making many residential STRs potentially non compliant.
  • Property owners must also adhere to state regulations including tax collection requirements and safety standards, while ensuring compliance with homeowners association rules and lease agreements that may prohibit short term rentals.
  • Recent trends in New Jersey municipalities show increasing regulation of STRs, and Hackensack may develop specific ordinances in the future to address registration, licensing, occupancy limits, and operational standards.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Hackensack, New Jersey include the Main Street Historic District, which attracts visitors interested in the city's colonial history and proximity to antique shops and restaurants, and the areas near Hackensack University Medical Center, which generate consistent demand from medical professionals. The neighborhoods around Bergen County Courthouse draw legal professionals and court visitors, while properties near the Hackensack River waterfront appeal to leisure travelers seeking scenic views and recreational activities.

Areas to research

  • The residential areas close to Route 4 and Interstate 80 are attractive due to easy access to New York City (approximately 12 miles away), making them ideal for business travelers and tourists who want affordable accommodation while visiting Manhattan.
  • Additionally, the vicinity around Fairleigh Dickinson University's campus creates demand from visiting academics, prospective students, and families during university events.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Hackensack, New Jersey

In Hackensack, New Jersey, Airbnb hosts are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the state's 6.625% sales tax on transient accommodations and Bergen County's 5% hotel/motel occupancy tax, totaling approximately 11.625% in combined taxes on short term rental bookings.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The New Jersey Division of Taxation requires hosts to register for a Certificate of Authority and collect state sales tax on all bookings under 90 days.
  • Bergen County's occupancy tax must be collected separately and remitted monthly to the county tax administrator by the 20th of the following month, with hosts required to obtain a county tax registration certificate.
  • Airbnb may collect and remit these taxes automatically for hosts who opt into their tax collection service, which began around 2018 to 2019 for New Jersey properties, though hosts remain ultimately responsible for compliance.
  • Exemptions typically apply to stays of 90 days or longer, which are considered long term rentals in preference to transient accommodations, and some exemptions may exist for certain government employees or tax exempt organizations.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey

To start an Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey, expect total costs around $650,000 to $750,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at approximately $550,000 to $600,000 based on median home prices in the area as of 2023 to 2024.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete 2 to 3 bedroom property including furniture, appliances, linens, and décor to create an attractive rental space.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic marketing materials run $1,500 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees vary but budget $500 to $1,500 for business registration, short term rental permits, and potential homeowner association approvals.
  • Insurance costs increase significantly for short term rentals, expect $3,000 to $5,000 annually compared to standard homeowner's insurance.
  • Monthly utilities including electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable average $300 to $500 depending on property size and season.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($1,800 to $3,000), cleaning services between guests ($2,400 to $4,800 assuming bi weekly turnover), maintenance and supplies ($1,200 to $2,000), platform fees to Airbnb and VRBO (3% of bookings, estimated $3,000 to $6,000).
Are Airbnb properties in Hackensack, New Jersey profitable?

Airbnb properties in Hackensack, New Jersey typically generate annual revenues between $18,000 to $35,000 for entire home listings, with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $140 depending on property size and amenities.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses generally consume 40 to 60% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($30 to 50 per turnover), property management (10 to 20% of revenue), utilities ($150 to 250 monthly), insurance ($800 to 1,200 annually).
  • Successful properties in desirable neighborhoods near the Hackensack River or with easy NYC transit access achieve occupancy rates of 65 to 75%, resulting in net profit margins of 15 to 25% after expenses.
  • Properties within walking distance of Hackensack University Medical Center or featuring modern amenities like parking, WiFi, and updated kitchens command premium rates and higher occupancy.
  • A typical 2 bedroom property generating $28,000 annually might incur $16,000 in total expenses (including mortgage interest, taxes, utilities, cleaning, and maintenance), yielding approximately $12,000 in net profit or a 43% profit margin, though success heavily depends on property condition.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey?

Airbnb investments in Hackensack, New Jersey typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10% based on current market conditions.

Return planning figures

  • Properties in desirable neighborhoods near the Hackensack River or close to NYC transportation hubs can achieve higher returns of 12 to 15% annually.
  • The average timeframe to profitability is 18 to 24 months, considering initial setup costs, furnishing expenses, and market penetration.
  • Short term rental properties in Hackensack benefit from proximity to Manhattan (20 miles), with average daily rates of $85 to 120 and occupancy rates of 65 to 75% throughout the year.
  • Cash on cash returns are optimized when investors purchase properties in the $300,000 to 450,000 range with 20 to 25% down payments, generating monthly gross revenues of $2,200 to 3,500 after accounting for Airbnb fees, cleaning costs, utilities.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Hackensack, New Jersey?

STRSearch is a leading national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors looking in Hackensack, New Jersey.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents like those at Keller Williams Realty in Bergen County and Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage have developed expertise in investment properties suitable for Airbnb conversions in the Hackensack area since around 2018.
  • National services including Mashvisor, BiggerPockets, and AirDNA provide market analysis and property identification tools specifically for short term rental investments in New Jersey markets.
  • Regional companies such as New Jersey Real Estate Network and Garden State MLS offer specialized investor services, while platforms like Roofstock and HomeUnion have expanded their short term rental investment offerings to include Bergen County properties since 2019.
  • Local investment groups including North Jersey Real Estate Investors Association provide networking and deal flow opportunities.

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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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