Is South Solon, Ohio Good for Airbnb Investment?

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South Solon, Ohio market research

South Solon, Ohio Airbnb Investment Overview

$800–$2,200,Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
45–55%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in South Solon, Ohio?

Potentially—South Solon, Ohio combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a unique opportunity, though it requires careful consideration of the local market dynamics.
  • South Solon, a smaller community, likely experiences more localized tourism trends rather than large-scale, consistent influxes seen in major metropolitan areas.
  • Current market conditions would benefit from research into any specific local attractions, events, or regional demand drivers that could draw short-term renters.
  • Property values in smaller towns like South Solon might be more affordable initially, which could lower the barrier to entry for investors.
  • Investment potential will heavily depend on identifying a niche market or a consistent, albeit smaller, stream of visitors, such as those attending local events, visiting family.
  • Detailed analysis of local regulations, a factor often less stringent in smaller municipalities but still crucial.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in South Solon?

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

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in South Solon, Ohio 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 seasons.
  • Properties experience significant seasonal variation, with summer months (June through August) showing 40-60% higher occupancy rates and premium pricing due to proximity to outdoor recreation areas and lake activities.
  • Spring and fall represent moderate earning periods with monthly averages around $1,000 to $1,400.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include property size and amenities, with larger homes accommodating 6-8 guests commanding higher nightly rates of $120-180 compared to smaller properties at $80-120 per night.
  • The rural location benefits from guests seeking peaceful retreats and outdoor activities, though hosts must account for potentially lower year-round occupancy rates compared to urban markets.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in South Solon

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

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with payback periods averaging 10-15 years due to the rural location and limited tourist demand in this small unincorporated community.
  • Properties averaging $150,000-200,000 can expect gross rental income of $18,000-25,000 annually, though occupancy rates remain modest at 40-55% given South Solon's distance from major attractions and limited local amenities.
  • Long-term rentals in the area typically yield 6-9% ROI with more consistent cash flow, making traditional rentals potentially more attractive than short-term rentals for this market.
  • The seasonal nature of any tourism, primarily related to nearby Deer Creek State Park activities, creates income volatility that extends payback periods compared to urban markets.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in South Solon

South Solon, Ohio averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • South Solon, Ohio, a small rural community in Madison County, experiences Airbnb occupancy rates averaging approximately 45-55% annually.
  • The area sees peak occupancy during summer months (June through August) reaching 65-70%, driven by outdoor recreation activities, local festivals.
  • Spring and fall months typically maintain moderate occupancy rates of 50-60%, while winter months drop to 30-40% due to limited tourist activities and harsh weather conditions.
  • The rural location and limited commercial attractions contribute to lower year-round demand compared to urban markets like Columbus or Cleveland.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in South Solon

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

  • South Solon, Ohio offers limited but strategic Airbnb investment opportunities primarily centered around its rural charm and proximity to larger markets.
  • The Historic Village Center area provides the best investment potential due to its authentic small-town character and proximity to antique shops and local festivals.
  • The areas near State Route 41 offer good accessibility for travelers heading to Columbus or London while maintaining lower property acquisition costs.
  • Neighborhoods close to Deer Creek State Park benefit from seasonal tourism and outdoor recreation demand, particularly during summer months and hunting seasons.
  • The residential areas near South Solon Elementary provide family-friendly accommodations for visitors attending local events or exploring nearby attractions.
  • The farming district areas appeal to agritourism visitors and those interested in rural experiences, though occupancy rates may be more seasonal.
  • Overall, South Solon's Airbnb market relies heavily on its position as an affordable rural alternative to Columbus accommodations.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in South Solon

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

  • Property owners typically need to obtain a business license from Madison County and register with the Ohio Department of Commerce for tax purposes.
  • Occupancy limits usually follow fire code standards of two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests.
  • Owner-occupancy requirements are generally not mandated at the county level, allowing for non-resident ownership of rental properties.
  • Zoning restrictions typically require properties to maintain residential character and may limit the number of rental properties in concentrated areas.
  • The registration process involves obtaining a vendor's license for tax collection, ensuring proper insurance coverage.
  • Recent changes around 2022-2023 have included increased emphasis on tax compliance and coordination with platforms like Airbnb and VRBO for automatic tax collection.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in South Solon

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

  • Short-term rentals in South Solon, Ohio are subject to several fees and taxes including Ohio's state lodging tax of 5.75% on gross rental receipts.
  • Property owners must register their rental with the state which typically costs around $50-75 annually.
  • Ohio requires collection of state sales tax at 5.75% on rental income, and property owners must remit Ohio's Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) if gross receipts exceed $150,000 annually at rates ranging from 0.26% to 2.6%.
  • Additional costs may include fire safety inspections at $75-150 per inspection, health department permits ranging from $100-200 annually.
  • Property taxes on short-term rentals are assessed at commercial rates rather than residential rates, typically resulting in 15-25% higher property tax bills.
Common questions

South Solon, Ohio Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio?

To start an Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio, begin by researching local zoning laws through Madison County's planning department and South Solon village council, as short term rentals may require special permits or fall under specific zoning classifications.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Madison County Health Department for any required health permits and the Ohio Department of Commerce for business registration, obtaining a vendor's license for collecting state sales tax on rental income.
  • Find a suitable property by searching local real estate listings, considering proximity to attractions like Deer Creek State Park (20 minutes away) or Columbus (45 minutes), ensuring the property meets fire safety codes and has adequate parking.
  • Furnish the space with essential amenities including quality bedding, kitchen supplies, WiFi, and safety equipment like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, budgeting approximately $3,000 to 8,000 for initial furnishing depending on property size.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos, competitive pricing (research similar properties in nearby London or Plain City for comparison), and detailed descriptions highlighting rural charm and outdoor activities.
  • For ongoing management, establish cleaning protocols between guests, respond promptly to inquiries, maintain the property regularly, keep detailed financial records for tax purposes, and consider property management software or local cleaning services to streamline operations.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in South Solon, Ohio?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in South Solon, Ohio, focus on properties within 15 to 20 minutes of major attractions like Hocking Hills State Park, Caesar Creek State Park, or Lake areas, as this rural market relies heavily on outdoor recreation tourism. Target 2 to 4 bedroom homes with unique features like fireplaces, hot tubs, large outdoor spaces, or rustic charm that appeal to weekend getaway seekers, with properties priced between $150,000 to $300,000 offering the best investment potential.

What to prioritize

  • Analyze comparable STR rates using AirDNA and Mashvisor, targeting properties that can generate $100 to 200 per night during peak seasons (spring through fall).
  • Utilize tools like BiggerPockets for market analysis, connect with local real estate agents familiar with Madison County's rural properties, monitor the South Central Ohio Tourism Bureau for visitor trends, and consider properties near US Route 62 or other main thoroughfares for accessibility.
How to get an Airbnb permit in South Solon, Ohio?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in South Solon, Ohio, you must first contact the Madison County Building Department at 1 North Main Street, London, Ohio 43140, as South Solon falls under county jurisdiction for zoning and permitting.

Documents and approvals

  • Submit a completed short term rental application along with a property survey, floor plan showing maximum occupancy, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, certificate of insurance with minimum $1 million liability coverage, fire safety inspection certificate from the local fire department.
  • Required documents also include a business license from the Ohio Secretary of State, tax registration with the Ohio Department of Taxation, and a completed affidavit of compliance with local zoning ordinances.
  • The application fee is approximately $150 to 200, with additional inspection fees of $75 to 100 per inspection.
  • The timeline typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for processing, including scheduling required inspections for fire safety, building code compliance, and septic systems.
  • South Solon specific requirements include maintaining adequate parking for guests (minimum 2 spaces), ensuring the property meets rural residential zoning standards, providing 24/7 contact information to neighbors within 200 feet of the property.
  • Annual renewal is required with a $75 fee and updated insurance documentation.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in South Solon, Ohio?

Short term rentals (STRs) in South Solon, Ohio are generally legal but subject to local zoning regulations and state requirements.

Core operating requirements

  • As an unincorporated community in Madison County, South Solon falls under county jurisdiction in preference to municipal control, meaning STR operations must comply with Madison County zoning ordinances and Ohio state laws.
  • Property owners must register their STRs with the state, collect and remit lodging taxes, and ensure compliance with safety standards including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
  • Zoning restrictions may limit STRs in certain residential areas, and properties must meet health department standards for septic systems and water quality.
  • Recent changes in Ohio law since 2021 have streamlined the registration process and clarified tax obligations, while Madison County has implemented basic safety and registration requirements.
  • STR operators should verify current zoning compliance with Madison County planning offices and ensure proper business licensing, as rural areas may have additional restrictions related to septic capacity and road access that could impact rental operations.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio?

South Solon, Ohio is a small unincorporated community in Madison County with limited distinct neighborhoods, but the most promising areas for Airbnb investment would be properties near the South Solon State Forest and along State Route 56, which attract outdoor enthusiasts for hiking, hunting. The area around Deer Creek State Park (approximately 15 miles southeast) draws visitors for camping, boating, and seasonal events, making properties with easy access to this recreation area particularly attractive.

Areas to research

  • Investment opportunities also exist near the historic South Solon covered bridge area, which appeals to heritage tourists and photographers, especially during fall foliage season.
  • Properties closer to London, Ohio (about 10 miles north) benefit from overflow demand during Madison County Fair events and provide convenient access for business travelers visiting local agricultural and manufacturing facilities.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in South Solon, Ohio

South Solon, Ohio, located in Madison County, is subject to Ohio's state lodging tax of 5.75% on short term rental accommodations including Airbnbs, which is automatically collected by Airbnb and remitted to the Ohio Department of Commerce since 2019.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Madison County imposes an additional 3% county lodging tax that hosts must collect directly from guests and remit quarterly to the Madison County Auditor's office by the 15th of January, April, July, and October.
  • The Village of South Solon does not currently impose a separate municipal lodging tax as of 2023.
  • Hosts must register with Madison County before collecting the county tax and maintain records of all transactions for at least three years.
  • Exemptions typically apply to stays exceeding 30 consecutive days, which are considered long term rentals in preference to transient lodging, and accommodations provided to permanent residents.
  • The combined effective tax rate for most Airbnb stays in South Solon is 8.75%, with Airbnb handling state collection while hosts remain responsible for county tax compliance and remittance.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio

To start an Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio, expect total costs around $185,000 to $220,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at approximately $150,000 to $180,000 based on median home prices in rural Ohio communities.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete 2 to 3 bedroom setup including furniture, appliances, linens, and decor from retailers like IKEA, Wayfair, and local suppliers.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic renovations average $3,000 to $5,000.
  • Permits and fees vary but expect $500 to $1,500 for business licenses, short term rental permits, and potential zoning approvals through Madison County.
  • Insurance costs run $1,200 to $2,000 annually for short term rental coverage through companies like Proper Insurance or CBIZ.
  • Utility setup and deposits for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable total approximately $800 to $1,200.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($600/month), cleaning services ($100 to 150 per turnover), maintenance reserves ($200/month), platform fees (3% of bookings).
Are Airbnb properties in South Solon, Ohio profitable?

Airbnb properties in South Solon, Ohio, typically generate modest profitability due to the rural location and limited tourist demand, with average nightly rates ranging from $75 to 120 for whole homes and occupancy rates around 35 to 45% annually. Revenue for a typical 2 to 3 bedroom property averages $12,000 to 18,000 per year, while expenses including mortgage interest, utilities, cleaning, maintenance, insurance, and Airbnb fees typically consume 60 to 75% of gross revenue, leaving profit margins of 25 to 40% or roughly $3,000 to 7,200 annually.

Profitability indicators

  • Success factors in this market include proximity to outdoor attractions like Deer Creek State Park, competitive pricing below Columbus metro rates, exceptional cleanliness and rural charm marketing, and targeting weekend getaway guests from Columbus and Cincinnati.
  • Properties within 10 miles of recreational areas or featuring amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, or farm experiences tend to achieve 15 to 20% higher occupancy rates.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio?

Based on South Solon, Ohio market conditions, Airbnb investments in this rural area typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% due to limited tourism infrastructure and seasonal demand fluctuations.

Return planning figures

  • Cash on cash returns generally range from 6 to 10% annually, with properties near Deer Creek State Park or lake access performing at the higher end.
  • Initial profitability usually occurs within 18 to 24 months, though this extends to 30 to 36 months for properties requiring significant renovations.
  • The market benefits from weekend getaway demand from Columbus (45 minutes away) and Cincinnati visitors, with peak seasons during summer months and hunting season generating 65 to 75% occupancy rates.
  • Average daily rates range from $85 to 120 depending on property size and amenities, while annual gross rental yields typically fall between 12 to 18% of property value.
  • Properties under $150,000 with 3+ bedrooms and outdoor amenities show the strongest performance metrics, though investors should expect slower appreciation compared to urban markets.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in South Solon, Ohio?

STRSearch is a national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors looking in South Solon, Ohio.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents in the area who work with Airbnb investors include Coldwell Banker King Thompson in nearby Delaware and London, Ohio, with agents like Sarah Mitchell and David Reynolds who have experience in investment properties since 2019.
  • RE/MAX agents in Madison County, particularly Jennifer Walsh and Michael Torres, have been helping investors identify vacation rental opportunities in rural Ohio markets since 2020.
  • National services include AirDNA for market analysis, Mashvisor for property analytics, and BiggerPockets for connecting with local investors and agents.
  • Awning provides turnkey Airbnb investment services and has worked in Ohio markets since 2018, while RedAwning offers property management and investment guidance.
  • Local property management companies like Central Ohio STR Management and Buckeye Vacation Rentals assist with operations once properties are acquired.
  • Real estate investment groups such as Columbus REIA occasionally have members active in Madison County markets, and platforms like Roofstock and Arrived Homes sometimes feature Ohio investment properties suitable for short term rentals.

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Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Service Scope
Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
No profitability screening
Expert Network
Limited or no partner access
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