Is Longmont, Colorado Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially. Longmont, Colorado combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a nuanced opportunity.
• Current market conditions in Longmont reflect a growing demand for both short-term rentals and long-term housing, driven by its proximity to Boulder, scenic outdoor attractions.
• Tourism trends in the area are stable, drawing visitors for outdoor activities, local breweries, and access to Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Property values in Longmont have seen a steady increase, indicating a strong real estate market.
• The investment potential for Airbnb in Longmont is favorable, particularly for properties that cater to visitors seeking outdoor adventures or those visiting the region for business related to the burgeoning local industries.

$1,200–$3,500 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Longmont, Colorado typically earn between $1,200 to $3,500 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenues can increase by 25-40% due to proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park and outdoor recreation activities.
• Spring and fall represent moderate earning periods with revenues hovering near the annual average.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, with entire homes outperforming private rooms by approximately 60-80%.
• Properties offering unique features such as workspace setups for digital nomads or pet-friendly accommodations tend to achieve occupancy rates of 70-85% compared to the market average of 60-75%.

Potentially strong, with a typical annual ROI of 8–14%.

• Typically generate ROI between 8-14% annually, with average nightly rates ranging from $120-180 depending on property size and location proximity to downtown or outdoor recreation areas.
• The payback period for initial investment and setup costs usually spans 7-10 years, considering property acquisition, furnishing, and ongoing operational expenses.
• Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Longmont which average 6-9% ROI, short-term rentals can outperform by 2-5 percentage points.
• Properties within walking distance of downtown Longmont or with mountain views command premium rates and achieve occupancy rates of 65-75% annually.
• The seasonal nature of Colorado tourism means strongest performance occurs during summer months and winter ski season, with spring and fall showing moderate demand.

Longmont, Colorado averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Airbnb occupancy rates in Longmont, Colorado typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variation that peaks during summer months (June through August) at approximately 80-85% occupancy due to outdoor recreation activities, hiking, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, while winter months (December through February) see occupancy drop to around 45-55% except during ski season weekends when rates can spike to 70-75%.
• Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate occupancy rates of 60-65%, with October being particularly strong due to fall foliage tourism.
• Longmont's occupancy rates generally perform 5-10 percentage points higher than the Colorado state average of 60-65% and slightly above the national Airbnb average of 60-63%.

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

• The most promising Airbnb neighborhoods in Longmont include Downtown Longmont, which offers walkability to restaurants, breweries.
• The Prospect neighborhood provides excellent access to outdoor recreation with proximity to hiking trails and cycling paths, attracting adventure-seeking guests willing to pay premium rates.
• Old Town Longmont features historic charm and character properties that photograph well for listings, plus easy access to Main Street attractions and events.
• The Roosevelt Park area combines residential tranquility with quick access to recreational facilities and parks, appealing to families and longer-term stays.
• Sunset Street corridor offers good value properties with renovation potential while maintaining proximity to downtown amenities and the light rail connection to Boulder and Denver.
• The Quail Campus area near the former IBM site provides opportunities for corporate housing and business travelers, especially as the area continues redevelopment.
• Finally, neighborhoods near Union Reservoir attract water sports enthusiasts and outdoor recreation visitors during peak seasons.

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

• Longmont, Colorado requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and comply with the city's Short-Term Rental Ordinance established in 2019.
• Properties must be registered with the city and obtain a short-term rental permit, which costs approximately $200 annually and requires renewal each year.
• Occupancy limits are typically restricted to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 10 occupants total.
• Owner-occupancy requirements vary by zoning district, with some residential zones requiring the property to be the owner's primary residence.
• Short-term rentals are generally prohibited in certain residential zoning districts and must comply with parking requirements of at least one space per bedroom.
• Recent changes implemented around 2021-2022 include stricter enforcement mechanisms, increased penalties for violations, mandatory posting of permit numbers in listings, and enhanced noise complaint procedures.

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

• Short-term rentals in Longmont, Colorado are subject to several fees and taxes including a city lodging tax of 3.5% on gross rental receipts, Colorado state sales tax of 2.9%.
• Property owners must obtain a short-term rental license which costs approximately $150-200 annually, plus an initial registration fee of around $75-100.
• Additional requirements include a business license fee of roughly $50-75 per year, and potential homeowner association fees if applicable.
• Properties may also be subject to standard property taxes and must comply with safety inspection requirements which can cost $100-150 annually.
• Some properties may need to pay utility connection or impact fees, and there are potential fines ranging from $100-500 for non-compliance with city regulations.
• The total annual cost for operating a legal short-term rental in Longmont typically ranges from $300-500 in fees and permits, plus the percentage-based taxes on rental income.