Is Howard, Kansas Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Howard, Kansas combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents an intriguing opportunity, largely driven by its appeal as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter escape.
• Current market conditions in Howard are characterized by relatively affordable property values compared to larger metropolitan areas, which can lower initial investment costs.
• Tourism trends in the region are often linked to seasonal activities such as hunting, fishing, and exploring nearby natural attractions like Elk City Lake and the Flint Hills.
• This niche tourism market creates a consistent, albeit seasonal, demand for short-term rentals, especially for properties that cater to these specific interests.
• The investment potential lies in capitalizing on these seasonal peaks and offering unique experiences that draw visitors to a rural setting.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, average Airbnb earnings in Howard, Kansas typically range from $800 to $2,200 per month.
• Seasonal variations show earnings increase by approximately 25-40% during summer months and hunting seasons due to outdoor recreation activities.
• Properties with 2-3 bedrooms in rural or semi-rural settings perform best, with nightly rates averaging $65-$120 depending on amenities and proximity to recreational areas like lakes or hunting grounds.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property size and condition, outdoor amenities like fire pits or fishing access, proximity to Elk City Lake and other attractions, quality of photos and listing descriptions.
• Occupancy rates typically range from 45-65% annually, with higher-end properties achieving 60-70% occupancy when professionally managed.
• Properties offering unique experiences such as farm stays or hunting lodges command premium rates and achieve higher occupancy.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years due to the small rural market and limited tourist demand in this agricultural community of approximately 687 residents.
• Properties averaging $85,000-$120,000 can expect gross rental income of $8,000-$14,000 annually with occupancy rates around 35-45%.
• Long-term rentals in Howard generally provide more stable returns at 6-9% ROI with 95% occupancy rates and monthly rents of $500-$750, making traditional rentals often more profitable than short-term rentals in this market.
• The Airbnb market faces challenges from limited internet infrastructure, seasonal demand fluctuations, and competition from larger nearby cities like Wichita.

Howard, Kansas averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Howard, Kansas experiences average Airbnb occupancy rates of approximately 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at around 65-70% due to outdoor recreation activities and family vacations, while winter months (December-February) typically see occupancy drop to 30-40%.
• Spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy levels around 50-60%, with slight increases during hunting seasons and local festivals.
• These rates are generally lower than Kansas state averages of approximately 60-65% and significantly below national Airbnb averages of 70-75%, primarily due to Howard's rural location, smaller population base.
• The market tends to be driven more by business travelers, family visits, and outdoor enthusiasts rather than traditional tourism.

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

• Howard, Kansas offers limited but viable Airbnb investment opportunities primarily concentrated around its historic downtown core.
• The downtown historic district benefits from its walkability and proximity to local restaurants and antique shops.
• The fairgrounds area experiences strong seasonal spikes during events, and the school district neighborhoods offer consistent demand from visiting relatives and business travelers seeking family-friendly accommodations at moderate prices.

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

• The city does not currently require specific permits for short-term rentals, though operators must comply with general business licensing requirements and state tax obligations.
• Occupancy limits typically follow standard residential building codes, generally allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
• There are no owner-occupancy requirements mandating hosts to live on-site.
• Zoning restrictions are limited, with most residential properties permitted for short-term rental use, though commercial zoning may be preferred for larger operations.
• No formal registration process exists specifically for STRs, but operators should register with the Kansas Department of Revenue for sales tax collection on rentals under 28 days.
• The city has not enacted significant regulatory changes regarding short-term rentals as of 2024, largely due to limited STR activity in this small community of approximately 687 residents.

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

• Short-term rentals in Howard, Kansas are subject to several fees and taxes including Kansas state sales tax of 6.5% plus local sales tax which typically ranges from 1-3% for a combined rate of approximately 7.5-9.5% on rental income.
• The state transient guest tax is 6% on lodging stays under 28 days.
• Howard County may impose additional lodging taxes of 1-2%, and municipalities often require business licenses costing $25-100 annually.
• Registration fees for short-term rental permits typically range from $50-200 initially with annual renewal fees of $25-150.
• Property owners must also pay standard property taxes and may face inspection fees of $50-150.
• Some jurisdictions require liability insurance and charge administrative processing fees of $15-50.