Best Countries for Airbnb Investment in 2026

As short-term rental regulations tighten in some cities and tourism rebounds globally, Airbnb investors in 2026 are becoming more strategic than ever. The days of buying any condo and hoping it performs are gone. Today’s strongest returns come from the right countries, the right cities, and professional management on the ground.

At Sonno Homes, we specialize in identifying and operating high-performing Airbnb and short-term rental investments across multiple countries, giving investors access to global markets without the operational headaches.

So where should investors be looking in 2026?

Below are the best countries for Airbnb investment in 2026, based on demand, regulation, pricing, and long-term growth potential.

What Makes a Country Good for Airbnb Investment?

Before diving into specific countries, it’s important to understand what separates strong Airbnb markets from risky ones. At Sonno Homes, we evaluate countries using five core criteria:

• Consistent tourism demand

• Favorable or manageable short-term rental regulations

• Reasonable property entry prices

• Strong nightly rates and occupancy

• Reliable local property management infrastructure

  
  

Countries that score well across these factors tend to outperform over time—especially when paired with professional operators like Sonno Homes.

1. Colombia 🇨🇴

One of the Best Airbnb Investment Countries in 2026

Colombia continues to stand out as one of the top Airbnb investment destinations in the world.

Why Colombia Works:

• Rapidly growing tourism in Medellín, Cartagena, and Bogotá

• Low acquisition costs compared to North America and Europe

• Strong cash-on-cash returns

• Favorable foreign ownership laws

  
  

Cities like Medellín attract digital nomads, medical tourists, and long-stay travelers—perfect for short-term rentals with flexible pricing strategies.

Sonno Homes has been active in Colombia for years, operating and managing Airbnb properties designed specifically for international investors seeking hands-off returns.

Best cities for Airbnb in Colombia:

• Medellín

• Cartagena

• Bogotá (select neighborhoods)

  
  

2. Italy 🇮🇹

High Demand + Premium Nightly Rates

Italy remains one of the most searched Airbnb destinations globally, and in 2026 it continues to offer exceptional upside for well-structured investments.

Why Italy Works:

• Year-round tourism

• High nightly rates in historic cities

• Strong appeal to luxury and experience-driven travelers

• Cultural destinations that never go out of style

  
  

While Italy has stricter regulations than some markets, experienced operators like Sonno Homes focus on compliant properties in cities and zones where short-term rentals remain viable.

Best cities for Airbnb investment in Italy:

• Rome

• Florence

• Milan

• Select secondary cities with fewer restrictions

  
  

Italy is ideal for investors seeking stability, prestige, and premium pricing, especially with a professional management partner.

3. Panama 🇵🇦

A Quiet Powerhouse for Airbnb Investors

Panama is often overlooked—but that’s exactly why it’s attractive.

Why Panama Works:

• Dollarized economy

• Strong expat and business travel demand

• Foreigner-friendly property laws

• Emerging short-term rental markets with room to grow

  
  

Panama City, in particular, benefits from international conferences, long-stay business travelers, and regional tourism.

Sonno Homes sees Panama as a growth-stage market—ideal for investors who want early exposure before prices rise further.

4. United States 🇺🇸

Still Profitable—If You Choose the Right Markets

Despite tighter regulations in major cities, the U.S. remains one of the best countries for Airbnb investment in 2026—but only in select markets.

Why the U.S. Still Works:

• Massive domestic travel demand

• Strong legal clarity in many states

• Financing availability

• Predictable market data

  
  

At Sonno Homes, we focus on regulation-friendly U.S. markets such as:

• Florida

• Texas

• Select secondary and suburban destinations

  
  

When paired with professional short-term rental management, U.S. properties can deliver stable, predictable returns.

5. Mexico 🇲🇽

High Demand, Diverse Markets

Mexico continues to benefit from strong tourism, remote work trends, and proximity to the U.S. and Canada.

Why Mexico Works:

• International and domestic tourism

• Diverse markets (beach, city, cultural)

• Competitive property prices in many regions

  
  

That said, regulation varies by city. This is where working with a company like Sonno Homes becomes essential—local knowledge is the difference between a high-performing asset and a risky one.

Why Investors Choose Sonno Homes for Global Airbnb Investments

Investing abroad isn’t just about buying property—it’s about execution.

Sonno Homes provides:

• Market selection and due diligence

• Property acquisition support

• Professional Airbnb setup and branding

• Full-service short-term rental management

• Ongoing performance optimization

  
  

Rather than chasing trends, Sonno Homes focuses on sustainable, regulation-aware Airbnb investments across the world’s most promising markets.

So, What Is the Best Country for Airbnb Investment in 2026?

There is no single “best” country—only the best strategy for your goals.

• Want high cash flow? → Colombia or Panama

• Want prestige and premium rates? → Italy

• Want stability and financing options? → United States

• Want diversification? → A multi-country portfolio with Sonno Homes

  
  

The smartest investors in 2026 aren’t asking where to invest—they’re asking who can operate it properly.

And that’s where Sonno Homes comes in.

Ready to Explore Global Airbnb Investments?

If you’re considering investing in Airbnb or short-term rentals in 2026, Sonno Homes can help you access professionally managed opportunities across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe.

Contact Sonno Homes to learn how global short-term rental investing can work for you.