Is Leavenworth, Kansas Good for Airbnb Investment?

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

• Presents a unique opportunity, primarily driven by its historical significance and proximity to Fort Leavenworth, which ensures a steady influx of military personnel, visitors, and families.
• While Leavenworth may not be a major tourist destination like larger cities, its niche appeal and consistent demand from those visiting the base or exploring its historical sites can support a viable short-term rental market.
• Current market conditions show relatively stable property values compared to more volatile urban centers, making initial investments more accessible.
• Tourism trends, while not experiencing rapid growth, are consistent due to the ongoing activities at Fort Leavenworth and local historical attractions, providing a reliable guest base.
• The investment potential largely hinges on catering to this specific demographic, offering competitive rates.

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

• Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Leavenworth, Kansas typically earn between $800-$2,200 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during spring and fall months when outdoor activities and mild weather attract visitors, with revenues potentially increasing by 25-40% during these periods.
• Summer earnings remain moderate due to high temperatures but benefit from family vacation travel.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Fort Leavenworth military base (which drives consistent demand from military families and visitors), property size and amenities.
• Properties within walking distance of historic downtown Leavenworth or offering military-friendly amenities tend to command premium rates of $90-150 per night.
• Occupancy rates generally hover around 60-75% annually, with successful hosts maintaining higher occupancy through strategic pricing and excellent guest communication.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 7-10 years depending on property acquisition costs and renovation expenses.
• The market benefits from proximity to Fort Leavenworth military base, creating consistent demand from visiting military families and personnel.
• Occupancy rates generally hover around 60-70% annually, with peak seasons during summer months and military graduation periods driving higher rates.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Leavenworth that typically yield 6-8% ROI with gross rent multipliers of 12-15, short-term rentals can outperform by 2-4 percentage points but require significantly more active management and higher operational costs including cleaning, utilities, and platform fees.
• Properties within 10 miles of the base command premium rates, while downtown historic district properties attract leisure travelers but face more seasonal fluctuation.

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

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Leavenworth, Kansas typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at approximately 65-75% due to increased tourism and outdoor activities, while winter months (December-February) see occupancy drop to around 30-40%.
• Spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy rates of 50-60%, with particular spikes during local events and festivals.
• Peak seasons align with Fort Leavenworth activities, Kansas State Fair periods, and summer vacation travel.
• Compared to Kansas state averages of approximately 50-60% annually, Leavenworth performs slightly below due to its smaller tourism market and limited year-round attractions.

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

• The downtown historic district offers the strongest Airbnb potential with its proximity to the First City Museum, antique shops, and walkable entertainment venues.
• The Eisenhower Road corridor provides excellent value with newer housing stock and easy access to Fort Leavenworth.
• The South Fourth Street area combines historic charm with affordable property acquisition costs, appealing to budget-conscious travelers and offering good cash flow potential at $50-80 per night.
• The neighborhoods near the Missouri River waterfront attract outdoor enthusiasts and weekend visitors seeking scenic views and recreational activities.
• The residential areas surrounding the University of Saint Mary create steady demand from visiting families, prospective students, and academic conference attendees.
• The established neighborhoods along Metropolitan Avenue offer larger properties suitable for group bookings and extended stays.

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

• Leavenworth, Kansas requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and special use permit through the city's planning department.
• The city does not mandate owner-occupancy for short-term rentals, allowing both hosted and non-hosted arrangements.
• The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, emergency contact information, and paying applicable fees of approximately $150-300 annually.
• Properties must maintain adequate parking, noise control measures, and waste management protocols, while operators are required to collect and remit local lodging taxes.
• Recent regulatory updates implemented around 2022-2023 have strengthened enforcement mechanisms, increased penalties for violations, and established clearer guidelines for complaint resolution processes.

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

• Short-term rentals in Leavenworth, Kansas are subject to several fees and taxes including the state sales tax of 6.5%, Leavenworth County sales tax of approximately 1.5%, and city sales tax of around 1%.
• The city requires a business license costing approximately $25-50 annually, and short-term rental operators must obtain a special use permit which typically costs between $100-300 initially with potential annual renewal fees of $50-150.
• Kansas state transient guest tax applies at 6% on lodging accommodations, and Leavenworth may impose additional local lodging taxes of 2-4% depending on specific ordinances.
• Property owners must also account for standard property taxes which average 1.4% of assessed value annually in Leavenworth County, plus potential homeowner association fees if applicable.