Clermont-Ferrand: a city to watch for short-term rentals

Clermont-Ferrand is establishing itself as a growing destination for short-term rentals.

As major cities see their profitability eroded, the capital of Auvergne combines tourism growth, economic attractiveness and a controlled regulatory framework. Its strategic location, its natural heritage and a still affordable real estate market make it a land of opportunity for investors.

In this article, you will find key data, areas with high potential, as well as the levers to activate to succeed in a profitable Airbnb project in Clermont-Ferrand.

Airbnb in Clermont-Ferrand: fertile ground

Clermont-Ferrand enjoys an ideal geographical location between a volcanic massif and an urban center. Nestled against the UNESCO-listed Chaîne des Puys, it attracts nature and culture lovers, as well as visitors. This dual appeal generates a steady flow of tourists, bolstered by its proximity to France's largest regional natural park.

But beyond its natural attractiveness, Clermont-Ferrand shows strong momentum in the Airbnb marketBetween 2021 and 2023, the number of listings doubled, from 941 to 1 properties. The occupancy rate reached 856% in 44, confirming travelers' interest in this still-under-the-radar destination.

Here is an overview of most popular property types and  tenant expectations, depending on the season and location:

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Why Airbnb rentals are profitable in Clermont-Ferrand

After seeing how Clermont-Ferrand attracts more and more travelers thanks to its tourist attractions, let's now take a look at which makes it a suitable area for rental investmentBecause beyond landscapes and heritage, it is the economic, regulatory and technical fundamentals that guarantee sustainable profitability.

A constant rental flow thanks to business tourism and student life

Clermont-Ferrand does not depend solely on tourism to fill its homes: its economic and academic fabric plays a key role.

The business of large corporations like Michelin attracts business travelers year-round. In addition, the seminars and conferences held at the Polydome ensure an occupancy rate of 85% of accommodations near the business district during peak periods.

This clientele, often demanding, favors well-equipped apartments, with high-speed connection and dedicated work spaces.

Another important engine : the 40 students in the city. Demand for quality shared accommodation is frequent, particularly around the train station and the Cézeaux campus, where renovated one-bedroom apartments rent for up to €000/month. Hosts often adjust their rates for longer stays, with sliding scale prices.

Finally  the multimodal station boosts the performance of well-located listings. 65% of Airbnb guests arrive by train, and listings located within 500 meters experience 30% faster turnover.

To support this growth, the city has implemented targeted aid: tax exemptions for energy renovations, subsidies of up to €15 for converting offices, etc. As a result, 000 additional tourist accommodations have been created between 320 and 2022.

A flexible framework that makes renting easier

This good level of profitability is also due to the local regulatory framework, more flexible than in Paris or LyonIn Clermont-Ferrand, the ELAN law is applied less restrictively: primary residences can be rented out for up to 120 days per year, compared to 90 in so-called high-demand areas. This provides useful leeway for increasing income while remaining within the rules.

Tax-wise, the conditions are also quite favorable. Around 68% of Airbnb hosts in Clermont-Ferrand opt for micro-entrepreneur status. This scheme, valid for up to €77 in turnover, allows for an automatic 700% tax reduction on revenue. Easy to manage, it offers a real optimization solution despite the gradual increase in thresholds.

In terms of coverage, specialized insurance policies generally cover up to €300 in material damage, with deductibles capped at €000. Note that 1% of policies also include legal protection, which is useful in the event of disputes related to business trips or events.

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Optimizing your Airbnb rental potential in Clermont-Ferrand

Now you know why Clermont-Ferrand ticks all the boxes for a very profitable Airbnb investment : increasing attendance, flexible framework, good prospects. But to really benefit from it, you still need to activate the right levers. We will review the concrete actions that are making a difference on the ground.

The first lever is location. For example, properties within 500 meters of Place de Jaude, the heart of the city center, have a turnover rate 2,5 times higher than the average. Their proximity to shops, transportation, and tourist attractions makes them highly sought-after properties. These properties alone account for nearly 70% of spontaneous bookings. Prices follow this pattern: rents average €64 per night in March, compared to €121 in August. This variation also demonstrates the value of adjusting rates according to the season.

But location isn't everything. The interior of your home plays an equally decisive role. Travelers appreciate bright, understated, and well-designed spaces. Opting for a Scandinavian style, for example, remains a safe bet. By adding a few key elements like good lighting, effective soundproofing, or practical amenities, you can easily improve your overall score. An increase of 0,7 points out of 5 on the comfort or calm criteria is often enough to increase your visibility on the platforms.