Chattanooga, TN · Real Estate Investment Analysis

Airbnb vs Long-Term Rental in Chattanooga, TN

Should you Airbnb or rent your property in Chattanooga? Compare STR vs LTR returns using real market data from 30+ properties across 4 ZIP codes in Chattanooga.

Market Recommendation

Short-Term Rental (Airbnb)

· Strong market for STR

STR generates significantly higher revenue than long-term rentals in this market. Strong Airbnb demand relative to long-term rents makes STR the clear choice for most investors here.

Chattanooga Rental Market Data

$2,087

Avg Monthly LTR Rent

$180

Avg Airbnb Nightly Rate

64%

Avg STR Occupancy Rate

At these averages, an Airbnb in Chattanooga generates ~$3,492/month gross vs ~$2,087/month for long-term rental — before expenses and mortgage.

Based on 30 properties across 4 ZIP codes in Chattanooga, TN.

Quick Estimator

Adjust the inputs to estimate monthly cash flow for a property in Chattanooga, TN. Pre-filled with Chattanooga market averages.

Financing

Market Inputs

Long-Term Rental

-$800

/ month cash flow

Monthly Revenue$2,087
Mortgage-$1,809
Other Expenses-$1,078

Short-Term Rental (Airbnb)

-$2,082

/ month cash flow

Monthly Revenue$3,502
Mortgage-$1,809
Other Expenses-$3,775

Estimates use standard assumptions: 20% down, 1.2% property tax, 1% maintenance, 10% LTR property management, 20% STR property management, 15% OTA fees, 5% LTR vacancy. For a property-specific analysis with live market data, use the full PropClarity calculator.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Chattanooga, TN

Is Airbnb profitable in Chattanooga, TN?

Based on market data, Airbnb properties in Chattanooga earn an average of $180 per night at 64% occupancy. That works out to roughly $3,492 in gross monthly revenue before expenses and mortgage. Profitability depends on your purchase price, financing, and local STR regulations.

Should I Airbnb or rent my property in Chattanooga?

For most investors in Chattanooga, Airbnb (STR) tends to generate higher gross revenue than long-term rental — especially for well-located, well-furnished properties. However, STR comes with higher operating costs and more active management. Run a full analysis on your specific property for an accurate comparison.

What is the average Airbnb nightly rate in Chattanooga?

The average Airbnb daily rate (ADR) in Chattanooga based on PropClarity's market data is approximately $180 per night. Rates vary by property size, location, amenities, and season.

What are the Airbnb regulations in Chattanooga, TN?

Short-term rental regulations vary significantly by city and change frequently. Chattanooga may require a business license, STR permit, or owner-occupancy requirement to operate an Airbnb. Always verify with the Chattanooga city or county government and your HOA before starting an STR. PropClarity does not provide legal or regulatory advice.

How does PropClarity calculate STR vs LTR returns?

PropClarity pulls live data from multiple sources including Zillow, RentCast, and AirDNA to estimate property-specific LTR rent, STR nightly rate, and occupancy. It then runs a full investment model including mortgage, all operating expenses, cap rate, cash-on-cash return, DSCR, and 10-year projections — on a per-property basis. The quick estimator on this page uses city market averages and simplified assumptions as an initial benchmark only.

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Market averages are estimates derived from aggregated listing and market data and do not constitute financial advice. Past performance does not guarantee future returns. Always verify local STR regulations before investing. Full disclaimer