Best Places in Arizona to Buy Vacation Rental Property

October 30, 2024

Best Places in Arizona to Buy Vacation Rental Property

Arizona's diverse landscapes, sunny climate, and growing tourism industry make it an appealing destination for those interested in purchasing a vacation rental home or investment property. The state’s year-round attractions, including national parks, luxury resorts, and vibrant cities, offer a wealth of opportunities for both short-term and long-term rentals. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the best Arizona cities and regions for vacation rental investments.


Is Arizona a Good Place to Invest in a Vacation Rental Property or Airbnb?


Arizona is widely considered a strong market for vacation rentals, attracting millions of tourists each year, particularly during the mild winter months when visitors flock to escape colder climates. The state's combination of high occupancy rates, competitive average daily rates, and expanding rental market make it a top choice for investors. Cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Sedona stand out as some of the best places to buy vacation rental properties due to their popularity among tourists and the high return on investment potential. For those seeking long-term gains, Arizona offers consistent rental demand with growth across its tourism and housing markets.


Best Arizona Cities to Buy Rental Property


Scottsdale

Average Home Price

$1,000,000

Occupancy Rate

65%

Average Daily Rate

$243

Scottsdale is one of Arizona's premier locations for vacation rentals, offering a blend of luxury, culture, and outdoor activities. Known for its upscale resorts, golf courses, and vibrant art scene, Scottsdale attracts high-spending visitors, making it a lucrative market for vacation rentals. Properties here can yield strong returns, especially during peak seasons, with high average daily rates and solid occupancy.


Tourism Highlights


Scottsdale’s appeal to tourists lies in its unique cultural offerings and outdoor amenities. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, renowned spas, and luxury shopping districts attract affluent guests seeking a relaxing escape. Additionally, golfing options and annual events like the Waste Management Phoenix Open help ensure steady vacation rental demand.


Scottsdale’s high-demand rental market calls for expert management. Our vacation property management in Scottsdale is designed to help you capture premium bookings and provide guests with an unforgettable stay, all while maximizing your investment returns.


Phoenix

Average Home Price

$499,900

Occupancy Rate

65%

Average Daily Rate

$165

As Arizona’s capital and largest city, Phoenix is a central hub for tourism, with a broad appeal for both vacation and business travelers. The city offers a mix of affordable and upscale neighborhoods, giving investors flexibility when choosing properties. Phoenix’s vacation rental market is particularly strong during winter and spring, thanks to the warm climate and numerous events, from sports tournaments to music festivals.


Tourism Highlights


Phoenix attracts a diverse range of visitors with its mix of cultural, outdoor, and sports attractions. Popular sites like the Desert Botanical Garden and Camelback Mountain appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, while the downtown area offers nightlife and dining options. Events like the Phoenix Film Festival and major sports games contribute to high occupancy rates.


With Phoenix’s strong seasonal demand, our vacation property management in Phoenix ensures your property stands out and operates smoothly year-round. From marketing to maintenance, we handle every detail to keep your rental profitable and guest-ready.


Let us take the hassle out of vacation rental investing.
Watch to see how we guide you to a profitable, hands-free investment.
Buy a Rental with Us

Peoria

Average Home Price

$567,500

Occupancy Rate

42%

Average Daily Rate

$241

Peoria combines suburban charm with excellent accessibility to central Phoenix and popular outdoor destinations. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and recreational activities, including access to nearby Lake Pleasant, Peoria’s vacation rental properties perform well, particularly for families and groups looking for homes near nature.


Tourism Highlights


Peoria’s proximity to Lake Pleasant Regional Park provides vacationers with ample boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. The Peoria Sports Complex, which hosts MLB spring training, brings in fans, creating peak rental demand during the baseball season and contributing to the area’s growing vacation rental market.


For Peoria’s family-friendly market, our vacation property management in Peoria is focused on creating welcoming spaces that appeal to groups and families. We handle everything from bookings to upkeep, so you can enjoy a hassle-free investment


Glendale

Average Home Price

$424,750

Occupancy Rate

43%

Average Daily Rate

$219

Home to major sports venues and entertainment districts, Glendale is a top destination for sports fans and concert-goers. With the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals and the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes, Glendale sees a consistent influx of visitors year-round. Short-term rentals in Glendale can capitalize on events and tourism, offering investors a strong occupancy rate and steady rental income.


Tourism Highlights


Glendale attracts tourists with State Farm Stadium and Gila River Arena, which host professional sports and concerts. Shopping areas like the Westgate Entertainment District provide entertainment options, boosting Glendale’s appeal as a vacation rental location. Events like the Super Bowl and concerts increase demand for vacation rental properties in the area.


With Glendale’s sports and entertainment draw, our vacation property management in Glendale is geared towards maximizing occupancy during peak events. We handle every aspect of guest management, ensuring your property is always event-ready.


Paradise Valley

Average Home Price

$4,800,000

Occupancy Rate

41%

Average Daily Rate

$603

For luxury investors, Paradise Valley is an ideal market, known for high-end homes and proximity to Scottsdale. This area appeals to vacationers seeking a more exclusive, upscale stay, and commands some of Arizona's highest average daily rates. Properties in Paradise Valley tend to attract affluent travelers, making it a great place for high-end vacation rentals.


Tourism Highlights


Paradise Valley is known for its scenic landscapes and luxury accommodations, drawing high-profile guests. With numerous luxury resorts and spas, the area is ideal for tourists seeking relaxation. The proximity to high-end shopping in Scottsdale also adds to its appeal as a prime vacation rental market.


For the luxury market in Paradise Valley, our vacation property management in Paradise Valley focuses on creating exceptional guest experiences that align with the area’s upscale appeal. We manage every detail to ensure your property meets the highest standards.


Let us take the hassle out of vacation rental investing.
Watch to see how we guide you to a profitable, hands-free investment.
Buy a Rental with Us

Tucson

Average Home Price

$375,000

Occupancy Rate

63%

Average Daily Rate

$114

Tucson's unique blend of desert landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities makes it an appealing vacation rental market. With attractions such as Saguaro National Park and a bustling downtown area, Tucson draws visitors looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. The market here tends to be more affordable than Phoenix and Scottsdale, offering a good entry point for investors.


Tourism Highlights


Tucson’s attractions include the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, historic missions, and hiking trails in Sabino Canyon, making it popular among tourists seeking outdoor experiences and local culture. Events like the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show also drive rental demand, particularly during the cooler months.



Tempe

Average Home Price

$510,000

Occupancy Rate

48%

Average Daily Rate

$170

Home to Arizona State University, Tempe sees high demand for short-term rentals, especially during the academic year and football season. The youthful, vibrant city attracts a mix of visitors, from college students’ families to business travelers, giving Tempe a steady occupancy rate and reliable rental revenue opportunities.


Tourism Highlights


Tempe Town Lake and ASU Gammage Theater are major attractions that contribute to the area’s tourism appeal. Annual events like the Tempe Festival of the Arts and Ironman Arizona also draw visitors, making Tempe a top choice for vacation rental investments.


With Tempe’s vibrant college-town atmosphere, our vacation property management in Tempe caters to diverse guest needs, from visiting families to business travelers. We handle everything from guest communication to property upkeep, ensuring your rental thrives year-round.


Sedona

Average Home Price

$942,053

Occupancy Rate

70%

Average Daily Rate

$257

Famed for its red rock formations and spiritual tourism, Sedona remains a top vacation rental market. Visitors come year-round to experience outdoor adventures and relaxation retreats. Sedona’s limited housing inventory and high demand mean that properties here often achieve high occupancy and average daily rates, though the entry cost may be higher.


Tourism Highlights


Sedona is known for its stunning red rock landscapes and numerous hiking trails, including Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. The town’s focus on wellness tourism, with spas and yoga retreats, appeals to a unique market. Annual events like the Sedona Yoga Festival further boost occupancy, particularly in vacation rental properties.


Sedona’s scenic appeal attracts visitors year-round. Our vacation property management in Sedona is tailored to capture this demand, providing guests with a memorable experience while maximizing your property’s rental potential.


Flagstaff

Average Home Price

$779,300

Occupancy Rate

34%

Average Daily Rate

$197

Flagstaff is Arizona’s gateway to the Grand Canyon and a top pick for nature lovers. Popular for its cooler climate, Flagstaff appeals to summer tourists seeking relief from the desert heat and winter sports enthusiasts. Vacation rentals here see strong performance, especially during peak seasons, making Flagstaff an appealing investment area.


Tourism Highlights


Flagstaff offers tourists access to the Grand Canyon and skiing at Arizona Snowbowl. The city’s historic downtown and Flagstaff Festival of Science also attract a variety of visitors, making it a top destination for those seeking both cultural and outdoor experiences.



Let us take the hassle out of vacation rental investing.
Watch to see how we guide you to a profitable, hands-free investment.
Buy a Rental with Us

Surprise

Average Home Price

$460,000

Occupancy Rate

43%

Average Daily Rate

$181

Surprise, known for its proximity to spring training facilities, attracts baseball fans each year, creating a seasonal surge in rental demand. Additionally, the city’s affordability and suburban appeal make it a strong market for family-oriented vacation homes.


Tourism Highlights


Surprise Stadium, which hosts MLB spring training, is a major draw for sports fans. The area’s family-friendly parks and golf courses attract visitors year-round, contributing to the city’s appeal as a location for vacation rental properties.



Gold Canyon

Average Home Price

$509,700

Occupancy Rate

50%

Average Daily Rate

$254.3

For investors interested in smaller communities with scenic appeal, Gold Canyon offers stunning views of the Superstition Mountains and a relaxed atmosphere. The area appeals to visitors looking for a quiet getaway, with outdoor activities like hiking and golf. While the market here is smaller, properties can still see solid demand among nature enthusiasts.


Tourism Highlights


Gold Canyon provides access to Lost Dutchman State Park and the Superstition Mountains, popular with outdoor enthusiasts. With numerous hiking trails and local golf courses, it appeals to visitors seeking outdoor experiences away from urban centers, making it a quiet but profitable vacation rental market.



Top Tourist Attractions in Arizona


Arizona offers a rich array of tourist attractions that help make it a top choice for vacation rental property investments. These destinations consistently draw tourists, boosting occupancy rates and average daily rates for short-term rentals. Here are some of the standout attractions:


  • Grand Canyon: This world-famous national park is a year-round attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually. Nearby towns and cities with available rentals can benefit from the influx of tourists seeking short stays.
  • Sedona's Red Rocks: Sedona’s scenic landscapes and outdoor adventure options, from hiking to spiritual retreats, attract a steady stream of visitors who often seek upscale, private vacation homes.
  • Luxury Golf Resorts: Scottsdale and Phoenix are known for their high-end golf courses and resorts, bringing in a mix of avid golfers, corporate guests, and affluent tourists, especially during peak season.


Seasonal Trends and Visitor Patterns


Arizona’s unique climate creates distinct high and low seasons for vacation rental properties, and understanding these can help investors plan for peak rental periods.


  • Winter Season (December to March): Warmer cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson see peak occupancy during winter months, as travelers from colder regions flock here for sunshine and warmth.
  • Summer Season (June to August): While lower elevations experience extreme heat, areas like Flagstaff and Sedona enjoy cooler temperatures and attract summer tourists. These northern areas offer strong returns for properties catering to visitors escaping the heat.
  • Spring and Fall: Known for mild temperatures, these seasons see steady demand across most of Arizona, making them optimal for maintaining higher occupancy rates and achieving stable rental revenue.


Local Events That Boost Demand


Arizona hosts numerous events that can lead to increased demand for short-term rentals and help maximize occupancy. These events attract diverse groups of tourists, making them valuable peak times for vacation rental investments.


  • Spring Training (March): Baseball spring training in Phoenix and surrounding areas draws a large number of visitors, leading to high occupancy rates.
  • Sedona Film Festival (February): The Sedona International Film Festival brings tourists and film enthusiasts to the city, making it an ideal time for renting vacation properties.
  • Scottsdale Culinary Festival (April): This popular festival draws food and wine lovers, enhancing Scottsdale’s rental market occupancy and average rates during spring.


Price and Average Daily Rates by Region


Arizona vacation rentals vary in price based on location, property size, and amenities. Properties in luxury markets like Scottsdale and Paradise Valley generally command higher daily rates, while rentals in Phoenix and Tucson may appeal to budget-conscious travelers.


  • Scottsdale: With its luxury homes, Scottsdale’s rentals achieve some of the highest daily rates in Arizona, driven by affluent travelers seeking high-end stays.
  • Phoenix: Phoenix offers a range of options from budget to upscale rentals, with prices tending to peak in winter.
  • Flagstaff and Sedona: These areas see moderate to high daily rates, particularly during the summer months when cooler temperatures attract tourists.


Other Important Factors for Vacation Rental Investors


For vacation rental investors, understanding Arizona's diverse market conditions, visitor patterns, and local laws is essential to maximize returns.


  • Market and Occupancy Trends: Arizona’s vacation rental market is competitive, with occupancy rates generally higher in winter. Properties with proximity to tourist attractions or luxury amenities typically yield stronger annual revenue.
  • Local Regulations: Many Arizona cities have specific regulations on short-term rentals and vacation properties, impacting where investors can operate. Scottsdale, for example, has certain neighborhood restrictions, and it’s important to research local policies before buying.
  • Insurance Considerations: Due to Arizona's extreme weather in some areas, appropriate property insurance for vacation homes is essential for protecting investments against potential risks.


Invest in Your Vacation Home with Confidence


At Home Team Vacation Rentals, we make it easy to buy a vacation home and turn it into a profitable, hands-free investment. Our all-inclusive service takes the guesswork out of the process, guiding you from property selection through management. With our expertise and BNB Turnkey’s investor program, you can enjoy steady cash flow, tax benefits, and premium guest experiences without the hassle.


Our team supports you through a three-phase approach: we conduct in-depth market analysis to find high-performing properties, deliver customized design and furnishing, and manage every operational detail with our vacation property management in Arizona. We handle everything—marketing, guest communication, maintenance—so you can sit back and watch your investment grow.


Whether you're new to the market or expanding your portfolio, our seamless approach makes it simple to buy a vacation home with confidence. Reach out to us, and we’ll help you unlock the full potential of your vacation property.


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