Is Lombard, Illinois Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Lombard, Illinois market research

Lombard, Illinois Airbnb Investment Overview

$1,200–$2,800Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
65–70%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Lombard, Illinois?

Potentially—Lombard, Illinois combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a potentially lucrative opportunity, driven by its strategic suburban location, stable local economy.
  • Current market conditions in Lombard are solid, characterized by moderate to competitive property values in the Chicago metropolitan area and a mature real estate market.
  • Tourism trends in Lombard are steady year-round, benefiting from business travelers working at corporate offices in the I-88 corridor and neighboring suburbs, families visiting relatives in the Chicagoland area.
  • This consistent demand, coupled with Lombard's lower nightly rates compared to downtown Chicago while maintaining excellent transit access.
  • While property values reflect typical Chicagoland suburban pricing, the potential for strong occupancy rates year-round, positive cash flow from corporate travelers and families.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Lombard?

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

  • Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Lombard, Illinois typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) with revenues increasing by 25-35% above average.
  • Spring and fall maintain relatively stable occupancy rates around 65-75% with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $140 for entire properties.
  • Key factors influencing earnings include proximity to Chicago (approximately 20 miles west), property size and amenities, professional photography quality, response time to guest inquiries.
  • Properties within walking distance of the Metra train line command premium rates due to easy Chicago access, while homes with parking, modern amenities.
  • Market saturation remains moderate compared to downtown Chicago, allowing well-managed properties to maintain occupancy rates above 70% annually.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Lombard

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $120-180 per night and occupancy rates around 65-75% due to proximity to Chicago and business travel demand.
  • The payback period for initial investment ranges from 7-10 years depending on property acquisition costs.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals yielding 6-8% ROI in the same market, Airbnb properties can outperform by 2-4 percentage points, though they require significantly more active management.
  • Properties within walking distance of Lilacia Park or the historic downtown area command premium rates and achieve the higher end of ROI ranges.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Lombard

Lombard, Illinois averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Lombard, Illinois typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at approximately 75-80% due to favorable weather and increased tourism activity, while winter months (December-February) see occupancy drop to around 55-60%.
  • Spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy rates of 65-70%, with slight increases during local events and festivals.
  • Lombard's occupancy rates generally align closely with Illinois state averages of 68-72% but fall slightly below national averages of 70-75%.
  • The proximity to Chicago O'Hare Airport and downtown Chicago helps maintain steady business traveler demand throughout the year.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Lombard

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

  • The downtown Lombard area near the Metra station offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its direct train access to Chicago, walkability to restaurants and shops.
  • The Maple Street corridor attracts families and visitors with its proximity to Lilacia Park, the famous lilac festival grounds.
  • The Yorkshire neighborhood provides upscale accommodations for guests seeking luxury stays, with larger homes near golf courses and parks that appeal to extended-stay visitors and corporate travelers.
  • Areas near Lombard Commons shopping center offer convenience-focused stays for guests who want retail access, dining options.
  • The residential zones around Grace Street Elementary provide family-friendly environments that attract visitors attending local events, youth sports tournaments, and family gatherings.
  • The neighborhoods surrounding Sunset Knoll Elementary offer quiet, safe environments popular with business travelers and families.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Lombard

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

  • Lombard, Illinois requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and special use permit through the Community Development Department, with applications requiring property owner consent.
  • Properties are limited to a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, with total occupancy not exceeding ten people.
  • Owner-occupancy is not required for short-term rentals, but properties must be owner-managed or have a designated local contact person available 24/7 within a 30-minute response time.
  • Short-term rentals are permitted in residential zoning districts but must comply with parking requirements of two spaces per unit and cannot operate in multi-family buildings with more than four units.
  • The registration process includes submitting floor plans, emergency contact information, and paying annual fees of approximately $200-300, with renewals required annually and inspections conducted every two years.
  • Recent changes implemented around 2019-2020 included stricter noise ordinances, enhanced parking enforcement, and requirements for posted house rules regarding occupancy limits, noise restrictions, and waste disposal.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Lombard

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

  • Short-term rentals in Lombard, Illinois are subject to several fees and taxes including the state lodging tax of 6% on rental amounts, DuPage County's hotel/motel tax of approximately 3%.
  • Property owners must obtain a short-term rental license from the Village of Lombard with an estimated annual fee of $150-300, plus initial registration costs of approximately $50-100.
  • Additional requirements may include a business license fee of around $25-75 annually, and compliance with fire safety inspections costing approximately $100-200.
  • Sales tax of 6.25% state rate plus local rates totaling around 8-9% applies to rental income.
  • Property owners are also responsible for income tax reporting and may face additional permit fees for properties requiring zoning compliance.
Common questions

Lombard, Illinois Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois?

To start an Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois, begin by researching local regulations as Lombard requires short term rental operators to obtain a business license and comply with zoning ordinances that typically restrict rentals to no more than 30 days and require owner occupancy in residential zones.

Launch checklist

  • Contact the Lombard Village Hall at 255 E St Charles Road to obtain the necessary permits including a business license ($50 to 100 annually), occupancy permit, and ensure compliance with fire safety codes and building inspections.
  • Find a suitable property in areas zoned for short term rentals, focusing on single family homes or condos near downtown Lombard or close to Metra stations for Chicago commuters.
  • Furnish the space with quality furniture, linens, kitchen essentials, WiFi, and safety equipment including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms as required by Illinois law.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos, competitive pricing ($80 to 150 per night based on local market rates), and highlight proximity to Lilacia Park, downtown shopping, and Chicago transit access.
  • For ongoing management, maintain 24/7 guest communication, coordinate cleaning between stays, handle maintenance issues promptly, collect and remit Illinois state sales tax (6.25%) plus DuPage County tax (0.75%).
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Lombard, Illinois?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Lombard, Illinois, focus on locations within walking distance of Yorktown Center shopping mall, near the Metra Union Pacific West line stations for Chicago commuters, and close to corporate headquarters like McDonald's in nearby Oak Brook.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 3 bedroom single family homes or condos built after 1980 with modern amenities, parking, and outdoor spaces, as these appeal to business travelers and families visiting the area.
  • Analyze pricing by researching comparable Airbnb listings in Lombard, Villa Park, and Glen Ellyn, aiming for properties under $300,000 that can command $100 to 150 nightly rates during peak business travel periods.
  • Study competition using AirDNA and Mashvisor to assess occupancy rates and revenue potential, noting that Lombard has moderate STR competition compared to downtown Chicago.
  • Leverage tools like Zillow, Realtor.com, and local MLS data through Chicago area real estate agents, while monitoring DuPage County regulations and Lombard's municipal codes regarding short term rentals.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Lombard, Illinois?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Lombard, Illinois, you must first contact the Village of Lombard's Community Development Department at 255 E.

Documents and approvals

  • Wilson Avenue or call (630) 620 to 5750 to begin the application process.
  • Required documents typically include a completed short term rental license application, proof of property ownership or lease agreement with landlord consent, certificate of insurance with minimum $1 million liability coverage naming the Village as additional insured, floor plan of the rental unit.
  • The application fee is approximately $200 to 300 annually, with additional inspection fees of around $100 to 150.
  • Submit your complete application to the Community Development Department, after which the Village will schedule a property inspection to ensure compliance with building, fire, and zoning codes.
  • The approval timeline is typically 4 to 6 weeks from submission of a complete application.
  • Lombard requires STR operators to maintain occupancy limits based on bedroom count (maximum 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional), provide adequate parking (minimum 1 space per rental unit), maintain quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM, post emergency contact information prominently in the rental.
  • The property must be owner occupied or have a designated local contact person within 30 minutes of the rental location, and operators must maintain detailed guest registries and remit applicable hotel taxes to DuPage County.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Lombard, Illinois?

Short term rentals (STRs) in Lombard, Illinois are currently prohibited under the city's municipal code, which does not allow residential properties to be used for transient lodging or hotel like accommodations for periods less than 30 days. The city maintains strict zoning regulations that restrict commercial lodging activities in residential areas, and there are no specific licensing or permitting processes available for STR operations.

Core operating requirements

  • Lombard has not experienced recent legal changes to allow STRs, compared with some neighboring municipalities in DuPage County that have adopted regulatory frameworks.
  • Property owners seeking to rent their homes for periods shorter than 30 days would be in violation of local ordinances and subject to fines and legal action.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Lombard, Illinois include the Historic Downtown District near Main Street, which attracts visitors to the Lilacia Park (famous for its annual Lilac Festival in May), antique shops, and walkable dining options.

Areas to research

  • The area around Yorktown Center offers strong potential due to proximity to major shopping, restaurants, and easy highway access for business travelers visiting nearby corporate offices in Oak Brook and Downers Grove.
  • Properties near the Lombard Commons and Prairie Path trail system appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and families visiting the area's extensive park system.
  • The neighborhoods around Grace Street and Highland Avenue provide good investment opportunities due to their proximity to the Metra station, making them attractive to business travelers commuting to Chicago while offering a quieter suburban experience.
  • Areas near Enchanted Castle and Odyssey Fun World draw families with children visiting these entertainment venues, while properties close to the DuPage County Fairgrounds benefit from seasonal events and activities throughout the year.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Lombard, Illinois

In Lombard, Illinois, Airbnb hosts are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the Illinois Hotel Operators' Occupation Tax at 6% of gross rental receipts, DuPage County's hotel/motel tax at 3%, and Lombard's municipal hotel/motel tax at 3%, totaling approximately 12% in combined lodging taxes.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The state tax is collected by the Illinois Department of Revenue with monthly remittance required for hosts with over $20,000 in annual receipts, while smaller operators may file quarterly.
  • County and municipal taxes are typically collected by their respective tax departments, with DuPage County requiring registration and monthly filing by the 20th of the following month, and Lombard requiring similar monthly remittance procedures.
  • Airbnb may collect and remit some of these taxes directly on behalf of hosts through their platform, particularly the state hotel tax as of 2018, but hosts remain responsible for verifying compliance and may need to register separately with local jurisdictions.
  • Exemptions generally apply to stays exceeding 30 consecutive days, rentals to permanent residents, and certain government or charitable organization bookings.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois

To start an Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois, expect total costs around $385,000 to $425,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at $350,000 to $380,000 based on median home prices in the area as of 2023 to 2024.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete 2 to 3 bedroom setup including furniture, appliances, linens, and decor to create an attractive rental space.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials run approximately $1,500 to $2,500.
  • Permits and fees in DuPage County include business license ($100 to $200), short term rental permit if required ($200 to $500), and potential HOA approval fees ($100 to $300).
  • Insurance costs for short term rental coverage average $2,000 to $3,000 annually, so budget $1,000 to $1,500 for six months.
  • Utility setup and deposits for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable total around $500 to $800 initially, with monthly costs of $200 to $300, so $1,200 to $1,800 for six months.
  • First six months operating costs including cleaning services ($150 per turnover), maintenance reserves, property management software subscriptions, and miscellaneous supplies add another $3,000 to $5,000 depending on occupancy rates and property condition.
Are Airbnb properties in Lombard, Illinois profitable?

Airbnb properties in Lombard, Illinois typically generate annual revenues of $15,000 to $35,000 for entire homes and $8,000 to $18,000 for private rooms, with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $150 depending on property size and amenities.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses generally consume 40 to 60% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($25 to $40 per turnover), property management (10 to 20% of revenue), utilities ($150 to $300 monthly), insurance ($800 to $1,500 annually).
  • Net profit margins typically range from 15 to 35% for well managed properties, with successful hosts in Lombard's downtown area near Lilacia Park achieving higher occupancy rates of 65 to 75% compared to suburban locations at 45 to 60%.
  • Key success factors include proximity to corporate centers like Oak Brook and Schaumburg (driving business travel demand), competitive pricing 10 to 15% below Chicago rates while offering suburban comfort, professional photography.
  • Properties within walking distance of Metra stations and featuring amenities like parking, WiFi, and kitchen facilities typically outperform by 20 to 30% in both occupancy and pricing power.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois?

Airbnb investments in Lombard, Illinois typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10% based on current market conditions. Properties in Lombard's established neighborhoods near downtown and transit corridors show stronger performance, with average daily rates of $85 to 120 and occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually.

Return planning figures

  • Initial investment recovery and profitability generally occurs within 18 to 24 months for well positioned properties, considering Lombard's proximity to Chicago's O'Hare Airport and corporate centers in nearby Oakbrook and Schaumburg which drive consistent business traveler demand.
  • The market benefits from DuPage County's strong economic fundamentals and limited short term rental supply, though investors should factor in startup costs of $8,000 to 15,000 for furnishing and initial marketing.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Lombard, Illinois?

STRSearch is a national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors, including in Lombard, Illinois.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents in the Lombard area who focus on investment properties include Coldwell Banker Realty agents, RE/MAX professionals, and Keller Williams Realty specialists who understand the DuPage County market dynamics.
  • National services like Awning, Mashvisor, and AirDNA provide market analysis and property identification tools for Airbnb investors targeting the Chicago suburbs.
  • BiggerPockets connects investors with local professionals, while companies like Roofstock and Arrived Homes offer turnkey investment opportunities.
  • Local property management companies such as RedAwning, AvantStay, and regional Vacasa representatives can assist with both acquisition and ongoing management of short term rental properties in Lombard.
  • Real estate investment firms like HomeVestors and local investment groups through the Real Estate Investors Association of DuPage County provide additional resources for finding profitable Airbnb properties in this Chicago suburb market.

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Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Service Scope
Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
No profitability screening
Expert Network
Limited or no partner access
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