Nelson Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Victoria, Australia

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Nelson in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Nelson, Victoria, Australia to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Nelson, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 21 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Nelson, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Nelson Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Nelson Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$126
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Nelson.
Occupancy Rate(?)
38.9%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$15,674
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Nelson. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-9.7%
Slight decrease (-9.7%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Nelson.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Nelson.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
21
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Nelson (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Nelson is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Nelson is typically January, while August often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Nelson across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $2,958+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,148 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,266 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $610, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Nelson

Nelson Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Nelson STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Januarysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while August experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Nelson:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 76%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 54% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 35%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 18% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Nelson

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Nelson (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Nelson involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Nelson typically peaks in November and dips lowest during March. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $206+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $127 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $113 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $88 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Nelson

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Nelson (2025)

Peak Season (January, December, May)
  • Revenue averages $1,967 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 47.8%
  • Daily rates average $124
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,448 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 36.9%
  • Daily rates hold near $123
Low Season (February, July, August)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,122 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 32.2%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $121

Seasonality Insights for Nelson

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Nelson shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Nelson's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,344, occupancy reaching a high of 57.1%, and ADRs peaking at $129.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $1,054, occupancy could drop to 26.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $119.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Nelson.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Nelson seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Nelson (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Nelson? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Nelson Beach
Beautiful beach area known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Ideal for families and beach lovers seeking a quiet getaway near nature reserves and pristine coastlines.
Nelson Beach, Sandy Point, Mallee Cliffs National Park, Rivoli Bay, Lower Glenelg National Park
Nelson Arts Precinct
Creative hub filled with galleries, studios, and artisan shops. Attracts artists, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a distinctive local experience.
Local art galleries, Nelson Holiday Park, Community Markets, Art workshops, Nelson History and Cultural Centre
Golden Beach
Picturesque coastal area that provides a mix of relaxation and adventure, attracting visitors for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying nature. Great potential for vacation rentals.
Golden Beach, Fishing and boating activities, Parks and picnic areas, Coastal walking tracks, Local wildlife
Lower Glenelg National Park
National park known for its great walking trails, wildlife, and scenic beauty. Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for an immersive experience.
Glenelg River, Walking and cycling trails, Wildlife viewing, Camping areas, Scenic lookouts
Robe
Charming coastal town with historic architecture and beautiful beaches, popular for its fresh seafood and relaxed vibe. A growing destination for tourists and weekenders.
Robe Town Beach, Cape Dombey Obelisk, Robe Marina, Local wineries, Robe Heritage Walk
Port MacDonnell
Known for its fishing and maritime attractions, this coastal area offers a tranquil escape with beautiful scenery and local seafood experiences.
Port MacDonnell Jetty, Fisherman's Wharf, Maritime Museum, Local eateries, Coastal walking trails
Mount Gambier
Although not in Nelson, this nearby city features unique attractions like the Blue Lake and caves, drawing visitors looking to explore beyond the coastal areas.
Blue Lake, Englewood Nature Reserve, Umpherston Sinkhole, Mount Gambier Railway Lands, Cave Gardens
Wagga Wagga
Regional city with growing demand for short-term rentals, complete with amenities and parks, making it a viable option for investors looking for consistent bookings.
Botanic Gardens, Wagga Wagga Beach, Art Gallery, Local festivals, Childers Park

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Nelson (2025)

While Nelson, Victoria, Australia currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Nelson to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Nelson (2025)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Nelsonbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Mr & Mrs Smith - Your home away from home, perfect

Mr & Mrs Smith - Your home away from home, perfect

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$35,818
Revenue
32.2%
Occupancy
$297.88
Daily Rate
The Deck in Nelson Victoria

The Deck in Nelson Victoria

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$33,764
Revenue
72.1%
Occupancy
$123.50
Daily Rate
Mulloway Lodge luxury bush retreat

Mulloway Lodge luxury bush retreat

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$32,631
Revenue
66.8%
Occupancy
$119.00
Daily Rate
Macrackin's Shack @  Nelson!

Macrackin's Shack @ Nelson!

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$23,676
Revenue
61.8%
Occupancy
$87.91
Daily Rate
Secluded couple's retreat in Nelson, Victoria

Secluded couple's retreat in Nelson, Victoria

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$20,768
Revenue
54.5%
Occupancy
$104.75
Daily Rate
River Vu House

River Vu House

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$20,098
Revenue
48.1%
Occupancy
$113.68
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Nelson (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Nelson based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Patricia4$40,1784063.51/5.0
Portland Seaview1$35,818114.64/5.0
Emma1$33,7641394.80/5.0
Letitia1$32,631164.94/5.0
David2$32,3801454.83/5.0
Phillip1$23,676204.70/5.0
Leanne1$20,768994.98/5.0
Raymond1$18,4911104.75/5.0
Todd1$17,851884.78/5.0
Trish1$16,764594.71/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Nelson.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Nelson STR Market Data (2025)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Nelson. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Nelson Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Nelson

  • The Nelson Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 90.5% of the 21 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Nelson, House properties are the most common (61.9%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 61.9% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 9.5% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like apartment/condo, others, unique stays (combined 14.4%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Nelson Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Nelson

  • The dominant room capacity in Nelson is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 42.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 61.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Nelson, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 42.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Nelson.

Nelson Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Nelson

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Nelson vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (23.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
  • Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Nelson STR market, accounting for 47.6% of listings.
  • 38.1% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Nelson.
  • On average, properties in Nelson are equipped to host 4.7 guests.

Nelson Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Nelson

  • The most common availability pattern in Nelson falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 42.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 81.0% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Nelson (47.6%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 19.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Nelson Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (14.3%)

1 Night

3 listings

14.3% of total

2 Nights (47.6%)

2 Nights

10 listings

47.6% of total

3 Nights (14.3%)

3 Nights

3 listings

14.3% of total

4-6 Nights (9.5%)

4-6 Nights

2 listings

9.5% of total

30+ Nights (14.3%)

30+ Nights

3 listings

14.3% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Nelson is 2 Nights, adopted by 47.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (61.9%) of the Nelson Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (14.3%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Nelson, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 47.6% of Nelson hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 14.3% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (47.6%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 14.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Nelson.

Nelson Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (36.8%)

Flexible

7 listings

36.8% of total

Moderate (31.6%)

Moderate

6 listings

31.6% of total

Firm (15.8%)

Firm

3 listings

15.8% of total

Strict (15.8%)

Strict

3 listings

15.8% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Nelson

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Nelson is Flexible, used by 36.8% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (68.4%) and stricter (31.6%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 36.8% market standard in Nelson.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Nelson.

Nelson STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Nelson

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Nelson is 52 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during December (average 88 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in May (average 40 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Winter (68 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (53 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (52 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Nelson.
  • For December stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 88 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Winter season well in advance (at least 68 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Nelson averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Nelson (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Nelson

  • Essential amenities in Nelson that guests expect include: Heating, TV, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Kitchen. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Hot water, Dishes and silverware, Essentials are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Nelson: Heating, TV, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Kitchen.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Kitchen.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Hot water or Dishes and silverware to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Nelson to stay competitive.

Nelson Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Nelson

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Nelson consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), often arriving from nearby Melbourne, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 96.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include Australia (96%) and United Kingdom (2%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (66.7%) followed by Spanish (7.9%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Melbourne and Victoria.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Nelson Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Halls Gap184$2,669$191.1745%
Timboon16$2,525$184.5441%
Shire of Moyne52$2,390$227.3240%
Warrnambool263$2,281$206.6243%
Port Fairy339$2,199$264.6534%
Mount Gambier106$2,173$143.3452%
Pomonal13$2,153$173.4142%
Dunkeld37$2,152$197.4440%
Rural City of Ararat15$2,122$167.9239%
Penola27$1,913$141.8846%

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