Is Scott City, Kansas Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially—Scott City, Kansas combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Presents a unique opportunity, though one that requires careful consideration of its specific market dynamics.
• Current market conditions in Scott City are characterized by a smaller, more stable real estate market compared to larger urban centers, with generally lower property values.
• This can mean a more accessible entry point for investors, but also potentially lower overall rental income.
• Tourism trends in Scott City are primarily driven by local events, agricultural tourism, and visitors passing through to national parks or hunting destinations.
• Property values are typically affordable, which can lead to a quicker return on investment in terms of initial outlay, but capital appreciation may be modest.
• Therefore, the investment potential largely hinges on identifying and catering to specific visitor segments, such as hunters, agricultural workers, or those seeking a quiet rural escape.

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

• Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in Scott City, Kansas typically generate average monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,200, with most hosts earning between $1,200 to $1,600 per month during peak periods.
• Seasonal variations show stronger performance during summer months (June through August) when agricultural tourism and family visits increase, with earnings potentially rising 25-40% above winter averages.
• Winter months typically experience the lowest occupancy rates, with revenues dropping 20-30% below the annual mean due to harsh weather conditions and reduced travel.
• Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, with larger homes accommodating families or work crews commanding higher rates, proximity to local attractions such as Lake Scott State Park.
• The relatively small market size means that well-maintained properties with good hospitality practices can achieve occupancy rates of 60-75% annually.

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

• Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods ranging from 8-12 years due to the city's small market size of approximately 3,800 residents and limited tourist traffic.
• Average nightly rates in Scott City range from $65-85 for a 2-bedroom property, with occupancy rates averaging 35-45% annually, significantly lower than major tourist destinations.
• Properties suitable for short-term rentals, primarily single-family homes valued between $80,000-120,000, can generate monthly gross revenues of $800-1,200 during peak months but drop considerably during winter periods.
• In comparison, long-term rentals in Scott City typically yield 10-14% ROI with more consistent cash flow.
• The Airbnb market faces challenges from limited demand drivers, with most visitors being business travelers or those passing through on Highway 83, making long-term rentals generally more profitable and less risky in this rural Kansas market where tourism infrastructure and attractions are minimal.

Scott City, Kansas averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Scott City, Kansas Airbnb properties typically maintain an average occupancy rate of approximately 45-55% annually.
• The peak season generally runs from late spring through early fall, coinciding with hunting seasons, local festivals, and favorable weather for outdoor activities in western Kansas.
• Scott City's occupancy rates tend to run slightly below the Kansas state average of approximately 55-60%, which is influenced by higher rates in metropolitan areas like Kansas City and Wichita.
• The lower occupancy rates in Scott City reflect its rural location, smaller population base, and limited tourist attractions compared to major urban centers.

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

• Scott City, Kansas offers limited but viable Airbnb investment opportunities primarily concentrated around the downtown core area near US Highway 83 and Main Street, which benefits from proximity to local businesses.
• The residential area surrounding Scott City Community College attracts visitors for educational events and sports activities, providing steady demand from families and prospective students.
• The neighborhoods near Lake Scott State Park, located about 12 miles north, offer seasonal rental potential for outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing, camping, and hiking activities.
• The historic downtown district around Broadway Street provides charm and walkability to local amenities while maintaining affordable property acquisition costs.
• Areas near the Scott City Medical Center and surrounding healthcare facilities generate demand from medical professionals and patients' families requiring temporary housing.
• The agricultural corridor neighborhoods along Highway 96 serve the farming community and agribusiness visitors.
• Properties near the municipal airport and industrial areas cater to business travelers and contractors.

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

• Short-term rental regulations in Scott City, Kansas are relatively minimal as the city has not implemented comprehensive STR-specific ordinances as of 2024.
• Property owners typically need to comply with general business licensing requirements through the city clerk's office.
• Occupancy limits generally follow standard residential occupancy codes of approximately 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional occupants.
• There are no owner-occupancy requirements currently in place, allowing for non-resident ownership of rental properties.
• The registration process involves standard business license applications costing approximately $25-50 annually.
• Recent regulatory discussions in 2023-2024 have focused on potential implementation of more specific STR regulations similar to larger Kansas municipalities.

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

• Short-term rentals in Scott City, Kansas are subject to several fees and taxes including Kansas state sales tax of 6.5% plus Scott County local sales tax of approximately 1-2%.
• The city likely requires a business license costing approximately $25-50 annually, and operators must register with the Kansas Department of Revenue for sales tax collection at no cost.
• While Scott City may not have a specific lodging tax, operators should expect potential municipal registration fees of $50-100 annually and possible inspection fees of $25-75.
• Property owners must also account for standard property taxes and may need to obtain a conditional use permit costing $100-300 depending on zoning requirements.
• Kansas requires quarterly sales tax remittance, and operators should budget for potential fire safety inspection fees of $50-100 annually.