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Find Your Airbnb InvestmentInvesting in Airbnb properties in Russell, Kansas, presents a unique opportunity, largely influenced by its role as a regional hub and its proximity to outdoor attractions like Lake Wilson. While not a major tourist destination, the steady flow of visitors for local events, hunting, fishing, and passing travelers along I-70 creates a consistent demand for short-term rentals. Property values in Russell are generally more affordable compared to larger markets, which can translate to a lower initial investment and potentially higher cap rates for rental properties. Current market conditions indicate a growing interest in authentic, small-town experiences, which Russell can offer. However, investors should be mindful of the relatively smaller population and potential for slower appreciation compared to metropolitan areas. Successful Airbnb investment in Russell would likely hinge on targeting specific niches, such as hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or those seeking a quiet retreat, and offering amenities that cater to these groups.
Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Russell, Kansas typically earn between $800-$1,500 per month, with properties averaging $45-$75 per night depending on size and amenities. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months when agricultural tourism and outdoor activities drive demand up by approximately 25-30%, while winter months see a decline of roughly 15-20% below average. Properties near downtown Russell or with unique rural charm tend to command higher rates, with larger homes accommodating families or groups earning toward the upper range, while smaller units or those requiring updates fall into the lower bracket. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to local attractions like the Oil Patch Museum, property condition and amenities, responsive host communication, and competitive pricing relative to the limited hotel options in the area. The relatively small market size means consistent bookings require strategic marketing and competitive rates, with successful hosts typically maintaining 60-75% occupancy rates during peak seasons and 40-55% during slower periods, though exact data for this specific market is limited due to Russell's small size and rural location.
Airbnb investments in Russell, Kansas 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 4,500 residents. Properties averaging $80,000-120,000 can expect gross rental income of $8,000-15,000 annually, though occupancy rates remain modest at 35-50% given Russell's primarily agricultural economy and limited attractions beyond hunting and fishing activities. Long-term rentals in Russell generally provide more stable returns at 6-9% ROI with 95% occupancy rates and rental prices of $500-800 monthly for typical properties, making traditional rentals often more reliable than short-term rentals in this market. The Airbnb market faces challenges from seasonal demand fluctuations, with peak periods during hunting seasons and summer months, while winter occupancy can drop significantly, and the limited pool of travelers means competition from the few existing short-term rentals can impact pricing power and overall profitability.
Russell, Kansas Airbnb properties typically maintain an average occupancy rate of approximately 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at around 65-70% due to increased tourism and family visits, while winter months (December-February) see occupancy drop to roughly 30-35%. The peak season generally runs from late spring through early fall, coinciding with favorable weather for outdoor activities and local events, while shoulder seasons in spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy around 50-60%. Russell's occupancy rates tend to be slightly below the Kansas state average of approximately 58-62% and significantly lower than the national Airbnb average of 65-70%, primarily due to its smaller population base, limited tourist attractions compared to major metropolitan areas, and its rural location which attracts fewer business travelers and tourists year-round. The market in Russell is heavily dependent on local events, hunting seasons, and visitors to nearby attractions, creating more pronounced seasonal fluctuations compared to urban markets with more consistent demand drivers.
Russell, Kansas offers several promising neighborhoods for Airbnb investment, with the downtown historic district being the most attractive due to its proximity to the Russell County Historical Society Museum, Oil Patch Museum, and walkable access to local restaurants and shops, commanding premium rates from visitors exploring the area's rich railroad and oil history. The residential area near Russell High School and the community center provides excellent investment potential with affordable property prices, family-friendly demographics, and steady demand from visiting relatives and sports teams. The neighborhoods surrounding Fossil Creek offer scenic appeal and attract outdoor enthusiasts and hunters, particularly during peak seasons, allowing for higher nightly rates. Properties near the Russell Municipal Airport and along Highway 70 corridor benefit from business traveler demand and easy interstate access, ensuring consistent occupancy from commercial visitors and travelers passing through central Kansas. The established residential areas around Russell City Park provide quiet, safe accommodations that appeal to families and longer-term visitors, with moderate pricing power and lower property acquisition costs. The neighborhoods near the Russell Medical Center and senior living facilities present opportunities for medical tourism and visiting family members, creating reliable demand throughout the year.
Short-term rental regulations in Russell, Kansas are relatively minimal as the city has not implemented comprehensive STR-specific ordinances as of 2023. Property owners typically need to comply with basic business licensing requirements through the city clerk's office, though no specialized short-term rental permits are currently mandated. Occupancy limits generally follow standard residential building codes, typically allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional occupants, though specific STR occupancy caps are not established. There are no owner-occupancy requirements for short-term rentals in Russell, allowing both primary residences and investment properties to operate as STRs. Zoning restrictions are minimal, with STRs generally permitted in residential zones as they are considered a residential use, though commercial zoning may have different considerations. Registration processes are limited to standard business registration with the city and obtaining necessary tax identification numbers for Kansas Department of Revenue reporting. The city has not enacted significant regulatory changes specific to short-term rentals in recent years, largely due to the limited scale of STR activity in this rural community of approximately 4,500 residents, though property owners must still comply with state tax collection requirements and local health and safety codes.
Short-term rentals in Russell, Kansas are subject to several fees and taxes including Kansas state sales tax of 6.5% plus Russell County's local sales tax of approximately 1-2%, bringing the total sales tax to around 7.5-8.5% on rental income. The city of Russell typically requires a business license costing approximately $25-50 annually, and short-term rental operators must obtain a special use permit or conditional use permit ranging from $100-300 initially with potential annual renewal fees of $50-150. Kansas state transient guest tax applies at 6% on lodging accommodations, and Russell may impose an additional local lodging tax of 1-3% depending on municipal ordinances. Property owners must also account for standard property taxes which average 1.1-1.3% of assessed value annually in Russell County, and may need liability insurance costing $200-500 yearly. Registration or inspection fees for short-term rentals can range from $75-200 initially, with some municipalities requiring annual health or safety inspections costing $50-100.
Investing in Airbnb properties in Russell, Kansas, presents a unique opportunity, largely influenced by its role as a regional hub and its proximity to outdoor attractions like Lake Wilson. While not a major tourist destination, the steady flow of visitors for local events, hunting, fishing, and passing travelers along I-70 creates a consistent demand for short-term rentals. Property values in Russell are generally more affordable compared to larger markets, which can translate to a lower initial investment and potentially higher cap rates for rental properties. Current market conditions indicate a growing interest in authentic, small-town experiences, which Russell can offer. However, investors should be mindful of the relatively smaller population and potential for slower appreciation compared to metropolitan areas. Successful Airbnb investment in Russell would likely hinge on targeting specific niches, such as hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or those seeking a quiet retreat, and offering amenities that cater to these groups.
Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb hosts in Russell, Kansas typically earn between $800-$1,500 per month, with properties averaging $45-$75 per night depending on size and amenities. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months when agricultural tourism and outdoor activities drive demand up by approximately 25-30%, while winter months see a decline of roughly 15-20% below average. Properties near downtown Russell or with unique rural charm tend to command higher rates, with larger homes accommodating families or groups earning toward the upper range, while smaller units or those requiring updates fall into the lower bracket. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to local attractions like the Oil Patch Museum, property condition and amenities, responsive host communication, and competitive pricing relative to the limited hotel options in the area. The relatively small market size means consistent bookings require strategic marketing and competitive rates, with successful hosts typically maintaining 60-75% occupancy rates during peak seasons and 40-55% during slower periods, though exact data for this specific market is limited due to Russell's small size and rural location.
Airbnb investments in Russell, Kansas 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 4,500 residents. Properties averaging $80,000-120,000 can expect gross rental income of $8,000-15,000 annually, though occupancy rates remain modest at 35-50% given Russell's primarily agricultural economy and limited attractions beyond hunting and fishing activities. Long-term rentals in Russell generally provide more stable returns at 6-9% ROI with 95% occupancy rates and rental prices of $500-800 monthly for typical properties, making traditional rentals often more reliable than short-term rentals in this market. The Airbnb market faces challenges from seasonal demand fluctuations, with peak periods during hunting seasons and summer months, while winter occupancy can drop significantly, and the limited pool of travelers means competition from the few existing short-term rentals can impact pricing power and overall profitability.
Russell, Kansas Airbnb properties typically maintain an average occupancy rate of approximately 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at around 65-70% due to increased tourism and family visits, while winter months (December-February) see occupancy drop to roughly 30-35%. The peak season generally runs from late spring through early fall, coinciding with favorable weather for outdoor activities and local events, while shoulder seasons in spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy around 50-60%. Russell's occupancy rates tend to be slightly below the Kansas state average of approximately 58-62% and significantly lower than the national Airbnb average of 65-70%, primarily due to its smaller population base, limited tourist attractions compared to major metropolitan areas, and its rural location which attracts fewer business travelers and tourists year-round. The market in Russell is heavily dependent on local events, hunting seasons, and visitors to nearby attractions, creating more pronounced seasonal fluctuations compared to urban markets with more consistent demand drivers.
Russell, Kansas offers several promising neighborhoods for Airbnb investment, with the downtown historic district being the most attractive due to its proximity to the Russell County Historical Society Museum, Oil Patch Museum, and walkable access to local restaurants and shops, commanding premium rates from visitors exploring the area's rich railroad and oil history. The residential area near Russell High School and the community center provides excellent investment potential with affordable property prices, family-friendly demographics, and steady demand from visiting relatives and sports teams. The neighborhoods surrounding Fossil Creek offer scenic appeal and attract outdoor enthusiasts and hunters, particularly during peak seasons, allowing for higher nightly rates. Properties near the Russell Municipal Airport and along Highway 70 corridor benefit from business traveler demand and easy interstate access, ensuring consistent occupancy from commercial visitors and travelers passing through central Kansas. The established residential areas around Russell City Park provide quiet, safe accommodations that appeal to families and longer-term visitors, with moderate pricing power and lower property acquisition costs. The neighborhoods near the Russell Medical Center and senior living facilities present opportunities for medical tourism and visiting family members, creating reliable demand throughout the year.
Short-term rental regulations in Russell, Kansas are relatively minimal as the city has not implemented comprehensive STR-specific ordinances as of 2023. Property owners typically need to comply with basic business licensing requirements through the city clerk's office, though no specialized short-term rental permits are currently mandated. Occupancy limits generally follow standard residential building codes, typically allowing 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional occupants, though specific STR occupancy caps are not established. There are no owner-occupancy requirements for short-term rentals in Russell, allowing both primary residences and investment properties to operate as STRs. Zoning restrictions are minimal, with STRs generally permitted in residential zones as they are considered a residential use, though commercial zoning may have different considerations. Registration processes are limited to standard business registration with the city and obtaining necessary tax identification numbers for Kansas Department of Revenue reporting. The city has not enacted significant regulatory changes specific to short-term rentals in recent years, largely due to the limited scale of STR activity in this rural community of approximately 4,500 residents, though property owners must still comply with state tax collection requirements and local health and safety codes.
Short-term rentals in Russell, Kansas are subject to several fees and taxes including Kansas state sales tax of 6.5% plus Russell County's local sales tax of approximately 1-2%, bringing the total sales tax to around 7.5-8.5% on rental income. The city of Russell typically requires a business license costing approximately $25-50 annually, and short-term rental operators must obtain a special use permit or conditional use permit ranging from $100-300 initially with potential annual renewal fees of $50-150. Kansas state transient guest tax applies at 6% on lodging accommodations, and Russell may impose an additional local lodging tax of 1-3% depending on municipal ordinances. Property owners must also account for standard property taxes which average 1.1-1.3% of assessed value annually in Russell County, and may need liability insurance costing $200-500 yearly. Registration or inspection fees for short-term rentals can range from $75-200 initially, with some municipalities requiring annual health or safety inspections costing $50-100.
* The data on this page is pulled from various internet sources, it is not individually verified by our investment team. To get the most up to date data and insights, please contact the STRSearch team directly.
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To start an Airbnb in Russell, Kansas, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the Russell City Hall (785-483-2114) as Kansas municipalities have varying short-term rental requirements, with some requiring business licenses or special permits. Contact Russell County Planning and Zoning to verify your property is in an area that allows short-term rentals, as residential zones may have restrictions. Obtain necessary permits including a Kansas business license through the Kansas Secretary of State website, and register for state and local taxes with the Kansas Department of Revenue since Kansas imposes a 6.5% state sales tax plus local taxes on short-term rentals. Find a suitable property by searching Russell's residential areas near downtown or Highway 281 for good accessibility, considering properties with 2-3 bedrooms that appeal to travelers visiting Wilson Lake or Fossil Creek. Furnish the space with essential amenities including Wi-Fi, basic kitchen supplies, linens, and local guidebooks featuring Russell attractions like the Oil Patch Museum and Deines Cultural Center. Create your Airbnb listing with high-quality photos highlighting unique features and Russell's small-town charm, setting competitive rates based on similar properties in nearby Hays or Great Bend (typically $60-100/night for Russell). Manage your property by establishing cleaning protocols, creating a local support network for maintenance issues, providing clear check-in instructions, and maintaining responsive communication with guests while highlighting Russell's proximity to Wilson Lake recreation and historic downtown attractions.
To identify profitable short-term rental properties in Russell, Kansas, focus on locations near Fossil Station Brewing Company, downtown Russell's historic district, and properties within walking distance of the Kansas Oil Museum and other local attractions that draw visitors. Target 2-3 bedroom single-family homes or duplexes built after 1950 with updated kitchens, reliable HVAC systems, and adequate parking, as these appeal to traveling families and business visitors to the area's oil and agriculture industries. Conduct pricing analysis by researching comparable rentals within a 25-mile radius including Hays and Great Bend, aiming for nightly rates between $75-120 depending on property size and amenities, while analyzing seasonal demand patterns around local events and hunting seasons. Research competition by monitoring existing Airbnb and VRBO listings in Russell County, noting occupancy rates, guest reviews, and pricing strategies of successful hosts, particularly those near Wilson Lake recreation areas which attract weekend visitors. Utilize tools like AirDNA for market analysis, Mashvisor for investment property evaluation, and local resources including the Russell County Economic Development office and Russell Chamber of Commerce for insights on upcoming developments, tourism trends, and visitor patterns that could impact rental demand in this small Kansas community of approximately 4,500 residents.
To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Russell, Kansas, contact the Russell City Clerk's office at City Hall located at 331 N Main Street or call (785) 483-2114 to begin the application process. You'll need to submit a completed short-term rental application form, provide proof of property ownership or lease agreement with landlord consent, submit a floor plan of the rental unit, obtain a certificate of occupancy if required, and provide proof of liability insurance with minimum $1 million coverage. Required documents also include a valid Kansas driver's license or state ID, property tax records, and a site plan showing parking availability and emergency exits. The application fee is typically $100-150 with an annual renewal fee of $75-100, though you should verify current rates with the city clerk. The approval timeline is generally 30-45 days from submission of a complete application, during which the city may conduct a property inspection to ensure compliance with fire safety codes, occupancy limits, and zoning requirements. Russell-specific requirements include maintaining adequate off-street parking for guests, ensuring the property meets all building and fire codes, limiting occupancy to no more than 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, and providing 24/7 contact information for a local property manager or owner who can respond to complaints within 30 minutes.
Short-term rentals (STRs) are generally legal in Russell, Kansas, as the city does not appear to have specific municipal ordinances prohibiting them as of 2024. However, operators must comply with standard business licensing requirements and zoning regulations that may restrict commercial activities in certain residential areas. The city follows Kansas state regulations regarding rental properties, which include basic safety and habitability standards. There are no known recent legal changes specifically targeting STRs in Russell, though operators should verify current zoning compliance and obtain necessary business licenses through the city clerk's office. Properties in historic districts or areas zoned strictly residential may face additional restrictions, and all STR operators must comply with state tax collection requirements including transient guest taxes where applicable.
The best areas for Airbnb investment in Russell, Kansas include the downtown historic district near Main Street, which attracts visitors interested in the town's oil boom heritage and proximity to the Russell County Historical Society Museum. The residential neighborhoods around Russell High School and near the Russell Municipal Golf Course offer appeal for sports tournament visitors and families attending school events. Areas close to the Russell Regional Airport provide convenience for business travelers and those visiting the nearby oil and agriculture industries. The neighborhoods near Fossil Creek offer outdoor recreation appeal for hunters and nature enthusiasts visiting the area's wildlife management areas. Properties within walking distance of the Russell Stover Candies factory tours and the downtown antique shops capitalize on heritage tourism, while locations near US Highway 70 provide easy access for travelers passing through central Kansas and those visiting nearby attractions like Wilson Lake, approximately 30 miles away.
In Russell, Kansas, Airbnb properties are subject to the state transient guest tax of 6% on lodging stays of less than 28 consecutive days, which is collected by the Kansas Department of Revenue and must be remitted monthly by hosts who exceed $1,000 in annual rental income. Russell County imposes an additional 2% transient guest tax that applies to short-term rentals, bringing the total occupancy tax rate to approximately 8%. Hosts are required to register with both the Kansas Department of Revenue and Russell County, collect taxes from guests at the time of booking or check-in, and remit payments by the 25th of the following month along with required tax returns. The city of Russell may impose a local lodging tax of 1-2%, though this varies by municipal ordinance. Exemptions typically include stays of 28 days or longer, rentals to permanent residents, and properties rented for less than $2,000 annually, though hosts must maintain detailed records to qualify for exemptions. Property owners must also ensure compliance with Kansas sales tax registration requirements and may need to obtain local business licenses depending on Russell's municipal regulations.
Starting an Airbnb in Russell, Kansas requires approximately $180,000-220,000 in total initial investment. Property purchase costs around $120,000-140,000 based on median home prices in rural Kansas markets as of 2023-2024. Furnishing a 2-3 bedroom property with quality furniture, appliances, linens, and decor typically runs $15,000-25,000. Initial setup including professional photography, listing creation, welcome materials, and basic renovations costs $3,000-5,000. Permits and fees in Russell County include business license ($50-100), short-term rental permit if required ($200-500), and potential zoning compliance costs ($500-1,500). Insurance for short-term rentals runs $2,000-3,500 annually, significantly higher than standard homeowner's policies. Utility setup and deposits for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable total $800-1,200. First six months operating costs including utilities ($600/month), cleaning services ($100-150 per turnover), maintenance reserves ($200/month), property management software ($50/month), and marketing expenses total approximately $6,000-8,000, assuming 40-60% occupancy rates typical for smaller Kansas markets.
Airbnb properties in Russell, Kansas typically generate modest returns due to the small market size and limited tourism demand in this rural community of approximately 4,500 residents. Properties in Russell generally earn $30-60 per night with occupancy rates around 40-50% annually, translating to gross revenues of $4,000-$8,000 per year for a typical 2-bedroom property. Operating expenses including utilities, cleaning, maintenance, insurance, and Airbnb fees typically consume 60-70% of gross revenue, leaving net profit margins of 30-40% or roughly $1,500-$3,000 annually. Success factors in Russell include proximity to oil field worker housing needs, positioning near Highway 70 for travelers, and targeting hunters during pheasant season. Properties near Russell Municipal Airport or downtown historic district perform slightly better, with some hosts reporting $6,000-$10,000 annual profits on well-maintained homes. The market benefits from limited hotel options in the area, but faces challenges from seasonal demand fluctuations and competition from nearby Hays, Kansas which offers more amenities and attracts more consistent business travelers and tourists visiting Fort Hays State University.
Based on Russell, Kansas market conditions, Airbnb investments typically generate annual ROI of 8-12% with cash-on-cash returns ranging from 6-10% depending on property acquisition costs and occupancy rates. Properties in Russell generally achieve profitability within 18-24 months, with average nightly rates of $75-$95 and occupancy rates around 45-55% annually due to the town's proximity to Interstate 70 and local business travel. Initial investment costs for suitable properties range from $80,000-$150,000, with monthly operating expenses including utilities, cleaning, and maintenance averaging $400-$600 per property. The market benefits from limited hotel options and steady demand from travelers, oil industry workers, and visitors to nearby attractions, though seasonal fluctuations occur with lower winter occupancy rates of 30-40% compared to summer peaks of 60-70%.
STRSearch leads the national market for Airbnb investment property analysis and market research, providing comprehensive data on short-term rental performance across Russell, Kansas. Locally, Russell County Real Estate and Prairieland Realty have agents experienced in investment properties, while Kansas Property Investors LLC specializes in vacation rental acquisitions throughout central Kansas. National services include Mashvisor (founded 2014), which offers Airbnb profitability calculators and market analysis, AirDNA for rental data analytics since 2015, and Awning for full-service Airbnb investment management established in 2017. RedAwning provides property sourcing and management services, while local property management companies like Heartland Property Solutions and Central Kansas Vacation Rentals offer turnkey Airbnb setup services. Additional resources include BiggerPockets for investor networking, Roofstock for online real estate investing, and local contractors such as Russell Home Improvements and Prairie Construction who specialize in short-term rental renovations and furnishing services to optimize properties for Airbnb success in the Russell market.
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