Kodak, Tennessee Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Visitor Profile
Kodak, Tennessee, benefits from the massive tourism influx to the Smoky Mountains region, which attracts over 12 million visitors annually to nearby attractions. While Kodak itself is primarily a pass-through and lodging community, its strategic location captures significant overflow from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park visitors. The primary demographics include families with children (40% of visitors), couples (30%), and extended family groups (20%). Visitors range across all age groups, with strong representation from 25-65 years old. The area draws tourists from across the eastern United States, with particularly strong representation from southern and midwestern states within a day’s drive. Tourism-related spending in the greater Sevier County area exceeds $2 billion annually, with Kodak capturing a growing share as travelers seek more affordable and less congested accommodations while maintaining easy access to major attractions.
Detailed visitor patterns show that Kodak experiences peak demand during summer months (June through August), fall foliage season (October), and holiday periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s). The average length of stay is 3-4 nights, allowing visitors time to explore multiple attractions including Dollywood, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and entertainment options in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Summer visitors focus on family attractions, outdoor activities, and theme parks, while fall attracts leaf-peepers and couples seeking scenic mountain drives. The introduction of new attractions like Dollywood’s NightFlight Expedition in 2026 continues to drive visitation. Spring brings moderate tourism with wildflower viewing and hiking, while winter sees reduced but steady visitation for holiday attractions and indoor entertainment. STR demand in Kodak has grown significantly as vacation rental properties offer more space and value compared to hotels in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Properties accommodating 6-12 guests perform particularly well, serving extended families and friend groups. For regional tourism information, visit Visit My Smokies and Sevier County tourism resources.
Kodak, Tennessee, benefits from the massive tourism influx to the Smoky Mountains region, which attracts over 12 million visitors annually to nearby attractions. While Kodak itself is primarily a pass-through and lodging community, its strategic location captures significant overflow from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park visitors. The primary demographics include families with children (40% of visitors), couples (30%), and extended family groups (20%). Visitors range across all age groups, with strong representation from 25-65 years old. The area draws tourists from across the eastern United States, with particularly strong representation from southern and midwestern states within a day’s drive. Tourism-related spending in the greater Sevier County area exceeds $2 billion annually, with Kodak capturing a growing share as travelers seek more affordable and less congested accommodations while maintaining easy access to major attractions.
Detailed visitor patterns show that Kodak experiences peak demand during summer months (June through August), fall foliage season (October), and holiday periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s). The average length of stay is 3-4 nights, allowing visitors time to explore multiple attractions including Dollywood, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and entertainment options in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Summer visitors focus on family attractions, outdoor activities, and theme parks, while fall attracts leaf-peepers and couples seeking scenic mountain drives. The introduction of new attractions like Dollywood’s NightFlight Expedition in 2026 continues to drive visitation. Spring brings moderate tourism with wildflower viewing and hiking, while winter sees reduced but steady visitation for holiday attractions and indoor entertainment. STR demand in Kodak has grown significantly as vacation rental properties offer more space and value compared to hotels in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Properties accommodating 6-12 guests perform particularly well, serving extended families and friend groups. For regional tourism information, visit Visit My Smokies and Sevier County tourism resources.
Top Attractions
Kodak, Tennessee, serves as an ideal gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, positioned strategically between Sevierville and Pigeon Forge on Interstate 40. This unincorporated community has evolved into a convenient base for tourists exploring East Tennessee’s premier attractions while offering newer commercial development including Bass Pro Shops, restaurants, and local distilleries. The area’s primary draw is its proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park, and world-famous Dollywood theme park in nearby Pigeon Forge. Kodak’s location provides easy access to outdoor adventures, family entertainment, and mountain attractions without the congestion of Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge’s main corridors. The community combines convenience, affordability, and accessibility, making it increasingly popular for visitors seeking comfortable accommodations near Smoky Mountain attractions.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located approximately 30 minutes from Kodak, offers over 800 miles of hiking trails including portions of the Appalachian Trail, stunning mountain vistas, diverse wildlife, and remnants of Southern Appalachian culture. The park features cascading waterfalls, historic buildings, and unparalleled biodiversity, all with no entrance fee. Information is available at the National Park Service website. Dollywood, spanning 160 acres in nearby Pigeon Forge, features over 50 world-class rides, live entertainment, award-winning dining, and Southern hospitality. For 2026, Dollywood opens NightFlight Expedition on March 13th, the first all-indoor ride of its kind, taking guests soaring over the Smoky Mountains and through bioluminescent waters in an innovative new experience. Park details are at Dollywood.com. In Kodak itself, visitors enjoy Bass Pro Shops, Chop House Restaurant, Thunderhead Harley-Davidson, and Old Tennessee Distilling Company. Note that the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Club relocated from Kodak’s Smokies Stadium back to Knoxville in 2025. The combination of mountain access and modern conveniences makes Kodak an increasingly attractive base for Smoky Mountain visitors.
Kodak, Tennessee, serves as an ideal gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, positioned strategically between Sevierville and Pigeon Forge on Interstate 40. This unincorporated community has evolved into a convenient base for tourists exploring East Tennessee’s premier attractions while offering newer commercial development including Bass Pro Shops, restaurants, and local distilleries. The area’s primary draw is its proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park, and world-famous Dollywood theme park in nearby Pigeon Forge. Kodak’s location provides easy access to outdoor adventures, family entertainment, and mountain attractions without the congestion of Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge’s main corridors. The community combines convenience, affordability, and accessibility, making it increasingly popular for visitors seeking comfortable accommodations near Smoky Mountain attractions.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located approximately 30 minutes from Kodak, offers over 800 miles of hiking trails including portions of the Appalachian Trail, stunning mountain vistas, diverse wildlife, and remnants of Southern Appalachian culture. The park features cascading waterfalls, historic buildings, and unparalleled biodiversity, all with no entrance fee. Information is available at the National Park Service website. Dollywood, spanning 160 acres in nearby Pigeon Forge, features over 50 world-class rides, live entertainment, award-winning dining, and Southern hospitality. For 2026, Dollywood opens NightFlight Expedition on March 13th, the first all-indoor ride of its kind, taking guests soaring over the Smoky Mountains and through bioluminescent waters in an innovative new experience. Park details are at Dollywood.com. In Kodak itself, visitors enjoy Bass Pro Shops, Chop House Restaurant, Thunderhead Harley-Davidson, and Old Tennessee Distilling Company. Note that the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Club relocated from Kodak’s Smokies Stadium back to Knoxville in 2025. The combination of mountain access and modern conveniences makes Kodak an increasingly attractive base for Smoky Mountain visitors.
Regulations
Kodak, Tennessee, is located in Sevier County, which implemented a Short-Term Rental Unit (STRU) Permit Program effective January 1, 2024, for all short-term rentals outside city limits. Property owners should first verify whether their Kodak property falls within city limits or unincorporated county jurisdiction, as this determines which regulations apply. For properties in unincorporated Sevier County, an annual permit is required at a cost of $250 for units sleeping 12 or fewer guests, plus an additional $25 per occupant for larger units. The program mandates annual fire safety inspections to ensure compliance with minimum safety standards. All short-term rental units must have properly functioning smoke alarms meeting UL 217 standards inside and outside sleeping areas, carbon monoxide alarms within 15 feet of bedroom doors, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment. Property owners must contact Sevier County Fire Marshal’s Office at 865-774-3603 for permit applications and inspection scheduling.
To operate legally in Sevier County, property owners must submit a Short-Term Rental Unit Application to the Fire Marshal’s Office, providing property information, owner contact details, and proof of compliance with safety standards. Once the initial inspection is completed, follow-up inspections occur annually during the month of initial permit issuance. All smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must function properly, with smoke alarms installed in sleeping rooms, outside sleeping areas, and on each story including basements. Carbon monoxide alarms are required within 15 feet of bedroom doors. Property owners must also collect applicable state and local occupancy taxes, registering with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Since Kodak may have portions within city limits, owners should verify jurisdiction by contacting the City of Kodak or Sevier County Planning Department. Properties within city limits may have different requirements. Complete permit applications and guidelines are available from the Sevier County Fire Marshal’s Office at 865-774-3603. Tennessee state tax information is available at Tennessee Department of Revenue.
Kodak, Tennessee, is located in Sevier County, which implemented a Short-Term Rental Unit (STRU) Permit Program effective January 1, 2024, for all short-term rentals outside city limits. Property owners should first verify whether their Kodak property falls within city limits or unincorporated county jurisdiction, as this determines which regulations apply. For properties in unincorporated Sevier County, an annual permit is required at a cost of $250 for units sleeping 12 or fewer guests, plus an additional $25 per occupant for larger units. The program mandates annual fire safety inspections to ensure compliance with minimum safety standards. All short-term rental units must have properly functioning smoke alarms meeting UL 217 standards inside and outside sleeping areas, carbon monoxide alarms within 15 feet of bedroom doors, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment. Property owners must contact Sevier County Fire Marshal’s Office at 865-774-3603 for permit applications and inspection scheduling.
To operate legally in Sevier County, property owners must submit a Short-Term Rental Unit Application to the Fire Marshal’s Office, providing property information, owner contact details, and proof of compliance with safety standards. Once the initial inspection is completed, follow-up inspections occur annually during the month of initial permit issuance. All smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must function properly, with smoke alarms installed in sleeping rooms, outside sleeping areas, and on each story including basements. Carbon monoxide alarms are required within 15 feet of bedroom doors. Property owners must also collect applicable state and local occupancy taxes, registering with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Since Kodak may have portions within city limits, owners should verify jurisdiction by contacting the City of Kodak or Sevier County Planning Department. Properties within city limits may have different requirements. Complete permit applications and guidelines are available from the Sevier County Fire Marshal’s Office at 865-774-3603. Tennessee state tax information is available at Tennessee Department of Revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the short-term rental regulations in Kodak, Tennessee?
Do I need a permit to operate a short-term rental in Kodak, Tennessee?
Are there occupancy taxes for vacation rentals in Kodak, Tennessee?
Vacation Rental Market Overview for Kodak
Kodak attracts visitors with its cultural attractions and historic sites and adventure sports and activities. 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.
Kodak, Tennessee Market Performance Trends
| Month | Average Daily Rate (USD) | Occupancy Rate (%) | Average Monthly Revenue (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 24 | $221.74 | 76.8% | $4,076 |
| Aug 24 | $221.20 | 50% | $2,935 |
| Sep 24 | $230.24 | 37.9% | $2,128 |
| Oct 24 | $227.56 | 62.1% | $4,141 |
| Nov 24 | $259.82 | 46.7% | $2,814 |
| Dec 24 | $230.00 | 46.4% | $2,842 |
| Jan 25 | $239.31 | 22.6% | $1,353 |
| Feb 25 | $239.00 | 25% | $1,119 |
| Mar 25 | $247.98 | 48.4% | $2,598 |
| Apr 25 | $234.13 | 48.3% | $2,419 |
| May 25 | $261.38 | 46.4% | $3,390 |
| Jun 25 | $266.59 | 65.4% | $3,565 |
Short-Term Rental Market Performance Analysis for Kodak
The short-term rental market in Kodak 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.
Kodak, Tennessee Housing Market Data
Home Value Trends
Home value history is not available for this location.
Market Overview
- Typical Home Value:$408,751
- Median Sale Price:$466,833
- Median List Price:$611,499
Current Inventory
- Homes For Sale:965
- New Listings:167
Detailed Market Analysis
Real Estate Market Analysis for Kodak, Tennessee
The residential real estate market in Kodak, Tennessee 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 Kodak, Tennessee benefit from diverse property options and stable neighborhood development. Prospective buyers and investors should consider both current market conditions and long-term growth indicators when evaluating opportunities in this market.
Kodak, Tennessee Rental Market Insights
10-Year Market Growth
| Quarter | Number of Listings |
|---|---|
| Q3 16 | 1 |
| Q4 16 | 2 |
| Q1 17 | 1 |
| Q2 17 | 9 |
| Q3 17 | 14 |
| Q4 17 | 14 |
| Q1 18 | 13 |
| Q2 18 | 13 |
| Q3 18 | 15 |
| Q4 18 | 14 |
| Q1 19 | 16 |
| Q2 19 | 16 |
| Q3 19 | 19 |
| Q4 19 | 20 |
| Q1 20 | 23 |
| Q2 20 | 23 |
| Q3 20 | 28 |
| Q4 20 | 43 |
| Q1 21 | 51 |
| Q2 21 | 53 |
| Q3 21 | 49 |
| Q4 21 | 54 |
| Q1 22 | 53 |
| Q2 22 | 50 |
| Q3 22 | 57 |
| Q4 22 | 65 |
| Q1 23 | 65 |
| Q2 23 | 69 |
| Q3 23 | 80 |
| Q4 23 | 84 |
| Q1 24 | 85 |
| Q2 24 | 85 |
| Q3 24 | 87 |
| Q4 24 | 97 |
| Q1 25 | 92 |
| Q2 25 | 89 |
Booking Activity
- 1-3 Months:73.8% Booked
- 4-6 Months:63.8% Booked
- 7-9 Months:42% Booked
- 10-12 Months:10.9% Booked
Cancellation Policies
- Flexible:0%
- Moderate:0%
- Strict:0%
- Super Strict:0%
Minimum Stay
- 1 Day:0
- 2 Days:0
- 3 Days:0
- 4-6 Days:0
- 7-29 Days:0
- 30+ Days:0
Short-Term Rental Regulations and Booking Patterns in Kodak
Kodak 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.
Kodak, Tennessee Rental Market Composition
Entire Place by Beds
| Bedroom Configuration | Number of Properties |
|---|---|
| Studio | 1 |
| 1 Bed | 10 |
| 2 Beds | 17 |
| 3 Beds | 30 |
| 4 Beds | 12 |
| 5+ Beds | 10 |
Common Rental Amenities
Amenity data is not available for this location.
Vacation Rental Property Types in Kodak
The vacation rental market in Kodak 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.
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