Is Marquette, Kansas Good for Airbnb Investment?

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

• Presents a unique opportunity, though it requires a nuanced understanding of the local market.
• Current market conditions in small rural towns like Marquette typically feature stable, affordable property values, which can be attractive for initial investment.
• However, tourism trends are generally limited, relying more on niche attractions, seasonal events, or proximity to larger regional draws rather than consistent, high-volume tourist traffic.
• This can lead to lower occupancy rates compared to more established tourist destinations.
• Therefore, while property values might offer an accessible entry point, the investment potential for Airbnb in Marquette largely depends on identifying specific demand drivers, such as visitors for local family events.
• A deep dive into local short-term rental data would be crucial to determine the viability and profitability of such an investment.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Marquette, Kansas typically generate monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,200, with most hosts earning between $1,200 to $1,600 per month during peak periods.
• Seasonal variations show stronger performance during summer months and hunting seasons, with earnings potentially increasing by 25-40% during these periods compared to winter months when occupancy rates drop significantly.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, with larger homes accommodating families or hunting groups commanding premium rates.
• The rural location presents both opportunities through reduced competition and challenges through lower overall tourism volume compared to major metropolitan markets.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 10-14 years due to the small market size and limited tourist demand in this rural community of approximately 650 residents.
• Short-term rental properties in Marquette average occupancy rates of 35-45% with nightly rates around $75-95, generating monthly revenues of $800-1,200 compared to long-term rentals which yield $600-800 monthly with 85-95% occupancy rates.
• The limited attractions and seasonal nature of visitors to this McPherson County town result in Airbnb investments underperforming traditional rental properties by 2-4 percentage points.

Marquette, Kansas averages 35–45% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Marquette, Kansas, a small rural community with limited tourism infrastructure, likely experiences Airbnb occupancy rates averaging around 35-45% annually.
• The peak season occurs during summer months (June through August) when occupancy may reach 60-65% due to outdoor recreational activities, fishing, and family visits.
• Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate occupancy around 40-50%, with slight increases during hunting season in autumn and graduation periods in late spring.
• The limited population of under 700 residents, lack of major tourist attractions, and rural location contribute to lower demand compared to urban Kansas markets like Wichita or Lawrence.

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

• The downtown Marquette area offers the strongest Airbnb investment potential due to its proximity to the Smoky Valley Historical Museum and local restaurants.
• The residential neighborhoods near Marquette Elementary School provide family-friendly accommodations for visitors attending school events or family reunions.
• The areas surrounding the Marquette City Park are ideal for guests seeking outdoor recreation and peaceful settings, with properties averaging $75-95 nightly during peak seasons.
• Neighborhoods along the historic Santa Fe Trail route appeal to history enthusiasts and road trip travelers.
• The quiet residential streets near the grain elevators attract agricultural business travelers and photographers interested in rural Kansas landscapes, typically earning $65-85 per night.
• Properties close to the Marquette Community Center benefit from event-driven demand including weddings and community gatherings.

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

• Short-term rental regulations in Marquette, Kansas are minimal as this small rural community of approximately 600 residents has not implemented comprehensive STR ordinances as of 2024.
• The city does not currently require specific permits or registration for short-term rentals, though operators must comply with basic business licensing requirements and collect applicable state and local taxes through the Kansas Department of Revenue.
• Occupancy limits typically default to standard residential occupancy standards based on square footage and bedroom count, generally allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
• There are no owner-occupancy requirements mandating hosts to live on-site.
• Zoning restrictions follow the city's general residential zoning code, which may limit commercial activities in certain residential districts, though enforcement appears limited.
• The registration process is informal, requiring only standard business registration with the state if operating as a business entity.

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

• Short-term rentals in Marquette, Kansas are subject to Kansas state sales tax of 6.5% plus McPherson County sales tax of approximately 1%, totaling around 7.5% on rental income.
• Registration fees for short-term rental permits typically range from $50-150 annually at the local level.
• Property owners must also account for transient guest tax which varies by municipality but generally ranges from 3-6% of gross rental receipts.
• Additional costs may include zoning compliance fees of $25-75, inspection fees ranging from $50-200 annually, and potential homeowner association fees if applicable.