Airbnb City Guide: The Best Places To Invest in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Airbnb Rules and Regulations in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

As of 2024, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, has specific regulations in place for short-term rentals like Airbnb. Hosts must obtain a valid Short-Term Rental Permit to operate legally. Non-hosted rentals, where the owner is not present during the guest's stay, are limited to certain zoning districts and subject to a cap on the total number of permits issued citywide. This cap will be gradually reduced through attrition when existing non-hosted permits are vacated, revoked, or not renewed.

Hosted rentals, where the owner remains on-site, are allowed throughout the city. All short-term rental operators must register to pay the city's Transient Occupancy Tax and Tourism Business Improvement Area assessments. Additionally, rentals must adhere to occupancy limits, parking restrictions, and other guidelines set forth by the city to maintain neighborhood character and quality of life for residents. Failure to comply with these rules may result in fines or permit revocation.

Santa Rosa Beach Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $211.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $1K per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 58%
• Average RevPAR – $630.4
• Average Home Prices – $994,090

1. Top Place to Invest in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida - Seaside

Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast, Seaside is a charming beach town that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. With its pristine white sand beaches, vibrant community, and iconic architecture, Seaside has become a sought-after destination for both vacationers and investors seeking to start a short-term rental business.

Seaside Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $211.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $1K per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 58%
• Average RevPAR – $630.4

Convenience - 8/10

Seaside offers a convenient lifestyle with its walkable streets, quaint shops, and excellent dining options. The town's compact layout allows residents and visitors to easily navigate on foot or by bicycle, making it a breeze to access amenities and enjoy the laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Tourist Attractions - 9/10

Seaside boasts an array of tourist attractions that draw visitors from far and wide. The town's picturesque beaches are the main draw, offering a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The iconic pastel-colored houses and the unique Seaside Pavilion have become Instagram-worthy spots, attracting photography enthusiasts and architecture buffs.

Things to Do - 7/10

While Seaside may not have an extensive list of activities compared to larger cities, it still offers a delightful range of things to do. Visitors can explore the local farmers market, attend outdoor concerts, or take part in community events. The town's art galleries and boutiques provide a unique shopping experience, while the nearby state parks offer hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Average Home Prices - 6/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the average home price in Seaside is $1,450,000. This represents a 3.2% appreciation rate over the past year, indicating a stable and growing real estate market. While the prices may seem steep compared to other areas, Seaside's unique charm and desirability justify the investment for those seeking a slice of coastal paradise.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 5/10

Seaside's location may not be ideal for those who frequently travel for work. The nearest major airport, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, is approximately 30 miles away. While the town is within driving distance of larger cities like Destin and Panama City, it may not be the most convenient for those who require quick access to hospitals, convention centers, or sports venues.

X-Factor - 9/10

What sets Seaside apart is its unparalleled charm and sense of community. The town's iconic pastel-colored houses, designed by renowned architects, create a whimsical and inviting atmosphere. The pedestrian-friendly streets and central square foster a strong sense of belonging and encourage social interaction among residents and visitors. Seaside's unique architecture and small-town feel have made it a beloved destination featured in movies and magazines, adding to its allure as an investment opportunity.

2. Top Place to Invest in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida - Grayton Beach

Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast, Grayton Beach is a charming, historic beach village that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Grayton Beach has become an increasingly popular destination for vacationers and investors seeking a slice of coastal paradise with its laid-back vibe, pristine white sand beaches, and unique character.

Grayton Beach Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $211.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $1K per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 58%
• Average RevPAR – $630.4

Convenience - 7/10

Grayton Beach offers a convenient lifestyle with its walkable streets, quaint shops, and excellent dining options. The compact layout allows residents and visitors to easily navigate on foot or by bicycle, making it a breeze to access amenities. However, the limited number of convenience stores and corner shops in the immediate area may require venturing to nearby towns for certain necessities.

Tourist Attractions - 8/10

Grayton Beach boasts an array of tourist attractions that draw visitors from far and wide. The picturesque beaches are the main draw, offering a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The iconic pastel-colored houses and unique architecture have become Instagram-worthy spots. Grayton Beach State Park provides opportunities for camping, fishing, hiking, biking, and exploring the rare coastal dune lakes.

Things to Do - 7/10

While Grayton Beach may not have an extensive list of activities compared to larger cities, it still offers a delightful range of things to do. Visitors can explore art galleries, attend outdoor concerts, or take part in community events. The local farmers market and boutiques provide a unique shopping experience. Nearby state parks offer hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Water activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and charter fishing are popular pastimes.

Average Home Prices - 6/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the average home value in Santa Rosa Beach, which includes Grayton Beach, is $975,924. This represents a 5.0% depreciation rate over the past year, indicating a slight real estate market cooling. While the prices may seem steep compared to other areas, the unique charm and desirability of Grayton Beach still make it an attractive investment opportunity for those seeking to purchase a coastal property to transform into an Airbnb.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 5/10

Grayton Beach's location may not be ideal for those who frequently travel for work. The nearest major airport, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, is approximately 30 miles away. While the town is within driving distance of larger cities like Destin and Panama City, it may not be the most convenient for quick access to hospitals, convention centers, or sports venues.

X-Factor - 9/10

Grayton Beach's unparalleled charm, laid-back atmosphere, and strong sense of community set it apart. The town's historic cottages, winding oyster-shell roads, and shady oak trees create a nostalgic, old-Florida feel. The vibrant artist community and eclectic vibe add to its allure. Grayton Beach's unique character and natural beauty have made it a beloved destination featured in magazines and travel guides, cementing its status as a desirable investment location for Airbnb startups and short-term rentals.

3. Top Place to Invest in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida - Santa Rosa Beach

Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast, Santa Rosa Beach is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. With its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back coastal charm, Santa Rosa Beach has become an increasingly popular choice for those seeking to launch a short-term rental business near the coast.

Santa Rosa Beach Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $211.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $1K per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 58%
• Average RevPAR – $630.4

Convenience - 7/10

Santa Rosa Beach offers a convenient lifestyle with its walkable neighborhoods, well-maintained roads, and easy access to amenities. The compact layout allows residents and visitors to easily navigate the area, whether by car, bike, or on foot. However, the limited public transportation options and occasional traffic congestion during peak seasons may pose minor inconveniences.

Tourist Attractions - 9/10

Santa Rosa Beach boasts an array of tourist attractions that cater to diverse interests. The area's pristine beaches are the primary draw, offering a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can explore the unique coastal dune lakes, hike through the scenic state parks, or indulge in retail therapy at the charming boutiques and art galleries. The town's vibrant events calendar, featuring festivals, live music, and farmers markets, adds to its allure.

Things to Do - 8/10

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Santa Rosa Beach offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Water enthusiasts can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, or taking a leisurely sunset cruise. The area's extensive network of hiking and biking trails allows nature lovers to immerse themselves in the lush surroundings. Foodies can savor the flavors of fresh Gulf seafood and locally-sourced cuisine at the town's acclaimed restaurants. The thriving arts scene, with its galleries, workshops, and performances, provides a creative outlet for residents and visitors alike.

Average Home Prices - 6/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the average home value in Santa Rosa Beach is $975,924, representing a 5.0% depreciation rate over the past year. While the prices remain relatively high compared to other areas, the unique charm and desirability of Santa Rosa Beach continue to attract investors seeking a slice of coastal paradise. The slight cooling of the real estate market may present opportunities for savvy buyers to negotiate favorable deals for properties they seek to list on Airbnb.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 5/10

Santa Rosa Beach's location may not be the most convenient for frequent work-related travel. The nearest major airport, Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, is approximately 30 miles away. While the town is within driving distance of larger cities like Destin and Panama City, it may not offer the quickest access to hospitals, convention centers, or sports venues. However, the area's growing economy and increasing remote work opportunities may mitigate this concern for some investors.

X-Factor - 9/10

What sets Santa Rosa Beach apart is its unparalleled natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and strong sense of community. The town's pristine beaches, with their sugar-white sand and turquoise waters, create a breathtaking backdrop for relaxation and adventure. The area's commitment to preserving its natural resources, evident in the numerous state parks and conservation efforts, ensures a sustainable and eco-friendly environment. The friendly locals, vibrant arts scene, and unique coastal architecture contribute to the town's irresistible charm and character.