Airbnb Rules and Regulations in Baltimore, Maryland

There are comprehensive rules and regulations governing short-term rentals in Baltimore. Hosts must obtain a permit for each short-term rental unit, valid for two years and costing $200. The property must be the host's primary residence, deeded in their name, and free of any code violations. Baltimore allows a maximum of two short-term rental licenses per person, with only one unhosted unit permitted. Hosts are required to pay property, innkeeper, and gross income taxes.

The city enforces these regulations strictly, with fines and penalties for non-compliance. Hosts must familiarize themselves with local zoning laws, building and housing standards, and neighbor notification processes to operate legally. Baltimore's regulations aim to balance the benefits of short-term rentals with the need to maintain housing affordability and neighborhood integrity. Aspiring and current hosts must stay informed about the evolving legal landscape to ensure compliance and foster positive community relations.

Baltimore Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $23.1K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $157.2 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 50%
• Average RevPAR – $76.3
• Average Home Prices – $177,786

1. Top Place to Invest in Baltimore, Maryland - Fells Point

Fells Point, a historic waterfront neighborhood in Baltimore, Maryland, has emerged as a prime location for Airbnb investments. With its charming cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to downtown attractions, Fells Point offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities that appeals to both tourists and residents alike.

Fells Point Airbnb Market Data

• Average Revenue – $29.8K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $178.8 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 55%
• Average RevPAR – $97.8

Convenience - 8/10

Fells Point boasts excellent walkability, with numerous shops, restaurants, and bars within easy reach. The neighborhood is well-connected to public transportation, including water taxis and the Charm City Circulator, making it convenient for visitors to explore the city without relying on a car.

Tourist Attractions - 9/10

The area is home to several popular tourist destinations, such as the Fells Point Farmers Market, the Fells Point Ghost Tour, and the Sagamore Spirit Distillery. Visitors can also enjoy waterfront dining, live music performances, and annual festivals like the Fells Point Fun Festival and the Privateer Festival. These events can help boost bookings if hosts can market their properties for them.

Things to Do - 8/10

From exploring the Maritime Park to taking a sunset cruise on the Chesapeake Bay, Fells Point offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The neighborhood's lively bar scene, rich history, and cultural events ensure that something exciting is always happening.

Average Home Prices - 7/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home value in Fells Point is $425,000, representing a 3.2% appreciation over the past year. While prices are higher than the Baltimore average, the neighborhood's desirability and potential for strong rental income make it an attractive option for Airbnb investors.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 8/10

Fells Point is conveniently located near several major employers and venues, including Johns Hopkins Hospital, the Baltimore Convention Center, and M&T Bank Stadium. This proximity makes it ideal for business travelers and event attendees seeking comfortable and convenient accommodations.

X-Factor - 9/10

What sets Fells Point apart is its unparalleled charm and character. The neighborhood's historic architecture, combined with its vibrant arts scene and waterfront setting, creates a truly unique atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back time and time again.

2. Top Place to Invest in Baltimore, Maryland - Hollins Market

Hollins Market, a historic neighborhood in southwest Baltimore, is experiencing a resurgence, making it an attractive location for launching a new Airbnb business. With its rich history, diverse community, and ongoing revitalization efforts, Hollins Market offers a unique investment opportunity in a city known for its charm and character.

Hollins Market Airbnb Market Data

• Average Revenue – $22.1K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $172.3 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 46%
• Average RevPAR – $69.6

Convenience - 7/10

Hollins Market boasts a central location with easy access to public transportation and major highways. The neighborhood is within walking distance of the University of Maryland BioPark and a short drive from downtown Baltimore, offering residents and visitors a convenient base for exploring the city.

Tourist Attractions - 6/10

While Hollins Market may not be a top tourist destination, it does offer some notable attractions. The historic Hollins Market building, dating back to 1838, is Baltimore's oldest continuously operating public market. Visitors can also explore the nearby B&O Railroad Museum and the Irish Railroad Workers Museum.

Things to Do - 6/10

The neighborhood hosts the annual Sowebohemian Arts Festival, which draws art and music lovers from across the city. Residents and visitors can also enjoy local restaurants, bars, and shops, particularly along the main thoroughfare of Hollins Street. However, the area could benefit from more diverse entertainment options.

Average Home Prices - 8/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home value in Hollins Market is $225,000, representing a 5.8% appreciation over the past year. This relatively affordable price point, combined with the potential for further appreciation as the neighborhood continues to develop, makes Hollins Market an attractive option for investors.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 8/10

Hollins Market's proximity to the University of Maryland BioPark, the Baltimore Convention Center, and Camden Yards makes it an ideal location for business travelers and event attendees. The neighborhood's convenient access to major highways also facilitates easy travel to other parts of the city and beyond.

X-Factor - 7/10

What sets Hollins Market apart is its strong sense of community and its ongoing transformation. The neighborhood's diverse population, historic architecture, and active community association create a unique and welcoming atmosphere. As revitalization efforts continue, including the $2.1 million renovation of the Hollins Market building, the area's desirability is likely to increase.

3. Top Place to Invest in Baltimore, Maryland - Riverside

Riverside, a charming historic district in southwest Baltimore, has emerged as a prime location for Airbnb and short-term rental investments. With its picturesque brick row homes, proximity to downtown attractions, and a strong sense of community, Riverside offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities that appeals to both tourists and residents alike.

Riverside Airbnb Market Data

• Average Revenue – $28K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $181.5 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 50%
• Average RevPAR – $90.6

Convenience - 8/10

Riverside boasts excellent walkability, with numerous shops, restaurants, and convenience stores within easy reach. The neighborhood is well-connected to public transportation, including bus routes and the Charm City Circulator, making it convenient for visitors to explore the city without relying on a car. Grocery stores like Harris Teeter and Safeway are also nearby, catering to the needs of both residents and guests.

Tourist Attractions - 7/10

While Riverside itself may not be a top tourist destination, its proximity to popular attractions makes it an attractive base for visitors. The neighborhood is just a short walk or ride from the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill Park, and the American Visionary Art Museum. The Baltimore Museum of Industry, located in the adjacent Locust Point neighborhood, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's industrial past.

Things to Do - 8/10

Riverside Park, the neighborhood's centerpiece, offers a variety of recreational activities, including a pool, playgrounds, sports fields, and courts. The park also hosts concerts and events at its gazebo, providing entertainment for locals and visitors alike. The nearby Cross Street Market, a historic marketplace, features various food and drink options, occasional live music, and festivals.

Average Home Prices - 8/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the average home value in Riverside is $350,000, representing a 3.0% appreciation over the past year. This relatively affordable price point and the potential for strong rental income make Riverside an attractive option for Airbnb investors. The neighborhood's historic charm and well-maintained properties contribute to its desirability and potential for long-term appreciation.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 7/10

Riverside's location in south Baltimore puts it within reasonable proximity to several major employers and venues. The Baltimore Convention Center and M&T Bank Stadium are just a short drive or public transit ride away, making the neighborhood convenient for business travelers and event attendees. However, the neighborhood is slightly further from Johns Hopkins Hospital and other major medical centers compared to some other Baltimore neighborhoods.

X-Factor - 9/10

What sets Riverside apart is its strong sense of community and historic charm. The neighborhood's well-preserved brick row homes, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, create a unique and inviting atmosphere that appeals to visitors seeking an authentic Baltimore experience. The tight-knit community, with its active neighborhood association and regular events, adds to the area's appeal and helps to ensure a welcoming environment for guests.

4. Top Place to Invest in Baltimore, Maryland - Inner Harbor

Baltimore's Inner Harbor, a historic seaport turned premier tourist destination, offers a unique blend of waterfront views, world-class attractions, and urban convenience. With its central location and ongoing revitalization efforts, the Inner Harbor presents an attractive opportunity for Airbnb and short-term rental investors seeking to capitalize on the city's thriving tourism industry.

Inner Harbor Airbnb Market Data

• Average Revenue – $28K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $196.6 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 47%
• Average RevPAR – $90.8

Convenience - 9/10

The Inner Harbor boasts an unbeatable location, with easy access to public transportation, including the free Charm City Circulator and water taxis. The compact, walkable nature of the neighborhood puts a wide array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options within easy reach for visitors, making it an ideal base for exploring Baltimore.

Tourist Attractions - 10/10

As the city's main tourist hub, the Inner Harbor is home to a wealth of world-renowned attractions. Visitors can explore the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, and the historic ships docked along the waterfront, including the USS Constellation. The vibrant Harborplace and The Gallery offer a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, ensuring there's never a dull moment.

Things to Do - 9/10

From harbor cruises and paddleboating to outdoor concerts and festivals, the Inner Harbor offers diverse activities for all ages. The nearby Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium attract sports enthusiasts, while the Reginald F. Lewis Museum and the American Visionary Art Museum provide cultural enrichment. With so much to see and do, visitors can easily fill a multi-day itinerary.

Average Home Prices - 7/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home value in the Inner Harbor is $430,000, representing a modest 2.4% increase from the previous year. While prices are higher than the Baltimore average, the neighborhood's prime location and strong rental demand make it an attractive option for investors. Condominiums and townhouses are the most common property types in the area.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 8/10

The Inner Harbor's central location puts it within easy reach of major business destinations, including the Baltimore Convention Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the University of Maryland Medical Center. The proximity to these key institutions makes the neighborhood appealing for business travelers and medical professionals attending conferences or seeking short-term accommodations.

X-Factor - 9/10

Its unparalleled waterfront setting and rich maritime history set the Inner Harbor apart. The neighborhood's stunning views, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse attractions create a truly unique experience for visitors. As the city continues to invest in the area's redevelopment, the Inner Harbor's desirability as a destination is only set to grow, making it a smart decision for forward-thinking investors to launch their own short-term rental here.

5. Top Place to Invest in Baltimore, Maryland - Lauraville

Lauraville, a charming historic neighborhood in northeast Baltimore, has emerged as a prime location for Airbnb and short-term rental investments. With its tree-lined streets, diverse community, and proximity to downtown attractions, Lauraville offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience.

Lauraville Airbnb Market Data

• Average Revenue – $21K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $138.8 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 46%
• Average RevPAR – $67.3

Convenience - 8/10

Lauraville boasts excellent accessibility, with easy access to public transportation and major highways. The neighborhood is well-connected to downtown Baltimore and other parts of the city, making it convenient for visitors to explore the area's attractions. Lauraville also offers a variety of local shops, restaurants, and amenities along Harford Road, its main commercial corridor.

Tourist Attractions - 6/10

While Lauraville itself may not be a top tourist destination, its proximity to popular attractions in Baltimore makes it an attractive base for visitors. The neighborhood is just a short drive from the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, and other major points of interest. Lauraville's historic architecture and tree-lined streets also provide a quaint and picturesque setting for visitors seeking a more authentic Baltimore experience.

Things to Do - 7/10

Lauraville offers a range of activities and events for residents and visitors alike. The neighborhood hosts a weekly farmers market, showcasing local produce and crafts. Herring Run Park, located along the southern edge of Lauraville, provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The neighborhood also boasts a growing food scene, with several notable restaurants and cafes along Harford Road.

Average Home Prices - 8/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home value in Lauraville is $301,000, representing a modest 1.3% decrease from the previous year. This relatively affordable price point and the potential for strong rental income make Lauraville an attractive option for Airbnb investors. The neighborhood's historic charm and well-maintained properties contribute to its desirability and potential for long-term appreciation.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 7/10

Lauraville's location in northeast Baltimore puts it within reasonable proximity to several major employers and institutions. Morgan State University, a historically black university, is located just south of the neighborhood. The proximity to universities and medical centers, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center, makes Lauraville a convenient choice for visiting professionals and academics.

X-Factor - 8/10

What sets Lauraville apart is its strong sense of community and commitment to preserving its historic character. The neighborhood's active community association and engaged residents work together to maintain the area's unique charm and promote local businesses. Lauraville's diverse population and welcoming atmosphere create a vibrant and inclusive environment that appeals to visitors seeking an authentic Baltimore experience.