Why Medellín Works for Airbnb Investment
Consistent year-round demand from digital nomads, tourists, business travelers, and medical tourists. The city’s favorable climate combined with low property prices relative to nightly rental rates creates attractive return opportunities.
Typical Airbnb Performance by Neighborhood
El Poblado
- Average nightly rate: $50–$120 USD (1–2 bedroom)
- Average occupancy: 65–80% annually
- Estimated gross annual revenue (1-bedroom): $12,000–$22,000 USD
Laureles
- Average nightly rate: $40–$90 USD (1–2 bedroom)
- Average occupancy: 55–70% annually
- Estimated gross annual revenue (1-bedroom): $8,000–$16,000 USD
Envigado
- Average nightly rate: $35–$75 USD
- Average occupancy: 60–75% annually
- Strong demand from long-stay digital nomads
A Real ROI Example
2-bedroom apartment in El Poblado purchased at COP 550,000,000 ($130,000 USD):
- Gross annual revenue (70% occupancy at $75/night): ~$19,000 USD
- Operating costs (platform fees, cleaning, utilities, management, maintenance): ~$7,600 USD
- Net operating income: ~$11,400 USD annually
- Net ROI: ~8.7% before property appreciation
Add property appreciation of 5–10% annually and total returns reach 13–18%.
Regulatory Environment
Short-term rentals operate in a relatively permissive environment in Medellín with no city-wide bans. However, individual building regulations may restrict short-term rentals — verify before purchasing.
Self-Managed vs. Property Management
Professional property management typically costs 20–30% of gross revenue but handles all guest communications, check-ins, cleaning, and maintenance. For investors not based in Medellín, this is often the right choice.
The Bottom Line
Properties in El Poblado and Laureles ($100,000–$200,000 USD range) generate net yields of 7–10% annually before appreciation — among the strongest short-term rental returns in Latin America.
Contact StellarView Realty to see current investment-grade listings.