Is Matthews, North Carolina Good for Airbnb Investment?

Get significant tax savings and earn cash flow by investing in a short-term rental with data-backed selection. No guessing!

Find Your Airbnb Investment
Matthews, North Carolina market research

Matthews, North Carolina 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 Matthews, North Carolina?

Potentially—Matthews, North Carolina combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a moderately favorable opportunity, largely influenced by its suburban charm, proximity to Charlotte, and steady regional growth.
  • While Matthews doesn't boast major tourism attractions like a large city, its appeal lies in serving visitors to the greater Charlotte metropolitan area, including business travelers, families visiting relatives.
  • Property values in Matthews have seen consistent appreciation, driven by a strong local economy and desirable quality of life.
  • However, the relatively smaller scale of its tourism market compared to larger destinations might lead to more moderate occupancy rates and nightly revenues.
  • Therefore, a successful Airbnb investment in Matthews would likely hinge on strategic property selection, competitive pricing, and effective marketing to cater to its specific niche of visitors.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Matthews?

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

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Matthews, North Carolina typically earn between $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during spring and fall months when Charlotte area events and pleasant weather drive demand up by 15-25%.
  • Summer performance remains relatively stable due to family vacation travel offsetting some business travel decline.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to Charlotte's business district (properties within 20 miles of uptown Charlotte command 20-30% higher rates).
  • Properties near Matthews' historic downtown area and close to major highways like I-485 tend to perform above average.
  • Market saturation has increased competition, making property differentiation and excellent guest experiences crucial for maintaining higher occupancy rates above 65-70% monthly.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Matthews

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with higher-end properties near downtown Charlotte achieving up to 15% returns due to strong corporate and leisure travel demand.
  • The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years, depending on initial investment and property management efficiency.
  • Properties in Matthews generally outperform long-term rentals by 2-4 percentage points, as traditional rental yields in the area average 6-8% annually.
  • The market benefits from proximity to Charlotte's business district, with average daily rates ranging from $120-180 for well-appointed homes.
  • Short-term rentals in desirable neighborhoods like Sardis Woods or near Matthews Community Center command premium rates during NASCAR events and Charlotte business conferences.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Matthews

Matthews, North Carolina averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Matthews, North Carolina typically average around 65-70% annually, with peak seasons occurring during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when occupancy can reach 75-85% due to favorable weather and local events like the Matthews Alive Festival.
  • Summer months see moderate occupancy of 70-75%, while winter experiences the lowest rates at 50-60%.
  • Matthews performs slightly above the North Carolina state average of approximately 62% and closely matches national suburban market averages of 65-68%.
  • The town benefits from its proximity to Charlotte, attracting business travelers and visitors to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Charlotte Motor Speedway.
  • Weekend occupancy typically runs 15-20 percentage points higher than weekday rates, and the market has shown resilience with steady growth in demand over recent years.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Matthews

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

  • The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Matthews, North Carolina include Downtown Matthews, which offers excellent walkability to restaurants, shops.
  • The Plantation area provides upscale housing stock near top-rated schools and parks, attracting families and business travelers willing to pay premium rates for quality accommodations.
  • Sardis Woods and surrounding subdivisions offer newer construction homes with modern amenities that appeal to corporate travelers working in the nearby business corridor along Highway 51.
  • The Mint Hill border area of Matthews provides more affordable entry points while still maintaining proximity to Charlotte's attractions and the Matthews Athletic and Community Center.
  • Stallings Road corridor neighborhoods benefit from easy highway access to both Charlotte and Monroe, making them attractive to visitors attending events at various venues throughout the region.
  • The Weddington border areas of Matthews offer luxury housing options that command higher nightly rates due to their proximity to excellent schools and upscale shopping at nearby developments.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Matthews

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

  • Matthews, North Carolina requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register their properties with the city.
  • Occupancy limits are generally restricted to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 10-12 occupants total depending on the property size and septic capacity.
  • The city does not currently mandate owner-occupancy requirements, allowing both primary residences and investment properties to operate as short-term rentals.
  • Zoning restrictions permit short-term rentals in most residential districts but may require conditional use permits in certain areas.
  • The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, emergency contact information, and payment of applicable fees.
  • Recent regulatory changes have included stricter noise ordinances with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM, enhanced parking enforcement, and requirements for 24/7 local contact availability.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Matthews

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

  • Short-term rentals in Matthews, North Carolina are subject to several fees and taxes including the state occupancy tax of 3% and Mecklenburg County's occupancy tax of 6%.
  • Property owners must obtain a business license from the Town of Matthews costing approximately $50-75 annually, register for state and local tax collection permits (typically $15-25 each).
  • Additional costs include North Carolina sales tax of 4.75% on rental income, potential homeowners association fees if applicable, and quarterly tax filing fees of around $10-15 per filing.
  • Some properties may require fire safety inspections costing $75-150 annually, and if operating as a business, workers compensation insurance may be mandated.
  • The town may also impose administrative fees for permit renewals and inspections totaling $25-50 per year.
Common questions

Matthews, North Carolina Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina?

To start an Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina, begin by researching local zoning laws and HOA restrictions, as Matthews requires short term rentals to comply with residential zoning ordinances and many neighborhoods have HOA covenants prohibiting rentals under 30 days.

Launch checklist

  • Contact the Matthews Planning Department to verify your property's eligibility and obtain necessary permits, including a business license from the Town of Matthews (approximately $50 to 100 annually) and ensure compliance with North Carolina state tax requirements by registering for sales tax collection through the NC Department of Revenue.
  • Find a suitable property in Matthews' desirable neighborhoods like Sardis Woods or Plantation Estates, considering proximity to Charlotte (15 minutes away) and local attractions like the Matthews Community Farmers Market.
  • Purchase essential furnishings including quality mattresses, linens, basic kitchen appliances, WiFi equipment, and safety items like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, budgeting $3,000 to 8,000 for a complete setup.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos highlighting Matthews' small town charm and easy Charlotte access, set competitive pricing around $80 to 150 per night based on local market rates.
  • Manage your property by establishing check in procedures, maintaining cleanliness standards, responding promptly to guests, coordinating cleaning services between stays.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Matthews, North Carolina?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Matthews, North Carolina, focus on locations within 10 to 15 minutes of Charlotte's business districts, near Lake Matthews, or close to the Matthews Community Center and downtown area, as these attract both business travelers and leisure guests.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom single family homes or townhomes built after 1990 with modern amenities, parking, and outdoor spaces, as Matthews visitors often prefer residential feel over urban apartments.
  • Analyze pricing by researching comparable STRs on Airbnb and VRBO within a 3 mile radius, noting that properties typically command $80 to 150 per night depending on size and amenities.
  • Competition research should focus on the 50+ existing STRs in Matthews and nearby Mint Hill, identifying gaps in luxury amenities, pet friendly options, or family oriented features.
  • Utilize AirDNA for market analytics, STR Helper for performance tracking, and local tools like Charlotte Regional Realtor Association MLS data.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Matthews, North Carolina?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Matthews, North Carolina, you must first contact the Matthews Planning Department at Town Hall located at 232 Matthews Station Street to determine if short term rentals are permitted in your specific zoning district, as Matthews has restrictive regulations on STRs.

Documents and approvals

  • If allowed, you'll need to submit an application including a completed STR permit form, property deed or lease agreement, floor plan showing maximum occupancy, parking plan demonstrating adequate spaces, contact information for a local property manager within 30 minutes of the property.
  • Required documents also include a business license from North Carolina, fire safety inspection certificate, and written consent from HOA if applicable.
  • The application fee is approximately $200 to 300 with annual renewal fees of $150 to 200, and the process typically takes 30 to 45 days for review and approval.
  • Matthews requires STRs to maintain quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM, limit occupancy to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, provide adequate parking (typically 1 space per bedroom), and display the permit number in all advertising.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Matthews, North Carolina?

Short term rentals (STRs) are legal in Matthews, North Carolina, but operate under specific regulations established by the town.

Core operating requirements

  • Matthews requires STR operators to obtain a business license and comply with zoning restrictions that primarily limit short term rentals to commercial and mixed use districts, while generally prohibiting them in single family residential neighborhoods.
  • The town implemented these regulations around 2019 to 2020 following concerns about neighborhood character and parking issues.
  • Current restrictions include occupancy limits based on bedroom count, parking requirements (typically two spaces per unit), noise ordinances, and safety standards including smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
  • STR operators must also collect and remit local occupancy taxes.
  • The town has been relatively restrictive compared to some neighboring jurisdictions, with enforcement focusing on unpermitted operations in residential areas.
  • Recent legal changes have included stricter enforcement mechanisms and clearer definitions of what constitutes a short term rental versus traditional lodging.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Matthews, North Carolina include the downtown Matthews area near Trade Street and Matthews Station Road, which attracts visitors due to its walkable historic downtown with local restaurants, shops, and community events like the Matthews Alive Festival.

Areas to research

  • The neighborhoods near Squirrel Lake Park and McDowell Nature Preserve are attractive for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities and nature access.
  • Areas close to the Matthews Community Center and athletic facilities draw sports tournament participants and families.
  • Properties near the Charlotte Premium Outlets benefit from shopping tourism and visitors to the region.
  • The residential areas around Sardis Road and Highway 51 corridor are ideal due to proximity to major employers like Novant Health Matthews Medical Center and easy access to Charlotte's business district.
  • The neighborhoods near Matthews Charter Academy and other schools attract visiting families and educational consultants, while areas close to the planned transit developments along the future Silver Line extension will likely see increased demand from visitors preferring public transportation access to Charlotte.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Matthews, North Carolina

In Matthews, North Carolina, Airbnb hosts are subject to both state and local lodging taxes.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The North Carolina state occupancy tax is 6.75% and applies to all short term rental stays under 90 days.
  • Additionally, Mecklenburg County imposes a 6% occupancy tax on lodging accommodations, bringing the total tax rate to approximately 12.75% for Airbnb rentals in Matthews.
  • These taxes are typically collected from guests at the time of booking through Airbnb's automatic tax collection system, which remits payments directly to the appropriate tax authorities on behalf of hosts.
  • However, hosts should verify their registration status with both the North Carolina Department of Revenue and Mecklenburg County tax office to ensure compliance.
  • The taxes are calculated on the gross rental receipts excluding cleaning fees in most cases.
  • Exemptions may apply for stays exceeding 90 consecutive days, rentals to certain government employees on official business, and accommodations for disaster relief purposes.
  • Hosts who collect taxes manually must remit payments monthly or quarterly depending on their rental volume, with returns typically due by the 20th of the following month.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina

The total cost to start an Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina is approximately $385,000 to $425,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at $350,000 (median home price in Matthews as of 2024).
  • Furnishing costs range from $15,000 to $25,000 depending on property size and quality level desired.
  • Initial setup including professional photography, listing creation, and basic supplies costs around $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees including business license, short term rental permit, and inspection fees total approximately $500 to $1,500.
  • Insurance for short term rental coverage adds $2,000 to $3,000 annually.
  • Utilities including electricity, water, internet, and cable average $300 to $400 monthly or $1,800 to $2,400 for six months.
  • First six months operating costs including cleaning services ($150 per turnover), maintenance, supplies, and platform fees (3% Airbnb service fee) estimate around $8,000 to $12,000 assuming 60% occupancy rate.
  • Additional considerations include potential HOA fees common in Matthews developments ($100 to $300 monthly) and marketing costs for initial bookings ($1,000 to $2,000).
Are Airbnb properties in Matthews, North Carolina profitable?

Airbnb properties in Matthews, North Carolina typically generate annual revenues between $18,000 to $35,000 for entire home listings, 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 (15 to 25% of revenue), utilities ($150 to 300 monthly), insurance ($1,200 to 2,000 annually).
  • Profit margins for successful properties range from 15 to 35%, with higher end homes near downtown Charlotte achieving better performance due to business traveler demand.
  • Properties within 20 minutes of Charlotte Douglas International Airport and those featuring amenities like pools, hot tubs, or proximity to the Matthews Community Farmers Market tend to maintain 70 to 85% occupancy rates compared to 50 to 65% for basic listings.
  • A typical 3 bedroom home purchased for $320,000 in Matthews can generate $28,000 annually in gross revenue with $16,000 in expenses, yielding approximately $12,000 net profit or 3.75% return on investment.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina?

Based on Matthews, North Carolina market conditions, Airbnb investments typically generate annual ROI of 12 to 18% with cash on cash returns ranging from 8 to 14% depending on property type and location within the market.

Return planning figures

  • Single family homes near downtown Matthews or close to Charlotte's business districts tend to achieve the higher end of these ranges, while condos and properties further from major attractions see returns closer to 8 to 12%.
  • Most investors reach profitability within 18 to 24 months, with break even on initial investment occurring around month 14 to 20 for well positioned properties.
  • The Matthews market benefits from proximity to Charlotte Douglas International Airport and the city's corporate centers, driving consistent demand from business travelers and weekend visitors.
  • Occupancy rates typically hover between 65 to 75% annually, with peak seasons during spring and fall generating occupancy rates above 80%.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Matthews, North Carolina?

STRSearch is a national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors in Matthews, North Carolina.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents like those at Keller Williams Ballantyne, RE/MAX Executive, and Allen Tate Realtors have experience with investment properties in the Matthews area and understand the local Airbnb market dynamics.
  • National services include Mashvisor, which provides Airbnb analytics and property search tools, AirDNA for market data and investment analysis, and Awning for turnkey Airbnb investment properties.
  • RedAwning offers property management and investment services, while BiggerPockets connects investors with local professionals and resources.
  • Local property management companies like Vacasa and RedAwning can help manage Airbnb properties once purchased.
  • Investment focused real estate companies such as Roofstock and Arrived Homes also operate in the North Carolina market, though they may have limited inventory specifically in Matthews.
  • Additionally, local real estate investment groups and meetups in the Charlotte metropolitan area, which includes Matthews, can provide networking opportunities and referrals to agents specializing in short term rental investments.

How Smart Investors Build Wealth

Through Data-Driven STRs (Real Results)

From first-time investors to seasoned pros, see how our commitment to comprehensive data analysis led to unparalleled investment victories.

Smiling woman with dark hair and white blouse next to text reading 'Spot on $120K revenue prediction!' attributed to Allison Kraft, STR Search Client on dark green background.

From zero real estate experience to a thriving short-term rental business, Allison locked in $120K in revenue her first year  and is now expanding with STR Search again. Proof that the right team can turn analysis paralysis into profitable action!

- Allison
Portrait of a man with short dark hair and earbuds, alongside the quote 'Cash flow positive since day one!' attributed to Arul, STR Search Client, on a dark green background.

Thanks to John's expert guidance, I made my first real estate and Airbnb investment a massive success, with consistent positive cash flow and an exceptional return on investment!

- Arul
Quote saying 'Bank said This is better than their underwriting team!' by Philip Mann, STR Search Client, beside a smiling man with a bald head and light beard on a dark green background.

John's training gave me the confidence to secure a loan on the spot and scale from one STR to three. His approach is a total game-changer!

- Philip

Why Choose STR Search?

Success Rate
Data Accuracy
Service Scope
Risk Mitigation
Expert Network
STR Search Logo
100% profitable track record
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
End-to-end STR investment support
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Partial services only
No profitability screening
Limited or no partner access
Success Rate
Data Accuracy
Service Scope
Risk Mitigation
Expert Network
STR Search Logo
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
275+
Properties Acquired
$90M+
Purchased
$20.24M+
Total Taxes Saved

Put your money to work & 
lower your tax bill

We’ve spent years analyzing what works so you don’t have to. Our job is to cut through bad data and help you make smart, profitable decisions backed by real numbers.

Schedule Your Free Call

Trusted by hundreds of 
successful investors

Generate $3-5K+ monthly cash flow with our proven property matching system.

Build long-term wealth through STRs with cash flow, equity, and bonus depreciation.

Skip 6-12 months of trial and error with our data-driven underwriting and market analysis

The Proof is in Our Track Record...

We have a 100% success rate across $90M+ in Real Estate

Out of the 275+ properties we've helped our clients buy every single one has been profitable.

You want more money. More time. More freedom. But may be stuck trading hours for dollars, and scaling your investment strategy feels out of reach.

While others are getting lost in analysis paralysis, you’ve got capital and drive to change your situation. Investors who choose the right STRs can generate $3–5K/month in cash flow, plus serious tax benefits and long-term wealth.

We’ve spent years obsessed with STR investing data so you don’t have to.

With our property match services, there’s no guesswork! Just profitable properties built to perform. With the right deal, your capital can buy more than returns. It can buy your freedom.

Buildings
Rabbu logoAirbnb logoAirdna logoPriceLabs logo
Rabbu logo
Airbnb logo
Airdna logo
PriceLabs logo

All The Ways We Can Help You

Free courses, services, and trainings, to help you maximize your earnings from AirBnb...

Get in touch with us.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Put your money to work & 
lower your tax bill

We’ve spent years analyzing what works so you don’t have to. Our job is to cut through bad data and help you make smart, profitable decisions backed by real numbers.

Schedule Your Free Call