Airbnb Rules and Regulations in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

As of 2024, Airbnb hosts in Wisconsin Dells must adhere to a set of regulations designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests while minimizing the impact on local communities. All short-term rental properties are required to obtain a permit from the city, with a cap on the total number of permits available to preserve housing availability for long-term residents. Hosts must also collect and remit room tax, which has increased to 8% as of January 1, 2024. In line with statewide regulations, hosts are required to provide guests with emergency contact information and maintain a minimum level of liability insurance.

Wisconsin Dells has also introduced new occupancy limits for short-term rentals, with a maximum of two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests. To address concerns about noise and parking, the city has implemented quiet hours from 10 pm to 8 am and requires hosts to provide off-street parking for all guest vehicles. Hosts should also be aware of the city's new recycling requirements and provide appropriate bins and instructions for guests. Despite these regulations, Wisconsin Dells remains a popular destination for Airbnb hosts, with a thriving tourism industry and a wide range of attractions and activities for guests to enjoy.

Wisconsin Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $59.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $255.7 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 64%
• Average RevPAR – $163.2
• Average Home Prices – $263,919

1. Top Place to Invest in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin - Lake Delton

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, Lake Delton has emerged as a prime location for Airbnb rental startups. This picturesque village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, exciting attractions, and a thriving tourism industry, making it an attractive choice for those looking to capitalize on the growing demand for vacation rentals.

Lake Delton Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $59.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $255.7 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 64%
• Average RevPAR – $163.2

Convenience - 8/10

Lake Delton's central location within Wisconsin Dells ensures easy access to a wide range of amenities and services. Visitors can find grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping centers within a short drive, while the nearby Amtrak station and regional airports provide convenient transportation options for those traveling from further afield. The village's well-maintained roads and ample parking also make it easy for guests to navigate the area.

Tourist Attractions - 9/10

One of Lake Delton's greatest strengths is its abundance of world-class tourist attractions. From thrilling water parks like Noah's Ark and Mt. Olympus to family-friendly destinations like the Wisconsin Deer Park and the Tommy Bartlett Show, there's no shortage of entertainment options for visitors of all ages. The nearby Mirror Lake State Park and Devil's Lake State Park also offer stunning natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities, adding to the area's appeal.

Things to Do - 9/10

In addition to its major attractions, Lake Delton offers diverse activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. Thrill-seekers can take on the high-speed rides at Timber Falls Adventure Park or race around the tracks at Dells Raceway Park, while those looking for a more laid-back experience can explore the quirky exhibits at Ripley's Believe It or Not! or take a relaxing cruise on the Wisconsin River. With mini-golf, go-karts, escape rooms, and more, there's never a dull moment in Lake Delton.

Average Home Prices - 7/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home price in Lake Delton is $290,000, trending up 26.9% year-over-year. While this may seem steep compared to some markets, it's important to note that many of these properties are designed specifically for vacation rentals, with amenities and locations that command higher nightly rates. In January 2024, the median home sold price in Lake Delton was $224,000, up 11.5% from the previous year. This steady appreciation suggests a strong and growing market for investors looking to purchase a home to transform into Airbnb rentals.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 6/10

Although Lake Delton is primarily a tourist destination, it does offer some access to work-related travel. The village is home to several resorts and convention centers that host business events and conferences throughout the year, providing a steady stream of potential guests for short-term rentals. However, major hospitals and sports venues are located further away in larger cities like Madison and Milwaukee, which may limit the area's appeal for certain types of business travelers.

X-Factor - 9/10

What sets Lake Delton apart is its unparalleled combination of natural beauty and man-made attractions. The village's stunning waterfront location, with its pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. At the same time, the area's world-class water parks, theme parks, and entertainment venues offer endless opportunities for fun and excitement. This unique blend of relaxation and adventure makes Lake Delton a truly special destination that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Top Place to Invest in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin - Downtown

Located in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, the downtown area has become an increasingly attractive option for Airbnb and short-term rental investors. With its vibrant atmosphere, diverse attractions, and convenient location, downtown Wisconsin Dells offers a unique investment opportunity for those looking to launch short-term rental businesses to tap into the city's thriving tourism industry.

Downtown Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $59.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $255.7 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 64%
• Average RevPAR – $163.2

Convenience - 9/10

One of downtown Wisconsin Dells' greatest strengths is its unbeatable convenience. Visitors can easily explore the area's numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot, while essential amenities like grocery stores and pharmacies are just a short walk or drive away. The city's compact layout and well-maintained sidewalks make it a breeze for guests to navigate, while ample parking options ensure that those arriving by car can easily find a spot.

Tourist Attractions - 8/10

Downtown Wisconsin Dells boasts an impressive array of tourist attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. From the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Historic Torture Devices to the thrilling rides at Wizard Quest, there's no shortage of entertainment options for visitors of all ages. The area is also home to several popular mini-golf courses, escape rooms, and arcades, providing endless opportunities for family-friendly fun.

Things to Do - 8/10

In addition to its many attractions, downtown Wisconsin Dells offers diverse activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. Thrill-seekers can take on the high-speed go-karts at Alligator Alley Adventures or test their skills at one of the area's many axe-throwing venues, while those looking for a more laid-back experience can explore the unique shops and galleries along Broadway or indulge in a spa treatment at one of the city's many wellness centers. With live music, theater performances, and seasonal events throughout the year, something new and exciting is always happening in downtown Wisconsin Dells.

Average Home Prices - 6/10

According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home price in downtown Wisconsin Dells is $220,000, representing a modest 2.3% increase from the previous year. While this may seem relatively affordable compared to some markets, it's important to note that many of the properties in this area are older and may require significant renovations to meet the expectations of today's short-term rental guests. However, for investors willing to put in the work, the potential for strong rental income and long-term appreciation makes downtown Wisconsin Dells an attractive option.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 7/10

While downtown Wisconsin Dells is primarily a tourist destination, it does offer some access to work-related travel. The area is home to several small businesses and corporate offices, as well as the Kalahari Convention Center, which hosts a variety of conferences and events throughout the year. The nearby Amtrak station and regional airports also make it relatively easy for business travelers to access the city, although major hospitals and sports venues are located further afield.

X-Factor - 8/10

What sets downtown Wisconsin Dells apart is its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. The area's historic buildings, quirky shops, and friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year, while its diverse array of attractions and activities ensures that there's never a dull moment. For investors looking to capitalize on the growing demand for authentic, immersive travel experiences, downtown Wisconsin Dells offers a compelling opportunity to create a truly memorable short-term rental property.

3. Top Place to Invest in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin - Plainville

Nestled just a short drive from the heart of Wisconsin Dells, the charming community of Plainville has recently emerged as a hidden gem for short-term rental investors. With its picturesque setting, proximity to popular attractions, and growing popularity among visitors seeking a more laid-back vacation experience, Plainville offers a unique investment opportunity for those looking to capitalize on the Dells' thriving tourism industry.

Plainville Airbnb Market Data:

• Average Revenue – $59.7K per year
• Average Daily Rate – $255.7 per night
• Average Occupancy Rate – 64%
• Average RevPAR – $163.2

Convenience - 7/10

While Plainville may not have the same level of walkability as downtown Wisconsin Dells, it still offers a convenient location for visitors exploring the area. Many of the Dells' top attractions, including Noah's Ark Waterpark and the Wisconsin Deer Park, are just a short drive away, while essential amenities like grocery stores and gas stations can be found in the nearby town of Lake Delton. However, guests may need to rely on a car to get around, as public transportation options are limited.

Tourist Attractions - 6/10

Although Plainville is primarily residential, it is just minutes from some of Wisconsin Dells' most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can easily access the area's world-famous water parks, theme parks, and outdoor adventure centers while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. The nearby Mirror Lake State Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities, providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the Dells.

Things to Do - 5/10

As a small, unincorporated community, Plainville may not have the same range of activities and experiences as more developed areas of Wisconsin Dells. However, visitors staying in Plainville vacation rentals can still find plenty to do in the surrounding area, from exploring the quirky shops and galleries in downtown Dells to taking a scenic boat tour along the Wisconsin River. The community's quiet streets and peaceful parks also provide a pleasant setting for evening strolls or morning jogs.

Average Home Prices - 8/10

One of Plainville's most attractive features for investors is its relatively affordable home prices compared to other areas of Wisconsin Dells. According to Zillow data for 2024, the median home price in Plainville is $180,000, representing a 3.5% increase from the previous year. While this may not be as low as some rural markets, it is still significantly more affordable than many of the Dells' more developed neighborhoods, where median prices can exceed $300,000. This combination of affordability and growth potential makes Plainville an appealing option for investors looking to purchase a property to list on Airbnb.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel - 4/10

Given its primarily residential nature, Plainville may not be the most convenient location for work-related travel. The community lacks major employers, convention centers, or sports venues and is located a significant distance from the nearest airports and train stations. However, for remote workers or those who primarily travel by car, Plainville's peaceful setting and easy access to major highways may still make it a viable option for short-term stays.

X-Factor - 7/10

What sets Plainville apart from other areas of Wisconsin Dells is its unique blend of rural charm and proximity to world-class attractions. The community's rolling hills, quiet streets, and friendly neighbors create a sense of peace and tranquility that can be hard to find in more bustling parts of the Dells, while offering easy access to all the excitement and entertainment the area is known for. For investors looking to tap into the growing demand for more authentic, off-the-beaten-path vacation experiences, Plainville offers a compelling opportunity to create a truly memorable short-term rental property.