Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Colombia Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Antioquia's property market is included in our pack
Airbnb profitability in Antioquia varies dramatically by location, with prime neighborhoods like El Poblado and Guatapé delivering gross yields of 12-18% for well-managed properties.
Running a successful Airbnb in Antioquia requires understanding occupancy patterns, local regulations, and operational costs that can significantly impact your net returns. Top-performing properties in Medellín's El Poblado district generate monthly gross income of $2,000-$9,000, while rural vacation homes in Guatapé can command $300-$500 per night during peak season.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Colombia, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Airbnb properties in Antioquia's prime neighborhoods deliver gross yields of 8-18%, significantly outperforming long-term rentals.
Success depends on location selection, property type, active management, and strict compliance with local licensing requirements.
| Neighborhood | Average Nightly Rate | Occupancy Rate | Monthly Gross Income | Gross Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Poblado | $87-$174 | 62-74% | $1,600-$3,800 | 8-12% |
| Laureles | $65-$150 | 60-70% | $1,200-$3,150 | 10-15% |
| Envigado | $70-$140 | 55-65% | $1,155-$2,730 | 7-10% |
| Guatapé | $200-$500 | 40-72% | $2,400-$10,800 | 12-18% |
| Santa Fe de Antioquia | $150-$350 | 25-70% | $1,125-$7,350 | 9-16% |
| Rionegro | $80-$160 | 50-68% | $1,200-$3,264 | 9-13% |
Which neighborhoods in Antioquia have the highest Airbnb demand and occupancy rates?
El Poblado leads Antioquia's Airbnb market with occupancy rates of 62-74% and consistent demand from business travelers and tourists.
Laureles follows closely with 60-70% occupancy rates, particularly appealing to digital nomads and expats seeking authentic Colombian experiences. The neighborhood's central location and lower prices compared to El Poblado make it highly attractive for medium-term stays.
Envigado attracts families and longer-stay visitors with occupancy rates of 55-65%, while Guatapé and Santa Fe de Antioquia cater specifically to vacation tourists. These tourist destinations can achieve occupancy rates exceeding 70% for standout properties with premium amenities like pools and scenic views.
Rionegro, serving the airport area and business district, maintains steady occupancy of 50-68% throughout the year.
What types of properties tend to perform best on Airbnb in this area?
Entire apartments and houses consistently outperform shared accommodations, with 1-3 bedroom modern condos being the top performers in urban areas.
In Medellín's prime neighborhoods, studios and 1-bedroom apartments generate the highest returns per square meter when properly furnished for business travelers and digital nomads. These properties typically feature high-speed internet, workspace areas, and modern amenities.
Luxury penthouses in El Poblado command premium rates of $200-$500 per night during peak periods. In tourist destinations like Guatapé and Santa Fe de Antioquia, fincas (country homes) and villas with pools significantly outperform standard apartments.
Properties with unique features like rooftop terraces, panoramic city views, or traditional Colombian architecture achieve higher occupancy rates and nightly rates.
What is the average nightly rate and how does it vary by season?
As of September 2025, Antioquia's median nightly rate stands at $132, though top-performing properties command $305-$496 per night.
| Season | Period | Average Daily Rate | Rate Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | December | $247-$266 | +32-45% |
| High Season | May, October | $174-$200 | +24-35% |
| Regular Season | July, August, September | $132-$150 | Baseline |
| Low Season | February, April, June | $170-$180 | -5 to +12% |
| Shoulder Season | January, March, November | $180-$210 | +15-25% |
Medellín city properties typically range from $47-$87 per night for standard units, with luxury properties reaching $150-$300 during festivals and holidays.
What is the typical occupancy rate across the year for comparable listings?
Medellín properties achieve median occupancy rates of 45%, with strong listings reaching 62-74% annually.
Across Antioquia, typical occupancy ranges from 20-41%, though the top 10% of performers achieve 72% or higher occupancy. Santa Fe de Antioquia and rural markets typically see 25% occupancy for average properties, but exceptional listings with superior amenities can exceed 70%.
Seasonal variations show December occupancy rates reaching 85-95% in tourist areas, while February and April often drop to 30-45%. Properties in business districts like Rionegro maintain more consistent occupancy throughout the year due to corporate travel demand.
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What would the monthly gross rental income look like based on current market data?
Median monthly gross rental income for Airbnb properties in Antioquia reaches $2,232 as of September 2025.
Entry-level properties generate approximately $822 per month, while top 10% performers earn $4,661-$9,111 monthly through dynamic pricing and superior amenities. El Poblado 1-2 bedroom apartments typically generate $1,600-$3,800 monthly, depending on exact location and property quality.
Premium tourist properties in Guatapé and Santa Fe de Antioquia can earn $300-$500 per night on weekends, translating to $2,400-$10,800 monthly during peak tourist seasons. However, these properties experience significant seasonal variation, with low-season income dropping to $800-$2,000 monthly.
Laureles properties typically generate $1,200-$3,150 monthly, while Envigado properties average $1,155-$2,730 monthly. Rionegro properties, benefiting from airport proximity, achieve $1,200-$3,264 monthly with more consistent year-round performance.
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What are the common operating expenses for running an Airbnb in Antioquia?
Property management fees represent the largest expense, typically consuming 10-20% of gross revenue for full-service management.
Cleaning costs range from $20-$60 per turnover, depending on property size and local labor rates. Monthly utilities and high-speed internet typically cost $50-$200, varying significantly based on property size and guest usage patterns.
Maintenance and repairs should be budgeted at 5-10% of gross income, while consumables like toiletries and basic supplies create small but recurring monthly expenses. Local taxes, insurance, and short-term rental license compliance fees add additional fixed costs.
Marketing and platform commissions are typically built into Airbnb's fee structure, but additional marketing expenses may be necessary for premium properties seeking higher occupancy rates.
What does the gross yield look like for different property types and price ranges?
El Poblado apartments deliver gross yields of 8-12%, with premium properties achieving the higher end of this range.
Laureles properties offer the highest gross yields at 10-15%, reflecting the neighborhood's lower purchase prices relative to rental income potential. Envigado properties typically generate 7-10% gross yields, appealing to investors seeking steady, family-oriented rental demand.
Vacation properties in Guatapé demonstrate the strongest gross yields at 12-18%, though these require active seasonal management and higher operational complexity. Rionegro properties achieve solid 9-13% gross yields with more predictable income streams due to business travel demand.
Property purchase prices significantly impact yields, with properties under $100,000 typically achieving higher percentage returns than luxury properties exceeding $300,000, though absolute income amounts favor higher-priced properties.
After factoring in expenses, what is the likely net yield?
Net yields after all operating expenses typically range from 5-14% depending on property type and management efficiency.
El Poblado properties achieve net yields of 6-9% after accounting for management fees, cleaning, utilities, maintenance, and regulatory compliance costs. Laureles offers net yields of 7-12%, maintaining strong profitability due to lower purchase prices and operational costs.
Envigado properties deliver net yields of 5-8%, while Guatapé vacation homes achieve 9-14% net yields during successful operational years. However, Guatapé properties carry higher risk due to seasonal income volatility and higher management complexity.
Rionegro properties provide steady net yields of 7-10%, benefiting from consistent business travel demand and lower seasonal variation in occupancy rates.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Colombia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
How do the returns compare to renting the same property long-term?
Short-term rentals consistently outperform long-term rentals in Antioquia, typically delivering double the gross yields.
Long-term rentals in central Medellín generate net yields of 5-7% annually, with student and expat-focused properties reaching up to 9%. These yields offer more passive income with minimal management requirements and stable monthly cash flow.
Well-managed Airbnb properties achieve 10-15% net yields in high-demand neighborhoods, but require active management, higher operational expenses, and regulatory compliance. The additional yield compensates for increased time investment and operational complexity.
Long-term rentals provide greater income stability and lower vacancy risk, while short-term rentals offer higher absolute returns but with seasonal income fluctuations and higher operational demands. Many investors choose based on their available time for property management and risk tolerance for income variability.
What local regulations or restrictions affect Airbnb operations in Antioquia?
Antioquia enforces strict short-term rental regulations requiring proper licensing and permits in Medellín and most municipalities.
Many buildings and condominium associations prohibit Airbnb operations entirely through HOA rules, making property selection critical for potential hosts. Operating without proper licenses can result in significant fines and forced closure of operations.
Local tax remittance, guest registration requirements, and safety compliance standards must be followed for all short-term rental operations. Regulations have become increasingly stringent since 2023, with enhanced enforcement and higher penalties for non-compliance.
Property owners must verify current regulations with local authorities before beginning operations, as rules vary between municipalities and can change frequently. Professional legal consultation is recommended for investors planning significant short-term rental investments.
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How much initial investment is needed for purchase, furnishing, and setup?
Total initial investment for a starter Airbnb in Medellín ranges from $75,000-$160,000, including purchase, furnishing, and setup costs.
1. **Property Purchase**: $70,000-$150,000 for 1-2 bedroom apartments in core Medellín areas, with premium locations commanding higher prices2. **Furnishing and Setup**: $4,000-$12,000 depending on property size and quality standards, including furniture, appliances, and decor3. **Licensing and Legal**: $1,500-$3,000 for permits, deposits, legal compliance, and initial marketing setup4. **Operating Capital**: $2,000-$5,000 for first few months of expenses while building occupancy5. **Professional Services**: $1,000-$3,000 for legal consultation, property inspection, and management setupUpscale rural vacation properties in Guatapé or Santa Fe de Antioquia require $250,000-$500,000+ initial investment, reflecting higher property values and premium furnishing requirements for luxury vacation rentals.
What risks or market trends could impact future profitability in this area?
Rising regulatory restrictions pose the primary risk, with more buildings and municipalities limiting or prohibiting short-term rental operations.
Market saturation in popular areas like El Poblado increases competition, making premium amenities and excellent reviews essential for maintaining occupancy rates. Economic factors including peso currency fluctuations can significantly affect real returns for foreign property owners.
Sharp seasonal revenue variations create cash flow challenges, with Christmas and festival periods driving most annual profits while low seasons can generate minimal income. Tourism dependency makes properties vulnerable to economic downturns or international travel disruptions.
Real estate price growth in Antioquia is forecast at 3-7% in 2025, but growth may slow if tourism demand decreases or economic conditions worsen. Increasing compliance costs and operational complexity may reduce net yields over time as regulations continue to tighten.
It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Airbnb investments in Antioquia's prime neighborhoods can deliver exceptional returns of 12-18% gross yields, significantly outperforming traditional long-term rentals.
Success requires careful neighborhood selection, proper licensing compliance, active management, and realistic expectations about seasonal income variations and operational complexity.
Sources
- AirROI - Antioquia Market Report
- TheLatinvestor - Antioquia Property Market
- Airbtics - Medellín Annual Airbnb Revenue
- TheLatinvestor - Antioquia Price Forecasts
- AirROI - Rionegro Market Report
- AirROI - Medellín Market Report
- Airbtics - Best Airbnb Markets Colombia
- AirDNA - Santa Fe de Antioquia Overview
- Medellín Guru - Airbnb Colombia Guide
- Airbnb - Host Requirements