Is Marinette, Wisconsin Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Marinette, Wisconsin market research

Marinette, Wisconsin Airbnb Investment Overview

$800–$2,200,Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
45–55%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Marinette, Wisconsin?

Potentially—Marinette, Wisconsin combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Offers a nuanced opportunity driven by its local market conditions and steady tourism appeal, particularly given its location on the bay of Green Bay and proximity to outdoor recreational areas.
  • Current market conditions in Marinette reflect more stable property values compared to larger metropolitan areas, which can mean a lower initial investment.
  • Tourism trends in Marinette are largely influenced by seasonal activities such as fishing, boating, snowmobiling, and hunting, as well as visitors to local festivals and events.
  • While not a high-volume tourist hub like major cities, the consistent draw of outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter getaway supports a steady, albeit perhaps not exponential.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Marinette?

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

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Marinette, Wisconsin typically generate monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,200, with waterfront and well-appointed properties commanding the higher end of this spectrum.
  • Seasonal variations are pronounced, with peak summer months (June through August) seeing revenues increase by 40-60% above winter averages due to tourism along Green Bay and recreational activities.
  • Winter months generally represent the lowest earning period, though properties near snowmobile trails or offering winter recreation access maintain steadier occupancy.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to water access points, property size and amenities, professional photography and listing optimization, responsive host communication.
  • Properties within walking distance of downtown Marinette or offering unique features like fire pits, kayak access.
  • Market data suggests that successful hosts in the area maintain occupancy rates between 45-65% annually, with higher-performing properties achieving 70%+ occupancy during peak season months.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Marinette

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.
  • The average nightly rate in Marinette hovers around $85-120 for well-appointed properties, with occupancy rates averaging 45-60% during peak summer months due to proximity to Green Bay and outdoor recreation areas.
  • This seasonal variation results in annual gross rental yields of approximately $15,000-25,000 for typical 2-3 bedroom properties.
  • Short-term rentals in Marinette outperform traditional rentals by 2-4 percentage points in ROI but require significantly higher management involvement, maintenance costs averaging 15-20% of gross income.
  • Properties within walking distance of the Menominee River or downtown area command premium rates and achieve occupancy rates 10-15% higher than suburban locations.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Marinette

Marinette, Wisconsin averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Marinette, Wisconsin typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variation driven by the area's proximity to Green Bay and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Peak season occurs during summer months (June through August) when occupancy rates can reach 70-80% due to boating, fishing, and tourism activities.
  • Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate occupancy around 40-50%.
  • Marinette's occupancy rates generally align with or slightly underperform Wisconsin's statewide Airbnb average of approximately 55-60%, and fall below the national average of 65-70%.
  • The city's occupancy is heavily influenced by weekend getaways from Milwaukee and Green Bay metro areas.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Marinette

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

  • The downtown Marinette area near the Menominee River offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its proximity to the historic downtown district, waterfront activities, and local restaurants.
  • The Riverside neighborhood along the Menominee River provides scenic water views and easy access to boating, fishing, and water sports.
  • The area near Menominee Park and Zoo attracts families and offers a quieter residential setting while maintaining close proximity to one of the region's main attractions.
  • The neighborhoods surrounding Bay de Noc Community College draw visiting families, prospective students, and academic travelers.
  • The residential areas near Marinette High School and local sports facilities benefit from tournament traffic, visiting teams, and family events.
  • The neighborhoods close to the Marinette Marina capitalize on the boating community and water recreation enthusiasts.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Marinette

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

  • Marinette, Wisconsin currently requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register their properties with the city.
  • Occupancy limits are generally set at two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 10-12 occupants depending on the property size and parking availability.
  • The city does not mandate owner-occupancy for short-term rentals, allowing both resident and non-resident property owners to operate vacation rentals.
  • Zoning restrictions primarily limit short-term rentals in single-family residential districts while allowing them more freely in mixed-use and commercial areas.
  • The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, emergency contact information, and paying annual fees ranging from $100-200.
  • Recent regulatory changes implemented within the past two years have included stricter noise ordinances, mandatory posting of house rules, requirements for 24-hour local contact persons, enhanced parking regulations.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Marinette

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

  • Short-term rentals in Marinette, Wisconsin are subject to several fees and taxes including Wisconsin's state sales tax of 5% and room tax of 5% on lodging accommodations.
  • Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Marinette costing around $25-50 annually, register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for sales tax collection at no cost.
  • Tourism promotion assessments may apply at 0.5-1% of gross receipts in certain districts, and operators must collect and remit all applicable taxes quarterly or monthly depending on volume.
  • Additional costs may include fire safety inspections at $75-150 annually and zoning compliance fees of $50-100, while properties in historic districts or waterfront areas may face supplemental permit requirements costing $100-250.
Common questions

Marinette, Wisconsin Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin?

To start an Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Marinette City Hall, as the city typically requires short term rental operators to obtain a business license and may have specific zoning restrictions in residential areas.

Launch checklist

  • Contact the Marinette Building Department to determine if you need special permits, as Wisconsin generally requires compliance with fire safety codes and may mandate smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency exit plans for rental properties.
  • Find a suitable property by searching local real estate listings through companies like Coldwell Banker or RE/MAX, focusing on areas near popular attractions like the Menominee River or downtown district.
  • Furnish the property with essential amenities including quality bedding, kitchen supplies, WiFi, and local guidebooks, budgeting approximately $5,000 to $15,000 for initial furnishing depending on property size.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos highlighting the property's proximity to outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and the nearby Peshtigo River, setting competitive rates around $75 to $150 per night based on local market analysis.
  • Manage the property by establishing cleaning protocols between guests, responding promptly to inquiries, coordinating key exchanges or installing smart locks.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Marinette, Wisconsin?

To identify profitable STR properties in Marinette, Wisconsin, focus on waterfront locations along Green Bay or the Menominee River, properties within walking distance of downtown attractions like the Menominee Marina and historic district, and homes near outdoor recreation areas such as Peshtigo River State Forest.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom properties with modern amenities, full kitchens, outdoor spaces like decks or fire pits, and unique features such as lake views, boat access, or historic charm that appeal to tourists visiting for fishing, boating, and seasonal activities.
  • Analyze pricing by researching comparable Airbnb and VRBO listings in the $80 to 200 per night range, considering seasonal fluctuations with peak rates during summer months (June August) and fall color season, while factoring in occupancy rates of 40 to 60% annually.
  • Study competition by examining existing STR listings within a 10 mile radius, identifying gaps in amenities or property types, and monitoring reviews to understand guest preferences and pain points.
  • Utilize tools like AirDNA for market analytics, STR Helper for revenue projections, Mashvisor for investment analysis, and local resources including the Marinette County Tourism Bureau for visitor data, local real estate agents familiar with STR regulations.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Marinette, Wisconsin?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Marinette, Wisconsin, contact the Marinette City Clerk's office at City Hall located at 1905 Hall Avenue or call (715) 732 to 5140 to begin the application process.

Documents and approvals

  • You'll need to submit a completed short term rental license application, provide proof of property ownership or lease agreement, submit a site plan showing the property layout, obtain a certificate of occupancy if required, provide proof of liability insurance (typically $1 million minimum).
  • Required documents include a valid driver's license, property tax records, floor plans, emergency contact information, and parking plan documentation.
  • The application fee is approximately $150 to 200 annually, with additional inspection fees of around $75 to 100.
  • The timeline typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from submission to approval, depending on inspection scheduling and any required corrections.
  • Marinette specific requirements include maintaining a maximum occupancy based on bedroom count, providing adequate off street parking (usually 2 spaces minimum), ensuring compliance with residential zoning restrictions, maintaining a 24/7 local contact person within 30 minutes of the property.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Marinette, Wisconsin?

Short term rentals (STRs) are generally legal in Marinette, Wisconsin, but are subject to local regulations and zoning restrictions implemented by the city.

Core operating requirements

  • As of recent years, Marinette has followed the trend of many Wisconsin municipalities by establishing licensing requirements for STR operators, including registration with the city, compliance with safety standards, and payment of applicable taxes.
  • The city typically restricts STRs in certain residential zones to preserve neighborhood character, with stricter limitations in areas zoned for single family homes compared to commercial or mixed use districts.
  • Property owners must obtain proper permits, maintain liability insurance, and ensure their rentals meet building and fire safety codes.
  • Recent legal changes in Wisconsin have given municipalities more authority to regulate STRs, and Marinette has used this power to implement occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise ordinances specifically targeting short term rental properties.
  • The city also requires STR operators to collect and remit room taxes, similar to traditional lodging establishments, and maintains a registry of approved properties to ensure compliance with local regulations.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Marinette, Wisconsin are the Historic Downtown District near the Menominee River waterfront, which attracts tourists visiting the Marinette County Historical Museum and guests attending events at the Marinette Marina, and the neighborhoods adjacent to Menominee Park and Zoo. The area near Bay de Noc Community College draws business travelers and visiting families, while properties close to the Peshtigo River offer appeal to fishing enthusiasts and outdoor recreation visitors year round.

Areas to research

  • The residential areas within walking distance of downtown restaurants and the farmers market perform well due to their proximity to local attractions, and neighborhoods near the Wisconsin Michigan border benefit from cross state visitors exploring both Marinette and neighboring Menominee, Michigan.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Marinette, Wisconsin

In Marinette, Wisconsin, Airbnb properties are subject to Wisconsin state sales tax at 5% and room tax at 5%, totaling 10% on lodging rentals.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Marinette County imposes an additional room tax of approximately 3%, bringing the combined rate to around 13%.
  • The Wisconsin Department of Revenue requires hosts to register for a seller's permit and collect these taxes from guests at the time of booking or check in.
  • Hosts must remit state sales and room taxes monthly if collections exceed $300 per month, or quarterly if less, using Form ST 12.
  • County room taxes are typically remitted to Marinette County's tourism department on a monthly or quarterly basis.
  • Airbnb may collect and remit these taxes automatically for hosts in some cases through their platform, but hosts remain ultimately responsible for compliance.
  • Properties rented for 30 days or more are generally exempt from room tax but may still be subject to sales tax.
  • Hosts should register with both the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and Marinette County to ensure proper tax collection and remittance procedures are followed.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin

Starting an Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin requires approximately $180,000 to 220,000 in total initial investment.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs around $120,000 to 150,000 based on median home prices in the area as of 2023.
  • Furnishing a 2 to 3 bedroom property typically runs $15,000 to 25,000 including beds, linens, kitchen essentials, living room furniture, and décor.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic renovations average $3,000 to 5,000.
  • Permits and fees vary but expect $500 to 1,500 for business licenses, short term rental permits, and potential zoning approvals.
  • Insurance premiums for short term rental coverage cost approximately $1,200 to 2,000 annually.
  • Utility setup and deposits for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable total around $500 to 800.
  • First six months of operating costs including utilities ($300/month), cleaning services ($100 to 150 per turnover), supplies and maintenance ($200/month), platform fees (3% of bookings).
Are Airbnb properties in Marinette, Wisconsin profitable?

Airbnb properties in Marinette, Wisconsin typically generate annual revenues between $8,000 to $15,000 for standard 2 to 3 bedroom homes, with peak summer months (June August) accounting for 60% of bookings due to proximity to Green Bay and outdoor recreation activities.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses generally range from $4,000 to $8,000 annually, including cleaning fees ($25 to 40 per turnover), utilities ($150 to 200 monthly), property management (15 to 25% of revenue), insurance ($800 to 1,200), and maintenance costs.
  • Profit margins typically fall between 25 to 45%, with waterfront properties near the Menominee River commanding premium rates of $120 to 180 per night compared to $65 to 95 for standard properties.
  • Success factors include strategic pricing during Packers game weekends, maintaining 4.5+ star ratings, and targeting fishing enthusiasts and family groups visiting nearby state parks.
  • Properties within walking distance of downtown Marinette or featuring amenities like fire pits, kayaks, or fishing equipment tend to achieve 65 to 75% occupancy rates versus 45 to 55% for basic listings.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin?

Airbnb investments in Marinette, Wisconsin typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10%, primarily driven by seasonal tourism from nearby Peshtigo River recreation and proximity to Michigan's Upper Peninsula attractions.

Return planning figures

  • Properties in downtown Marinette near the waterfront command higher occupancy rates of 45 to 60% annually, while suburban locations average 35 to 50% occupancy.
  • Initial profitability usually occurs within 18 to 24 months for well positioned properties priced between $80,000 to $150,000, with average daily rates of $85 to $120 depending on property size and amenities.
  • The market benefits from limited hotel inventory and growing outdoor recreation tourism, though seasonal fluctuations mean 70% of annual revenue typically occurs between May and October.
  • Operating expenses including property management, utilities, and maintenance generally consume 35 to 45% of gross rental income, making properties with lower acquisition costs and minimal renovation needs most profitable in this smaller Wisconsin market.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Marinette, Wisconsin?

STRSearch is a national platform that helps investors identify profitable short term rental properties across markets including Marinette, Wisconsin.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents in the Marinette area who work with Airbnb investors include Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, Century 21 Aspire Group, and RE/MAX North Winds Realty, with agents like those at Shorewest Realtors also serving the region.
  • National services that assist with Airbnb property acquisition include Awning (formerly RedAwning), which provides market analysis and property management, Mashvisor for investment property analytics, AirDNA for short term rental data and market insights.
  • Additional local services include Marinette County property management companies like Vacasa and local vacation rental management firms, while national platforms like BiggerPockets connect investors with local professionals.
  • Real estate investment groups in nearby Green Bay and the greater Wisconsin area, such as those affiliated with the Wisconsin Real Estate Investors Association.

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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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