Fort Smith Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Arkansas, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Fort Smith in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Fort Smith, Arkansas, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Fort Smith, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 164 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Fort Smith, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Fort Smith Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Fort Smith Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$126
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Fort Smith.
Occupancy Rate(?)
44.8%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$20,770
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Fort Smith. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
19.7%
Strong growth (19.7%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
May
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Fort Smith.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Fort Smith.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
164
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Fort Smith (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Fort Smith is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Fort Smith is typically May, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Fort Smith across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $3,831+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,681 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,785 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $961, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Fort Smith

Fort Smith Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Fort Smith STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while January experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Fort Smith:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 80%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 65% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 44%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 25% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Fort Smith

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Fort Smith (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Fort Smith involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Fort Smith typically peaks in December and dips lowest during February. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $189+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $145 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $108 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $81 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Fort Smith

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Fort Smith (2025)

Peak Season (May, April, June)
  • Revenue averages $2,845 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 46.8%
  • Daily rates average $124
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,916 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 47.1%
  • Daily rates hold near $125
Low Season (January, February, August)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,567 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 40.8%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $123

Seasonality Insights for Fort Smith

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Fort Smith shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Fort Smith's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,874, occupancy reaching a high of 54.9%, and ADRs peaking at $132.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $1,422, occupancy could drop to 38.0%, and ADRs may adjust down to $120.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Fort Smith.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Fort Smith seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Fort Smith (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Fort Smith? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Downtown Fort Smith
The central business district with a mix of historical and modern attractions. Offers easy access to restaurants, bars, and local events.
Fort Smith Museum of History, Riverfront Park, The Majestic Hotel, The Blue Lion, Fort Smith National Historic Site
Belle Grove Historic District
A charming neighborhood known for its well-preserved historic homes and unique character. Attracts guests interested in history and architecture.
Belle Grove Historic District, Garrison Avenue, The Fort Smith Convention Center, Local artisan shops
Chaffee Crossing
A rapidly developing area with a mix of residential and commercial opportunities. Attractive for those seeking modern amenities and outdoor activities.
Chaffee Crossing Historic District, Fort Chaffee Military Museum, Parks and trails, Local breweries and restaurants
The Riverfront
An area along the Arkansas River with parks and scenic views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hosts events and festivals that draw visitors.
Riverfront Park, Parkview Park, Fort Smith Farmers Market, Arkansas River Parks Trail
West Side
A suburban neighborhood with family-friendly amenities and a variety of dining options. Ideal for longer stays and family travelers.
The Mall at Fort Smith, Various parks, Local markets and shops
Fianna Hills
An upscale residential area with golf courses and stunning landscapes. Appeals to guests looking for a quiet retreat.
Fianna Hills Country Club, Coker-Harris Trail, Local nature parks
Rogers Avenue
A bustling area with shopping, dining, and easy access to major highways. Great for guests who want convenience and variety.
Shopping centers, Restaurants, Local entertainment venues
Historic Downtown
Renowned for its vintage shops, art galleries, and cultural events. Attracts those interested in the local arts scene.
Art galleries, The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, Local music venues, Cultural festivals

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Fort Smith (2025)

While Fort Smith, Arkansas, United States currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Fort Smith to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Fort Smith (2025)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Fort Smithbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

The Beland Mansion

The Beland Mansion

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$115,294
Revenue
82.9%
Occupancy
$354.88
Daily Rate
The Villa - near Chaffee with in ground pool

The Villa - near Chaffee with in ground pool

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$80,198
Revenue
33.8%
Occupancy
$427.40
Daily Rate
The Chaffee Chateau - a quiet escape in Ft. Smith

The Chaffee Chateau - a quiet escape in Ft. Smith

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$67,638
Revenue
72.8%
Occupancy
$252.61
Daily Rate
The Ney House - 1890 Historic Colonial Downtown FS

The Ney House - 1890 Historic Colonial Downtown FS

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$62,135
Revenue
54.4%
Occupancy
$300.29
Daily Rate
4 bedrm, 2.5 bath, Sleeps 20, NO Pets

4 bedrm, 2.5 bath, Sleeps 20, NO Pets

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$56,175
Revenue
54.8%
Occupancy
$232.76
Daily Rate
The Anderson House- 1885 Eastlake Victorian

The Anderson House- 1885 Eastlake Victorian

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$51,404
Revenue
45.0%
Occupancy
$298.06
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Fort Smith (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Fort Smith based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Rebekah15$474,19020764.93/5.0
Ryan7$211,5331864.97/5.0
Sydney5$210,3342604.90/5.0
Luis5$129,1552494.95/5.0
Heidi4$119,3742044.94/5.0
Sarah2$99,623484.90/5.0
Perry2$88,9052994.92/5.0
David3$85,1092324.92/5.0
Tim8$84,6207614.86/5.0
River Valley4$81,016433.56/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Fort Smith.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Fort Smith STR Market Data (2025)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Fort Smith. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Fort Smith Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Fort Smith

  • The Fort Smith Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 89.6% of the 164 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Fort Smith, House properties are the most common (77.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 77.4% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, unique stays (combined 4.2%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Fort Smith Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Fort Smith

  • The dominant room capacity in Fort Smith is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 29.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 57.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Fort Smith, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 40.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Fort Smith.

Fort Smith Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Fort Smith

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Fort Smith vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (24.4%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 6 guests and 4 guests dominate the Fort Smith STR market, accounting for 47.0% of listings.
  • 47.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Fort Smith.
  • On average, properties in Fort Smith are equipped to host 4.8 guests.

Fort Smith Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Fort Smith

  • The most common availability pattern in Fort Smith falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 42.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 55.5% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Fort Smith (42.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 45.8% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Fort Smith Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (61.4%)

1 Night

97 listings

61.4% of total

2 Nights (18.4%)

2 Nights

29 listings

18.4% of total

3 Nights (7%)

3 Nights

11 listings

7% of total

4-6 Nights (5.1%)

4-6 Nights

8 listings

5.1% of total

7-29 Nights (0.6%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

0.6% of total

30+ Nights (7.6%)

30+ Nights

12 listings

7.6% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Fort Smith is 1 Night, adopted by 61.4% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (79.8%) of the Fort Smith Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 61.4% of Fort Smith hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 7.6% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Fort Smith.

Fort Smith Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (41.7%)

Flexible

65 listings

41.7% of total

Moderate (28.2%)

Moderate

44 listings

28.2% of total

Firm (23.1%)

Firm

36 listings

23.1% of total

Strict (7.1%)

Strict

11 listings

7.1% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Fort Smith

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Fort Smith is Flexible, used by 41.7% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (69.9%) and stricter (30.2%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
  • Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (7.1%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 41.7% market standard in Fort Smith.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 7.1% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Fort Smith.

Fort Smith STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Fort Smith

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Fort Smith is 29 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 53 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 14 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Spring (41 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (20 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (29 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Fort Smith.
  • For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 53 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • During February, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (14 days avg.).
  • Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 41 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Fort Smith averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Fort Smith (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Fort Smith

  • Essential amenities in Fort Smith that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, TV, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Kitchen, Hot water, Dishes and silverware are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Fort Smith: Wifi, Air conditioning, TV, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Heating.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Heating.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen or Hot water to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Fort Smith to stay competitive.

Fort Smith Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Fort Smith

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Fort Smith consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Fort Smith, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 98.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (98.2%) and United Kingdom (0.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (78.9%) followed by Spanish (11%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Fort Smith and Tulsa.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Fort Smith Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Rockwell13$7,835$530.8239%
Blue Eye25$6,531$430.9453%
McCurtain County78$5,102$445.8439%
Broken Bow2,448$4,754$386.9439%
Hollister206$4,444$369.4443%
Hochatown14$4,436$383.1938%
Coweta13$4,285$444.1449%
Wilburton18$4,124$268.8539%
Lowell28$3,479$236.6550%
Piney16$3,194$304.7334%

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