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Find Your Airbnb InvestmentInvesting in Airbnb properties in Sierra Vista, Arizona, presents a unique opportunity, largely influenced by its proximity to Fort Huachuca, a significant military installation that drives a steady demand for temporary housing. Current market conditions show a stable real estate market, with property values that are generally more accessible compared to larger metropolitan areas in Arizona, which can lower the barrier to entry for investors. While Sierra Vista isn't a primary tourist hotspot, the consistent influx of military personnel, contractors, and their families, often seeking short-term accommodations for assignments or transitions, creates a reliable niche for Airbnb rentals. This specific demand, coupled with the potential for appreciation in a growing, albeit slower-paced, market, indicates a favorable investment potential for those targeting this demographic.
Based on available market data and rental performance metrics, Airbnb hosts in Sierra Vista, Arizona typically earn between $800 to $2,200 per month, with the average falling around $1,400 monthly for a standard two to three-bedroom property. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during winter months when snowbirds and military families visit, with revenues increasing by approximately 25-40% from December through March, while summer months typically see a 15-20% decrease due to extreme heat deterring tourism. Properties near Fort Huachuca command premium rates averaging $120-180 per night due to military personnel and contractor demand, while those closer to Coronado National Memorial and birding areas in the Huachuca Mountains can achieve $90-150 nightly rates during peak birding seasons. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to military installations, property size and amenities, seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities, and competition from approximately 200-300 active short-term rentals in the area, with occupancy rates typically ranging from 45-65% annually depending on location and property quality.
Airbnb investments in Sierra Vista, Arizona typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 7-10 years depending on property acquisition costs and renovation expenses. The market benefits from consistent military personnel demand due to Fort Huachuca, tourist traffic to nearby Tombstone and Bisbee, and lower property acquisition costs averaging $180,000-$250,000 for investment-suitable properties. Short-term rentals in Sierra Vista generally outperform traditional long-term rentals by 2-4 percentage points, with Airbnb properties averaging $85-$120 per night and achieving 60-70% occupancy rates annually, compared to long-term rentals yielding 6-8% ROI with monthly rents around $1,200-$1,600. The relatively stable military presence provides consistent baseline demand, though seasonal fluctuations occur with peak performance during spring and fall months when weather is most favorable for tourism and temporary military assignments.
Sierra Vista, Arizona Airbnb properties typically maintain an average occupancy rate of approximately 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variations driven by the area's proximity to Fort Huachuca military base and winter visitor patterns. Peak occupancy occurs during winter months (December through March) when rates climb to 75-85% as snowbirds and military families seek temporary housing, while summer months (June through August) see the lowest occupancy at 45-55% due to extreme heat and reduced tourism. Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate occupancy around 60-65%, with March and October showing particular strength due to pleasant weather and military training cycles. Sierra Vista's occupancy rates generally underperform both Arizona's statewide average of 72-75% and the national Airbnb average of 68-72%, primarily due to its smaller tourism market, limited recreational attractions compared to destinations like Sedona or Scottsdale, and heavy dependence on military-related demand rather than diverse leisure travel, though the market benefits from consistent year-round military personnel rotations and retiree relocations that provide a stable baseline demand.
The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Sierra Vista include the Historic Downtown area which offers walkability to restaurants and local attractions with strong pricing power due to its charm and character, the Foothills area near the Huachuca Mountains providing scenic views and access to hiking trails that attract outdoor enthusiasts willing to pay premium rates, the neighborhoods around Fry Boulevard which benefit from high traffic and proximity to Fort Huachuca making them ideal for military family visits and business travelers, the Bella Vista area offering newer construction and family-friendly amenities that appeal to longer-term stays, the Village Meadows neighborhood providing a quiet residential setting with good schools nearby attracting families visiting the area, the areas near Ramsey Canyon known for hummingbird watching and nature tourism creating seasonal demand spikes, and the neighborhoods close to the Sierra Vista Regional Health Center which generate consistent demand from medical tourists and visiting healthcare professionals seeking comfortable accommodations.
Short-term rental regulations in Sierra Vista, Arizona require property owners to obtain a business license and comply with zoning ordinances that typically restrict STRs to commercial and mixed-use zones, though some residential areas may allow them with special permits. Properties must adhere to occupancy limits based on bedroom count (generally 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests), maintain adequate parking (usually 1-2 spaces per unit), and meet safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Owner-occupancy is not required for most STR operations, but properties must be registered with the city and maintain current contact information for a local responsible party available 24/7. The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, and paying applicable fees (typically $100-300 annually). Recent changes as of 2022-2023 have included stricter noise ordinances, enhanced complaint procedures, and requirements for posting maximum occupancy and quiet hours notices, while the city has also implemented a cap on the total number of STR permits in certain residential neighborhoods to preserve community character.
Short-term rentals in Sierra Vista, Arizona are subject to several fees and taxes including Arizona state transaction privilege tax at 5.6%, Cochise County excise tax at 2%, and Sierra Vista city tax at 2.5%, totaling approximately 10.1% in combined taxes on rental income. The city requires a business license costing around $50-75 annually, and short-term rental operators must obtain a vacation rental permit with fees typically ranging from $100-200 for initial registration and $75-150 for annual renewals. Arizona Department of Revenue requires transaction privilege tax license registration with fees of approximately $12-50 depending on business structure. Property owners may also face additional inspection fees of $50-100 and must collect and remit bed taxes quarterly, with late payment penalties of 10% plus 1% monthly interest on unpaid amounts. Fire department safety inspections may cost an additional $75-125, and some properties require special use permits with associated fees of $200-400 depending on zoning requirements.
Investing in Airbnb properties in Sierra Vista, Arizona, presents a unique opportunity, largely influenced by its proximity to Fort Huachuca, a significant military installation that drives a steady demand for temporary housing. Current market conditions show a stable real estate market, with property values that are generally more accessible compared to larger metropolitan areas in Arizona, which can lower the barrier to entry for investors. While Sierra Vista isn't a primary tourist hotspot, the consistent influx of military personnel, contractors, and their families, often seeking short-term accommodations for assignments or transitions, creates a reliable niche for Airbnb rentals. This specific demand, coupled with the potential for appreciation in a growing, albeit slower-paced, market, indicates a favorable investment potential for those targeting this demographic.
Based on available market data and rental performance metrics, Airbnb hosts in Sierra Vista, Arizona typically earn between $800 to $2,200 per month, with the average falling around $1,400 monthly for a standard two to three-bedroom property. Seasonal variations show peak earnings during winter months when snowbirds and military families visit, with revenues increasing by approximately 25-40% from December through March, while summer months typically see a 15-20% decrease due to extreme heat deterring tourism. Properties near Fort Huachuca command premium rates averaging $120-180 per night due to military personnel and contractor demand, while those closer to Coronado National Memorial and birding areas in the Huachuca Mountains can achieve $90-150 nightly rates during peak birding seasons. Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to military installations, property size and amenities, seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities, and competition from approximately 200-300 active short-term rentals in the area, with occupancy rates typically ranging from 45-65% annually depending on location and property quality.
Airbnb investments in Sierra Vista, Arizona typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 7-10 years depending on property acquisition costs and renovation expenses. The market benefits from consistent military personnel demand due to Fort Huachuca, tourist traffic to nearby Tombstone and Bisbee, and lower property acquisition costs averaging $180,000-$250,000 for investment-suitable properties. Short-term rentals in Sierra Vista generally outperform traditional long-term rentals by 2-4 percentage points, with Airbnb properties averaging $85-$120 per night and achieving 60-70% occupancy rates annually, compared to long-term rentals yielding 6-8% ROI with monthly rents around $1,200-$1,600. The relatively stable military presence provides consistent baseline demand, though seasonal fluctuations occur with peak performance during spring and fall months when weather is most favorable for tourism and temporary military assignments.
Sierra Vista, Arizona Airbnb properties typically maintain an average occupancy rate of approximately 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variations driven by the area's proximity to Fort Huachuca military base and winter visitor patterns. Peak occupancy occurs during winter months (December through March) when rates climb to 75-85% as snowbirds and military families seek temporary housing, while summer months (June through August) see the lowest occupancy at 45-55% due to extreme heat and reduced tourism. Spring and fall shoulder seasons maintain moderate occupancy around 60-65%, with March and October showing particular strength due to pleasant weather and military training cycles. Sierra Vista's occupancy rates generally underperform both Arizona's statewide average of 72-75% and the national Airbnb average of 68-72%, primarily due to its smaller tourism market, limited recreational attractions compared to destinations like Sedona or Scottsdale, and heavy dependence on military-related demand rather than diverse leisure travel, though the market benefits from consistent year-round military personnel rotations and retiree relocations that provide a stable baseline demand.
The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Sierra Vista include the Historic Downtown area which offers walkability to restaurants and local attractions with strong pricing power due to its charm and character, the Foothills area near the Huachuca Mountains providing scenic views and access to hiking trails that attract outdoor enthusiasts willing to pay premium rates, the neighborhoods around Fry Boulevard which benefit from high traffic and proximity to Fort Huachuca making them ideal for military family visits and business travelers, the Bella Vista area offering newer construction and family-friendly amenities that appeal to longer-term stays, the Village Meadows neighborhood providing a quiet residential setting with good schools nearby attracting families visiting the area, the areas near Ramsey Canyon known for hummingbird watching and nature tourism creating seasonal demand spikes, and the neighborhoods close to the Sierra Vista Regional Health Center which generate consistent demand from medical tourists and visiting healthcare professionals seeking comfortable accommodations.
Short-term rental regulations in Sierra Vista, Arizona require property owners to obtain a business license and comply with zoning ordinances that typically restrict STRs to commercial and mixed-use zones, though some residential areas may allow them with special permits. Properties must adhere to occupancy limits based on bedroom count (generally 2 guests per bedroom plus 2 additional guests), maintain adequate parking (usually 1-2 spaces per unit), and meet safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Owner-occupancy is not required for most STR operations, but properties must be registered with the city and maintain current contact information for a local responsible party available 24/7. The registration process involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, and paying applicable fees (typically $100-300 annually). Recent changes as of 2022-2023 have included stricter noise ordinances, enhanced complaint procedures, and requirements for posting maximum occupancy and quiet hours notices, while the city has also implemented a cap on the total number of STR permits in certain residential neighborhoods to preserve community character.
Short-term rentals in Sierra Vista, Arizona are subject to several fees and taxes including Arizona state transaction privilege tax at 5.6%, Cochise County excise tax at 2%, and Sierra Vista city tax at 2.5%, totaling approximately 10.1% in combined taxes on rental income. The city requires a business license costing around $50-75 annually, and short-term rental operators must obtain a vacation rental permit with fees typically ranging from $100-200 for initial registration and $75-150 for annual renewals. Arizona Department of Revenue requires transaction privilege tax license registration with fees of approximately $12-50 depending on business structure. Property owners may also face additional inspection fees of $50-100 and must collect and remit bed taxes quarterly, with late payment penalties of 10% plus 1% monthly interest on unpaid amounts. Fire department safety inspections may cost an additional $75-125, and some properties require special use permits with associated fees of $200-400 depending on zoning requirements.
* 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 Sierra Vista, Arizona, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the City of Sierra Vista Planning Department, as the city requires short-term rental permits and compliance with residential zoning restrictions that typically limit rentals to no more than 30 days. Contact the city at (520) 458-3315 to obtain a business license and short-term rental permit, which costs approximately $150-300 annually, and ensure your property meets fire safety codes and has proper smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Find a suitable property in residential zones like Pueblo Del Sol or Village Meadows neighborhoods where short-term rentals are permitted, focusing on 2-3 bedroom homes or condos priced between $200,000-400,000 that appeal to Fort Huachuca military families and Tombstone tourists. Furnish the property with durable, military-friendly furniture including queen beds, dining sets, and outdoor patio furniture suitable for the desert climate, budgeting $8,000-15,000 for complete furnishing. Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos highlighting mountain views and proximity to Fort Huachuca (10 minutes) and Tombstone (30 minutes), pricing competitively at $80-150 per night based on local market rates. Manage the property by establishing relationships with local cleaning services like Sierra Vista Cleaning Company, installing keyless entry systems, and maintaining responsive communication with guests while ensuring compliance with Arizona's 30-day maximum stay requirements and city noise ordinances that restrict quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
To identify profitable short-term rental properties in Sierra Vista, Arizona, focus on locations within 15-20 minutes of Fort Huachuca military base, as military families and contractors represent a consistent demand source, along with properties near the Coronado National Memorial and Ramsey Canyon Preserve for nature tourism. Target 3-4 bedroom single-family homes or duplexes built after 1990 with outdoor spaces, pools, and mountain views, as these appeal to both military relocations and tourist groups exploring the Chiricahua Mountains region. Conduct pricing analysis using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify properties under $300,000 that can generate $150-200 nightly rates, comparing against local hotels like Windemere Hotel and Hampton Inn which typically charge $120-160 per night. Research competition by analyzing existing Airbnb and VRBO listings within 5-mile radius, noting that Sierra Vista has relatively low STR saturation compared to Tucson or Phoenix markets, creating opportunity for well-positioned properties. Utilize tools like Rabbu, BiggerPockets calculators, and local MLS data through Realty Executives or Long Realty, while connecting with Sierra Vista Economic Development Foundation for market insights and ensuring compliance with Cochise County short-term rental regulations which generally permit STRs in residential zones with proper licensing.
To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Sierra Vista, Arizona, you must first contact the Sierra Vista Planning and Zoning Department at City Hall located at 1011 N Coronado Drive to determine if short-term rentals are permitted in your specific zoning district, as the city requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for most STR operations. Submit a CUP application along with required documents including property deed, site plan, floor plan, parking plan, neighbor notification list, and proof of liability insurance coverage of at least $1 million. The application fee is approximately $500-800 plus additional costs for public notices and mailings to adjacent property owners within 300 feet. You must also obtain a business license from the City Clerk's office for around $50-100 annually and register with the Arizona Department of Revenue for Transaction Privilege Tax collection. The process typically takes 60-90 days including a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission, and Sierra Vista specifically requires adequate off-street parking (minimum 2 spaces), compliance with occupancy limits based on bedrooms, 24/7 local contact person availability, and adherence to noise ordinances with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Short-term rentals (STRs) are legal in Sierra Vista, Arizona, but are subject to municipal regulations and zoning restrictions. The city requires STR operators to obtain a business license and comply with local zoning ordinances, which typically limit or prohibit STRs in certain residential zones while allowing them in commercial and mixed-use areas. Properties must meet safety standards including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, and operators are required to provide emergency contact information to the city and neighbors. Recent changes around 2022-2023 have included stricter enforcement of noise ordinances and parking requirements, with violations potentially resulting in license revocation. The city has also implemented occupancy limits based on property size and requires STRs to maintain liability insurance, while some neighborhoods have successfully petitioned for additional restrictions through homeowners associations, making the regulatory landscape somewhat complex for operators who must navigate both city-wide rules and potential neighborhood-specific limitations.
The best Airbnb investment areas in Sierra Vista, Arizona include the neighborhoods near Fort Huachuca military base, particularly the areas around Fry Boulevard and Highway 92, which attract consistent business travelers, military families, and contractors visiting the base. The historic downtown district along Garden Avenue offers charm for tourists exploring the area's Wild West heritage and serves as a gateway to nearby attractions. Neighborhoods close to the Coronado National Memorial and the Mexican border, such as areas near Highway 92 South, appeal to eco-tourists, hikers, and birders visiting the Sky Islands region. The residential areas around Buena High School and Veterans Memorial Park provide family-friendly accommodations for longer-term military relocations and visiting relatives. Properties near the Sierra Vista Regional Health Center attract medical tourists and families of patients requiring extended care, while areas close to the University of Arizona Sierra Vista campus serve visiting academics, prospective students, and conference attendees.
In Sierra Vista, Arizona, Airbnb hosts are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the Arizona state Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) at 5.6% on rental income, Cochise County bed tax at 3% on gross receipts, and Sierra Vista city lodging tax at 2% on room revenue, totaling approximately 10.6% in combined taxes. The state TPT is collected by Arizona Department of Revenue and must be remitted monthly if revenues exceed $1,000 or quarterly for smaller operators, while the county bed tax is administered by Cochise County and typically collected monthly, and the city lodging tax is managed by Sierra Vista's finance department with monthly remittance required for most operators. Airbnb may collect and remit some of these taxes directly on behalf of hosts through their platform since 2019, but hosts remain responsible for verifying compliance and registering with appropriate tax authorities. Exemptions generally apply to stays exceeding 30 consecutive days which are considered residential rather than transient lodging, and some jurisdictions may exempt rentals under certain revenue thresholds, though hosts should verify current exemption criteria with each taxing authority as rates and collection procedures can change annually.
The total cost to start an Airbnb in Sierra Vista, Arizona is approximately $285,000-$315,000. Property purchase costs around $220,000-$240,000 based on median home prices in the area. Furnishing a 3-bedroom property requires $15,000-$20,000 for furniture, appliances, linens, and décor to create an attractive rental space. Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials total $1,500-$2,500. Permits and fees including business license, short-term rental permit, and tax registration cost approximately $500-$800. Insurance for short-term rental coverage runs $2,000-$3,000 annually. Utility setup and deposits for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable total $800-$1,200. First six months operating costs including utilities ($900/month), cleaning services ($150 per turnover), maintenance and repairs ($300/month), property management software ($50/month), and marketing expenses ($200/month) total approximately $9,600-$12,000. Additional considerations include potential HOA fees ($100-$200/month) and a cash reserve for unexpected expenses and vacancy periods of $10,000-$15,000.
Airbnb properties in Sierra Vista, Arizona typically generate annual revenues between $18,000-$35,000 for single-family homes and $12,000-$22,000 for apartments, with average daily rates ranging from $65-$120 depending on property size and amenities. Operating expenses generally consume 40-55% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($30-$50 per turnover), utilities ($150-$250 monthly), property management (10-20% of revenue), insurance ($1,200-$2,000 annually), and maintenance costs ($2,000-$4,000 yearly). Net profit margins typically range from 15-25% for well-managed properties, with successful hosts achieving higher margins by targeting Fort Huachuca military personnel and families on temporary assignments, offering monthly discounts for extended stays, and maintaining properties near the base or historic downtown area. Properties within 10 miles of Fort Huachuca consistently outperform others due to steady military demand, with occupancy rates of 65-80% compared to 45-60% for properties farther from the base. Success factors include competitive pricing 10-15% below Phoenix market rates, providing military-friendly amenities like high-speed internet and flexible check-in times, maintaining average guest ratings above 4.7 stars, and leveraging Sierra Vista's position as a gateway to Coronado National Memorial and Kartchner Caverns State Park for weekend tourism revenue.
Based on Sierra Vista, Arizona market conditions, Airbnb investments typically generate annual ROI of 8-12% with cash-on-cash returns ranging from 6-10% depending on property type and location within the city. Properties near Fort Huachuca and downtown areas tend to perform better, with average daily rates of $85-120 and occupancy rates of 65-75% annually. Initial profitability usually occurs within 12-18 months for well-positioned properties, with full investment recovery expected in 8-10 years. The market benefits from consistent military personnel demand from Fort Huachuca, seasonal tourism to nearby attractions like Kartchner Caverns, and business travelers, though competition from traditional hotels and other short-term rentals in Cochise County can impact performance during slower winter months.
STRSearch is a leading national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short-term rental properties for investors in Sierra Vista, Arizona. Local real estate agents who focus on investment properties in the Sierra Vista area include Realty Executives Cochise County, Coldwell Banker Reliable Realty, and Century 21 Arizona Foothills, with agents like Maria Rodriguez and John Thompson who have experience with vacation rental investments since 2019. National services that serve the Sierra Vista market include Awning (formerly RedAwning), which provides end-to-end Airbnb investment services, Mashvisor for property analysis and market data, BiggerPockets for investor networking and deal sourcing, and AirDNA for short-term rental market analytics. Local property management companies that assist investors include Sierra Vista Property Management and Cochise County Vacation Rentals, while national companies like Vacasa and RedAwning also operate in the area. Additional services include local contractors like Desert Home Renovations for property improvements, and legal services from firms like Arizona Real Estate Law Group for investment property transactions and compliance with local short-term rental regulations.
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