Is Matawan, New Jersey Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Matawan, New Jersey market research

Matawan, New Jersey Airbnb Investment Overview

$1,200–$2,800Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
55–65%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Matawan, New Jersey?

Potentially. Matawan, New Jersey combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a more modest but potentially stable opportunity given the city's strategic location and proximity to major metropolitan areas.
  • Matawan's market is characterized by its position as a suburban community with convenient access to New York City via NJ Transit.
  • The area benefits from steady demand driven by its location near the Jersey Shore, Raritan Bay waterfront activities, and corporate travelers visiting nearby business centers.
  • While property values are generally more affordable than major metropolitan markets, rental income potential may be more limited due to the smaller tourist draw compared to destination cities.
  • The market offers lower competition and entry costs, but investors should consider the seasonal nature of shore-area tourism, local zoning restrictions.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Matawan?

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

  • Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Matawan, New Jersey typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenues can increase by 25-40% due to proximity to beaches and New York City tourism.
  • Properties closer to the train station and within walking distance of downtown Matawan command premium rates of $120-180 per night.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, with entire homes outperforming private rooms by approximately 60%, proximity to NJ Transit stations significantly boosting demand from NYC commuters.
  • Occupancy rates in Matawan average 65-75% annually, with successful hosts maintaining higher occupancy through competitive pricing strategies and consistent property maintenance, while properties with pools, parking.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Matawan

Potentially strong, with a typical annual ROI of 8–12%.

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $120-180 per night and 60-70% occupancy rates throughout the year.
  • The payback period for initial investment and setup costs generally ranges from 7-10 years, depending on property acquisition price and renovation expenses.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Matawan that yield approximately 6-8% annually with rental rates of $1,800-2,500 monthly.
  • Properties within 2-3 miles of major transportation hubs like the Matawan train station and those offering 2-3 bedrooms with parking tend to perform best.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Matawan

Matawan, New Jersey averages 55–65% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Matawan, New Jersey typically average around 55-65% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June through August) at approximately 75-80% occupancy due to proximity to beaches and New York City tourism, while winter months (December through February) drop to around 40-45% occupancy.
  • Spring and fall maintain moderate rates of 60-70%, with particular strength during autumn foliage season in October.
  • Matawan's occupancy rates generally align closely with New Jersey's statewide average of 58-62%.
  • Nationally, Matawan's performance sits slightly below the U.S. average of 65-68%, primarily due to its suburban residential character and competition from nearby urban markets.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Matawan

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

  • The downtown Matawan area near Main Street offers excellent Airbnb potential due to its historic charm, walkable restaurants and shops, and proximity to the NJ Transit train station providing direct access to NYC.
  • The neighborhoods surrounding Matawan Regional High School and Lake Matawan present strong investment opportunities with family-friendly atmospheres, scenic lake views.
  • The residential areas near Route 34 corridor provide convenient highway access while maintaining quiet suburban appeal, ideal for longer-term stays and corporate housing needs.
  • Neighborhoods close to Cheesequake State Park attract nature enthusiasts and families seeking outdoor recreation, commanding premium rates during peak seasons.
  • The areas near Old Bridge border offer competitive pricing with spillover demand from the larger Old Bridge market while maintaining Matawan's small-town character.
  • Properties near the Aberdeen-Matawan train station benefit from excellent transportation links and appeal to NYC commuters seeking temporary housing.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Matawan

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

  • Matawan, New Jersey currently allows short-term rentals under specific regulatory guidelines that require property owners to obtain a rental license through the Borough's licensing department.
  • Occupancy limits are generally restricted to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 10 occupants total regardless of property size.
  • The borough does not mandate owner-occupancy requirements, allowing both primary residences and investment properties to operate as short-term rentals.
  • The registration process involves submitting a completed application with a $150 annual fee, providing contact information for a local responsible party available 24/7, and maintaining a guest registry for inspection purposes.
  • Recent changes implemented in 2022-2023 include stricter noise ordinance enforcement with fines up to $500 for violations, mandatory posting of house rules regarding parking and quiet hours.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Matawan

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

  • Short-term rentals in Matawan, New Jersey are subject to New Jersey's state sales tax of 6.625% on rental income.
  • Monmouth County imposes an additional hotel/motel occupancy tax of approximately 3% on short-term rental income.
  • Property owners must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, which costs $50 initially and $25 for renewals.
  • Local business registration in Matawan typically requires a business license fee of approximately $50-100 annually.
  • Property owners may also need to pay for zoning permits or certificates of occupancy, which can range from $100-300.
  • Additionally, hosts must collect and remit the Tourism Promotion Fee of $2 per night for stays in certain tourism districts.
Common questions

Matawan, New Jersey Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey?

To start an Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Matawan Borough municipal office, as short term rentals may require special permits or be restricted in certain residential zones.

Launch checklist

  • Contact the Borough Clerk at 732 to 566 3898 to inquire about business licenses, occupancy permits, and any specific short term rental ordinances that may have been enacted since 2020 to 2022 when many New Jersey municipalities began regulating Airbnb properties.
  • Obtain necessary permits including a Certificate of Occupancy, fire safety inspection, and potentially a business registration through the New Jersey Division of Revenue.
  • Find a suitable property by searching areas near the Matawan Train Station or historic downtown, considering proximity to NYC commuter access which attracts many guests, with average property prices ranging $400,000 to $600,000 for single family homes.
  • Furnish the space with quality basics including WiFi, kitchen essentials, linens, and safety equipment like smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms as required by New Jersey fire codes.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos highlighting the property's proximity to beaches, NYC transportation, and local attractions like Cheesequake State Park.
  • For management, establish cleaning protocols between guests, implement keyless entry systems, maintain responsive communication, and consider hiring local cleaning services like those found through Matawan area Facebook groups or TaskRabbit.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Matawan, New Jersey?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Matawan, New Jersey, focus on locations within walking distance of the NJ Transit train station for easy NYC access, properties near Cheesequake State Park for nature enthusiasts.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 3 bedroom single family homes or townhouses built after 1980 with modern amenities, dedicated parking, outdoor spaces, and updated kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Conduct pricing analysis using AirDNA and Mashvisor to compare similar properties within a 5 mile radius including Old Bridge and Marlboro, aiming for properties that can achieve 60 to 70% occupancy rates with gross rental yields of 8 to 12%.
  • Research competition by analyzing existing Airbnb and VRBO listings in Matawan's 07747 zip code, noting that the market has approximately 15 to 25 active STR properties with most being entire homes in preference to shared spaces.
  • Utilize tools like Rabbu and AllTheRooms for local market data, partner with Monmouth County based property management companies familiar with township regulations.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Matawan, New Jersey?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Matawan, New Jersey, you must first contact the Matawan Borough Clerk's office at Borough Hall located at 201 Broad Street to inquire about short term rental regulations and obtain application forms.

Documents and approvals

  • Submit a completed STR permit application along with required documents including proof of property ownership or lease agreement, certificate of occupancy, general liability insurance policy (minimum $1 million coverage), floor plan of the rental unit, emergency contact information.
  • Pay the application fee of approximately $150 to 250 and annual renewal fee of $100 to 150 to the Borough Clerk.
  • The property must comply with Matawan's zoning ordinances (typically allowed in residential zones with restrictions), meet all fire safety codes including smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, provide adequate parking spaces, maintain occupancy limits based on square footage and bedrooms.
  • Schedule required inspections with the building department and fire official, which may cost an additional $75 to 125.
  • The approval process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from submission of complete application.
  • Once approved, display the permit number in all online listings and renew annually by December 31st.
  • Contact Matawan Borough Hall at (732) 566 to 3898 to confirm current requirements as regulations may have been updated since implementation around 2019 to 2020.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Matawan, New Jersey?

Short term rentals (STRs) in Matawan, New Jersey operate in a complex legal environment as of 2024.

Core operating requirements

  • While New Jersey state law generally permits STRs, Matawan Borough has implemented local regulations that restrict their operation in residential zones, requiring special use permits and compliance with specific safety and occupancy standards.
  • The borough prohibits STRs in certain residential districts and requires operators to obtain business licenses, maintain liability insurance, and limit occupancy to no more than 8 guests at a time.
  • Properties must meet fire safety codes and parking requirements, with violations subject to fines up to $2,000.
  • Recent changes in 2023 tightened enforcement mechanisms and increased registration fees from $150 to $300 annually.
  • STR operators must also collect and remit state sales tax and local occupancy taxes, and properties cannot be rented for less than 7 consecutive days in some zones.
  • The borough has designated specific commercial and mixed use areas where STRs are permitted by right, while residential zones require conditional use approval through the planning board process.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey?

The most promising Airbnb investment areas in Matawan, New Jersey include the neighborhoods near Matawan Train Station and downtown Matawan Borough, which attract business travelers commuting to New York City via NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line, offering 45 minute access to Manhattan.

Areas to research

  • The residential areas around Lake Lefferts and Cliffwood Beach provide appeal for leisure travelers seeking waterfront access and proximity to Raritan Bay recreational activities.
  • Properties near the Garden State Parkway corridor (Routes 34 and 35) are strategically positioned for guests visiting nearby attractions like Six Flags Great Adventure (20 minutes away), PNC Bank Arts Center concerts, and Monmouth Park Racetrack.
  • The historic Old Bridge Township border area benefits from overflow demand during major events at nearby venues and offers lower property acquisition costs while maintaining easy highway access.
  • Additionally, neighborhoods within walking distance of Matawan's antique shops, restaurants along Main Street, and the scenic Cheesequake State Park entrance point attract weekend visitors and nature enthusiasts.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Matawan, New Jersey

In Matawan, New Jersey, Airbnb hosts are subject to New Jersey's state sales tax of 6.625% on short term rental accommodations, which applies to stays of less than 90 consecutive days.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Additionally, hosts must collect the state occupancy tax of 5% on rental charges.
  • Monmouth County may impose a local hotel/motel tax of up to 3%, though specific rates for Matawan vary by municipal ordinance.
  • The Borough of Matawan may also levy its own local occupancy tax, typically ranging from 1 to 3% of gross rental receipts.
  • These taxes are generally collected by the host from guests at the time of booking or check in and must be remitted to the New Jersey Division of Taxation on a quarterly basis using Form ST 50 for sales tax and Form HTL for occupancy taxes.
  • Hosts earning over $20,000 annually or conducting more than 200 transactions must register for tax collection.
  • Exemptions typically apply to rentals exceeding 90 consecutive days, rentals to permanent residents, and accommodations provided to certain government employees or tax exempt organizations, though documentation is required to claim these exemptions.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey

To start an Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey, expect total costs around $485,000 to $520,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at approximately $400,000 to $425,000 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 décor to create an attractive rental space.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic marketing materials run $1,500 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees vary but budget $500 to $1,500 for business registration, short term rental permits, and any required municipal licenses.
  • Insurance costs approximately $2,000 to $3,500 annually for landlord and short term rental coverage.
  • Monthly utilities including electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable average $300 to $450 per month, totaling $1,800 to $2,700 for six months.
  • First six months operating costs including cleaning services, maintenance, supplies, platform fees, and marketing should be budgeted at $8,000 to $12,000.
  • Additional considerations include property taxes, HOA fees if applicable, and a contingency fund for unexpected repairs or vacancy periods.
Are Airbnb properties in Matawan, New Jersey profitable?

Airbnb properties in Matawan, New Jersey typically generate annual revenues between $18,000 to $35,000 for entire homes and $8,000 to $15,000 for private rooms, with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $140 depending on property size and amenities.

Profitability indicators

  • Operating expenses generally consume 40 to 60% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($40 to 80 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 higher margins achieved through strategic pricing during peak summer months and proximity to NYC commuter routes.
  • Success factors in Matawan include targeting business travelers using NJ Transit connections to Manhattan, maintaining properties near Matawan Regional High School for visiting families.
  • Properties within walking distance of Matawan Train Station command premium rates of $120 to 160 nightly, while those offering parking and family friendly amenities near local parks like Thompson Park see occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey?

Airbnb investments in Matawan, New Jersey typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10% based on current market conditions.

Return planning figures

  • Properties in this Monmouth County location, positioned between New York City and the Jersey Shore, benefit from proximity to major employment centers and seasonal tourism demand.
  • Initial investment costs average $350,000 to $450,000 for suitable properties, with expected gross rental yields of $35,000 to $55,000 annually after accounting for occupancy rates of 65 to 75%.
  • Cash on cash returns assume 20 to 25% down payments, with monthly operating expenses including utilities, cleaning, maintenance, and platform fees typically consuming 35 to 45% of gross revenue.
  • Most investors achieve profitability within 18 to 24 months, factoring in initial setup costs, furnishing, and marketing expenses.
  • The market shows particular strength during summer months due to Shore proximity and year round demand from business travelers accessing nearby corporate centers and transportation hubs.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Matawan, New Jersey?

STRSearch is a leading national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors looking in Matawan, New Jersey.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents like those at Keller Williams Realty in nearby Middletown and RE/MAX Central in Old Bridge have experience with investment properties in the Matawan area and understand the local rental market dynamics.
  • National services include Mashvisor, which provides Airbnb analytics and property search tools, and AirDNA, offering market data and investment insights for the Matawan region.
  • BiggerPockets connects investors with local professionals and resources, while Roofstock focuses on turnkey rental properties that can be converted to short term rentals.
  • Local property management companies such as Monmouth County Property Management and Jersey Shore Property Services can assist with identifying properties and managing Airbnb operations.
  • Real estate investment firms like Awning and Vacasa also provide end to end services from property acquisition to management in the New Jersey market, with Vacasa having expanded their services to cover the Matawan area since 2019.