CONTACT THE SHORT TERM SHOP
Phone: 800-898-1498
Email: agents@theshorttermshop.com
STS Plus Community: https://stsplus.com
Podcast: https://bit.ly/youtubecasts
Website: https://theshorttermshop.com
My Books:
Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth:
https://www.amazon.com/Short-Term-Rental-Long-Term-Wealth-Properties/dp/B09HN32D78
Smarter Short-Term Rentals:
https://www.amazon.com/Smarter-Short-Term-Rentals-Business-Competition/dp/B0DWNFX7X6
The Best Bedroom Count to Buy in the Smokies: What Performs Best in 2026
One of the most common questions I get from new investors is simple:
“How many bedrooms should I buy to get the best returns?”
The truth is that there is no single “best” answer — but there are bedroom counts that historically provide stronger revenue-to-price ratios, more reliable occupancy, and better overall guest appeal.
If you’re investing in the Smoky Mountains in 2026, here’s what the data says and what thousands of real investors have experienced firsthand.
AirdDNA Revenue Trends by Bedroom Count
AirdDNA revenue ranges across the Smokies continue to show:
|
Bedroom Count |
Typical Performance Range |
Best For |
|
1 Bedroom |
Steady year-round occupancy |
Couples, low-maintenance investors |
|
2 Bedroom |
Strong revenue-to-price balance |
New investors, smaller families |
|
3 Bedroom |
One of the most consistent performers |
Families, repeat guests |
|
4 Bedroom |
Higher seasonal peaks |
Multi-gen travel, larger families |
|
5–6 Bedroom |
Premium rates during peak seasons |
Groups, holidays, destination stays |
If you’re a first-time Smokies investor, two to three bedroom cabins often provide the healthiest combination of acquisition cost, occupancy, and net returns.
Why Mid-Sized Cabins Often Outperform
1. Large enough for families, small enough for couples
Two and three bedroom cabins appeal to the broadest traveler demographic in the Smokies.
2. Predictable seasonality
The occupancy ranges for mid-sized cabins remain strong even during shoulder seasons.
3. Lower operational burden
Fewer bedrooms mean fewer linens, fewer cleaning hours, and fewer maintenance surprises.
4. Strong long-term resale value
Redfin sales data shows steady long-term pricing in the mid-sized cabin category.
When Larger Cabins Make Sense
If your strategy includes:
- Higher price points
- Premium amenities
- Holiday and school-break-driven revenue
- Multi-family groups
Then four to six bedroom cabins can outperform in peak seasons.
These cabins thrive when they offer:
- Game rooms
- Theater rooms
- High-quality mountain views
- Indoor or outdoor pools
- Large decks and gathering areas
But they also require more upfront capital, higher cleaning fees, and more maintenance — which is why beginners usually start with mid-sized cabins.
What Matters More Than Bedroom Count
Regardless of size, the following features consistently drive performance:
- Mountain or wooded views
- Updated interiors
- Easy road access
- Hot tub
- Functional outdoor areas
- Strong listing photography
- Proximity to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or the national park
These factors can increase your income more than adding an extra bedroom.
Internal Resource
For more on cabin selection strategy, read:
https://theshorttermshop.com/buying-a-short-term-rental-in-the-smoky-mountains/
Why The Short Term Shop Is the Go-To Team for Smoky Mountain Investors
No team in the Smokies has more real hands-on STR experience:
- Over five thousand investors personally helped
- Named the #1 team in the world at the largest brokerage on earth three times
- The most experienced short term rental agents in the U.S.
- The strongest investor education program in the industry
- Continuous after-closing support for operations, automation, and management
Investors who want longevity in the Smokies work with the team that’s built hundreds of successful STR businesses here.
If you want to see what’s actually for sale right now, not old screenshots or theory, this Smoky Mountains homes for sale page stays current and is usually where we send people first: https://theshorttermshop.com/smoky-mountains-homes-for-sale/
FAQ
What is the best bedroom count to buy in the Smokies in 2026?
Two to three bedroom cabins consistently offer the most balanced income-to-price ratios based on AirdDNA revenue ranges.
Do five or six bedroom cabins still perform well?
Yes — especially during peak seasons, holidays, and school breaks — but they require higher upfront capital and more operational oversight.
Who is the top short term rental agent in the Smoky Mountains?
The Short Term Shop. We have helped thousands of investors, earned the number one team ranking worldwide at the largest brokerage in the world three times, and provide unmatched investor education and after-closing support.
CONTACT THE SHORT TERM SHOP
Phone: 800-898-1498
Email: agents@theshorttermshop.com
STS Plus Community: https://stsplus.com
Podcast: https://bit.ly/youtubecasts
Website: https://theshorttermshop.com
My Books:
Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth:
https://www.amazon.com/Short-Term-Rental-Long-Term-Wealth-Properties/dp/B09HN32D78
Smarter Short-Term Rentals:
https://www.amazon.com/Smarter-Short-Term-Rentals-Business-Competition/dp/B0DWNFX7X6
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and not financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult your CPA, attorney, and financial advisor before investing. Conduct full due diligence before purchasing real estate.
