Highland Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Scotland, United Kingdom
Is Airbnb profitable in Highland in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Highland, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 61 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Highland, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Highland Airbnb data is crucial. Navigating the high regulation landscape is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.
Key Highland Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Highland (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Highland 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 Highland is typically August, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Highland across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,326+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,559 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,446 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,497, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Highland
Highland Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Highland STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Augustsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while February 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 Highland:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 82%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 66% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 45%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 23% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Highland
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Highland (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Highland involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Highland typically peaks in December and dips lowest during April. 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 $349+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $219 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $158 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $113 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Highland
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Highland (2025)
Peak Season (August, July, May)
- Revenue averages $4,394 per month
- Occupancy rates average 63.5%
- Daily rates average $188
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,829 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 46.1%
- Daily rates hold near $190
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $1,510 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 27.7%
- Daily rates adjust to average $196
Seasonality Insights for Highland
- The Airbnb seasonality in Highland 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 Highland's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $4,840, occupancy reaching a high of 69.3%, and ADRs peaking at $198.
- 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 $1,395, occupancy could drop to 26.2%, and ADRs may adjust down to $182.
- 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 Highland.
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 Highland seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Highland (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Highland? 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 / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Inverness | Inverness is the administrative center of the Scottish Highlands and serves as a gateway to Loch Ness and the Highlands. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking history and scenic beauty. | Loch Ness, Inverness Castle, Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, River Ness, Inverness Cathedral |
| Fort William | Fort William is known as the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK' and attracts adventure tourists for climbing, hiking, and skiing. Its proximity to Ben Nevis makes it a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts. | Ben Nevis, Nevis Range Mountain Resort, Glenfinnan Viaduct, West Highland Museum, Loch Linnhe, Steall Waterfall |
| Loch Ness | Famous for its mythical monster, Loch Ness is a stunning area for tourism with its beautiful landscapes and numerous outdoor activities. It provides a unique appeal for visitors looking for a magical experience. | Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, Urquhart Castle, The Great Glen Way, Fort Augustus, Dores Beach, Caledonian Canal |
| Aviemore | Aviemore is a popular resort town in the Cairngorms National Park, drawing tourists year-round for skiing in winter and hiking or mountain biking in summer. It offers a variety of outdoor activities. | Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore Railway Station, Cairngorm Mountain Railway, Rothiemurchus Estate, Loch Morlich, Highland Wildlife Park |
| Skye | The Isle of Skye is renowned for its rugged landscapes and picturesque villages. It's a must-visit for tourists seeking natural beauty, making it an attractive location for Airbnb hosting. | Fairy Pools, Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Portree, Dunvegan Castle, Neist Point |
| Nairn | Nairn is a charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches and golf courses. It attracts both beachgoers and golf enthusiasts and is close to Inverness. | Nairn Beach, Nairn Golf Club, Brodie Castle, Culbin Forest, Cawdor Castle |
| Dornoch | Dornoch is a small town known for its stunning beaches and historic sites, particularly the Dornoch Cathedral and its world-famous golf course. It’s popular with travelers seeking a quieter experience. | Dornoch Castle, Dornoch Cathedral, Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Museum of Dornoch, Dornoch Beach |
| Tain | Tain is one of the oldest towns in Scotland and is famous for its whisky distilleries. It's a cultural hub with historical significance, attracting visitors who enjoy heritage and local produce. | Tain Through Time, Glenmorangie Distillery, Tain Golf Club, Old Tain Church, Dunrobin Castle |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Highland (2025)
Yes, Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom enforces high STR regulations. Obtaining a license and ensuring compliance is almost certainly required according to current 2025 STR laws. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Highland to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 38% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Highland (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Highlandbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Stunning views from Park House Skye
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Sligachan Lodge
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Much loved large family holiday home
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Gasgan. Large croft house with amazing loch views
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Cosy bungalow in scenic highlands.
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
GLASNOCK HOUSE - luxury home in Scottish Highlands
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Highland (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Highland based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiona And Richard | 1 | $105,885 | 289 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Billy | 5 | $104,854 | 158 | 4.85/5.0 |
| Robert | 3 | $103,682 | 327 | 4.97/5.0 |
| William | 4 | $98,363 | 180 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Susan | 4 | $79,616 | 48 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Sligachan Self Catering | 1 | $74,615 | 83 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Louise | 1 | $61,832 | 25 | 4.88/5.0 |
| Joe & Rona | 1 | $58,650 | 80 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Sorrel | 1 | $55,121 | 203 | 4.63/5.0 |
| Rebecca | 1 | $50,035 | 4 | 5.00/5.0 |
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 Highland.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Highland STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Highland. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsHighland Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Highland
- The Highland Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 88.5% of the 61 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Highland, House properties are the most common (70.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 70.5% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 9.8% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like apartment/condo, others (combined 6.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Highland Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Highland
- The dominant room capacity in Highland is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 27.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 49.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Highland, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 32.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Highland.
Highland Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Highland
- The most common guest capacity trend in Highland vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (26.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 6 guests dominate the Highland STR market, accounting for 47.5% of listings.
- 36.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Highland.
- On average, properties in Highland are equipped to host 4.1 guests.
Highland Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Highland
- The most common availability pattern in Highland falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 44.3% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 73.8% 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 Highland (45.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 27.9% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Highland Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
7 listings
11.9% of total
2 Nights
11 listings
18.6% of total
3 Nights
17 listings
28.8% of total
4-6 Nights
14 listings
23.7% of total
7-29 Nights
4 listings
6.8% of total
30+ Nights
6 listings
10.2% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Highland is 3 Nights, adopted by 28.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (10.2%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Highland, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 3 Nights minimum stay, as 28.8% of Highland hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 11.9% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 10.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Highland.
Highland Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 60 Days
3 listings
4.9% of total
Flexible
6 listings
9.8% of total
Moderate
16 listings
26.2% of total
Firm
7 listings
11.5% of total
Strict
29 listings
47.5% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Highland
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Highland is Strict, used by 47.5% of listings.
- A majority (59.0%) of hosts in Highland utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 47.5% market standard in Highland.
- With 47.5% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Highland, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Highland.
Highland STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Highland
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Highland is 80 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 102 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 49 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (97 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (70 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (80 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Highland.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 102 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 97 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Highland averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Highland (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Highland
- Essential amenities in Highland that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Fire extinguisher. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Hangers, Essentials, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
- Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Highland: Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Fire extinguisher.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Fire extinguisher.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Hangers or Essentials 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 Highland to stay competitive.
Highland Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Highland
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Highland consists of a mix of domestic (48%) and international guests, with top international origins including United States, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
- Domestic travelers account for 48.4% of guests.
- Key international markets include United Kingdom (48.4%) and United States (13.9%).
- Top languages spoken are English (53.3%) followed by French (12.3%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Balance marketing efforts between domestic and international channels based on the guest mix.
- 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 Highland 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.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fearnan | 19 | $6,440 | $421.92 | 53% |
| Bridge of Cally | 16 | $5,839 | $566.24 | 50% |
| Kirkhill | 10 | $5,719 | $700.26 | 44% |
| Glenachulish | 33 | $5,609 | $424.51 | 46% |
| North Kessock | 10 | $5,421 | $380.62 | 58% |
| Foyers | 14 | $5,076 | $274.52 | 64% |
| Arrochar | 33 | $5,045 | $339.11 | 56% |
| Whitebridge | 10 | $4,907 | $417.35 | 42% |
| Acharn | 10 | $4,813 | $278.43 | 57% |
| Camuscross | 11 | $4,649 | $300.59 | 61% |