10 Best Places to Invest in an Airbnb in Virginia

1. Virginia Beach 🌊

• Average Daily Rate: ~$210
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~60%
• Median Home Price: ~$424,700

Why Invest?

Virginia Beach is the most popular beach destination in the state, attracting millions of visitors annually. The strong summer demand, oceanfront properties, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great market for Airbnb.

Attractions & Tourism:

• 3-mile-long Virginia Beach Boardwalk
• First Landing State Park & water sports activities
• The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
• Annual Neptune Festival in September

2. Williamsburg 🏰

• Average Daily Rate: ~$190
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~55%
• Median Home Price: ~$350,000

Why Invest?

Williamsburg’s strong year-round tourism market—thanks to its rich history and family-friendly attractions—keeps Airbnb bookings steady. Colonial-style rentals and themed Airbnbs perform well.

Attractions & Tourism:

• Colonial Williamsburg – A living history museum
• Busch Gardens – A European-themed amusement park
• Jamestown Settlement – The first English colony
• College of William & Mary – Brings in academic tourism

3. Shenandoah Valley (Luray & Front Royal) 🌲

• Average Daily Rate: ~$220
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~58%
• Median Home Price: ~$280,000

Why Invest?

Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers flock to the Shenandoah Valley, creating high demand for cabins, lodges, and glamping rentals. Peak seasons include summer for hiking and fall for leaf-peeping.

Attractions & Tourism:



• Shenandoah National Park & Skyline Drive
• Luray Caverns – Largest caverns on the East Coast
• Blue Ridge Whiskey Wine Loop
• Appalachian Trail access points

4. Charlottesville 🍷

• Average Daily Rate: ~$205
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~57%
• Median Home Price: ~$450,000

Why Invest?

Charlottesville is a year-round destination with a mix of college-driven demand, wine tourism, and historic attractions. Rentals near the University of Virginia perform well.

Attractions & Tourism:



• Monticello – Home of Thomas Jefferson
• University of Virginia – Large student, faculty, and visitor base
• Virginia Wine Country – Over 40 wineries in the region
• Carter Mountain Orchard – Popular for apple-picking and scenic views

5. Richmond 🏙️

• Average Daily Rate: ~$175
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~60%
• Median Home Price: ~$385,000

Why Invest?

Richmond combines historic charm with a thriving food, arts, and business scene. High-demand areas include The Fan District, Shockoe Bottom, and Church Hill.



Attractions & Tourism:

• Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
• Hollywood Cemetery & historic Church Hill
• James River Park System – Kayaking, biking, hiking
• Thriving craft beer and food scene

6. Chincoteague Island 🐎

• Average Daily Rate: ~$195
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~50%
• Median Home Price: ~$320,000

Why Invest?

A small-town, nature-focused destination, Chincoteague is a hidden gem with seasonal high demand in summer. Beach cottages and waterfront homes perform well here.



Attractions & Tourism:

• Assateague Island National Seashore – Home of the wild ponies
• Annual Pony Swim & Auction
• Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
• Seafood restaurants & boat tours

7. Roanoke 🏞️

• Average Daily Rate: ~$180
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~55%
• Median Home Price: ~$226,000

Why Invest?

Roanoke offers a low-cost investment option with strong returns, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and business travelers.



Attractions & Tourism:

• Roanoke Star & Mill Mountain Park
• Blue Ridge Parkway – Great for scenic drives & cycling
• Center in the Square – Museums & cultural attractions
• Craft breweries & a growing food scene

8. Alexandria 🏡

• Average Daily Rate: ~$250
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~65%
• Median Home Price: ~$599,995

Why Invest?

Just minutes from Washington, D.C., Alexandria has high Airbnb demand, especially in Old Town and the waterfront areas.



Attractions & Tourism:

• Old Town Alexandria – Cobblestone streets & historic homes
• Mount Vernon Trail – Scenic biking & running paths
• Waterfront dining & boutique shopping
• Easy access to Washington, D.C.

9. Norfolk ⚓

• Average Daily Rate: ~$190
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~58%
• Median Home Price: ~$300,000

Why Invest?

With its military presence, growing arts scene, and waterfront appeal, Norfolk has steady Airbnb demand year-round.



Attractions & Tourism:

• USS Wisconsin & Nauticus Museum
• Chrysler Museum of Art
• Waterside District – Dining & nightlife
• Virginia Zoo

10. The Eastern Shore 🏝️

• Average Daily Rate: ~$200
• Average Occupancy Rate: ~50%
• Median Home Price: ~$275,000

Why Invest?

Virginia’s Eastern Shore is an up-and-coming Airbnb hotspot with low competition and growing tourist interest.



Attractions & Tourism:

• Cape Charles Beach – One of Virginia’s best-kept secrets
• Kiptopeke State Park – Birdwatching & kayaking
• Tangier Island – Unique local culture & seafood dining
• Scenic waterfront vacation homes

Why Invest in an Airbnb Now? Is It Too Late?

The short-term rental market isn’t slowing down anytime soon. According to Statista, the U.S. vacation rental market is projected to grow to $24.78 billion by 2029. With increased travel demand, rising hotel prices, and a shift toward experiential travel, Airbnbs are becoming the go-to choice for visitors.

Virginia, in particular, is a prime investment location due to: ✅ A diverse mix of urban, coastal, and mountain destinations

✅ Strong tourism numbers in key cities like Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, and Richmond
✅ Affordable property prices in many high-demand areas
✅ Regulatory clarity, with some cities being very Airbnb-friendly



However, not all areas are equally profitable—choosing the right city is key to maximizing returns.

What Are the Regulations Like in Virginia?

Cities with Lenient Airbnb Regulations (Great for Investment)

✅ Virginia Beach – Allows STRs but requires registration
✅ Williamsburg – Limited regulations, strong tourism demand
✅ Shenandoah Valley – No major restrictions, high demand for rural stays
✅ Chincoteague Island – Airbnb-friendly with seasonal demand
✅ Roanoke – Encourages STRs, especially downtown

Cities with Strict Airbnb Regulations (Proceed with Caution)

❌ Richmond – STRs must be owner-occupied or in specific zoning areas
❌ Alexandria – Requires a permit, subject to local restrictions
❌ Norfolk – Strict zoning laws and licensing requirements



If you’re considering investing in Virginia, make sure to check local regulations before purchasing a property.

Final Thoughts



Virginia’s short-term rental market offers a diverse range of profitable investment opportunities, from beachfront condos to historic city lofts and mountain cabins. If you’re looking for strong returns, consider one of these 10 locations based on your investment budget and target audience.

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👉 Learn more about our Virginia vacation rental management services
👉 Explore the best places to buy an Airbnb

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