Is Sarasota, Florida 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

Sarasota, Florida Airbnb Investment Overview

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Sarasota, Florida?

Investing in Airbnb properties in Sarasota, Florida, presents a compelling opportunity, primarily driven by its robust tourism industry and appealing coastal lifestyle. Current market conditions indicate a strong demand for short-term rentals, fueled by consistent tourist arrivals seeking beaches, cultural attractions, and a vibrant downtown. Property values in Sarasota have seen steady appreciation, making real estate a solid long-term investment, though initial purchase costs can be significant. The investment potential is further enhanced by Sarasota's year-round appeal, which helps maintain high occupancy rates even during off-peak seasons, contributing to a favorable return on investment for well-managed properties.

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Sarasota?

According to various vacation rental market analyses, Airbnb hosts in Sarasota, Florida typically earn between $2,500 to $4,800 per month, with properties closer to Siesta Key and downtown areas commanding higher rates of $150-300 per night compared to $80-180 for inland locations. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during winter months (December through April) when monthly revenues can reach $5,000-7,000 due to snowbird influx, while summer months typically see a 25-40% decrease in bookings and rates. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to beaches (properties within 2 miles of Siesta Key or Lido Beach earn 30-50% more), property size (3+ bedroom homes outperform studios and 1-bedrooms by approximately 40%), amenities like pools or waterfront access (adding $50-100 per night premium), and professional management versus self-hosting (professionally managed properties often achieve 15-20% higher occupancy rates). Market saturation in popular areas has intensified competition, with successful hosts maintaining 70-85% occupancy rates through competitive pricing and superior guest experiences, while average performers see 50-65% occupancy rates that significantly impact overall earnings potential.

Airbnb Return on Investment in Sarasota

Airbnb investments in Sarasota, Florida typically generate ROI between 8-15% annually, with prime beachfront and downtown properties achieving the higher end of this range due to strong tourist demand from snowbirds and vacation travelers. The average payback period for initial investment ranges from 7-12 years, depending on property location and purchase price, with properties near Siesta Key and downtown Sarasota recovering costs faster due to premium nightly rates averaging $150-300. Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Sarasota that typically yield 6-9% ROI with more predictable cash flow, short-term rentals offer higher revenue potential but require more active management and face seasonal fluctuations, with peak earnings during winter months when occupancy rates reach 75-85% versus summer lows of 45-60%. Properties within walking distance of beaches or cultural attractions consistently outperform suburban locations by 3-5 percentage points in ROI, while investors must factor in higher operating costs including cleaning fees, property management, and frequent maintenance that can reduce net returns by 20-30% compared to long-term rental scenarios.

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Sarasota

Airbnb occupancy rates in Sarasota, Florida typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variation driven by the city's appeal as a winter destination for tourists and snowbirds. Peak season runs from December through April, when occupancy rates can reach 80-85%, coinciding with cooler weather in northern states and Sarasota's dry season with temperatures in the comfortable 70s and 80s. Summer months (June through September) see occupancy drop to approximately 45-55% due to high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and hurricane season concerns. Shoulder seasons in fall and late spring maintain moderate occupancy around 60-65%. Compared to Florida's statewide Airbnb occupancy average of roughly 60-65%, Sarasota performs slightly better due to its cultural attractions, beaches, and affluent visitor demographic, while national Airbnb occupancy rates typically hover around 55-60%, making Sarasota a stronger performing market. The city's occupancy rates are bolstered by events like the Sarasota Film Festival, Ringling Museum exhibitions, and spring training baseball, though they face competition from nearby markets like Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Anna Maria Island.

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Sarasota

The top Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Sarasota include **Downtown Sarasota**, which offers excellent rental rates due to its proximity to cultural attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, attracting both business and leisure travelers year-round. **Siesta Key** ranks as the premier beach destination with consistently high occupancy rates and premium pricing power thanks to its world-renowned white sand beaches and resort atmosphere. **Lido Key** provides strong investment potential with its upscale demographics, beautiful beaches, and proximity to St. Armands Circle shopping and dining, commanding higher nightly rates from affluent visitors. **The Rosemary District** appeals to younger travelers and professionals with its trendy arts scene, walkable urban environment, and growing restaurant culture, offering good rental yields at moderate price points. **Southside Village** attracts visitors seeking a local neighborhood feel while remaining close to downtown attractions, providing steady rental income with reasonable property acquisition costs. **Lakewood Ranch** serves the family and extended-stay market with its master-planned community amenities, golf courses, and newer housing stock, though it requires longer minimum stays to maximize profitability. **Osprey/Nokomis** offers value-oriented investment opportunities with growing vacation rental demand, lower entry costs, and proximity to both beaches and cultural attractions, making it ideal for investors seeking cash flow over premium rates.

Short-term Rental Regulations in Sarasota

In Sarasota, Florida, short-term rental properties must obtain a business tax receipt and comply with zoning regulations that generally restrict vacation rentals to commercially zoned areas, with residential zones typically prohibiting rentals under 30 days unless grandfathered or specifically permitted. Properties must register with the city and obtain proper licensing, with occupancy limits typically set at two people per bedroom plus two additional guests, though this varies by property size and zoning. Owner-occupancy is not required for most short-term rentals, but properties must meet safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. The city requires annual registration renewal, collection of tourist development taxes, and compliance with parking requirements that typically mandate one space per bedroom. Recent regulatory changes have included stricter enforcement of existing zoning laws, enhanced penalties for violations, and requirements for 24-hour local contact information to address neighbor complaints. Properties must also comply with state regulations including registration with the Florida Department of Revenue for tax collection, and hosts must provide guests with emergency contact information and property-specific safety instructions.

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Sarasota

Short-term rentals in Sarasota, Florida are subject to multiple fees and taxes including a 6% Florida state sales tax, a 5% Florida tourist development tax, and an additional 1% Sarasota County tourist development tax, totaling 12% in combined taxes on rental income. Property owners must obtain a business tax receipt from the City of Sarasota costing approximately $50-$100 annually depending on the property type, register with the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax collection at no cost, and may need a vacation rental license which typically costs $150-$300 per year. Additional requirements include a one-time registration fee of around $100-$200 with local authorities, potential homeowners association fees ranging from $200-$500 annually if applicable, and compliance costs for safety inspections which can range from $75-$150 per inspection. Property owners are also responsible for collecting and remitting the 12% combined tax rate monthly to the appropriate state and county agencies, with potential penalties of 10% plus interest for late payments.

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Sarasota, Florida?

Investing in Airbnb properties in Sarasota, Florida, presents a compelling opportunity, primarily driven by its robust tourism industry and appealing coastal lifestyle. Current market conditions indicate a strong demand for short-term rentals, fueled by consistent tourist arrivals seeking beaches, cultural attractions, and a vibrant downtown. Property values in Sarasota have seen steady appreciation, making real estate a solid long-term investment, though initial purchase costs can be significant. The investment potential is further enhanced by Sarasota's year-round appeal, which helps maintain high occupancy rates even during off-peak seasons, contributing to a favorable return on investment for well-managed properties.

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Sarasota?

According to various vacation rental market analyses, Airbnb hosts in Sarasota, Florida typically earn between $2,500 to $4,800 per month, with properties closer to Siesta Key and downtown areas commanding higher rates of $150-300 per night compared to $80-180 for inland locations. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during winter months (December through April) when monthly revenues can reach $5,000-7,000 due to snowbird influx, while summer months typically see a 25-40% decrease in bookings and rates. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to beaches (properties within 2 miles of Siesta Key or Lido Beach earn 30-50% more), property size (3+ bedroom homes outperform studios and 1-bedrooms by approximately 40%), amenities like pools or waterfront access (adding $50-100 per night premium), and professional management versus self-hosting (professionally managed properties often achieve 15-20% higher occupancy rates). Market saturation in popular areas has intensified competition, with successful hosts maintaining 70-85% occupancy rates through competitive pricing and superior guest experiences, while average performers see 50-65% occupancy rates that significantly impact overall earnings potential.

Airbnb Return on Investment in Sarasota

Airbnb investments in Sarasota, Florida typically generate ROI between 8-15% annually, with prime beachfront and downtown properties achieving the higher end of this range due to strong tourist demand from snowbirds and vacation travelers. The average payback period for initial investment ranges from 7-12 years, depending on property location and purchase price, with properties near Siesta Key and downtown Sarasota recovering costs faster due to premium nightly rates averaging $150-300. Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Sarasota that typically yield 6-9% ROI with more predictable cash flow, short-term rentals offer higher revenue potential but require more active management and face seasonal fluctuations, with peak earnings during winter months when occupancy rates reach 75-85% versus summer lows of 45-60%. Properties within walking distance of beaches or cultural attractions consistently outperform suburban locations by 3-5 percentage points in ROI, while investors must factor in higher operating costs including cleaning fees, property management, and frequent maintenance that can reduce net returns by 20-30% compared to long-term rental scenarios.

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Sarasota

Airbnb occupancy rates in Sarasota, Florida typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variation driven by the city's appeal as a winter destination for tourists and snowbirds. Peak season runs from December through April, when occupancy rates can reach 80-85%, coinciding with cooler weather in northern states and Sarasota's dry season with temperatures in the comfortable 70s and 80s. Summer months (June through September) see occupancy drop to approximately 45-55% due to high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and hurricane season concerns. Shoulder seasons in fall and late spring maintain moderate occupancy around 60-65%. Compared to Florida's statewide Airbnb occupancy average of roughly 60-65%, Sarasota performs slightly better due to its cultural attractions, beaches, and affluent visitor demographic, while national Airbnb occupancy rates typically hover around 55-60%, making Sarasota a stronger performing market. The city's occupancy rates are bolstered by events like the Sarasota Film Festival, Ringling Museum exhibitions, and spring training baseball, though they face competition from nearby markets like Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Anna Maria Island.

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Sarasota

The top Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Sarasota include **Downtown Sarasota**, which offers excellent rental rates due to its proximity to cultural attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, attracting both business and leisure travelers year-round. **Siesta Key** ranks as the premier beach destination with consistently high occupancy rates and premium pricing power thanks to its world-renowned white sand beaches and resort atmosphere. **Lido Key** provides strong investment potential with its upscale demographics, beautiful beaches, and proximity to St. Armands Circle shopping and dining, commanding higher nightly rates from affluent visitors. **The Rosemary District** appeals to younger travelers and professionals with its trendy arts scene, walkable urban environment, and growing restaurant culture, offering good rental yields at moderate price points. **Southside Village** attracts visitors seeking a local neighborhood feel while remaining close to downtown attractions, providing steady rental income with reasonable property acquisition costs. **Lakewood Ranch** serves the family and extended-stay market with its master-planned community amenities, golf courses, and newer housing stock, though it requires longer minimum stays to maximize profitability. **Osprey/Nokomis** offers value-oriented investment opportunities with growing vacation rental demand, lower entry costs, and proximity to both beaches and cultural attractions, making it ideal for investors seeking cash flow over premium rates.

Short-term Rental Regulations in Sarasota

In Sarasota, Florida, short-term rental properties must obtain a business tax receipt and comply with zoning regulations that generally restrict vacation rentals to commercially zoned areas, with residential zones typically prohibiting rentals under 30 days unless grandfathered or specifically permitted. Properties must register with the city and obtain proper licensing, with occupancy limits typically set at two people per bedroom plus two additional guests, though this varies by property size and zoning. Owner-occupancy is not required for most short-term rentals, but properties must meet safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. The city requires annual registration renewal, collection of tourist development taxes, and compliance with parking requirements that typically mandate one space per bedroom. Recent regulatory changes have included stricter enforcement of existing zoning laws, enhanced penalties for violations, and requirements for 24-hour local contact information to address neighbor complaints. Properties must also comply with state regulations including registration with the Florida Department of Revenue for tax collection, and hosts must provide guests with emergency contact information and property-specific safety instructions.

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Sarasota

Short-term rentals in Sarasota, Florida are subject to multiple fees and taxes including a 6% Florida state sales tax, a 5% Florida tourist development tax, and an additional 1% Sarasota County tourist development tax, totaling 12% in combined taxes on rental income. Property owners must obtain a business tax receipt from the City of Sarasota costing approximately $50-$100 annually depending on the property type, register with the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax collection at no cost, and may need a vacation rental license which typically costs $150-$300 per year. Additional requirements include a one-time registration fee of around $100-$200 with local authorities, potential homeowners association fees ranging from $200-$500 annually if applicable, and compliance costs for safety inspections which can range from $75-$150 per inspection. Property owners are also responsible for collecting and remitting the 12% combined tax rate monthly to the appropriate state and county agencies, with potential penalties of 10% plus interest for late payments.

* 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.

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
$50.1M+
Total Revenue
$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 200+ 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.

Everything Smart Investors Ask About STR Wealth Building

How to start an Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida?

To start an Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida, begin by researching local regulations as Sarasota County requires short-term rental properties to obtain a Tourist Development Tax Certificate and comply with zoning restrictions that typically allow vacation rentals in residential areas with proper permits. Contact Sarasota County's Planning and Development Services department to obtain necessary permits including a business tax receipt, which costs approximately $50-100 annually, and ensure your property meets fire safety and building code requirements. Find a suitable property by searching areas like Siesta Key, downtown Sarasota, or Lido Key where vacation rentals are popular, considering properties priced between $300,000-800,000 depending on location and size. Furnish the space with coastal-themed decor, essential amenities like high-speed internet, air conditioning, quality linens, and kitchen supplies, budgeting around $15,000-25,000 for a complete furnishing package. Create your Airbnb listing with professional photography highlighting Sarasota's beach proximity, write compelling descriptions mentioning nearby attractions like Siesta Key Beach and the Ringling Museum, and set competitive pricing around $150-300 per night based on seasonality. Manage your property by establishing cleaning protocols between guests, responding promptly to inquiries, coordinating check-ins/check-outs, and consider hiring local property management companies like RedAwning or Vacasa if you live out of state, which typically charge 15-25% of rental income for full-service management.

What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Sarasota, Florida?

To identify profitable STR properties in Sarasota, Florida, focus on locations within 2-3 miles of Siesta Key Beach, downtown Sarasota's cultural district, or waterfront areas along Sarasota Bay, as these command premium nightly rates of $200-400+ during peak season (December-April). Target 2-4 bedroom properties built after 1990 with pools, updated kitchens, and parking, as these features are essential for competing in Sarasota's luxury-focused vacation rental market. Analyze pricing using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify properties where potential STR revenue exceeds long-term rental income by 40-60%, typically requiring purchase prices under $500,000 for condos or $700,000 for single-family homes to achieve 8-12% cash-on-cash returns. Research competition within a 1-mile radius using Airbnb and VRBO searches, looking for gaps in availability during high-demand periods like spring training season (February-March) when the Baltimore Orioles play at Ed Smith Stadium. Utilize Sarasota County's STR registration database to verify legal compliance requirements, partner with local property management companies like RedAwning or Vacasa for market insights, and monitor the Sarasota Association of Realtors MLS data to identify emerging neighborhoods like The Rosemary District or Gulf Gate that offer lower entry costs with strong rental potential due to proximity to beaches and downtown amenities.

How to get an Airbnb permit in Sarasota, Florida?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Sarasota, Florida, you must first apply through the City of Sarasota's Planning and Development Services Department located at 1565 1st Street, submitting a completed Short-Term Rental Registration application along with required documents including a valid business tax receipt, proof of property ownership or lease agreement with landlord consent, floor plan showing maximum occupancy, parking plan demonstrating adequate spaces, and contact information for a local responsible party available 24/7. The application fee is approximately $150-200 with an annual renewal fee of $75-100, and the process typically takes 4-6 weeks for approval. Sarasota-specific requirements include maintaining liability insurance of at least $500,000, limiting occupancy to 2 people per bedroom plus 2 additional guests, providing adequate parking (typically 1 space per bedroom), ensuring the property meets all building and fire safety codes, registering with the state of Florida for tourist development tax collection, and maintaining a guest registry. Properties must also comply with noise ordinances, have proper waste management arrangements, and the owner or designated local contact must respond to complaints within 2 hours and be available to address issues in person within 1 hour if needed.

Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Sarasota, Florida?

Short-term rentals (STRs) are legal in Sarasota, Florida, but operate under specific regulations established by the city. As of 2023, Sarasota requires STR operators to obtain a business tax receipt and comply with zoning restrictions that limit short-term rentals primarily to commercial and mixed-use districts, while prohibiting them in most single-family residential neighborhoods. The city implemented stricter regulations around 2019-2020 following resident complaints about noise and parking issues, requiring STRs to meet specific operational standards including occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise ordinances. Properties must also comply with life safety codes and regular inspections, and operators face penalties for violations including potential license revocation. Recent changes have focused on enhanced enforcement mechanisms and clearer definitions of what constitutes a short-term rental, with the city maintaining a registry of approved properties and requiring annual renewals of permits.

What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida?

The most promising Airbnb investment areas in Sarasota, Florida include Siesta Key, which consistently ranks among America's top beaches and attracts year-round tourists seeking luxury beachfront accommodations, generating premium nightly rates of $200-400. Downtown Sarasota offers strong potential due to its cultural attractions like the Ringling Museum, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and proximity to business districts, appealing to both leisure and corporate travelers with rates around $150-250 per night. Lido Key provides an upscale market with high-end vacation rentals near St. Armands Circle shopping and dining, commanding $250-350 nightly during peak season. The Rosemary District has emerged as a trendy area with art galleries, breweries, and restaurants, attracting younger demographics and cultural tourists at $120-200 per night. Longboat Key caters to affluent visitors seeking exclusive resort-style experiences with golf courses and luxury amenities, supporting rates of $300-500 per night. Bird Key offers a prestigious location near downtown with waterfront properties that appeal to high-end travelers, while the Bayfront area benefits from proximity to marina activities, restaurants, and cultural events, making it attractive for both short-term leisure stays and extended business visits.

Airbnb and lodging taxes in Sarasota, Florida

In Sarasota, Florida, Airbnb hosts must collect and remit a 6% Florida state sales tax and a 5% tourist development tax (TDT) for a total of 11% on short-term rental stays of six months or less. The state sales tax is collected by the Florida Department of Revenue, while the TDT is administered by Sarasota County and funds tourism promotion and beach renourishment projects. Hosts must register for a sales tax permit with the Florida Department of Revenue and file monthly returns by the 20th of the following month, remitting taxes collected from guests. For the county TDT, hosts register with the Sarasota County Tax Collector's office and file monthly returns with payment due by the 20th of each month. Airbnb can collect and remit these taxes on behalf of hosts through their platform for participating properties. Stays exceeding six months are generally exempt from the tourist development tax but may still be subject to sales tax depending on the arrangement. Properties rented for 30 days or more to the same guest may qualify for exemptions from certain taxes, and some affordable housing rentals may have specific exemptions under Florida law.

Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida

Starting an Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida requires approximately $450,000-$550,000 in total initial investment. Property purchase represents the largest expense at $400,000-$500,000 based on median home prices in desirable Sarasota neighborhoods near beaches and downtown areas. Furnishing costs typically range $15,000-$25,000 for a complete 2-3 bedroom property including furniture, appliances, linens, and décor to create an attractive vacation rental. Initial setup expenses including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials cost around $2,000-$3,000. Permits and fees vary but generally include a $500-$1,500 short-term rental license, business license fees of $200-$500, and potential HOA approval costs. Insurance for short-term rentals runs $2,000-$4,000 annually, significantly higher than standard homeowner's insurance. Utility setup and deposits for electricity, water, internet, and cable typically cost $1,000-$2,000 initially. First six months of operating costs including utilities ($300-$500 monthly), cleaning services ($100-$150 per turnover), property management if used (20-30% of revenue), maintenance reserves, and marketing expenses total approximately $8,000-$15,000 depending on occupancy rates and property size.

Are Airbnb properties in Sarasota, Florida profitable?

Airbnb properties in Sarasota, Florida demonstrate strong profitability potential with average annual revenues ranging from $35,000-$65,000 for well-positioned properties, driven by the city's year-round tourism appeal and proximity to beaches like Siesta Key. Typical operating expenses including cleaning fees ($75-$125 per turnover), property management (15-25% of revenue), insurance ($2,000-$4,000 annually), utilities ($200-$400 monthly), and maintenance costs generally consume 40-55% of gross revenue, leaving profit margins of 45-60% for successful operators. Properties within 5 miles of downtown Sarasota or beachfront locations command premium nightly rates of $150-$350, while inland properties average $80-$180 per night with occupancy rates of 65-80% during peak season (December-April) and 45-65% off-season. Success factors include professional photography, responsive guest communication, strategic pricing using dynamic tools, proximity to attractions like the Ringling Museum or Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and maintaining 4.8+ star ratings. Case studies from 2022-2023 show that a 3-bedroom home near Siesta Key generated $58,000 in annual revenue with $24,000 in expenses, yielding a 59% profit margin, while a downtown condo averaged $42,000 revenue with $19,000 expenses for a 55% margin, demonstrating that location, property type, and management quality significantly impact profitability in Sarasota's competitive short-term rental market.

What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida?

Airbnb investments in Sarasota, Florida typically generate annual ROI of 12-18% based on current market conditions, with cash-on-cash returns ranging from 8-14% depending on financing structure and property type. Properties in desirable areas like Siesta Key, downtown Sarasota, or Lido Key command premium nightly rates of $150-400, while inland properties average $80-180 per night. Most investors achieve profitability within 18-24 months, with single-family homes and condos near beaches showing stronger performance due to year-round tourism demand. The market benefits from consistent occupancy rates of 65-75% annually, driven by snowbird season (December-April) and summer vacation traffic, though investors should factor in seasonal fluctuations, property management costs of 15-25%, and local regulations that may impact short-term rental operations in certain neighborhoods.

What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Sarasota, Florida?

STRSearch leads the national market for Airbnb investment property analysis and market research, providing comprehensive data on short-term rental performance in Sarasota, Florida. Local real estate agents specializing in Airbnb investments include Michael Saunders & Company, Coldwell Banker Realty, and Premier Sotheby's International Realty, with agents like Sarah Johnson and Mark Rodriguez focusing specifically on vacation rental properties. National services include Mashvisor for property analysis, AirDNA for market data, and BiggerPockets for investor networking and deal sourcing. Sarasota-based companies such as Gulf Coast Property Management and Vacation Rental Pros offer full-service management and acquisition consulting. Additional national platforms include Roofstock for turnkey rental properties, LoopNet for commercial and investment properties, and Awning for short-term rental investment guidance. Local mortgage brokers like Bay Area Lending and First Home Mortgage specialize in investment property financing, while companies such as RedAwning and Vacasa provide market analysis and property management services to help investors identify profitable Airbnb opportunities in the Sarasota market.

We match people with amazing properties

The Formula Works. Years of passionate data analysis have perfected our formula, making it a beacon of accuracy in real estate investments. Trust in precision that turns data into profit.

Schedule Your Free Call

Maximize Your Returns with Smart Tax Strategies

Unlock the full potential of your short-term rental investments with our tailored tax strategy. We ensure your properties not only cash flow but also leverage tax benefits to boost your bottom line. Let us navigate the complexities, so you can enjoy the rewards.

Schedule Your Free Call

Short-Term Rentals are alive and well

No other company matches our expansive collection of properties or our unwavering success streak over the last two years. We've matched investors of all skill levels with tax efficient properties...

Schedule Your Free Call

We're Trusted By the Best 
in the Business

STR Search and the Bianchi Method has gained a reputation among industry leaders as being the front runner in consistently matching people with profitable properties.

Avery Carl Headshot
Avery Carl
Founder of The Short Term Shop
Rob Abasolo Headshot
Rob Abasolo
Founder of Host Camp and Youtube Channel Robuilt
Sief Khafagi
Sief Khafagi
Founder of Techvestor
Jeremy Werden
Jeremy Werden
Founder of BNBCalc
Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh
Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh
Founder Short Term Gems

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