Oxford, Mississippi Short-Term Rental Market Analysis

Compared to state and national averages, Oxford's STR market exhibits remarkable potential. For instance, the state's average ADR is lower than Oxford's, showcasing a higher willingness to pay for unique stays that resonate with visitors seeking Southern charm.

Oxford, Mississippi Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Population: 25,416
Annual Visitors: 100,000
Total STRs: 1,786
ADR: $241.00

Visitor Profile

Oxford, Mississippi, is a vibrant destination attracting approximately 1 million visitors annually, drawn by its rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and the renowned University of Mississippi. The primary demographic of visitors includes families, college students, and cultural enthusiasts, with a significant portion aged between 25 and 44 years. Many visitors come for events such as the Oxford Conference for the Book and the Double Decker Arts Festival, while others are attracted by the area’s literary history, including connections to authors like William Faulkner. The economic impact of tourism in Oxford is substantial, contributing millions to the local economy and supporting various businesses and services.

Key visitor statistics reveal that Oxford sees a diverse range of tourists, with approximately 60% coming from within Mississippi and the remainder from neighboring states such as Tennessee and Arkansas. The main reasons for visiting include attending university events, exploring local arts and culture, and enjoying outdoor activities in the surrounding areas. Visitors typically stay an average of 2 to 3 days, with peak seasons occurring during the spring and fall when the weather is most favorable. According to the tourism bureau (https://visitoxfordms.com/), the combination of academic events and cultural festivals significantly boosts visitor numbers during these times. Additionally, the city’s accommodations, ranging from hotels to charming bed-and-breakfasts, cater to various preferences, enhancing the overall visitor experience. For more information on attractions and events, visit the official tourism site (https://www.oxfordms.net/visitors) or explore things to do in Oxford (https://visitoxfordms.com/what-to-do/).

Top Attractions

Nestled in the heart of Mississippi, Oxford is a charming city known for its rich literary history, vibrant arts scene, and southern hospitality. This picturesque town is home to several signature attractions that offer a delightful mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the iconic University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, which boasts stunning architecture and a lively campus atmosphere. The historic Square, with its unique shops and restaurants, invites leisurely strolls and culinary adventures. With a variety of experiences awaiting, Oxford is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in southern charm and creativity.

One of the top attractions in Oxford is the University of Mississippi, where the beautiful campus features the renowned Lyceum and the University Museum, showcasing art and artifacts that reflect the region’s history. For more information, visit the official site at https://visitoxfordms.com/what-to-do/. Another highlight is the historic Oxford Square, a vibrant hub filled with local boutiques, art galleries, and eateries that capture the essence of southern culture. The Square is perfect for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and dining.

For literature enthusiasts, the William Faulkner Home, Rowan Oak, is a must-see. This historic home offers a glimpse into the life of the Nobel Prize-winning author and is surrounded by beautiful grounds ideal for a peaceful walk. Learn more about this attraction at https://visitoxfordms.com/. Lastly, the Oxford City Park provides a family-friendly outdoor space with playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Discover more about Oxford attractions and things to do by visiting https://visitoxfordms.com/.

Regulations

Oxford, Mississippi, has established specific regulations for short-term rentals to ensure safety, compliance, and community harmony. Property owners looking to operate short-term rentals must obtain a permit from the City of Oxford. This process includes submitting an application, paying applicable fees, and adhering to local zoning laws. Additionally, short-term rental operators are required to collect and remit a 7% hotel/motel tax on rental income, which is due monthly. Understanding these regulations is crucial for property owners to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth rental experience. For those interested in the local market, Oxford’s vibrant community and proximity to the University of Mississippi make it an attractive option for short-term rentals.

Key regulatory information for short-term rentals in Oxford includes several important requirements. First, property owners must obtain a short-term rental permit from the City of Oxford, which involves an application process and a fee. Zoning restrictions apply, meaning that not all properties may qualify for short-term rental use. Safety requirements, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, must be met to ensure guest safety. Violations of these regulations can result in fines or revocation of the rental permit. For detailed information on the application process and regulations, visit the City of Oxford’s official site (https://www.oxfordms.net). Additionally, you can review the municipal code for comprehensive guidelines (https://library.municode.com/ms/oxford/codes/code_of_ordinances). Staying informed about Oxford short-term rental regulations is essential for successful property management.

Vacation Rental Market Overview for Oxford

Oxford attracts visitors with its outdoor recreation and natural beauty and urban amenities and entertainment. The short-term rental market here serves diverse traveler demographics, from business professionals to family vacationers.

This destination’s rental market offers unique opportunities for property investors, with comprehensive data revealing seasonal patterns and demand drivers.

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Oxford, Mississippi Market Performance Trends

LTM Avg. Daily Rate$367.00
LTM Occupancy Rate25.8%
LTM Avg. Revenue$2,424

Short-Term Rental Market Performance Analysis for Oxford

The short-term rental market in Oxford demonstrates dynamic pricing patterns and occupancy trends that savvy property investors and managers monitor closely. This comprehensive 12-month analysis reveals seasonal variations and revenue optimization opportunities.

Market Trend Summary

Current market indicators show: strong seasonal variation with peak summer demand

Market data updated daily. Professional-grade analytics trusted by thousands of property managers and real estate investors.

Oxford, Mississippi Rental Market Insights

10-Year Market Growth

Booking Activity

  • 1-3 Months:72.3% Booked
  • 4-6 Months:24.9% Booked
  • 7-9 Months:14.6% Booked
  • 10-12 Months:1.6% Booked

Cancellation Policies

  • Flexible:23.4%
  • Moderate:31.1%
  • Strict:38.5%
  • Super Strict:4.6%
  • N/A:2.5%

Minimum Stay

  • 1 Day:267
  • 2 Days:784
  • 3 Days:23
  • 4-6 Days:4
  • 7-29 Days:2
  • 30+ Days:1

Short-Term Rental Regulations and Booking Patterns in Oxford

Oxford vacation rental operators navigate specific local regulations and booking patterns that shape market dynamics. Understanding minimum stay requirements, cancellation policies, and booking windows is essential for successful property management.

Market analysis reveals flexible booking policies attracting last-minute travelers. These insights help property managers optimize their listing strategies and maximize occupancy.

Local regulations and platform policies influence rental operations. StaySTRA provides comprehensive policy tracking and compliance insights.

Oxford, Mississippi Housing Market Data

Home Value Trends

Market Overview

  • Typical Home Value:$404,920
  • Median Sale Price:$435,450
  • Median List Price:$501,633

Current Inventory

  • Homes For Sale:398
  • New Listings:118

Detailed Market Analysis

The average home value in Oxford, MS is $404,920, up 8.7% over the past year. Learn more about the Oxford housing market and real estate trends.

Real Estate Market Analysis for Oxford, Mississippi

The residential real estate market in Oxford, Mississippi presents unique opportunities for investors and homebuyers alike. Current market dynamics show steady growth patterns in an established market with inventory levels and pricing trends that reflect broader economic conditions and local demand factors.

Key Market Factors

Important considerations for this market include: market stability, reasonable property taxes, and strong rental demand These factors contribute to the overall market performance and future growth potential.

Real estate investments in Oxford, Mississippi benefit from growing rental market potential and investment opportunities. Prospective buyers and investors should consider both current market conditions and long-term growth indicators when evaluating opportunities in this market.

Oxford, Mississippi Rental Market Composition

Entire Place by Beds

Common Rental Amenities

Guest Rating Highlights

  • Overall Rating:4.92 / 5
  • Cleanliness:4.92 / 5
  • Location:4.96 / 5
  • Value:4.85 / 5
  • Accuracy:4.95 / 5
  • Check-in:4.97 / 5
  • Communication:4.98 / 5

Vacation Rental Property Types in Oxford

The vacation rental market in Oxford features a diverse mix of property types, from cozy studios to spacious family homes. Understanding the property composition helps investors identify market gaps and opportunities.

Market characteristics include a balanced mix of entire homes and private rooms. This distribution reflects local demand patterns and traveler preferences.

Premium amenities and guest ratings play a crucial role in rental performance, with data showing clear correlations between specific features and booking rates.

More Locations In Mississippi

Related Short-Term Rental Markets

Explore 5 vacation rental markets within Mississippi. Each location offers unique investment opportunities with distinct seasonal patterns, pricing dynamics, and traveler demographics.

StaySTRA’s comprehensive market coverage enables side-by-side comparison of rental performance, helping investors and property managers make data-driven location decisions.

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What is the short-term rental market like in Oxford?

As of 2025, Oxford, Mississippi boasts a total of 1,576 active short-term rentals (STRs), with an average daily rate (ADR) of $422.80 and an occupancy rate of approximately 22.58%. Notably, the market has a rental demand score of 28.21, indicating a healthy demand for STRs in this vibrant city.


Table of Contents


Market Overview

Oxford’s STR market reflects a unique blend of history, culture, and education, largely fueled by its association with the University of Mississippi and literary heritage. The city has a population of approximately 25,416 and sees annual visitors reaching around 100,000. STRs in Oxford are characterized by their appeal to both tourists and students, providing a diverse range of accommodations.

The STR market is particularly vibrant during local events, such as football games at Ole Miss and literary festivals, which significantly drive visitor numbers and occupancy rates.


Key Performance Indicators

In assessing the performance of Oxford’s STR market, several key metrics stand out:

  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): The current ADR stands at $422.80, reflecting the premium nature of accommodations available in the area.
  • Occupancy Trends: The occupancy rate is approximately 22.58%, indicating a moderate level of utilization that suggests room for growth.
  • Revenue per Property: On average, STRs generate around $2,680 in monthly revenue, which positions them favorably compared to traditional rental income.
  • Rental Demand Score: With a score of 28.21, Oxford demonstrates a strong demand for short-term rentals, driven by its cultural and educational attractions.

For further insights, refer to the monthly performance data.


10-Year Growth Analysis

Oxford's STR market has witnessed substantial growth over the past decade, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) reflecting increasing interest from both investors and travelers.

Historical Growth

  • A historical growth chart indicates a steady increase in the number of STR listings, particularly in the past five years, where listings jumped from 755 in Q1 2022 to 1,576 in Q1 2025.
  • Comparatively, Oxford's growth trajectory outpaces many other Mississippi markets, underscoring its attractiveness as a destination.

Key Inflection Points

A significant inflection point occurred in 2020 when the city’s appeal surged due to its outdoor attractions and cultural richness, making it resilient during the pandemic.


Investment Potential & ROI

Investors looking at Oxford’s STR market will find favorable conditions for returns on investment.

ROI Calculations

  • Typical ROI: Based on average property values, potential ROI for STRs can reach 8-12% annually, depending on property type and management strategies.
  • Cash Flow Projections: Investors can expect cash flow opportunities that exceed those from traditional rentals, especially during peak visitor seasons.

Breakdown by Property Type

Using bedroom distribution data, we analyze the performance of various property types:

  • 1-bedroom properties tend to yield lower occupancy but command higher ADR.
  • 3-bedroom properties offer a balance of occupancy and revenue potential, making them ideal for families visiting for events.

Seasonal Market Patterns

Oxford's STR market is influenced by seasonal fluctuations, with peaks driven by local events, such as sports and festivals.

Monthly Performance Variations

An analysis of monthly performance variations reveals:

  • Peak Months: September and October typically see the highest occupancy rates, coinciding with the university's football season and associated events.
  • Revenue Multipliers: Properties can experience revenue multipliers of up to 3x during peak periods.

Recommendations

To maximize returns, property owners should consider strategic bookings during peak seasons and adjust pricing dynamically based on visitor influx.


Property Type Performance

In Oxford, the performance of STRs varies significantly by property type, offering insights into optimal investment strategies.

Distribution by Bedrooms

  • 2-bedroom Listings: Comprise 452 properties, showing solid performance metrics.
  • 3-bedroom Listings: The most abundant at 719 properties, which typically attract families and groups.

Insights on Entire Place vs. Private Room

  • Entire place rentals tend to outperform private rooms in terms of both occupancy and ADR, making them a preferred choice for investors.

Guest Preferences & Amenities

Understanding guest preferences is crucial for optimizing listing performance in Oxford.

Amenities Snapshot

A recent analysis of amenity percentages indicates:

  • Air Conditioning: 82.66% of listings offer air conditioning, a critical factor for comfort.
  • Internet Access: 81.81% of properties provide internet, significantly impacting guest satisfaction.

Pricing Premiums

Properties offering desirable amenities can command pricing premiums of up to 20% compared to similar listings without these features.


Regulatory Environment

Navigating the regulatory landscape is essential for STR owners in Oxford.

Current Regulations

Oxford mandates specific licensing procedures for STR owners, including:

  • Licensing and Permits: Mandatory permits must be obtained from the city’s planning department, with renewals required annually.
  • Zoning Rules: STR operations are subject to zoning ordinances that may restrict locations within the city.

For detailed regulations, refer to the City of Oxford's Official Short-Term Rental Ordinance and Guidelines.


Neighborhood Analysis

Understanding the local neighborhoods can provide a competitive edge in the STR market.

Top Performing Areas

  • Downtown Oxford: Known for its unique shops and cultural events, this area remains a hotspot for STRs.
  • Proximity to Attractions: Properties close to the University of Mississippi and literary sites often see higher occupancy rates.

Emerging Neighborhoods

Investors should monitor developing neighborhoods that are gaining popularity among visitors, which could present future opportunities.


Market Outlook & Trends

Looking ahead, Oxford's STR market is poised for continued growth, with several factors contributing to its optimistic outlook.

Future Projections

Based on historical data, we anticipate sustained growth driven by:

  • Increased tourism from literary events and university activities.
  • Expanding local economic developments that attract visitors.

Emerging Opportunities

Investors should explore niche markets, such as accommodations catering to literary tourism or specialized events at the university.

Risk Factors

Despite the positive outlook, it's crucial to remain cognizant of potential risks, including regulatory changes and market saturation.


Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the average ROI for STRs in Oxford?

    • The average ROI ranges from 8-12%, depending on property type and management.
  2. When is the best time to visit Oxford?

    • The best times are during the university's football season (September-October) and literary festivals.
  3. What are the STR regulations in Oxford?

    • STRs must comply with city licensing and zoning rules. For details, refer to the city's official guidelines.
  4. Which property type performs best?

    • 3-bedroom properties typically yield the best balance of occupancy and revenue.
  5. How does Oxford compare to other Mississippi markets?

    • Oxford's ADR and rental demand score are significantly higher than many other markets in Mississippi, indicating robust demand.

By leveraging this comprehensive analysis of the STR market in Oxford, Mississippi, investors and property managers can make informed decisions that optimize their strategies and capitalize on growth opportunities.

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More Locations In Mississippi

Related Short-Term Rental Markets

Explore 5 vacation rental markets within Mississippi. Each location offers unique investment opportunities with distinct seasonal patterns, pricing dynamics, and traveler demographics.

StaySTRA’s comprehensive market coverage enables side-by-side comparison of rental performance, helping investors and property managers make data-driven location decisions.

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