Is Short-Term Renting Worth It in Calgary? A Look at Airbnb and VRBO ROI

As the short-term rental market continues to boom across Canada, many Calgary property owners are asking the big question: Is it worth listing my property on Airbnb or VRBO? With platforms like these offering the promise of higher nightly rates and increased flexibility, short-term renting seems like an attractive option. But is it really more profitable—and practical—than traditional long-term leasing in Calgary?
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Let’s break down the potential return on investment (ROI), risks, and key considerations of short-term renting in Calgary.
๐ The Appeal of Short-Term Rentals in Calgary
Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO allow homeowners and investors to rent their properties on a nightly or weekly basis, often charging significantly more than monthly leases. Here’s why many owners are drawn to this model:
- Higher income potential per night
- Greater flexibility (use the property yourself when vacant)
- Diverse clientele, from tourists to business travelers
- Dynamic pricing options to capitalize on peak seasons (e.g., Stampede week, ski season)
In high-demand areas like Beltline, Mission, Kensington, and near the Calgary Stampede grounds, short-term rentals can perform especially well.
๐ก The Numbers: Comparing ROI
Let’s say a downtown Calgary condo could rent long-term for $1,800/month. The same unit, listed on Airbnb, might earn $120–$150 per night.
If booked 20 nights/month at $135 average:
$135 × 20 = $2,700/month gross income
That’s a potential
50% increase over a long-term rental.
But remember—short-term rentals come with higher costs, including:
- Professional cleaning between guests
- Higher utility bills
- Booking platform fees (typically 3%–15%)
- Supplies, maintenance, and possible management fees
After expenses, your net profit may still exceed that of a long-term lease—if occupancy stays high.
โ ๏ธ Risks and Considerations
Before you jump in, it’s important to weigh these key factors:
1. Calgary's Bylaws and Licensing
Calgary requires short-term rental hosts to:
- Register with the city
- Follow fire safety requirements
- Obtain a business license
Failing to comply can result in fines, so make sure you're aware of the latest municipal rules.
2. Fluctuating Occupancy
Short-term rentals are seasonal. Calgary sees peak demand during summer festivals, holidays, and ski season. In slower months, bookings can dip significantly, affecting your bottom line.
3. More Work or Management Needed
Guest turnover, communication, and cleaning can be time-consuming. Many owners choose to hire professional property managers—like Rob LeBlanc Real Estate—to handle the day-to-day logistics and keep the guest experience seamless.
โ When Short-Term Renting Does Make Sense
Short-term renting could be the right fit if:
- Your property is in a high-demand location
- You're open to frequent guest turnover
- You want to use the property occasionally yourself
- You work with an experienced property manager to minimize hassle
๐ก Let Rob LeBlanc Real Estate Help You Decide
At Rob LeBlanc Real Estate, we help Calgary property owners navigate the pros and cons of both short- and long-term rental strategies. Whether you're just exploring the short-term market or managing multiple listings, we offer expert advice and full-service management to help you maximize your ROI—without the stress.
Curious if Airbnb or VRBO is right for your Calgary property?
๐ Contact us today for a consultation and custom ROI analysis.









