Introduction
Seattle, Washington, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and thriving economy, has become a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike. With the rise of the sharing economy, short-term rentals have emerged as an attractive option for visitors seeking an authentic local experience.
In this guide, we will delve into the current state of the Airbnb rental market in Seattle, examining key data points and shedding light on various aspects of this burgeoning industry.
Market Overview
To understand the dynamics of the short-term rental market in Seattle, let’s delve into some key statistics and figures.
Supply
The most popular homes are 2-bedroom homes, comprising 24.87% of inventory. This is followed by 1 and 3-bedroom homes at 24.74% and 21.88% of the total inventory, respectively.
Homes Appreciation
As of March 2025, according to Zillow, homes in Seattle experienced an appreciation of 3.15%. This data indicates a significant increase in property values.
Median Home Value
As of January of 2025, Homes in Seattle have appreciated by 3.41%. The median home value in Seattle is $851,000 as reported by Zillow. This figure highlights the city’s robust real estate market and the potential for long-term property appreciation.
Active Short Term Rentals
As of March 2025, Seattle boasts a significant Airbnb rental market, with approximately 5,834 active rentals. This abundance of available properties provides ample opportunities for investors and homeowners looking to capitalize on the tourism demand.
Average Daily Rate
The median ADR for the market is $208. The Average Daily Rate is the highest for 5 bedroom homes ($362) followed by 4-bedrooms and 3 bedrooms at $350 and $306 respectively.
Occupancy Rate
Chalet data reveals an occupancy rate of 65% for Airbnb rentals in Seattle. This high demand ensures a consistent stream of income for property owners and investors.
How Profitable is Airbnb in Seattle ?
As of March 2025, the average gross yield, which represents the annual income generated by a property as a percentage of its value, is 5.02% in Seattle. This figure suggests that short-term rentals in the city offer a favorable return on investment. Seattle is ranked #91 by return on investment on Airbnb rentals in the United States.
Annual Revenue
According to Chalet, short-term rentals in Seattle earn an average of $35,049 annually, highlighting the strong investment potential in the city’s market. You can evaluate your properties using our free Airbnb calculator.
Property Tax
According to SmartAsset, the average property tax in Seattle is 0.90%. This relatively moderate tax rate is an important consideration for those looking to invest in short-term rental properties.
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Regulations
Seattle’s short-term rental regulations are somewhat investor-friendly, with different zoning regulations and limitations in place. Understanding these regulations is crucial for potential investors to ensure compliance and a smooth operation.
Property Taxes and Regulation
SmartAsset reveals that the average property tax rate in Seattle stands at 1.05%. It’s worth noting that short-term rental regulation in the city is somewhat investor-friendly. While there are zoning regulations and limitations, Seattle has been relatively accommodating to short-term rental operators. Additionally, new laws in the pipeline suggest a potential easing of restrictions, which may further enhance the prospects for investors in this market.
Top Places for Airbnb in Seattle
Seattle’s top submarkets for Airbnb investments include areas like ZIP code 98121, which has the highest gross yield at 8% and an annual revenue of $49,067. In contrast, ZIP code 98122 offers more extensive opportunities with 822 full-time listings, but a lower gross yield of 5%.
Home values also vary significantly, with properties ranging from $592.5K in 98121 to $834.2K in 98122, making each submarket unique in terms of investment potential and entry cost.
Hosts
The market is dominated by property management firms. The largest host is Vacasa Western Washington with 4.60% of the total inventory and an average review of 4.61⭐️s .
Exploring Seattle, WA
To gain a holistic understanding of the short-term rental market in Seattle, it’s important to consider various aspects of the city beyond the market data. Let’s explore some key questions about Seattle’s demographics, attractions, and visitor profile:
Median Household Income
The median household income in Seattle, WA, plays a vital role in understanding the purchasing power and economic environment of potential short-term rental guests. As of the latest available data, the median household income in Seattle is [data not provided in the initial list]. While we lack specific information in this regard, it is safe to assume that a city with a high median home value and a thriving economy would generally have a reasonably affluent population.
Guests
The majority of the guests come from inside of Washington. 9.87% of all guests are from Seattle followed by Portland with 4.10%.
Climate in Seattle
Seattle’s climate is characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city experiences rainfall throughout the year, with the majority occurring between October and May. Summers in Seattle are typically pleasant, with temperatures averaging in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius). The temperate climate and the allure of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty make Seattle an attractive destination for tourists throughout the year.
Population Size
As of the latest available data, the population size of Seattle, WA, is [data not provided in the initial list]. Seattle’s status as a major metropolitan areatranslates into a relatively large population, fostering a diverse and vibrant community.
Sports Teams
Seattle is home to several professional sports teams, adding to the city’s sports culture. The city’s beloved football team, the Seattle Seahawks, competes in the National Football League (NFL) and has a strong following. Additionally, Seattle boasts a Major League Baseball (MLB) team, the Seattle Mariners, providing sports enthusiasts with a thrilling baseball experience.
Colleges and Universities
Seattle is renowned for its higher education institutions. Some notable colleges and universities in the city include the University of Washington, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. These esteemed institutions attract students from around the world, contributing to the city’s intellectual and cultural vibrancy.
Crime Rate
Understanding the safety and security of a city is crucial for both residents and visitors. While specific crime rate data for Seattle was not provided in the initial list, it’s important to note that like any major city, Seattle experiences crime. It’s advisable for short-term rental operators and guests to exercise general safety precautions and stay informed about the local environment.
Visitor Profile and Attractions
Seattle attracts a diverse array of visitors from across the globe. The city’s appeal lies in its unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural landscapes. Some of the biggest tourist attractions in Seattle include:
- Space Needle: An iconic symbol of the city, the Space Needle offers stunning panoramic views of Seattle’s skyline and surrounding beauty.
- Pike Place Market: A bustling marketplace famous for its fresh seafood, local produce, and unique crafts. It is also home to the renowned Pike Place Fish Market, where fishmongers famously toss fish to entertain customers.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass: A mesmerizing exhibition showcasing the exquisite glass art of Dale Chihuly. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant and intricate glass sculptures in both indoor and outdoor settings.
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): An interactive museum celebrating popular culture, featuring exhibits dedicated to music, movies, gaming, and science fiction.
- The Seattle Waterfront: A picturesque waterfront area that offers stunning views of Elliott Bay, a variety of restaurants and shops, and the famous Seattle Great Wheel.
Peak Season
The peak season in Seattle generally coincides with the summer months, from June to August. During this time, visitors flock to the city to enjoy the pleasant weather, attend outdoor festivals and events, and explore the city’s natural beauty. However, Seattle’s appeal extends beyond the summer, with various attractions and cultural events attracting visitors year-round.
Conclusion
Seattle’s short-term rental market presents an enticing opportunity for homeowners and investors to participate in the thriving hospitality industry. With a considerable number of active short-term rentals, attractive average daily rates, and a healthy occupancy rate, the market holds promise for those seeking to capitalize on the city’s tourism appeal. Furthermore, the potential easing of regulations and the city’s investor-friendly stance provide an encouraging environment for short-term rental operators.
By considering key market data, understanding the city’s demographics, and exploring its attractions and visitor profile, individuals can make informed decisions when navigating the Seattle short-term rental market. As the city continues to evolve, both economically and culturally, short-term rentals are poised to play a significant role in accommodating the growing number of visitors who wish to experience the charm and vibrancy of the Emerald City.
