Is Spokane, Washington Good for Airbnb Investment?

Potentially. Spokane, Washington combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

• Can be a promising opportunity given the city's steady growth and increasing appeal as a regional hub.
• Current market conditions in Spokane are characterized by relatively affordable property values compared to larger West Coast cities.
• The investment potential is enhanced by Spokane's ongoing urban development, which attracts new residents and businesses, further bolstering the need for diverse accommodation options.

$1,200–$3,500 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

• Based on available market data and rental analytics, Airbnb hosts in Spokane, Washington typically earn between $1,200 to $3,500 per month.
• Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June through August) when revenue can increase by 25-40% due to outdoor recreation tourism and university events.
• Spring and fall maintain moderate occupancy levels with average daily rates ranging from $85 to $140 for entire properties.
• Key factors affecting earnings include proximity to downtown Spokane, Gonzaga University, and recreational areas like Riverfront Park.
• Property type significantly impacts revenue, as modern condos and updated homes outperform older properties by 20-30%, while amenities like parking, WiFi.
• Occupancy rates typically range from 45-65% annually, with successful hosts maintaining higher occupancy through competitive pricing, professional photography, and responsive guest communication.

Potentially strong, with a typical annual ROI of 8–14%.

• Typically generate ROI between 8-14% annually, with higher-end properties in desirable neighborhoods like South Hill and downtown achieving returns closer to 12-16%.
• The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years depending on initial investment and property management efficiency.
• Short-term rental properties in Spokane generally outperform traditional long-term rentals by 3-5 percentage points, with long-term rentals averaging 5-9% ROI in the same market.
• Properties near Gonzaga University, downtown convention areas, and recreational access points to Coeur d'Alene tend to achieve occupancy rates of 65-75% annually with average daily rates between $85-140, while long-term rentals typically yield monthly rents of $1,200-1,800 for comparable properties.
• The Spokane market benefits from steady tourism, business travel, and proximity to outdoor recreation, though seasonal fluctuations can impact short-term rental performance during winter months.

Spokane, Washington averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

• Spokane, Washington Airbnb properties typically maintain an average annual occupancy rate of approximately 65-70%, with significant seasonal variations throughout the year.
• Peak occupancy occurs during summer months (June through August) when rates climb to 75-85% due to favorable weather, outdoor recreation activities.
• Winter months (December through February) see the lowest occupancy rates at around 45-55%, while spring and fall maintain moderate levels of 60-65%.
• Spokane's occupancy rates generally align closely with Washington state averages of 68-72% but fall slightly below national Airbnb averages of 70-75%.
• The city experiences a secondary peak during late spring and early fall when business travel increases and weather conditions remain favorable for outdoor activities.

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

• The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Spokane include Downtown/Central Business District which offers proximity to the Convention Center, Riverfront Park.
• South Hill stands out as an upscale residential area with beautiful historic homes, higher-income demographics.
• The Perry District has emerged as a trendy arts and dining destination with walkable streets, attracting younger travelers and offering good rental potential due to its hip atmosphere and proximity to downtown.
• Kendall Yards represents a newer mixed-use development along the Spokane River with modern amenities, outdoor recreation access.
• Browne's Addition offers historic charm with Victorian-era homes near downtown and Gonzaga University, providing steady demand from visiting families and university-related guests.
• The Logan neighborhood provides more affordable investment opportunities while still maintaining proximity to downtown attractions and the medical district.
• Finally, the area near Gonzaga University campus offers consistent demand from visiting families, prospective students, and sports fans.

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

• In Spokane, Washington, short-term rentals require a business license and must comply with zoning regulations that generally allow them in residential areas with certain restrictions.
• Properties must obtain a conditional use permit in some zones, particularly in single-family residential areas, and are subject to occupancy limits typically based on two people per bedroom plus two additional guests.
• Owner-occupancy requirements vary by zone, with some areas requiring the owner to live on-site during rentals while others allow non-owner-occupied rentals with proper permits.
• The registration process involves applying through the city's planning department, paying associated fees (typically ranging from $200-500), and demonstrating compliance with fire safety codes.
• Zoning restrictions are most stringent in R1 single-family zones where short-term rentals may require special approval.
• Recent changes have included stricter enforcement of existing regulations, enhanced complaint procedures for neighbors.

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

• Short-term rentals in Spokane, Washington are subject to several fees and taxes including Washington State's 6.5% sales tax, Spokane County's 2.3% lodging tax.
• Property owners must obtain a business license from the City of Spokane costing around $25-50 annually.
• Some neighborhoods may require special use permits costing $200-500, and properties must comply with fire safety inspections which can cost $75-150 per inspection.
• Additionally, hosts collecting over $12,000 annually must register for Washington State Department of Revenue tax reporting, and depending on the rental's location within specific tourism districts.