Is Leesburg, Ohio Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Leesburg, Ohio combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a unique set of considerations.
• While Leesburg's smaller market size might suggest limited tourism compared to major metropolitan areas, its appeal often lies in niche tourism, such as proximity to natural attractions, historical sites.
• Current market conditions would likely reflect steady, rather than explosive, growth in property values, making it a potentially stable long-term investment rather than a quick flip.
• Tourism trends would need to be carefully researched; if Leesburg experiences seasonal peaks due to festivals, hunting seasons, or proximity to larger events in nearby cities.
• Property values are generally more affordable than in larger urban centers, which could translate to a lower initial investment and potentially higher cash flow if demand is consistent.
• The investment potential largely hinges on identifying and catering to these specific visitor demographics, offering unique amenities.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Leesburg, Ohio typically generate monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,200, with most hosts earning between $1,200 to $1,600 per month depending on property size and amenities.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months when lake activities and outdoor recreation drive demand up by approximately 30-40%.
• Properties near Paint Creek Lake and those offering unique amenities like hot tubs or fire pits command premium rates of $120-180 per night compared to basic accommodations at $80-120 per night.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to recreational areas, property condition and cleanliness ratings, responsive host communication.
• Rural properties with privacy and outdoor space tend to outperform urban listings, with occupancy rates averaging 60-75% during peak season and 35-50% during off-peak periods.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years depending on property acquisition costs and renovation expenses.
• Properties in this rural Ohio market average $80,000-$120,000 purchase prices and can command $75-$110 per night during peak seasons.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Leesburg that yield approximately 6-8% ROI with monthly rents of $600-$900, short-term rentals offer 2-4 percentage points higher returns but require significantly more active management and face seasonal fluctuations.
• The market benefits from weekend getaway demand from Columbus and Cincinnati metro areas, though winter months see substantial occupancy drops that impact overall annual performance.

Leesburg, Ohio averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Leesburg, Ohio typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at approximately 65-75% due to nearby Alum Creek State Park and lake activities, while winter months (December-February) drop to around 25-35%.
• Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate occupancy rates of 40-50%, with slight upticks during autumn foliage season in October.
• Leesburg's occupancy rates generally underperform compared to Ohio's statewide average of approximately 60-65% and the national Airbnb average of 48-52%.

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

• The downtown Leesburg historic district offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its charming Victorian-era architecture and walkability to local shops and restaurants.
• The neighborhoods near Rocky Fork State Park provide exceptional investment opportunities given their proximity to the lake, camping facilities, and outdoor recreation activities.
• Areas around the Leesburg-Fairfield Pike corridor offer good value investments with easy highway access for guests traveling between Columbus and Cincinnati.
• The residential neighborhoods near Leesburg Elementary and the town center provide family-friendly environments that appeal to visitors attending local events or exploring rural Ohio.
• Properties near the Paint Creek area offer scenic settings attractive to nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts, commanding premium rates during peak outdoor seasons.
• The neighborhoods along State Route 138 provide convenient access while maintaining rural charm, appealing to guests seeking peaceful retreats within driving distance of urban areas.

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

• Property owners typically need to obtain a general business license and ensure compliance with state fire safety codes, though no specific short-term rental permit is currently required.
• Occupancy limits generally follow standard residential occupancy guidelines of approximately 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
• Owner-occupancy requirements are not mandated, allowing for non-resident ownership of rental properties.
• Zoning restrictions permit short-term rentals in most residential areas, though properties must maintain residential character and cannot operate as commercial hotels.
• Registration processes involve basic business licensing through the village clerk's office and tax registration with the Ohio Department of Commerce for lodging tax collection.
• Recent regulatory changes since 2022 have included increased emphasis on noise ordinance enforcement and parking compliance.

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

• Short-term rentals in Leesburg, Ohio are subject to several fees and taxes including Ohio's state lodging tax of 5.75% on gross rental receipts.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from Highland County costing approximately $25-50 annually.
• The Ohio Department of Taxation requires quarterly sales tax filings with potential penalties of $50-200 for late submissions.
• Additional costs include a zoning compliance permit from the village estimated at $75-150, annual fire safety inspections costing $100-200, and potential homeowners association fees if applicable.
• Property owners must also collect and remit the state's 5.75% sales tax on rental income, and may be subject to transient vendor's license fees of $25-100 depending on rental volume.
• Total estimated annual regulatory costs range from $300-700 plus the percentage-based taxes on rental income.