Is Redstone, Colorado Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Redstone, Colorado market research

Redstone, Colorado Airbnb Investment Overview

$2,500–$6,000Typical 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 Redstone, Colorado?

Potentially—Redstone, Colorado combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a unique opportunity, largely driven by its scenic beauty and proximity to outdoor recreational activities, attracting tourists seeking a peaceful mountain getaway.
  • Current market conditions in Redstone, a small and historic village, are characterized by a limited supply of properties, which can lead to higher demand for short-term rentals.
  • While property values can be significant due to the desirable location, the investment potential is bolstered by consistent tourism trends.
  • However, investors should consider the seasonal nature of tourism, potential challenges with remote property management, and any local regulations that might impact short-term rental operations in this smaller.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Redstone?

$2,500–$6,000 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Redstone, Colorado typically generate between $2,500 to $6,000 per month in revenue.
  • Peak summer months (June through August) and winter ski season (December through February) can see earnings reach the upper range or exceed $7,000 monthly for well-positioned properties.
  • Properties with mountain views, hot tubs, or unique architectural features command premium rates averaging $250-400 per night during peak periods.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, proximity to Crystal River and hiking trails, seasonal accessibility during winter months.
  • The limited inventory of short-term rentals in this small mountain community of fewer than 100 residents creates favorable supply-demand dynamics.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Redstone

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with higher-end luxury cabins and ski-accessible properties achieving up to 15% returns during peak winter and summer seasons.
  • The average payback period ranges from 8-12 years, depending on initial investment and property type.
  • Short-term rental properties in Redstone generally outperform long-term rentals by 3-5 percentage points, as traditional rental yields average 5-7% annually.
  • The market shows strong occupancy rates of 60-75% annually, driven by year-round outdoor recreation demand, though investors must factor in higher management costs, seasonal fluctuations.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Redstone

Redstone, Colorado averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Redstone, Colorado typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variation driven by the area's outdoor recreation appeal and proximity to Aspen.
  • Peak occupancy occurs during summer months (June-August) reaching 70-80%, coinciding with hiking, fishing, and festival seasons.
  • Spring and fall shoulder seasons drop to 25-35% occupancy as weather becomes less predictable for outdoor activities.
  • These rates generally align with Colorado's mountain resort town average of 50-60% annually but fall slightly below the national Airbnb average of 48-52%.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Redstone

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

  • Redstone's most lucrative Airbnb neighborhoods center around the historic Crystal River Valley corridor.
  • The Riverside District along Crystal River provides excellent investment potential with properties offering direct river access and fishing opportunities.
  • The Castle Creek area features larger luxury homes and cabins that cater to group bookings and corporate retreats.
  • The Historic Redstone Boulevard neighborhood offers charming worker cottages and renovated miners' homes that provide authentic character and moderate pricing around $200-350 nightly.
  • The Upper Valley properties near the Marble turnoff capture guests heading to both destinations and offer excellent year-round potential with winter skiing access and summer hiking proximity.
  • The Coal Creek Canyon area provides more secluded luxury options for high-end travelers seeking privacy and exclusive mountain experiences.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Redstone

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

  • Property owners must obtain a short-term rental license from Pitkin County, which requires an annual application fee of approximately $500-800 and compliance with safety inspections including smoke detectors.
  • Occupancy limits are typically restricted to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 12 occupants total regardless of property size.
  • Owner-occupancy requirements mandate that the property must be the owner's primary residence for at least 30 days per year.
  • Zoning restrictions generally permit short-term rentals in residential zones but may require conditional use permits in certain areas.
  • The registration process involves submitting detailed property information, proof of insurance, emergency contact details, and payment of applicable fees, with renewals required annually.
  • Recent regulatory changes implemented around 2022-2023 have included stricter noise ordinances, enhanced parking requirements, and increased penalties for violations.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Redstone

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

  • Short-term rentals in Redstone, Colorado are subject to several fees and taxes including Colorado state sales tax of 2.9%, Pitkin County sales tax of approximately 1.5%.
  • The Town of Redstone typically charges a local lodging tax of 4-6% and requires an annual business license costing approximately $50-100.
  • Property owners must obtain a short-term rental permit with initial registration fees ranging from $200-400 and annual renewal fees of $100-250.
  • Additional requirements may include a one-time fire safety inspection fee of $75-150, potential homeowner association fees if applicable, and quarterly or annual tax filing fees of $25-50.
  • Tourism improvement district fees may apply at 1-2% of gross receipts, and some properties may be subject to affordable housing mitigation fees of $500-1,500 annually depending on the property size and rental frequency.
Common questions

Redstone, Colorado Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado?

To start an Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado, begin by researching Pitkin County's short term rental regulations, as Redstone falls under county jurisdiction and typically requires a business license and short term rental permit with fees around $200 to 500 annually.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Pitkin County Planning Department to understand zoning restrictions, occupancy limits, and safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
  • Find a suitable property by searching local real estate listings or rental properties, considering Redstone's limited housing stock and proximity to Crystal River and Marble.
  • Furnish the space with mountain appropriate decor, quality bedding, full kitchen amenities, outdoor gear storage, and reliable internet, budgeting $15,000 to 30,000 for a complete setup.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photography highlighting Redstone's scenic location near Crystal Mill and outdoor activities, setting competitive rates of $200 to 600 per night depending on season and property size.
  • Manage the property by establishing cleaning protocols between guests, coordinating with local cleaning services in Carbondale or Glenwood Springs, implementing keyless entry systems.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Redstone, Colorado?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Redstone, Colorado, focus on properties within walking distance of the Crystal River and close to hiking trailheads leading to the iconic Crystal Mill, as this historic mining town attracts outdoor enthusiasts year round.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom cabins or mountain homes built after 1990 with rustic charm, modern amenities like high speed internet, hot tubs, and mountain views, as these features command premium rates of $200 to 400 per night during peak summer and fall seasons.
  • Analyze pricing by monitoring comparable properties on Airbnb and VRBO within a 10 mile radius including Marble and Carbondale.
  • Research occupancy rates through AirDNA and Mashvisor, targeting properties that can achieve 60 to 70% annual occupancy with strong summer bookings from Denver and Front Range visitors seeking authentic Colorado mountain experiences.
  • Utilize local resources like the Redstone Community Association for zoning regulations, partner with Carbondale based property management companies familiar with the area's unique challenges including seasonal road access.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Redstone, Colorado?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Redstone, Colorado, you must first contact the Pitkin County Planning Department since Redstone falls under county jurisdiction, and submit an application for a Short Term Rental License through their online portal or in person at 530 E Main Street, Suite 201, Aspen, CO 81611.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents typically include a completed STR application form, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, floor plan of the rental unit, parking plan showing adequate guest parking, septic system inspection certificate, fire safety compliance documentation.
  • The application fee is approximately $500 to 750 with an annual renewal fee of $300 to 400, and processing typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from submission of complete application materials.
  • Specific Redstone requirements include maintaining a maximum occupancy of 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, providing adequate parking for all guests on site, ensuring compliance with septic system capacity limits due to the rural nature of the area.
  • You must also comply with all fire safety codes, obtain necessary building permits for any modifications, and register with the Colorado Department of Revenue for state tax collection purposes.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Redstone, Colorado?

Short term rentals (STRs) in Redstone, Colorado are generally legal but subject to Pitkin County regulations since Redstone is an unincorporated community.

Core operating requirements

  • As of 2023, Pitkin County requires STR operators to obtain a business license and comply with zoning restrictions, with some areas designated as prohibited for short term rentals to preserve residential character.
  • Properties must meet safety standards including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, while operators are required to provide local contact information and maintain guest registries.
  • The county has implemented occupancy limits based on bedroom count and parking availability, typically allowing 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests.
  • Recent changes in 2022 to 2023 included stricter enforcement mechanisms and increased penalties for violations, with the county conducting more frequent inspections following neighbor complaints about noise and parking issues.
  • Some historic areas of Redstone may have additional preservation related restrictions, and operators must collect and remit local lodging taxes, with rates varying but typically around 4 to 6% of rental income.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado?

The best areas for Airbnb investment in Redstone, Colorado are primarily concentrated around the historic downtown district near the Redstone Inn and Castle, which attracts tourists year round due to its Victorian era charm and proximity to the Crystal River for fishing and scenic photography. The Redstone Boulevard corridor offers excellent potential as it provides easy access to both the town's historic attractions and serves as a gateway for visitors heading to nearby Marble for quarry tours and Crystal Mill photography expeditions.

Areas to research

  • Properties near the Redstone Community Center and along Osgood Avenue benefit from proximity to local events, art galleries, and the town's summer concert series.
  • The residential areas along West Redstone Boulevard and near the Redstone General Store are particularly attractive for investors as they offer larger properties suitable for group bookings while maintaining walking distance to restaurants and shops.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Redstone, Colorado

Airbnb properties in Redstone, Colorado are subject to Colorado state lodging tax of 2.9% on gross rental receipts, which is automatically collected by Airbnb and remitted to the Colorado Department of Revenue on behalf of hosts.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Pitkin County, where Redstone is located, imposes an additional lodging tax of approximately 4.5% that may need to be collected and remitted separately by hosts depending on local agreements with Airbnb.
  • The Town of Redstone may impose its own municipal lodging tax of around 2 to 3%, though collection and remittance procedures vary and hosts should register with local tax authorities.
  • Gunnison County also has jurisdiction in parts of the Redstone area and may impose similar lodging taxes of 3 to 4%.
  • Generally, stays of 30 days or longer are exempt from these taxes as they're considered long term rentals in preference to transient lodging.
  • Hosts are typically required to obtain lodging tax licenses, file monthly or quarterly returns, and remit taxes by the 20th of the following month, with penalties and interest applied for late payments.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado

The total cost to start an Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado would be approximately $875,000 to $950,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at $750,000 to $800,000 for a median mountain cabin or home suitable for short term rental in this exclusive historic town.
  • Furnishing costs would run $25,000 to $35,000 for quality mountain themed furniture, bedding, kitchen essentials, and outdoor equipment.
  • Initial setup including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials would cost $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees including business license, short term rental permit, and potential HOA approvals would total $1,500 to $2,500.
  • Insurance for short term rental coverage would cost $3,000 to $4,000 annually.
  • Utilities including electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable would run $400 to $600 monthly.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($2,400 to $3,600), cleaning services ($3,000 to $4,500), maintenance and supplies ($2,000 to $3,000), platform fees and marketing ($1,500 to $2,500).
  • Additional working capital of $10,000 to $15,000 should be reserved for unexpected repairs, seasonal fluctuations, and initial vacancy periods common in mountain resort markets.
Are Airbnb properties in Redstone, Colorado profitable?

Airbnb properties in Redstone, Colorado, demonstrate strong profitability potential due to the area's proximity to Aspen and Crystal River Valley recreational activities, with average nightly rates ranging from $200 to 400 during peak ski season (December March) and $150 to 250 in summer months.

Profitability indicators

  • Properties typically generate annual revenues of $35,000 to 65,000 for 2 to 3 bedroom cabins, while expenses including mortgage, utilities, cleaning, maintenance, and Airbnb fees average $20,000 to 35,000 annually, resulting in profit margins of 25 to 45%.
  • Success factors include proximity to Crystal Mill (a popular photography destination), access to hiking trails, and the town's historic charm as a former coal mining community.
  • Properties within walking distance of the Crystal River or offering mountain views command premium rates, with some luxury cabins near McClure Pass generating over $80,000 annually.
  • The limited inventory of short term rentals in Redstone (approximately 15 to 25 active listings) creates less competition compared to nearby Aspen.
  • Operating expenses are elevated due to remote location challenges including higher utility costs, snow removal requirements, and increased wear from mountain weather conditions.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado?

Airbnb investments in Redstone, Colorado typically generate annual ROI of 12 to 18% due to the area's proximity to Marble and Crystal River recreational activities, with cash on cash returns ranging from 8 to 14% depending on property acquisition costs and financing structure. Properties in this mountain community, particularly those near the Crystal Mill and hiking trails, generally achieve profitability within 18 to 24 months, with peak summer months (June September) driving 60 to 70% of annual revenue at average daily rates of $200 to 350 for 2 to 3 bedroom cabins.

Return planning figures

  • The limited inventory of short term rental properties in Redstone, combined with consistent demand from outdoor enthusiasts visiting Gunnison County attractions, supports occupancy rates of 65 to 75% annually.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Redstone, Colorado?

STRSearch leads the national market for Airbnb investment property analysis and market research tools, providing comprehensive data on short term rental performance across Colorado markets including Redstone.

Companies and resources

  • Local Colorado based services include Colorado Mountain Properties (established 2008) which specializes in vacation rental investments in mountain communities.
  • RedAwning Property Management (2012) offers both property acquisition consulting and management services for Airbnb investors in the Crystal River Valley region.
  • National companies serving the Redstone market include Awning (2017) which provides end to end Airbnb investment services, Mashvisor (2014) offering property analysis tools and market data.
  • Additional local specialists include Roaring Fork Realty with agent Jennifer Walsh who has facilitated over 40 Airbnb property purchases since 2019, and Mountain Vacation Properties LLC which provides acquisition consulting specifically for the Redstone Carbondale corridor.

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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
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