Is Hazen, Arkansas Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Hazen, Arkansas combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a niche opportunity, primarily driven by its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hunters and fishers, rather than broad tourism.
• Current market conditions in Hazen are characterized by relatively low property values compared to urban centers, which can make initial investment costs more accessible.
• However, the market is small, and demand for short-term rentals is highly seasonal, peaking during hunting seasons (fall and early winter) and to a lesser extent during fishing seasons.
• Tourism trends are not diverse; the primary draw is outdoor recreation.
• Investment potential, while present, is limited by the specific demographic attracted to Hazen and the need for properties to cater directly to these interests (e.g., ample space for gear.
• Investors should consider the low population density and limited local amenities, which might restrict occupancy rates outside of peak seasons.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Hazen, Arkansas typically generate between $800-$1,500 per month in gross revenue.
• Properties experience peak earnings during fall hunting season (October-December) when monthly revenues can reach $1,800-$2,200, while summer months see moderate activity at $1,000-$1,400 monthly due to fishing and lake activities on nearby Arkansas River waterways.
• Winter and early spring represent the lowest earning periods, with revenues dropping to $600-$900 monthly.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to hunting areas and water access, property size and amenities.
• The rural location and limited hotel alternatives in the area create opportunities for higher occupancy rates among properties that effectively market to outdoor enthusiasts.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 10-14 years due to the town's small population of approximately 2,200 and limited tourist infrastructure.
• Properties averaging $80,000-120,000 can expect gross rental income of $8,000-15,000 annually, though occupancy rates remain modest at 35-50% given Hazen's rural location and distance from major attractions.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals yielding 6-8% ROI in the area with rental rates of $500-700 monthly.
• The market benefits from proximity to Stuttgart's duck hunting season and occasional visitors to nearby lakes, but lacks consistent year-round demand.

Hazen, Arkansas averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Hazen, Arkansas typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during spring and fall months (March-May and September-November) when occupancy can reach 65-70% due to favorable weather and outdoor activities along the Arkansas River.
• Summer months see moderate occupancy of 50-60% driven by lake recreation and fishing tourism, while winter months drop to 30-40% occupancy.
• Hazen's occupancy rates generally underperform compared to Arkansas's statewide average of approximately 60-65% and the national Airbnb average of 48-52%.
• The town's proximity to outdoor recreation areas and its position as a rural getaway destination helps maintain steady bookings during peak seasons.

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

• The downtown historic district of Hazen offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its proximity to the Arkansas River and charming small-town atmosphere.
• The residential area near Highway 70 provides easy access for travelers passing through central Arkansas while offering lower property acquisition costs and steady occupancy from business travelers.
• The neighborhoods surrounding Hazen City Park appeal to families and outdoor enthusiasts visiting for recreational activities.
• Areas close to the White River access points are highly desirable for fishing and hunting tourism, particularly during waterfowl season, allowing for seasonal pricing of $90-120 per night.
• The quiet residential streets near the school district attract visiting families and educators, providing stable mid-range income potential at $65-85 per night.
• Properties along the outskirts toward agricultural areas offer unique rural experiences for city dwellers seeking peaceful retreats, commanding $70-90 nightly with strong weekend demand.
• The neighborhoods near local churches and community centers benefit from event-driven bookings including weddings and family reunions.

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

• Short-term rental regulations in Hazen, Arkansas are primarily governed at the county and state level.
• Property owners typically need to obtain a business license from Prairie County and comply with Arkansas state tax requirements.
• Occupancy limits generally follow International Building Code standards based on square footage and bedroom count, typically allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
• No specific owner-occupancy requirements exist at the municipal level, allowing for non-resident ownership of rental properties.
• Zoning restrictions vary by district, with residential zones potentially requiring conditional use permits or special exceptions for commercial short-term rental activities.
• Registration processes involve obtaining an Arkansas business license, registering for state tax collection through the Department of Finance and Administration.

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

• Short-term rentals in Hazen, Arkansas are subject to several fees and taxes including Arkansas state sales tax of 6.5% on rental income, plus local sales tax which typically ranges from 1-3% in Arkansas counties.
• The state tourism tax of 2% applies to lodging accommodations under 30 days.
• Local registration fees in small Arkansas cities like Hazen typically range from $50-150 annually for short-term rental permits, with initial application fees around $25-75.
• Property owners must also pay standard property taxes which average 0.62% of assessed value in Arkansas County.
• Additional costs may include business license fees of $25-100 annually if operating as a business entity, and some municipalities require inspection fees of $50-200 for initial permits.
• Fire safety and health department inspections may cost an additional $75-150 combined, and renewal fees for annual permits typically match the initial registration cost of $50-150 per year.