Lafayette’s Short-Term Rental Showdown: Growth, Income & Controversy
Short-term rentals—better known as STRs or Airbnbs—have become one of the most debated topics in Lafayette real estate today. While they offer an opportunity for revitalization and increased income, they’re also facing growing scrutiny from local leaders and residents.
At Keaty Real Estate, we’ve seen both sides up close. Take investor Tyler Albrecht, for example. He’s helped breathe new life into once-vacant properties, turning them into beautifully designed stays that welcome visitors to experience the culture, cuisine, and charm of Acadiana.
But the story doesn’t end there.
The STR Boom by the Numbers
Currently, Lafayette boasts over 400 active short-term rental listings, with an average occupancy rate of 54%. These properties earn approximately $108 per night, translating to an average annual income of nearly $21,000 per unit.
That’s a significant boost when compared to traditional long-term rentals. On average, STRs pull in $2,700 per month, compared to about $2,100 for conventional leases—a 28% increase in income for investors.
This earning potential has made short-term rentals a favored model for local real estate investors looking to maximize returns while helping revitalize neighborhoods that need attention.
New Restrictions & Legal Challenges
But the rapid rise of STRs has brought new challenges—and regulations. As of April 2025, Lafayette implemented a set of ordinances that STR owners must now comply with:
A $100 annual license
Zoning and land use reviews
Neighbor notification requirements
Sales tax compliance
Proof of insurance
Additionally, STRs are now banned in most single-family neighborhoods, limiting where these properties can legally operate. These changes have led to a federal lawsuit from several local STR hosts, who claim the restrictions are unfair and financially devastating—some report losing up to 50% of their income after being forced to convert their properties.
A Community Divided
Supporters of short-term rentals argue that they promote tourism, support small businesses, and bring vibrancy to overlooked areas. Critics worry about rising property values, reduced housing supply for residents, and neighborhood disruption.
At Keaty Real Estate, we support responsible STR ownership—the kind that prioritizes safety, transparency, and community alignment. We’ve seen how these properties, when done right, uplift neighborhoods, boost the local economy, and offer guests a more authentic Lafayette experience.