Hattiesburg, Mississippi — widely known as the Hub City — has become a steady and increasingly attractive market for short-term rental property owners. With the University of Southern Mississippi anchoring year-round demand, neighborhoods like the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood District, The Avenues, and East Hattiesburg attract a mix of visiting families, university guests, business travelers, and tourists passing through on their way to the Gulf Coast. If you own a rental property here and want to maximize your income without managing every detail yourself, partnering with a professional airbnb management company is one of the smartest moves you can make. This guide compares the best 7 vacation rental management companies operating in Hattiesburg, Mississippi in 2026.
The Hattiesburg Short-Term Rental Market
Hattiesburg’s short-term rental market is driven primarily by the University of Southern Mississippi calendar — move-in weekends, football season, graduation ceremonies, and campus events generate predictable demand spikes throughout the year. According to Awning’s 2026 market analysis, Hattiesburg STR properties average a $163 daily rate with a 64% occupancy rate and approximately $24,395 in annual revenue — making it a solid mid-tier market for local airbnb managers and property investors alike. Peak season runs from August through November, coinciding with football season and the fall semester. Beyond university activity, Hattiesburg also serves as a regional hub for healthcare, retail, and business travel, adding a consistent base of corporate guests. Properties near Historic Downtown and The Avenues tend to attract the most bookings, though East Hattiesburg — with its proximity to the De Soto National Forest — draws nature-focused travelers seeking a quieter stay. Compare the nearby Jackson, Mississippi market or explore options across the broader Southeast region.
Best 7 Airbnb Management Companies in Hattiesburg, Mississippi
1. One Fine BnB
One Fine BnB is a full-service short-term rental management company with 16+ years of experience managing vacation rental properties across the United States. Founded in 2010, the company has built a $2.3B+ managed portfolio and maintains a 92% owner retention rate — metrics that reflect consistent, high-quality service delivery. One Fine BnB positions itself as a leading option for Hattiesburg property owners who want a hands-off management experience with strong financial results. With no sign-up fees, no long-term contracts, and a flat 10% management fee, it stands apart from competitors who typically charge 25–50% of rental income. Owners receive access to a full technology stack, including an AI-powered pricing engine, owner dashboard, and multi-channel distribution across more than 50 booking platforms — all designed to maximize occupancy and revenue without requiring owners to be involved in daily operations.
- Flat 10% management fee — no hidden costs, no long-term contracts, free to get started
- Multi-channel distribution across 50+ booking platforms including Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, Marriott Bonvoy Homes & Villas, and Kayak
- AI-driven pricing technology that analyzes market trends, seasonal demand, and local events to adjust rates dynamically
- Professional listing creation with photography, 3D virtual tours, and SEO-optimized descriptions
- 24/7 guest support and dedicated reservation agents; post-stay walkthroughs with photo documentation after every stay
- The company reports a 4.9/5 average guest rating and occupancy rates 51% higher than market average
2. Checkmate Rentals
Checkmate Rentals is a full-service short-term rental management company serving Hattiesburg and surrounding areas. They offer co-hosting and full-management options with flexible, no-lock-in contracts, making them a practical choice for local property owners who want to retain their Airbnb listing while getting professional operational support. Checkmate’s co-hosting model is particularly attractive for hosts who are already established on Airbnb and want help with guest communication, housekeeping, and maintenance without handing over their listing entirely. Their damage coverage and strict guest screening protocols add an extra layer of property protection for owners in the Hattiesburg market.
- Listing optimization across multiple booking platforms with dynamic pricing
- 24/7 guest communication with response times of 1–15 minutes
- Guest screening (ages 25+ requirement), professional housekeeping, and inspection coordination
- Guest damage coverage up to $3,000 and direct payout to property owners
- Owner portal for real-time property monitoring; unlimited owner use with flexible date blocking
3. Home Team Luxury Rentals
Home Team Luxury Rentals is a Mississippi-based short term rental management company with coverage across the state, including Hattiesburg. They focus on full-service vacation rental management with an emphasis on luxury properties and multi-platform distribution throughout the Gulf Coast region and beyond.
- Full-service STR management including guest communication, listing optimization, and pricing strategy
- Multi-platform distribution on Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and Expedia
- Professional photography and dynamic pricing based on seasonality and demand
- Regular inspections, maintenance coordination, and emergency repair response
- Social media and email marketing campaigns to drive direct bookings
4. Awning
Awning is a national vacation rental management company that offers full-service property management in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Their platform combines local operational support with data-driven pricing tools and management fees starting at 10% of monthly revenue with no long-term contracts.
- Listing optimization and marketing across 50+ booking platforms
- Dynamic pricing strategy and 24/7 guest communication
- Professional cleaning, linen service, and restocking between stays
- Maintenance coordination including pools, hot tubs, and lawn care
- Monthly owner reporting and no long-term contracts
5. Evolve
Evolve is a national vacation rental management platform offering industry-low fees starting at 10% for property owners who want broad distribution and expert guidance without full-service operations. They handle listing management, dynamic pricing, and multi-platform promotion while property owners coordinate their own cleaning and maintenance.
- Calendar management and dynamic pricing adjustments
- Promotional placement across major booking platforms
- Expert guidance on listing optimization and rental strategy
- Flexible fee structure with no long-term commitments
- Tools and support for owners who prefer partial self-management
6. Vacasa
Vacasa is one of the largest full-service vacation rental management companies in North America, with dedicated local teams providing on-the-ground support for properties across the United States. Their model covers every aspect of rental management, from guest services to professional cleaning and maintenance coordination.
- Full-service vacation rental management with dedicated local teams
- Professional cleaning, maintenance, and continuous property care
- Booking optimization and revenue management technology
- 24/7 guest services and owner support
- Wide distribution across major booking platforms
7. Guesty for Hosts
Guesty for Hosts is a short term rental management platform designed for independent hosts and property managers. It provides the tools and infrastructure to manage listings, automate guest communication, and optimize pricing across multiple channels — a strong option for Hattiesburg owners who want technology-backed management support.
- Multi-platform listing synchronization across Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and more
- Automated guest messaging and task management
- Dynamic pricing tools and revenue analytics
- Unified inbox for all booking channels
- Flexible plans suitable for independent hosts and growing portfolios
How to Choose an Airbnb Manager in Hattiesburg
Selecting the right airbnb property manager in Hattiesburg requires matching your priorities — whether that is local market expertise, fee transparency, or hands-off convenience — to each company’s actual service model. Use the criteria below when evaluating your options. For more guidance, visit our vacation rental FAQ covering management contracts, fee structures, and what to ask before signing.
- Local market expertise: Does the company understand the Hattiesburg STR market — university seasonality, regulatory requirements, and neighborhood demand patterns in areas like The Avenues and Historic Downtown?
- Fee transparency: Look for clear, published fee structures with no hidden charges. Industry fees typically range from 10–30% of rental income; always confirm what is included.
- Licensing compliance: The City of Hattiesburg requires a local property manager residing in Forrest or Lamar County. Confirm your manager meets this requirement before listing.
- Technology and reporting: Does the company offer an owner portal, dynamic pricing tools, and regular financial reporting so you can track performance?
- Contract flexibility: Avoid long-term lock-in contracts. The best airbnb management companies offer month-to-month or flexible terms so you are never trapped with a manager who is underperforming.
- Guest quality controls: Screening policies, damage coverage, and post-stay inspections protect your property. Ask each company about their specific procedures before signing.
Short-Term Rental Regulations in Hattiesburg, Mississippi
The City of Hattiesburg regulates short-term rentals under Ordinance No. 3376. Property owners must obtain a permit from the City Clerk’s office before operating any STR property (defined as stays under 30 days). Key requirements include:
- Local property manager requirement: Operators must hire a property manager who resides in Forrest or Lamar County and is available 24/7 to respond to issues
- Permit fees: New applications require an application fee ($25), license fee ($130), fire inspection ($50), zoning compliance ($25), and privilege tax ($20); annual renewals require a license fee ($100), fire inspection ($50), and privilege tax ($20)
- Capacity limits: The city caps STR permits at 2.5% of total residential structures citywide; a waiting list applies if capacity is reached
- Building and fire code compliance: Properties must pass inspections and meet all applicable codes before a permit is issued
- Tax obligations: Operators must comply with sales tax collection requirements; confirm current rates with the City of Hattiesburg Planning Division at (601) 545-4599
For complete and current requirements, review the full official ordinance at hattiesburgms.com/shorttermrentals and consult the City Planning Division directly before listing your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to list on Airbnb in Hattiesburg, Mississippi?
Yes. The City of Hattiesburg requires all short-term rental operators to obtain a permit under Ordinance No. 3376. You must apply through the City Clerk’s office, pass a fire inspection and zoning compliance review, and hire a local property manager residing in Forrest or Lamar County. Permit fees for new applications total approximately $250.
What is the average Airbnb income in Hattiesburg, Mississippi?
According to Awning’s 2026 market analysis, Hattiesburg short-term rental properties average approximately $24,395 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $163 and a 64% occupancy rate. Peak demand occurs between August and November during the University of Southern Mississippi fall semester and football season.
How much does Airbnb property management cost in Hattiesburg?
Management fees in Hattiesburg typically range from 10% to 30% of rental revenue depending on the service level. Full-service companies like One Fine BnB charge a flat 10% fee with no hidden costs, while other platforms charge 15–25% for comparable full-service management. Always confirm what is included before signing.
Does Hattiesburg have a cap on short-term rental permits?
Yes. The City of Hattiesburg limits STR permits to 2.5% of total residential structures citywide. If that cap has been reached, applicants are placed on a waiting list. Contact the City Planning Division at (601) 545-4599 for current availability.
What makes Hattiesburg a good market for vacation rentals?
Hattiesburg benefits from consistent demand driven by the University of Southern Mississippi, making it a year-round market rather than a purely seasonal one. University events, football season, graduation weekends, and business travel all contribute to steady occupancy. The city’s position as a regional hub in Mississippi also supports corporate and medical travel demand.
What is the best neighborhood in Hattiesburg for an Airbnb property?
Properties near The Avenues and Historic Downtown Hattiesburg tend to attract the most bookings due to their proximity to the University of Southern Mississippi and local dining and entertainment. The Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood District appeals to guests who appreciate architectural character, while East Hattiesburg draws nature-focused travelers near the De Soto National Forest.
Final Thoughts
Hattiesburg, Mississippi offers a reliable short-term rental market backed by steady university-driven demand, a growing business travel base, and a structured regulatory framework that is navigable with the right management partner. Whether your property sits in the Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood District, near the University of Southern Mississippi in The Avenues, or in the nature-adjacent East Hattiesburg area, the right property manager can help you earn more while handling every aspect of day-to-day operations. With a 64% average occupancy rate and $163 average daily rate, the Hub City presents a compelling case for investors who want consistent year-round returns rather than purely seasonal income. Explore our all markets directory, or compare nearby options like Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Mobile, Alabama. Ready to get started? The best airbnb management companies are here to help you maximize your Hattiesburg investment in 2026.
