Airbnb City Guide: The Best Places To Invest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Airbnb Rules and Regulations in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

As of 2024, Baton Rouge has established a clear framework of rules and regulations for hosts to follow. Hosts are required to register their properties with the city and obtain a permit, ensuring that all rentals meet safety and zoning requirements. Baton Rouge enforces occupancy limits, with short-term rentals not allowed to exceed two people per bedroom. Hosts must also adhere to noise ordinances to minimize disturbances in residential areas.

A local tax, known as the Hotel Occupancy Tax, must be collected by hosts and remitted to the city, contributing to tourism-related initiatives. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with these regulations, and failure to comply can result in fines or revocation of the permit. These measures aim to balance the economic opportunities presented by short-term rentals with the need to maintain the character and tranquility of Baton Rouge's neighborhoods.

Baton Rouge Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $31.3K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $194.9 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 44%
• Average RevPAR – $86.2
• Average Home Prices – $218,840

1. Top Place to Invest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Spanish Town

Spanish Town, Baton Rouge's oldest neighborhood, is a vibrant community brimming with history, culture, and a unique bohemian vibe. This historic area offers a charming escape with colorful events and a close-knit community atmosphere, making it a prime location for a short-term rental investment.

Spanish Town Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $31.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $167.1 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 42%
• Average RevPAR – $70.5

Convenience: 9/10

Spanish Town scores highly on convenience due to its central location in Baton Rouge. Essential amenities such as grocery stores, cafes, and local shops are readily accessible within walking distance. The neighborhood's proximity to downtown Baton Rouge ensures that residents and visitors have quick access to the city's main commercial and business areas, enhancing daily convenience.

Tourist Attractions: 8/10

Spanish Town is a tourist attraction known for its historic homes and vibrant annual Mardi Gras parade, the oldest in Baton Rouge. The neighborhood's rich history and colorful local events draw visitors year-round, looking to experience its unique cultural flair and historical significance.

Things to Do: 9/10

There is never a dull moment in Spanish Town. The area is bustling with activities ranging from community arts events to local festivals. The neighborhood's lively atmosphere is complemented by its quaint shops and eateries, providing ample recreational opportunities for residents and tourists.

Average Home Prices: 7/10

As of 2024, the average home price in Spanish Town is around $310,000, with an appreciation rate of approximately 3% from the previous year. This steady growth in property values reflects the area's increasing desirability, though the entry price point remains accessible compared to other historic urban neighborhoods.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: 8/10

Spanish Town's central location is ideal for work-related travel. It is conveniently close to major business hubs in downtown Baton Rouge, including government buildings and corporate offices. The neighborhood's access to major roadways also facilitates easy commuting to other parts of the city.

X-Factor: 10/10

Spanish Town's unique charm lies in its blend of historical significance and vibrant community life. The neighborhood's eclectic mix of residents, from artists to professionals, creates a dynamic cultural environment that is rare and appealing. The annual Spanish Town Mardi Gras parade and the strong community engagement in local preservation and events give this neighborhood an irreplaceable character.

2. Top Place to Invest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Garden District

The Garden District stands as a picturesque and historic neighborhood in Baton Rouge, known for its oak-lined streets and classic southern charm. This area combines architectural beauty with a rich community atmosphere, making it a coveted location for buying a home and transforming it into an Airbnb.

Garden District Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $31.3K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $175.5 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 49%
• Average RevPAR – $87.3

Convenience: 8/10

The Garden District offers great convenience with its proximity to essential amenities such as local boutiques, cafes, and grocery stores, all within walking or biking distance. Its location near major thoroughfares also allows for easy access to downtown Baton Rouge, enhancing its appeal for daily commuting and urban access.

Tourist Attractions: 7/10

While the Garden District itself is primarily residential, its historical architecture and the annual Wearin' of the Green Parade provide unique local attractions. Nearby, the LSU Museum of Art and the Mississippi Riverfront add cultural and recreational activities that attract visitors, though the area is not a major tourist hub.

Things to Do: 8/10

The neighborhood is vibrant with activities, especially for those who appreciate history and community events. Regular neighborhood gatherings, local farmers' markets, and art walks contribute to a lively social scene. Its parks and recreational spaces offer leisure and outdoor activities to residents and visitors alike.

Average Home Prices: 6/10

In 2024, the average home price in the Garden District is approximately $350,000, with a modest appreciation rate of 2% from the previous year. This slower rate of appreciation indicates a stable but less rapidly growing market, making it a potentially safer, though less lucrative, investment compared to faster-growing areas.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: 7/10

The Garden District's proximity to downtown Baton Rouge and the Louisiana State University campus makes it a practical choice for professionals and academics. However, its distance from major industrial hubs and the airport requires some commuting, which might not appeal to all business travelers.

X-Factor: 9/10

The Garden District's x-factor is undoubtedly its historical and architectural charm. The area's well-preserved homes, from Victorian to bungalow styles, offer a nostalgic allure unmatched in most of Baton Rouge. This aesthetic appeal, combined with a strong sense of community and regular cultural events, makes the neighborhood uniquely attractive.

3. Top Place to Invest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Southdown

Southdown, a burgeoning neighborhood in Baton Rouge, is known for its vibrant community and strategic location. This area combines modern amenities with a touch of Southern charm, making it an appealing choice for aspiring short-term rental investors.

Southdown Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $39.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $258.9 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 42%
• Average RevPAR – $107.6

Convenience: 8/10

Southdown excels in convenience. The neighborhood is well-equipped with a variety of shops, restaurants, and essential services, all easily accessible. Its proximity to major highways enhances its connectivity, allowing residents and visitors to travel efficiently to and from Baton Rouge's downtown and other key areas.

Tourist Attractions: 6/10

While Southdown itself may not be a major tourist destination, its location offers easy access to Baton Rouge's main attractions, such as the Louisiana State Capitol and the LSU Museum of Art. The neighborhood serves as a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the wider city.

Things to Do: 7/10

Southdown offers a range of activities, particularly community-oriented events and local dining experiences. The neighborhood parks and recreational facilities provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, fostering a lively community atmosphere that appeals to families and young professionals alike.

Average Home Prices: 7/10

In 2024, the average home price in Southdown is around $280,000, with a 4% appreciation rate from the previous year. This steady growth indicates a healthy real estate market that is both accessible and promising for investors looking for a balance of affordability and potential for appreciation.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: 8/10

The neighborhood's strategic location near major roads provides excellent access to Baton Rouge's business hubs and medical centers, making it ideal for professionals. Its reasonable distance from the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport also adds to its appeal for frequent travelers.

X-Factor: 9/10

Southdown's x-factor lies in its dynamic community spirit and ongoing development. The neighborhood is rapidly growing, with new housing developments and community projects enhancing its appeal. This growth, combined with an active community association that organizes regular events, makes Southdown a uniquely vibrant and attractive area for long-term investment.

4. Top Place to Invest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest in Baton Rouge is a well-established neighborhood known for its spacious homes and mature trees. This area combines suburban comfort with close proximity to urban amenities, making it a prime location for a real estate investment.

Sherwood Forest Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $33.4K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $183.3 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 50%
• Average RevPAR – $91.5

Convenience: 8/10

Sherwood Forest scores highly on convenience. The neighborhood is served by numerous grocery stores, restaurants, and retail outlets, ensuring that daily needs are easily met. Its location near major roads like I-12 facilitates quick access to downtown Baton Rouge and other parts of the city, enhancing its appeal to residents who value accessibility.

Tourist Attractions: 6/10

While Sherwood Forest itself is not a major tourist destination, its proximity to attractions such as the USS Kidd Veterans Museum and Louisiana's Old State Capitol in downtown Baton Rouge makes it a convenient base for tourists exploring the city. The area's quiet, tree-lined streets offer a pleasant contrast to the busier tourist spots, making it a solid foodie destination in Baton Rouge.

Things to Do: 7/10

The neighborhood provides a variety of activities, especially for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits. Nearby parks and recreational facilities offer residents and visitors alike options for leisure and exercise. Additionally, the area hosts several local eateries and cafes that contribute to a vibrant local dining scene.

Average Home Prices: 7/10

In 2024, the average home price in Sherwood Forest is approximately $250,000, with a modest appreciation rate of 2% from the previous year. This price point makes it an accessible market for many investors, though the slower rate of appreciation suggests a more stable rather than rapidly growing market.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: 8/10

Sherwood Forest's strategic location near I-12 provides excellent connectivity to major employment centers in Baton Rouge, including the downtown area and medical centers. This makes it an attractive area for professionals who commute to work, enhancing its rental market potential.

X-Factor: 9/10

Sherwood Forest's unique appeal lies in its community atmosphere and mature landscaping. The neighborhood is characterized by its large lots and abundant green space, offering a suburban oasis close to the city's heart. This distinctive environment and a strong sense of community make it highly desirable for families and long-term residents.

5. Top Place to Invest in Baton Rouge, Louisiana - Highlands

The Highlands is a Baton Rouge neighborhood that offers a mix of urban living and suburban space, with a reputation for being both vibrant and laid-back. It's a locale that appeals to a diverse population, making it a smart choice for property investors.

Highlands Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $31.3K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $232.2 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 37%
• Average RevPAR – $86.3

Convenience: 8/10

The Highlands rates well for convenience. It's a neighborhood where residents enjoy proximity to a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and parks. Its central location provides easy access to the rest of Baton Rouge, with major roads and public transportation options facilitating movement around the city.

Tourist Attractions: 6/10

Tourist attractions in the Highlands are modest, with the area serving more as a residential haven than a tourist hub. However, its central location means that Baton Rouge's key attractions, such as the LSU campus and the downtown area, are only a short drive away.

Things to Do: 7/10

There's a decent selection of activities in the Highlands, from local dining favorites to outdoor spaces like the Mississippi Levee bike path. The neighborhood's community events and proximity to the city's cultural offerings ensure residents and visitors have options for entertainment and leisure.

Average Home Prices: 7/10

The average home price in the Highlands is around $300,000 as of 2024, with a 3% appreciation rate from the previous year. This steady growth suggests a healthy real estate market that offers a balance of affordability and investment potential.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: 7/10

The Highlands' central location in Baton Rouge makes it a practical choice for work-related travel. It's well-connected to the city's main business and medical districts, though it lacks immediate access to larger convention centers or sports venues.

X-Factor: 9/10

The Highlands' x-factor is its blend of urban accessibility and residential charm. The neighborhood's diverse architectural styles and tree-lined streets give it a unique aesthetic that's attractive to both young professionals and families. This, combined with a strong sense of community, makes the Highlands a standout area for investment.