Baraboo, Wisconsin Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Visitor Profile
Baraboo attracts a visitor base that skews heavily toward families and outdoor enthusiasts, drawn primarily by Devil’s Lake State Park’s combination of water recreation, hiking, and rock climbing accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The park’s approximately 3 million annual visits position Baraboo as one of the highest-traffic nature destinations in Wisconsin, generating consistent demand for short-term rental accommodations throughout the warmer months. Guests frequently arrive from the Chicago metropolitan area, the Twin Cities, and Milwaukee, making Baraboo one of the more regionally accessible nature escapes in the upper Midwest. Average stays tend to run two to three nights, with guests often pairing Devil’s Lake with a visit to the Wisconsin Dells area or another nearby attraction. Cultural travelers represent a meaningful secondary segment, drawn by the Circus World Museum, the International Crane Foundation, and the Al Ringling Theatre.
Peak occupancy concentrates between June and August, when swimming and trail use at Devil’s Lake reach their highest levels, with a secondary lift during fall foliage season in September and October. Spring weekends attract rock climbers before summer crowds arrive, contributing to a shoulder-season occupancy base that is more robust than in comparable markets. The 180-day annual rental cap established under Baraboo’s STR ordinance means the market is structured around seasonal and weekend hosting rather than full-year operations, which aligns well with actual demand patterns. Investors should note that the most competitive rental periods are tightly concentrated, making strong pricing strategy during peak windows essential to achieving favorable annual returns. Detailed visitor resources and regional tourism context are available through Travel Wisconsin’s Baraboo page.
Baraboo attracts a visitor base that skews heavily toward families and outdoor enthusiasts, drawn primarily by Devil’s Lake State Park’s combination of water recreation, hiking, and rock climbing accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The park’s approximately 3 million annual visits position Baraboo as one of the highest-traffic nature destinations in Wisconsin, generating consistent demand for short-term rental accommodations throughout the warmer months. Guests frequently arrive from the Chicago metropolitan area, the Twin Cities, and Milwaukee, making Baraboo one of the more regionally accessible nature escapes in the upper Midwest. Average stays tend to run two to three nights, with guests often pairing Devil’s Lake with a visit to the Wisconsin Dells area or another nearby attraction. Cultural travelers represent a meaningful secondary segment, drawn by the Circus World Museum, the International Crane Foundation, and the Al Ringling Theatre.
Peak occupancy concentrates between June and August, when swimming and trail use at Devil’s Lake reach their highest levels, with a secondary lift during fall foliage season in September and October. Spring weekends attract rock climbers before summer crowds arrive, contributing to a shoulder-season occupancy base that is more robust than in comparable markets. The 180-day annual rental cap established under Baraboo’s STR ordinance means the market is structured around seasonal and weekend hosting rather than full-year operations, which aligns well with actual demand patterns. Investors should note that the most competitive rental periods are tightly concentrated, making strong pricing strategy during peak windows essential to achieving favorable annual returns. Detailed visitor resources and regional tourism context are available through Travel Wisconsin’s Baraboo page.
Top Attractions
Baraboo sits at the center of one of Wisconsin’s most attraction-dense corridors, anchored by Devil’s Lake State Park, which draws approximately 3 million visitors annually and ranks as the most-visited state park in the state. The park offers more than 500 feet of quartzite bluffs rising above a glacial lake, with swimming beaches, extensive hiking trails, and rock climbing terrain that appeals to a wide range of outdoor recreationists. Within the city itself, the Circus World Museum preserves Baraboo’s legacy as the original home of the Ringling Brothers circus, operating as a living history site with performances, artifacts, and the world’s largest collection of historic circus wagons. The International Crane Foundation maintains its global headquarters here, displaying all 15 crane species on earth in a setting that draws both conservation-minded travelers and families. The Al Ringling Theatre, a beautifully restored 1915 opera house, anchors the downtown cultural scene with film screenings and live events.
Beyond those flagship destinations, the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in nearby North Freedom offers excursion rides on vintage steam trains, providing a strong secondary draw for families and rail enthusiasts. Dr. Evermore’s Sculpture Park presents a singular folk-art experience unlike anything else in the Midwest, built from salvaged industrial machinery into towering fantastical structures. The broader Dells-Baraboo corridor ensures that visitors rarely exhaust available activities within a single trip, which supports repeat visitation and multi-night stays. Detailed trip planning resources and seasonal event listings are available through Travel Wisconsin’s Baraboo page, which is maintained by the state tourism office.
Baraboo sits at the center of one of Wisconsin’s most attraction-dense corridors, anchored by Devil’s Lake State Park, which draws approximately 3 million visitors annually and ranks as the most-visited state park in the state. The park offers more than 500 feet of quartzite bluffs rising above a glacial lake, with swimming beaches, extensive hiking trails, and rock climbing terrain that appeals to a wide range of outdoor recreationists. Within the city itself, the Circus World Museum preserves Baraboo’s legacy as the original home of the Ringling Brothers circus, operating as a living history site with performances, artifacts, and the world’s largest collection of historic circus wagons. The International Crane Foundation maintains its global headquarters here, displaying all 15 crane species on earth in a setting that draws both conservation-minded travelers and families. The Al Ringling Theatre, a beautifully restored 1915 opera house, anchors the downtown cultural scene with film screenings and live events.
Beyond those flagship destinations, the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in nearby North Freedom offers excursion rides on vintage steam trains, providing a strong secondary draw for families and rail enthusiasts. Dr. Evermore’s Sculpture Park presents a singular folk-art experience unlike anything else in the Midwest, built from salvaged industrial machinery into towering fantastical structures. The broader Dells-Baraboo corridor ensures that visitors rarely exhaust available activities within a single trip, which supports repeat visitation and multi-night stays. Detailed trip planning resources and seasonal event listings are available through Travel Wisconsin’s Baraboo page, which is maintained by the state tourism office.
Regulations
Baraboo, Wisconsin regulates short-term rentals under Chapter 17, Section 17.13A of the city code, establishing a licensing framework that all property owners must follow before accepting guests. Every STR operator must obtain a city license, and the property must pass inspections conducted by both the Building Inspector and the Fire Department before that license is issued. Rentals are capped at 180 days per year, and only properties located in certain residential and commercial zones are eligible to operate at all. The room tax rate is 8% effective January 1, 2024, and operators are responsible for collecting and remitting this tax on a regular schedule. Safety requirements including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms must be maintained throughout the life of the license, and failure to comply can result in fines or revocation. No new ordinance changes were enacted in 2024 or 2025, so the framework described here reflects current applicable rules. For official details, visit the City of Baraboo licensing page.
Operating within the zone eligibility rules is one of the most important early steps for prospective hosts, as properties outside permitted zones cannot be licensed regardless of other compliance efforts. The inspection process is a prerequisite to licensure, not a periodic check, so new operators should budget lead time for scheduling both the building and fire department visits before their first booking. The 180-day annual cap means Baraboo does not permit year-round unhosted rentals, making it a part-time rental market by design. Hosts who exceed that cap or advertise without a valid license risk penalties including fines and license revocation. Contacting the city directly is the most reliable way to confirm current zone eligibility for a specific parcel.
Baraboo, Wisconsin regulates short-term rentals under Chapter 17, Section 17.13A of the city code, establishing a licensing framework that all property owners must follow before accepting guests. Every STR operator must obtain a city license, and the property must pass inspections conducted by both the Building Inspector and the Fire Department before that license is issued. Rentals are capped at 180 days per year, and only properties located in certain residential and commercial zones are eligible to operate at all. The room tax rate is 8% effective January 1, 2024, and operators are responsible for collecting and remitting this tax on a regular schedule. Safety requirements including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms must be maintained throughout the life of the license, and failure to comply can result in fines or revocation. No new ordinance changes were enacted in 2024 or 2025, so the framework described here reflects current applicable rules. For official details, visit the City of Baraboo licensing page.
Operating within the zone eligibility rules is one of the most important early steps for prospective hosts, as properties outside permitted zones cannot be licensed regardless of other compliance efforts. The inspection process is a prerequisite to licensure, not a periodic check, so new operators should budget lead time for scheduling both the building and fire department visits before their first booking. The 180-day annual cap means Baraboo does not permit year-round unhosted rentals, making it a part-time rental market by design. Hosts who exceed that cap or advertise without a valid license risk penalties including fines and license revocation. Contacting the city directly is the most reliable way to confirm current zone eligibility for a specific parcel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the short-term rental regulations in Baraboo, Wisconsin?
Do I need a permit to operate a short-term rental in Baraboo, Wisconsin?
Are there occupancy taxes for vacation rentals in Baraboo, Wisconsin?
Vacation Rental Market Overview for Baraboo
Baraboo attracts visitors with its beaches and waterfront activities 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.
Baraboo, Wisconsin Market Performance Trends
| Month | Average Daily Rate (USD) | Occupancy Rate (%) | Average Monthly Revenue (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 24 | $278.03 | 92.7% | $5,967 |
| Aug 24 | $341.88 | 100% | $6,182 |
| Sep 24 | $248.64 | 66.7% | $3,571 |
| Oct 24 | $249.47 | 76.7% | $3,594 |
| Nov 24 | $258.74 | 73.6% | $3,704 |
| Dec 24 | $246.48 | 77.4% | $3,243 |
| Jan 25 | $273.83 | 55.2% | $2,818 |
| Feb 25 | $273.76 | 63% | $3,597 |
| Mar 25 | $275.22 | 83.3% | $4,436 |
| Apr 25 | $299.61 | 64.7% | $3,620 |
| May 25 | $311.73 | 60% | $4,475 |
| Jun 25 | $361.68 | 75.4% | $5,592 |
Short-Term Rental Market Performance Analysis for Baraboo
The short-term rental market in Baraboo 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: emerging growth market with increasing demand
Market data updated daily. Professional-grade analytics trusted by thousands of property managers and real estate investors.
Baraboo, Wisconsin Housing Market Data
Home Value Trends
| Quarter | Typical Home Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Q2 17 | $185,991 |
| Q3 17 | $173,507 |
| Q4 17 | $180,184 |
| Q4 17 | $177,382 |
| Q1 18 | $182,927 |
| Q1 18 | $180,083 |
| Q2 18 | $182,930 |
| Q2 18 | $180,086 |
| Q3 18 | $183,693 |
| Q3 18 | $180,837 |
| Q4 18 | $186,357 |
| Q4 18 | $183,460 |
| Q1 19 | $192,989 |
| Q1 19 | $189,988 |
| Q2 19 | $195,476 |
| Q2 19 | $192,437 |
| Q3 19 | $196,649 |
| Q3 19 | $193,591 |
| Q4 19 | $198,753 |
| Q4 19 | $195,663 |
| Q1 20 | $203,119 |
| Q1 20 | $199,961 |
| Q2 20 | $205,140 |
| Q2 20 | $201,950 |
| Q3 20 | $207,759 |
| Q3 20 | $204,529 |
| Q4 20 | $217,143 |
| Q4 20 | $213,767 |
| Q1 21 | $224,298 |
| Q1 21 | $220,810 |
| Q2 21 | $232,583 |
| Q2 21 | $228,967 |
| Q3 21 | $238,686 |
| Q3 21 | $234,974 |
| Q4 21 | $241,549 |
| Q4 21 | $237,794 |
| Q1 22 | $249,698 |
| Q1 22 | $245,815 |
| Q2 22 | $260,284 |
| Q2 22 | $256,237 |
| Q3 22 | $259,977 |
| Q3 22 | $255,935 |
| Q4 22 | $259,490 |
| Q4 22 | $255,455 |
| Q1 23 | $266,003 |
| Q1 23 | $261,867 |
| Q2 23 | $274,287 |
| Q2 23 | $270,022 |
| Q3 23 | $276,331 |
| Q3 23 | $272,035 |
| Q4 23 | $274,610 |
| Q4 23 | $270,340 |
| Q1 24 | $279,438 |
| Q1 24 | $275,094 |
| Q2 24 | $286,932 |
| Q2 24 | $282,471 |
| Q3 24 | $288,812 |
| Q3 24 | $284,321 |
| Q4 24 | $290,759 |
| Q4 24 | $286,238 |
| Q1 25 | $290,058 |
| Q1 25 | $285,548 |
| Q2 25 | $290,170 |
| Q2 25 | $285,658 |
| Q3 25 | $290,015 |
| Q3 25 | $285,505 |
| Q4 25 | $297,263 |
| Q4 25 | $292,641 |
Market Overview
- Typical Home Value:$296,993
- Median List Price:$316,333
Current Inventory
- Homes For Sale:37
- New Listings:9
Detailed Market Analysis
Real Estate Market Analysis for Baraboo, Wisconsin
The residential real estate market in Baraboo, Wisconsin presents unique opportunities for investors and homebuyers alike. Current market dynamics show balanced market conditions with accessible entry points with inventory levels and pricing trends that reflect broader economic conditions and local demand factors.
Key Market Factors
Important considerations for this market include: established neighborhoods, community amenities, and transportation accessibility These factors contribute to the overall market performance and future growth potential.
Real estate investments in Baraboo, Wisconsin benefit from consistent market appreciation and strong resale values. Prospective buyers and investors should consider both current market conditions and long-term growth indicators when evaluating opportunities in this market.
Baraboo, Wisconsin Rental Market Insights
10-Year Market Growth
| Quarter | Number of Listings |
|---|---|
| Q3 16 | 71 |
| Q4 16 | 76 |
| Q1 17 | 86 |
| Q2 17 | 119 |
| Q3 17 | 127 |
| Q4 17 | 119 |
| Q1 18 | 115 |
| Q2 18 | 128 |
| Q3 18 | 140 |
| Q4 18 | 133 |
| Q1 19 | 136 |
| Q2 19 | 154 |
| Q3 19 | 168 |
| Q4 19 | 179 |
| Q1 20 | 186 |
| Q2 20 | 198 |
| Q3 20 | 216 |
| Q4 20 | 211 |
| Q1 21 | 227 |
| Q2 21 | 215 |
| Q3 21 | 238 |
| Q4 21 | 226 |
| Q1 22 | 268 |
| Q2 22 | 296 |
| Q3 22 | 282 |
| Q4 22 | 273 |
| Q1 23 | 293 |
| Q2 23 | 284 |
| Q3 23 | 357 |
| Q4 23 | 355 |
| Q1 24 | 390 |
| Q2 24 | 405 |
| Q3 24 | 372 |
| Q4 24 | 442 |
| Q1 25 | 426 |
| Q2 25 | 484 |
Booking Activity
- 1-3 Months:57.7% Booked
- 4-6 Months:53.2% Booked
- 7-9 Months:60.1% Booked
- 10-12 Months:11% 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 Baraboo
Baraboo 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 seasonal policy variations maximizing revenue. 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.
Baraboo, Wisconsin Rental Market Composition
Entire Place by Beds
| Bedroom Configuration | Number of Properties |
|---|---|
| Studio | 16 |
| 1 Bed | 82 |
| 2 Beds | 115 |
| 3 Beds | 54 |
| 4 Beds | 37 |
| 5+ Beds | 19 |
Common Rental Amenities
Amenity data is not available for this location.
Vacation Rental Property Types in Baraboo
The vacation rental market in Baraboo 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 diverse property sizes from studios to large homes. 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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