AirDNA’s First STR Investor Survey: Why Pros Are Scaling While Newbies Pause in 2026

Curious about where everyone's investing this year?

A few days ago, AirDNA released their first-ever Short-Term Rental Investor Survey.

They asked over 400 hosts and real estate investors what's boosting and slowing their businesses, what their growth plans are for 2026, and which markets they're buying in.

Think of it as the State of the STR Union.

A reality check on what’s actually working for STR hosts beyond the headlines.

Let’s take a look at AirDNA's biggest findings—and how top performers are positioning themselves this year.

Finding #1: Amateurs Pause. Pros Pounce.

According to survey results, the more properties someone owns, the more likely they are to buy again.

Investors with 5+ properties are the most likely to scale up.

First-timers and aspiring hosts are sitting this one out.

Finding #2: What's Really Holding Investors Back

AirDNA asked current hosts what's constraining them from buying more.

The top answers:

▪️ Property prices – Over 40%

▪️ Demand uncertainty / oversaturated markets – ~37%

▪️ Rising operating costs – ~36%

▪️ High interest rates – ~28%

▪️ STR regulations – ~24%

These factors shift dramatically when you compare different experience levels.

▪️ Newer investors struggle mostly with property prices.

▪️ Experienced operators worry about demand, regulations, and rising costs.

Finding #3: No One's Selling in 2026

Despite the headlines, hosts aren't running for the exits.

Over 60% said they're highly unlikely to sell any properties in the next year.

And for those who are considering a sale, it's purely strategic:

Capital reallocation, portfolio optimization, or personal reasons.

Finding #4: Where Investors Are Buying

According to AirDNA, investors are targeting:

▪️ Outdoor destinations (mountains, ski, national parks) – ~30%

▪️ Coastal/beach destinations – ~24%

▪️ Urban and city centers – ~17%

But here's the pattern:

New investors are sticking to urban markets—familiar, easier to finance.

Experienced investors are chasing outdoor, coastal, and mountain destinations for pricing power and to build destination brands.

Finding #5: The Biggest Factors Driving Success

It’s not all fears and blockers.

In 2026, hosts and investors are optimistic about:

▪️ Strong consumer travel demand – ~55%

▪️ Lower or more stable interest rates – ~43%

▪️ Tax benefits (depreciation, cost segregation, offsetting income) – ~36%

▪️ Lower inflation / easing operating costs – ~26%

Want the Full Picture on STR Hosting in 2026?

Our full summary goes deeper into:

✔️ What's keeping first-timers on the sidelines
(and what they need to do to invest now)

✔️ Host Camp's tips for new and scaling investors

✔️ Resources to help you start and grow your business sustainably.

READ THE BREAKDOWN HERE

Happy investing,

The Host Camp Team

P.S. Ready to analyze real estate data like the pros? Use our link to get 10% off AirDNA.

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