Is Columbus, OH a Good STR Investment in 2026?
1,793 active listings
Top Market
Median Price
$262,983
STR Revenue/mo
$2,581
Cap Rate
4.6%
1Y Appreciation
-0.5%
Avg Nightly Rate
$160
Market Score
96.9/100
Market Overview
Columbus, OH presents a strong opportunity for real estate investors in 2026, with a market score of 96.9 out of 100. The median home price sits at $262,983 with average short-term rental revenue of $2,581 per month, yielding a 4.6% cap rate.
Short-Term Rental Performance
Short-term rental hosts in Columbus average $2,581 in monthly revenue with a 62.2% occupancy rate. This translates to approximately $30,972 in annual gross revenue for a typical listing. The average nightly rate is $160.
Investment Analysis
Assuming a 20% down payment at 7% interest on a $262,983 property, your monthly mortgage would be approximately $1,400. After accounting for mortgage, taxes, and insurance, the estimated monthly cash flow for an STR is -$386.
The long-term rental market shows potential with median rents at $1,500 per month. Home values have declined 0.5% year-over-year, so investors should factor in potential equity loss when evaluating returns.
Our Verdict
Columbus ranks among the top investment markets with a score of 96.9/100. However, declining home values (-0.5%) mean investors should focus on cash flow rather than equity growth.