Is St. Francisville, Louisiana Good for Airbnb Investment?

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St. Francisville, Louisiana market research

St. Francisville, Louisiana Airbnb Investment Overview

$800–$2,500,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 St. Francisville, Louisiana?

Potentially—St. Francisville, Louisiana combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Investing in Airbnb properties in St.
  • Francisville, Louisiana, presents a niche but potentially rewarding opportunity.
  • The town's charm as a historic district, with attractions like the Afton Villa Gardens and Myrtles Plantation, draws a steady stream of tourists, particularly those interested in Southern history and culture.
  • Property values in St.
  • Francisville are generally more accessible compared to major metropolitan areas, offering a lower entry barrier for investors.
  • However, the market's smaller scale means that investment potential is tied to consistent tourism and the ability to differentiate listings.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in St. Francisville?

$800–$2,500, based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data and regional analysis, Airbnb properties in St.
  • Francisville, Louisiana typically generate monthly revenues ranging from $800 to $2,500, with most hosts earning between $1,200 to $1,800 per month depending on property size, amenities.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during spring months (March-May) when tourism increases by approximately 40-60% due to plantation tours and mild weather.
  • Fall months see another uptick of roughly 30% during October and November due to favorable weather and cultural events.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include property condition and unique features, proximity to Audubon State Historic Site and local plantations, availability of modern amenities like WiFi and air conditioning.
  • Properties offering distinctive experiences such as historic charm, outdoor spaces, or pet-friendly accommodations typically command premium rates 20-35% above standard listings.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in St. Francisville

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

  • Airbnb investments in St.
  • Francisville, Louisiana typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with higher-end historic properties near plantation tours and the Audubon State Historic Site achieving up to 15% returns during peak tourism seasons from October through April.
  • The average payback period ranges from 7-10 years, depending on initial investment and property condition.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in the area that yield 6-8% annually with rental rates of $800-1,200 monthly, short-term rentals significantly outperform due to St.
  • Francisville's position as a historic tourism destination, though they require more active management and face seasonal occupancy fluctuations that drop to 40-50% during summer months versus 70-85% during peak tourist periods.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in St. Francisville

St. Francisville, Louisiana averages 45–55% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in St.
  • Francisville, Louisiana typically average around 45-55% annually, with significant seasonal variations driven by the town's historic charm and plantation tourism.
  • Peak occupancy occurs during spring months (March-May) when rates can reach 70-80% due to favorable weather for touring antebellum homes and gardens.
  • Summer months see moderate occupancy of 50-60% despite heat and humidity, while winter months drop to 30-40% as outdoor attractions become less appealing.
  • The town experiences notable spikes during special events like the annual Audubon Pilgrimage and various plantation festivals.
  • Francisville's occupancy rates generally exceed Louisiana's state average of approximately 50% due to its unique historical attractions and proximity to Baton Rouge.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in St. Francisville

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

  • Francisville offers the strongest Airbnb investment potential due to its walkable access to antebellum mansions, historic sites, and charming shops.
  • The Feliciana area near the bluffs provides excellent returns with properties averaging $120-160 nightly.
  • The residential streets surrounding Grace Episcopal Church and the West Feliciana Historical Society offer mid-range investment opportunities at $100-140 per night.
  • Properties near Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site command strong pricing power of $130-170 nightly due to direct access to one of Louisiana's most visited antebellum homes and gardens.
  • The neighborhoods along Highway 61 toward Baton Rouge provide more affordable entry points for investors.
  • The rural residential areas near Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge offer unique eco-tourism opportunities.
  • Francisville High School provide steady returns of $95-125 nightly, appealing to visiting families and offering lower acquisition costs while maintaining proximity to downtown attractions.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in St. Francisville

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

  • St.
  • Francisville, Louisiana requires short-term rental operators to obtain a business license and register with the town before operating.
  • The town does not mandate owner-occupancy requirements, allowing both hosted and non-hosted rentals, but properties must be located in areas zoned for residential or mixed-use purposes.
  • Registration involves submitting an application with property details, proof of insurance, emergency contact information.
  • Recent changes implemented in 2022-2023 include stricter noise ordinances with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM, mandatory posting of house rules and emergency contact information.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in St. Francisville

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

  • Short-term rentals in St.
  • Francisville, Louisiana are subject to several fees and taxes including Louisiana state sales tax of 4.45%, West Feliciana Parish sales tax of approximately 3-4%.
  • The city typically requires a business license costing around $50-100 annually, and operators must register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue for tax collection purposes with minimal registration fees of $25-50.
  • West Feliciana Parish may impose additional occupancy taxes of 2-3% and require local permits ranging from $100-300 annually depending on property size and location.
  • Fire safety inspections may cost $75-150, and some properties require zoning compliance fees of $50-200.
  • Tourism promotion taxes collected by local tourism bureaus typically add another 1-2% to the total tax burden, bringing the combined tax rate to approximately 14-17% of gross rental income.
Common questions

St. Francisville, Louisiana Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

To start an Airbnb in St.

Launch checklist

  • Francisville, Louisiana, begin by researching local zoning laws and regulations through the West Feliciana Parish Planning Commission, as short term rentals may require special permits or be restricted in certain residential zones.
  • Contact the Louisiana Department of Revenue to obtain a sales tax permit and register for the 4% state sales tax plus any local occupancy taxes that West Feliciana Parish may impose.
  • Find a suitable property by working with local real estate agents familiar with St.
  • Francisville's historic district regulations, as many properties fall under historic preservation guidelines that may limit modifications.
  • Once you secure a property, obtain necessary permits including a business license from West Feliciana Parish, fire safety inspections if required, and ensure compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for commercial properties.
  • Furnish the space with quality furniture, linens, and amenities while maintaining the historic charm that attracts visitors to St.
  • Francisville's antebellum homes and plantations.
  • Create your Airbnb listing with professional photos highlighting proximity to attractions like Rosedown Plantation, Audubon State Historic Site, and the historic downtown area.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in St.

What to prioritize

  • Francisville, Louisiana, focus on locations within walking distance of historic attractions like Rosedown Plantation, Audubon State Historic Site, and the downtown antique district, as these areas command premium rates of $150 to 250 per night.
  • Target properties built before 1950 with original architectural features like hardwood floors, high ceilings, and wraparound porches, as guests pay 20 to 30% more for authentic historic charm in this market.
  • Analyze pricing using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify the sweet spot of $180 to 220 per night for 2 to 3 bedroom properties.
  • Research competition by studying the top 20 STR listings within a 3 mile radius, noting that properties with unique features like antique furnishings, gardens, or proximity to the Mississippi River bluffs consistently achieve 75 to 85% occupancy rates.
  • Utilize tools like Rabbu and AllTheRooms for market analysis, partner with local property management companies like Southern Comfort Vacation Rentals, and leverage St.
  • Francisville's tourism board data showing 150,000+ annual visitors to identify underserved niches such as pet friendly accommodations or properties catering to birdwatchers visiting the nearby Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge.
How to get an Airbnb permit in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in St.

Documents and approvals

  • Francisville, Louisiana, you must first contact the West Feliciana Parish Planning and Zoning Department at the parish courthouse located at 4403 Spillway Road, St.
  • Francisville, LA 70775, as the town operates under parish jurisdiction for zoning matters.
  • Required documents typically include a completed short term rental application form, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, certificate of occupancy, fire safety inspection certificate from the local fire marshal, liability insurance documentation with minimum $1 million coverage.
  • The application fee is estimated at $150 to 250 with an additional $75 to 100 annual renewal fee, plus inspection fees of approximately $50 to 75.
  • You must also register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue for state sales tax collection and obtain a West Feliciana Parish occupational license.
  • The approval timeline typically takes 30 to 45 days after submitting a complete application, including required inspections for fire safety, building code compliance, and zoning verification.
  • Specific St.
  • Francisville requirements include maintaining adequate off street parking (minimum 2 spaces), ensuring the property meets historic district guidelines if located in the historic area, providing 24 hour contact information to neighbors.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

Short term rentals (STRs) are generally legal in St.

Core operating requirements

  • Francisville, Louisiana, as the city has not enacted specific prohibitions against vacation rental properties, though they must comply with standard business licensing requirements and zoning regulations.
  • The city requires STR operators to obtain proper business licenses and adhere to local zoning ordinances, with most residential areas allowing short term rentals as accessory uses.
  • Properties must meet basic safety and health standards, including proper egress, smoke detectors, and occupancy limits based on the dwelling size.
  • St.
  • Francisville has not implemented the more restrictive regulations seen in larger Louisiana cities like New Orleans, and there are no specific prohibited zones for STRs within the city limits.
  • Recent years have seen minimal changes to STR regulations in St.
  • Francisville, with the city maintaining a relatively permissive approach while ensuring operators comply with tax obligations including local occupancy taxes and state sales tax requirements.
  • Property owners should verify current licensing requirements with the West Feliciana Parish government and ensure compliance with any homeowners association restrictions that may apply to their specific property.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

The most promising areas for Airbnb investment in St.

Areas to research

  • Francisville, Louisiana are the Historic District centered around Royal Street and Ferdinand Street, which attracts tourists visiting antebellum homes like Rosedown Plantation and The Myrtles.
  • The West Feliciana Parish area near the Tunica Hills region appeals to nature enthusiasts and outdoor recreation visitors exploring hiking trails and bird watching opportunities year round.
  • Properties within walking distance of Grace Episcopal Church and the West Feliciana Historical Society Museum benefit from heritage tourism and wedding events.
  • The area near Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge draws eco tourists and researchers, while locations close to Angola Prison Museum attract visitors interested in Louisiana's penal history.
  • The riverfront areas along the Mississippi River offer scenic appeal for romantic getaways and photography enthusiasts, with properties near the ferry landing providing convenient access for day trippers from Natchez, Mississippi.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in St. Francisville, Louisiana

In St.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • Francisville, Louisiana, Airbnb hosts are subject to Louisiana state sales tax of 4.45% and West Feliciana Parish sales tax of 4%, totaling 8.45% on short term rental accommodations.
  • Additionally, Louisiana imposes a state hotel occupancy tax of 4% on lodging stays under 30 days.
  • The City of St.
  • Francisville may impose a local hotel/motel tax of up to 3%, bringing the total potential tax burden to approximately 15.45%.
  • These taxes are typically collected from guests at the time of booking through Airbnb's automatic tax collection system for state and local sales taxes, though hosts remain responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable taxes.
  • Remittance is generally handled monthly through the Louisiana Department of Revenue's online portal for state taxes, while local parish and municipal taxes may require separate filings with West Feliciana Parish and the City of St.
  • Francisville respectively.
  • Stays of 30 days or longer are typically exempt from occupancy taxes but may still be subject to sales tax, and properties rented for fewer than 30 days per year may qualify for certain exemptions under Louisiana law.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in St. Francisville, Louisiana

To start an Airbnb in St.

Cost breakdown

  • Francisville, Louisiana, the total initial costs would be approximately $185,000 to $220,000.
  • Property purchase represents the largest expense at $150,000 to $180,000 based on median home prices in this historic river town.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $15,000 to $25,000 for a complete setup including beds, linens, kitchen essentials, living room furniture, and décor that matches the area's antebellum charm.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and basic renovations average $3,000 to $5,000.
  • Permits and fees in West Feliciana Parish include business license ($100 to $200), occupancy permits ($200 to $500), and potential zoning compliance costs totaling $500 to $1,500.
  • Insurance for short term rentals runs $1,200 to $2,000 annually, with initial payment of $300 to $500.
  • Utility deposits and first month service for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable total approximately $800 to $1,200.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($600/month), cleaning supplies and services ($200/month), maintenance reserves ($300/month), platform fees ($400/month based on $2,000 monthly revenue), and marketing expenses ($100/month) total approximately $9,600.
Are Airbnb properties in St. Francisville, Louisiana profitable?

Airbnb properties in St.

Profitability indicators

  • Francisville, Louisiana show moderate profitability potential with average nightly rates ranging from $85 to 150 for typical 2 to 3 bedroom homes.
  • Operating expenses typically consume 40 to 50% of gross revenue, including cleaning fees ($40 to 60 per turnover), property management (15 to 25%), utilities ($150 to 250 monthly), insurance ($1,200 to 2,000 annually), and maintenance costs.
  • Success factors include proximity to historic attractions like Rosedown Plantation, professional photography showcasing Southern charm, competitive pricing during festival seasons, and maintaining high cleanliness standards.
  • A typical Victorian style home purchased for $180,000 and converted to short term rental can generate $15,000 to 20,000 annual net profit after expenses.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

Airbnb investments in St.

Return planning figures

  • Francisville, Louisiana typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10%, driven by the town's historic charm and proximity to plantation tours that attract steady tourist traffic year round.
  • Properties in the historic district, particularly Victorian era homes and cottages near the Audubon Historic Site, command nightly rates of $120 to 180 during peak seasons (spring and fall) and $80 to 120 during slower periods, with average occupancy rates of 65 to 75%.
  • Initial investment costs for suitable properties range from $150,000 to 300,000, with renovation expenses typically adding $20,000 to 50,000 for historic compliance and modern amenities.
  • Most investors achieve profitability within 18 to 24 months, factoring in mortgage payments, property management fees of 15 to 20%, maintenance costs, and local lodging taxes of 4%.
  • The market benefits from consistent demand from visitors to nearby Rosedown Plantation, Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge, and Mississippi River tourism, though seasonal fluctuations require strategic pricing and marketing to maintain optimal returns.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in St. Francisville, Louisiana?

STRSearch is a national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental investment properties and provides market analysis for areas like St.

Companies and resources

  • Francisville, Louisiana.
  • In the local market, Latter & Blum Real Estate and Keller Williams Capital Area have agents experienced with investment properties in the historic St.
  • Francisville area, while Century 21 Investment Realty focuses specifically on rental property investments throughout Louisiana.
  • National services include BiggerPockets for investor networking and deal analysis, Mashvisor for Airbnb profitability analysis and market data, AirDNA for short term rental market insights, and Roofstock which occasionally features Louisiana investment properties.
  • Local property management companies like Feliciana Property Management and River Parishes Property Services can assist with identifying investment opportunities and managing Airbnb operations.

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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
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Limited or no partner access
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