Is Minong, Wisconsin Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Minong, Wisconsin market research

Minong, 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 Minong, Wisconsin?

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

  • Presents a promising opportunity, largely driven by its appeal as a seasonal tourist destination.
  • Current market conditions show a strong demand for short-term rentals, especially during the summer months due to the area's numerous lakes and recreational activities.
  • While winter months see a dip in occupancy (35-50%), the overall tourism trends, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet getaway, remain robust.
  • Property values in Minong, while not as high as major metropolitan areas, have shown consistent appreciation, offering solid long-term investment potential.
  • Well-managed properties, especially those with lake access or unique amenities like hot tubs or cabins.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Minong?

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

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Minong, Wisconsin typically generate average monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,200, with most hosts earning between $1,200 to $1,800 per month during peak seasons.
  • Seasonal variations are significant, with summer months (June through August) showing the highest occupancy rates at 65-80% and premium pricing due to lake activities and fishing tourism.
  • Spring and fall shoulder seasons generally produce moderate earnings with 45-60% occupancy rates.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to lakes and recreational areas, property size and amenities, professional photography and listing optimization, responsive host communication.
  • Properties with lake access, hot tubs, or unique features like cabins can command 20-30% higher rates.
  • Market data suggests that well-managed properties with strong reviews and strategic pricing can achieve annual gross revenues between $15,000 to $28,000, though expenses typically reduce net earnings by 30-40%.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Minong

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 seasonal performance.
  • The small lakeside community benefits from summer tourism and fishing enthusiasts, with average daily rates around $120-180 during peak season (May-September) and occupancy rates of 60-75%.
  • Properties near Minong Flowage and other water access points command premium rates and achieve the higher end of ROI ranges, while standard residential properties may see 6-9% returns.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in the area, which typically yield 4-6% annually with monthly rents of $800-1200, short-term rentals can outperform by 2-6 percentage points.
  • The limited inventory of suitable properties and growing demand from Twin Cities visitors seeking weekend getaways has supported relatively stable performance.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Minong

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

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Minong, Wisconsin typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variation driven by the area's lake-focused tourism economy.
  • Peak season occurs during summer months (June through August) when occupancy rates can reach 75-85% due to fishing, boating.
  • Spring and fall shoulder seasons see moderate occupancy of 40-50%, while winter months drop to 25-35% except during ice fishing season and snowmobile weekends which can spike to 60%.
  • These rates generally underperform Wisconsin's statewide Airbnb average of approximately 60-65% annually.
  • Nationally, Minong's occupancy rates fall below the typical 65-70% average for short-term rentals.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Minong

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

  • The downtown Minong area near Highway 53 offers the best Airbnb investment potential due to its proximity to local restaurants, shops, and easy access for travelers.
  • The lakefront properties along Minong Flowage provide premium investment opportunities with pricing power of $150-250 per night.
  • The residential area near Minong Elementary School appeals to families visiting the region, offering quiet neighborhoods with moderate pricing around $70-100 per night and consistent bookings from relatives visiting locals.
  • Properties near the Minong Wildlife Area attract hunters and nature enthusiasts, particularly during fall hunting seasons, with strong seasonal demand and rates of $90-140 per night.
  • The Highway 77 corridor provides convenient access for travelers heading to the Boundary Waters and offers good value investments with steady occupancy from through-traffic at $60-90 per night.
  • Neighborhoods near Nancy Lake attract ice fishing and winter sports enthusiasts, providing year-round rental potential with winter rates of $80-130 per night.
  • The rural properties on the outskirts of town offer secluded retreats for city dwellers seeking peaceful getaways.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Minong

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

  • Short-term rental regulations in Minong, Wisconsin are primarily governed at the county level through Washburn County ordinances.
  • Property owners typically need to obtain a conditional use permit through Washburn County zoning department and register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes.
  • Occupancy limits generally follow state building codes allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional occupants.
  • Owner-occupancy requirements are not typically mandated in rural Washburn County areas, allowing for non-resident ownership of rental properties.
  • Zoning restrictions generally permit short-term rentals in residential areas with conditional use permits.
  • The registration process involves submitting applications to the county planning department, paying permit fees ranging from $200-400, and ensuring compliance with health department regulations for septic and well systems.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Minong

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

  • Short-term rentals in Minong, Wisconsin are subject to Wisconsin's state sales tax of 5% and room tax of 5%, totaling 10% on rental income.
  • Property owners must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for sales tax purposes at no cost.
  • Wisconsin requires short-term rental operators to collect and remit state taxes quarterly, with potential penalties of 12% annually on unpaid amounts plus interest.
  • Some municipalities in Wisconsin charge tourism promotion assessments ranging from 1-3% of gross receipts.
  • Additional costs may include liability insurance requirements, fire safety inspections costing $50-$150, and potential homeowners association fees if applicable.
Common questions

Minong, Wisconsin Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Minong, Wisconsin?

To start an Airbnb in Minong, Wisconsin, begin by researching local regulations through Washburn County and the City of Minong offices, as Wisconsin generally allows short term rentals but local municipalities may have specific zoning requirements, occupancy limits.

Launch checklist

  • Obtain necessary permits including a business license from Minong City Hall, Wisconsin seller's permit for tax collection, and ensure compliance with fire safety codes and building inspections which may require smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Find a suitable property by searching local real estate listings, considering proximity to area attractions like the Namekagon River, ATV trails, and fishing spots, with properties typically ranging from $80,000 to 250,000 in the Minong area.
  • Furnish the space with durable, comfortable furniture focusing on outdoor recreation themes, including quality bedding, kitchen essentials, WiFi, and amenities like fishing gear storage or ATV parking that appeal to the area's tourism market.
  • List your property on Airbnb and VRBO platforms with professional photos highlighting the natural surroundings, competitive pricing around $75 to 150 per night depending on size and amenities.
  • Manage the property by establishing cleaning protocols between guests, responding promptly to inquiries, coordinating with local cleaning services (likely costing $75 to 125 per turnover), maintaining the property year round including winter heating considerations.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Minong, Wisconsin?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Minong, Wisconsin, focus on waterfront locations near Nancy Lake, Minong Flowage, or other area lakes, as these command premium rates of $150 to 300+ per night during peak summer months.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom cabins or homes built after 1980 with modern amenities like updated kitchens, WiFi, hot tubs, fire pits, and boat access, as outdoor recreation drives 70% of bookings from May through October.
  • Analyze comparable properties using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify the $80 to 180 nightly rate sweet spot, while researching competition through Airbnb and VRBO searches within 10 mile radius to find gaps in luxury or budget segments.
  • Leverage local resources like Washburn County tourism data, Douglas County lake association websites, and connect with Minong area realtors familiar with STR regulations.
  • Properties within walking distance of downtown Minong's restaurants and shops, or those offering unique features like private docks, large group capacity, or pet friendly amenities typically achieve 65 to 80% occupancy rates and 12 to 18% annual returns.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Minong, Wisconsin?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Minong, Wisconsin, you must first contact the Washburn County Zoning Department at 715 to 468 4600 or visit their office at 10 4th Avenue in Shell Lake, as Minong falls under county jurisdiction for short term rental regulations.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents typically include a completed short term rental application, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, floor plan showing maximum occupancy, septic system compliance certificate, well water testing results if applicable.
  • The application fee is approximately $150 to 200 with an annual renewal fee of $100 to 125.
  • You must also register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue for room tax collection and obtain a seller's permit.
  • The approval timeline is generally 30 to 45 days after submitting a complete application.
  • Specific Minong requirements include maintaining a maximum occupancy based on septic capacity, providing adequate off street parking (typically 2 spaces minimum), ensuring compliance with residential zoning setbacks, having working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all sleeping areas.
  • Properties must also meet all building and fire codes, and owners are required to respond to complaints within 2 hours and be available 24/7 or designate a local representative.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Minong, Wisconsin?

Short term rentals (STRs) are generally legal in Minong, Wisconsin, as the small town in Washburn County does not appear to have specific municipal ordinances prohibiting them as of 2024.

Core operating requirements

  • However, operators must comply with Wisconsin state regulations including sales tax collection and remittance to the Department of Revenue, and potentially obtain a seller's permit.
  • Washburn County may have zoning restrictions that could limit STRs in certain residential areas, and properties must meet basic safety and health standards.
  • Given Minong's location in a popular lake region near the Chequamegon National Forest, STRs are likely viewed as supporting tourism, though operators should verify current local zoning compliance and may need to register with platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
  • Recent statewide trends show increasing regulation of STRs, so local ordinances could change, and property owners should check with Washburn County and Minong's clerk office for the most current requirements regarding permits, occupancy limits.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Minong, Wisconsin?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Minong, Wisconsin are concentrated around the lakefront districts near Nancy Lake and surrounding chain of lakes, which attract summer tourists, fishing enthusiasts, and families seeking cabin rentals from May through September.

Areas to research

  • The downtown Minong area along Highway 53 offers potential for business travelers and visitors to the nearby St.
  • Croix National Scenic Riverway, established as a protected waterway in 1968.
  • Properties near the Minong Flowage and connecting waterways are particularly attractive due to year round recreation including ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ATV trails that draw visitors during both summer and winter seasons.
  • The residential areas within walking distance of local restaurants and the historic Minong depot area appeal to tourists interested in the region's logging history and those attending local events like summer festivals.
  • Investment properties near boat launches and public access points to the extensive lake system command premium rates, especially during peak fishing seasons for muskie, bass, and walleye.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Minong, Wisconsin

Airbnb properties in Minong, Wisconsin are subject to Wisconsin state sales tax of 5% and room tax of 5%, totaling 10% on lodging rentals.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Washburn County imposes an additional room tax of 3%, bringing the total occupancy tax to 13%.
  • These taxes apply to rentals of less than 30 consecutive days and are collected from guests at the time of booking through Airbnb's automatic tax collection system for most jurisdictions, though hosts should verify coverage.
  • Hosts must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and obtain a seller's permit, then remit taxes monthly by the 20th of the following month using Form ST 12.
  • County room taxes are typically remitted to Washburn County separately on a monthly basis.
  • Exemptions include rentals to permanent residents (30+ days), certain government employees on official business, and sales to tax exempt organizations with proper documentation.
  • Hosts should maintain detailed records of all bookings and tax collections, as Wisconsin requires documentation for at least four years and conducts periodic audits of short term rental operators.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Minong, Wisconsin

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

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs around $150,000 based on median home prices in rural Wisconsin lake communities like Minong.
  • Furnishing a 2 to 3 bedroom property runs $15,000 to 25,000 including beds, linens, kitchen essentials, living room furniture, and outdoor equipment for the area's recreational activities.
  • Initial setup costs total $3,000 to 5,000 covering professional photography, listing creation, welcome materials, and basic renovations.
  • Permits and fees amount to $500 to 1,500 including business licenses, short term rental permits from Washburn County, and potential HOA approvals.
  • Insurance increases by $1,200 to 2,000 annually for short term rental coverage.
  • Utility setup and deposits cost $500 to 800 for electricity, water, internet, and propane if applicable.
  • First six months operating costs total $8,000 to 12,000 including utilities ($200 to 300/month), cleaning services ($75 to 100 per turnover), supplies and maintenance ($300 to 500/month), platform fees (3% of bookings), and marketing expenses.
Are Airbnb properties in Minong, Wisconsin profitable?

Airbnb properties in Minong, Wisconsin, typically generate modest profitability due to the area's seasonal tourism patterns centered around lake activities and outdoor recreation.

Profitability indicators

  • Properties near Minong Lake and surrounding recreational areas can expect average nightly rates of $80 to 150 during peak summer months (June August), with occupancy rates around 60 to 70%.
  • Operating expenses typically include property management fees (15 to 25%), cleaning costs ($40 to 60 per turnover), utilities ($200 to 300 monthly), insurance ($1,200 to 2,000 annually), and maintenance/supplies ($2,000 to 4,000 yearly).
  • This yields net profit margins of 35 to 55% for well managed properties, with successful hosts focusing on lakefront locations, outdoor amenities like fire pits and kayaks, and targeting fishing enthusiasts and families seeking lake vacations.
  • Properties within walking distance of Minong Lake or featuring private water access command premium rates and achieve higher occupancy.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Minong, Wisconsin?

Airbnb investments in Minong, Wisconsin typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10%, primarily driven by the area's proximity to recreational lakes and seasonal tourism patterns.

Return planning figures

  • Properties near Lake Minong and surrounding waterfront areas command premium nightly rates of $120 to 180 during peak summer months (June August) and fall foliage season, while winter rates drop to $80 to 120 per night.
  • Initial investment costs for suitable properties range from $150,000 to 250,000, with investors typically reaching profitability within 18 to 24 months after accounting for renovation costs, furnishing, and marketing expenses.
  • The market benefits from consistent demand from fishing enthusiasts, hunters, and families seeking lake vacations, though occupancy rates fluctuate seasonally from 70 to 85% in summer to 35 to 50% in winter months.
  • Annual gross rental income typically ranges from $25,000 to 40,000 for well positioned properties, with net returns after expenses, property management.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Minong, Wisconsin?

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

Companies and resources

  • For local expertise, Northwoods Realty Group and Century 21 Burkett & Associates serve the Minong area and have experience with vacation rental properties given the region's proximity to lakes and recreational areas.
  • RE/MAX Northland and Coldwell Banker Mulleady have agents familiar with investment properties in northwestern Wisconsin.
  • National services include Mashvisor for market analysis, AirDNA for short term rental data, Awning for full service Airbnb investment management, Roofstock for turnkey rental properties, and BiggerPockets for investor networking and education.
  • Local property management companies like Vacasa and RedAwning can help manage Airbnb properties once purchased.
  • Given Minong's location near numerous lakes including Lake Minong and its proximity to outdoor recreation, local agents at Edina Realty and Keller Williams may also have relevant experience with vacation rental investments in the area.

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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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