15 Best Airbnb Markets in Washington State



By: Sam Leonardo | Jul. 21, 2025



Top Airbnb Markets to Explore in Washington

Short-Term Rental Trends and Market Data Across the State

Understanding occupancy trends, nightly pricing, and housing costs is key to a successful Airbnb investment. This section outlines the most recent market data across 15 active rental hubs in Washington.

These short-term rental hotspots offer different strengths—from affordability in Spokane to premium pricing in Leavenworth.

1. Seattle – The Urban STR Powerhouse



Occupancy Rate: 65–68%
Avg Daily Rate: $220
Median Price: $888K

Tourism & Business in Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s short‑term rental sector thrives amid tech‑driven demand, sightseeing, and business travel. Active rentals near Pike Place Market and the Space Needle dominate year‑round booking. Strong demand supports above‑average pricing and consistent rental revenue.

Summary



As the top Airbnb market in Washington state, Seattle offers premium vacation rental opportunities—albeit with competitive entry and regulatory challenges.

2. Snohomish County – Suburban Gateway

Occupancy Rate: 64–71%
Avg Daily Rate: $152–212
Median Price: $903K–1.23M

Tourism & Business in Snohomish County

Just outside Seattle, this rental market appeals to vacationers and business travelers seeking affordability. Proximity to outdoor recreation boosts demand and active rentals. It’s a strong Airbnb investment alternative when Seattle’s market tightens.

Summary



High‑demand, short‑stay properties offer strong returns with a lower barrier to entry than the Seattle Airbnb market.

3. Spokane – Affordable Inland Market



Occupancy Rate: 64%
Avg Daily Rate: $108–159
Median Price: $450K

Tourism & Business in Spokane

A growing short‑term rental destination, Spokane benefits from conventions, university events, and outdoor tourism. Moderate rental demand supports steady occupancy and pricing for vacation rental investors diving into STR in Eastern Washington.

Summary



Budget-friendly real estate and stable occupancy make this a leading Airbnb market in Washington for value investors.

4. Tacoma – Waterfront & Arts Destination



Occupancy Rate: 70%
Avg Daily Rate: $114–117
Median Price: $490K

Tourism & Business in Tacoma

Tacoma’s STR demand is fueled by arts venues, museums, and port-driven business rentals. Short‑term rentals are popular among weekend visitors from Seattle, strengthening local rental income opportunities.



Summary

Tacoma stands out as a fast‑growing market where active rentals deliver reliable returns at a moderate price point.

5. Long Beach – Seasonal Coastal Play

Occupancy Rate: 50–51%
Avg Daily Rate: $166–174
Median Price: $445K

Tourism & Business in Long Beach

This beach town is a top summer vacation rental spot. Hosts adjust pricing seasonally, with fewer active rentals in winter. High summer pricing makes this a profitable market for hands‑on STR owners.

Summary



A top seasonal market; vacation rental demand peaks in summer with strong revenue potential.

6. White Salmon – Adventure Capital



Occupancy Rate: 57–59%
Avg Daily Rate: $226–234
Median Price: $525K

Tourism & Business in White Salmon

Adventure tourism drives steady demand in this Columbia River Gorge market. Active Airbnb listings near trails and rivers capture eco‑travel and wedding booking opportunities.

Summary



STR investors benefit from premium ADR and healthy demand in this scenic Washington property hotspot.

7. Winthrop – Mountain Retreat

Occupancy Rate: 55%
Avg Daily Rate: $200
Median Price: $475K

Tourism & Business in Winthrop

Gateway to North Cascades, Winthrop’s market is built on hikers, skiers, and summer escapes. Vacation rental pricing stays strong all year, supporting small-scale Airbnb investing.

Summary



A niche STR market with consistent demand—ideal for boutique rental investors.

8. Friday Harbor – Island Escape

Occupancy Rate: 57%
Avg Daily Rate: $190
Median Price: $765K

Tourism & Business in Friday Harbor

As a top vacation rental destination in the San Juan Islands, Friday Harbor sees demand for whale‑watching and scenic escapes. Vacation rental pricing is strong year‑round thanks to island scarcity.

Summary



Premium Airbnb market with stable bookings, ideal for real estate investors targeting vacation stays.

9. Port Townsend – Historic Seaport

Occupancy Rate: 72%
Avg Daily Rate: $175
Median Price: $575K

Tourism & Business in Port Townsend

Victorian charm, festivals, and arts draw short‑term guests. Active rentals are in high demand thanks to events and weekenders from Seattle.

Summary



A top‑performing short‑stay market with exceptional occupancy and heritage appeal.

10. Pacific Beach – West Coast Weekend Spot

Occupancy Rate: 46%
Avg Daily Rate: $202
Median Price: $510K

Tourism & Business in Pacific Beach

Beachfront rentals see strong summer booking. Hosts rely on vacation rental platforms for seasonal pricing and demand spikes.

Summary



Great ADR during peak season—best suited for owners planning vacation rental calendars carefully.

11. Leavenworth – Alpine Vacation Hub

Occupancy Rate: ~65%
Avg Daily Rate: $225–275
edian Price: $690K

Tourism & Business in Leavenworth

Oktoberfest, Christmas lights, and alpine hikes fuel year‑round rental demand. Active Airbnb listings thrive in this scenic Washington state town.

Summary



One of the most lucrative short‑term rental markets thanks to premium pricing and consistent occupancy.

12. Walla Walla – Wine Country Retreat

Occupancy Rate: ~60%

Avg Daily Rate: $180–210

Median Price: $475K

Tourism & Business in Walla Walla

Wine tourism drives steady demand in this peaceful town. STR pricing peaks during festivals and harvest season, enabling strong rental revenue.

Summary



Great for investors seeking a quieter, stable Washington Airbnb market with room for growth.

13. Chelan – Lakefront Luxury

Occupancy Rate: ~68%
Avg Daily Rate: $240–300
Median Price: $720K

Tourism & Business in Chelan

Lakefront properties, water sports, and wine tasting make Chelan an STR standout. Short‑term rental investors enjoy high ADR and peak season demand.

Summary



Top‑tier market for vacation rental revenue with luxury pricing and strong occupancy.

14. Bellingham – University & Outdoor Access

Occupancy Rate: ~63%
Avg Daily Rate: $140–170
Median Price: $600K

Tourism & Business in Bellingham

Home to Western Washington University and Cascade trail access, Bellingham delivers consistent rental demand. Business and college travelers support active rentals year‑round.

Summary



A dependable Washington Airbnb market offering diverse demand and moderate housing costs.

15. Ocean Shores – Family Beach Escape

Occupancy Rate: 52–56%
Avg Daily Rate: $170–200
Median Price: $390K

Tourism & Business in Ocean Shores

Weekend families and beachgoers generate steady short‑stay bookings. Active rentals focus on summer weeks and long weekends.

Summary



An accessible entry point for STR investors targeting family vacation rental demand.

Final Comparison Table



Final Thoughts

Washington State offers a diverse range of profitable Airbnb markets, from bustling urban hubs like Seattle to scenic getaways in the San Juans and Cascade Mountains. With high occupancy rates, strong average daily earnings, and growing tourism demand, the state continues to attract short-term rental investors.

While entering top-tier markets like Seattle may require navigating regulations and higher property prices, the long-term revenue potential remains strong.

For those seeking to maximize returns with minimal hassle, partnering with experienced property management companies like Home Team Luxury Rentals can help unlock the full value of a vacation rental investment in Washington.