Is Haverhill, Massachusetts Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Haverhill, Massachusetts combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a nuanced opportunity.
• The city's current market conditions reflect a balance between its appeal as a growing community within the Greater Boston area and the specific short-term rental regulations that may apply.
• Tourism trends in Haverhill are influenced by its historical charm, access to outdoor recreation along the Merrimack River.
• While property values in Haverhill have seen appreciation, they are generally more accessible than in some of the more central Massachusetts cities.
• The investment potential largely depends on navigating local regulations, understanding the specific demand drivers for short-term stays in Haverhill.

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

• Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Haverhill, Massachusetts typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenue can increase by 25-40% due to proximity to New Hampshire's tax-free shopping and seasonal tourism.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property type and size, with three-bedroom homes outperforming smaller units, proximity to major highways like Interstate 495 for business travelers.
• Properties near the Merrimack River or historic downtown district command premium rates of $90-130 per night compared to suburban locations averaging $65-95 per night.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $85-120 per night and 60-70% 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 Haverhill that yield approximately 6-8% ROI with average monthly rents of $1,400-1,800 for similar properties.
• Properties within walking distance of downtown Haverhill or near the commuter rail station to Boston tend to perform better, achieving occupancy rates closer to 75% and nightly rates at the higher end of the range.

Haverhill, Massachusetts averages 55–65% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Haverhill, Massachusetts typically average around 55-65% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (July-September) at approximately 70-80% occupancy due to the area's proximity to New Hampshire's tax-free shopping and seasonal tourism activities.
• Winter months generally see the lowest occupancy rates at around 40-50%, while spring and fall maintain moderate levels of 55-65%.
• Peak booking periods align with summer vacation season, fall foliage viewing in September-October, and holiday weekends throughout the year.
• Compared to Massachusetts state averages of approximately 60-70% and national Airbnb averages of 48-52%, Haverhill performs moderately well.

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

• The Bradford neighborhood offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its historic charm with Victorian-era homes and proximity to the Merrimack River.
• Downtown Haverhill presents strong investment opportunities with its walkable urban core, proximity to the commuter rail station providing easy Boston access.
• The Riverside District along the Merrimack River provides scenic waterfront properties that command premium rates, particularly during summer months.
• Ward Hill offers more affordable investment properties while maintaining good rental demand from families visiting the area and professionals seeking quieter accommodations outside the city center.
• The Hilldale neighborhood attracts investors due to its residential character and proximity to local parks and recreational facilities, appealing to longer-term stays and family visitors.
• Washington Square provides a balance of historic appeal and modern amenities, with Victorian homes that photograph well for listings and attract guests interested in New England's industrial heritage.
• The Acre neighborhood, while requiring more renovation investment, offers the lowest entry costs and potential for high returns due to its proximity to downtown amenities and ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts.

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

• In Haverhill, Massachusetts, short-term rentals are regulated under the city's zoning ordinance and require a special permit from the Planning Board for operation in residential districts.
• Properties must comply with occupancy limits based on the number of bedrooms and cannot exceed more than two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests.
• Owner-occupancy requirements mandate that the property owner must reside on-site during rental periods for properties in residential zones.
• Zoning restrictions limit short-term rentals primarily to single-family and two-family residential districts.
• The registration process involves obtaining a business certificate from the city clerk, securing appropriate insurance coverage.
• Recent regulatory changes implemented around 2019-2020 have tightened enforcement mechanisms, increased application fees to approximately $500-800, and established clearer definitions distinguishing short-term rentals from traditional bed-and-breakfast operations, while also requiring annual renewal of permits and implementing a complaint-based monitoring system for noise and parking violations.

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

• Short-term rentals in Haverhill, Massachusetts are subject to the state's 5.7% short-term rental excise tax plus the standard 6.25% Massachusetts sales tax.
• The city requires a short-term rental permit with an annual fee of approximately $200-300, along with a one-time registration fee of around $100.
• Property owners must also pay standard property taxes, which average 1.2-1.4% of assessed value annually in Haverhill.
• Additional costs may include a $50-75 annual inspection fee, potential fire department inspection fees of $100-150, and business registration costs of approximately $50.
• Some properties may require special permits or zoning compliance fees ranging from $200-500 depending on the property type and location within the city's zoning districts.